Since the adoption of the new Kenyan Constitution in 2010, Kenya has made commendable strides towards achieving gender parity in the judiciary. A significant milestone was reached with the appointment of a woman as Chief Justice, Justice Martha Koome.
However, while women comprise 55% of the magistracy or lower courts, this progress has not been evenly distributed across all levels of the judiciary. Women are still underrepresented in higher ranks, with women comprising 42.3% of Superior Court judges.
Women judges in Kenya continue to face challenges that constrain their agency, voice, and leadership opportunities. The judiciary can be a demanding and isolating profession, and women judicial officers often encounter systemic barriers that impede their advancement. Achieving gender parity is a crucial milestone, but it is only the first step towards ensuring that women can fully participate, thrive, and lead within the judiciary.