Kenya's Chief Justice Grants Financial Relief to Families in Child-Related Appeals

Nairobi, Kenya – October 23, 2023

In a heartwarming and progressive move, Kenya’s Chief Justice, Martha K. Koome, has extended a lifeline to countless families across the nation. In a memo issued on October 16, 2023, Chief Justice Koome has announced the waiver of court fees on appeals filed in the Superior Courts related to children, effective from November 1, 2023.

This decision, a testament to Kenya’s commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of its young citizens, is anchored in Article 53(2) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and section 29(5)(c) of the Children Act, 2022.

The announcement comes as a beacon of hope for families grappling with child-related legal matters. It ensures that financial barriers will not stand in the way of justice and the best interests of children.

Chief Justice Koome’s initiative is a triumph for children’s rights advocates and legal practitioners who have long called for more accessible legal avenues for families in need. By waiving court fees, this act not only eases the financial burden on families but also speeds up the legal process, ensuring that children’s welfare takes precedence.

The Children Act, passed as No. 29 of 2022, is a comprehensive legal framework that is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of Kenya’s youth. This waiver of court fees further cements Kenya’s commitment to prioritizing children’s interests and ensuring that every child’s voice is heard.

As Kenya prepares for this groundbreaking change, anticipation and optimism fill the hearts of families who have been caught in the legal labyrinth of child-related matters. It’s a reminder that when leaders recognize the power of compassion and justice, the lives of children and families are changed for the better.