President William Ruto has congratulated Judge Phoebe Okowa on her election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), describing it as a historic milestone for Kenya and a major boost to the country’s standing in global diplomacy.
Judge Okowa becomes the first Kenyan to serve on the ICJ since the court was established in 1945. She was elected to fill a mid-term vacancy, a process that requires majority support from both the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council—an outcome the government says reflects strong international confidence in her credentials, experience and integrity.
“Kenya is proud to have reached this historic milestone with the election of Judge Phoebe Okowa to the International Court of Justice,” President Ruto said. “Her success reflects not only personal excellence, but also our nation’s continued commitment to contributing distinguished professionals to the multilateral system.”
The Head of State said Judge Okowa’s election underscored Kenya’s growing influence within international institutions and its long-standing engagement with the United Nations on issues of peace, security, development and the rule of law.
President Ruto met and congratulated Judge Okowa at State House, Nairobi, where he reaffirmed the government’s support as she prepares to take up her new role in The Hague. He said Kenya would continue to stand behind her as she undertakes the responsibilities of serving on the world’s principal judicial organ.
The ICJ settles legal disputes submitted by states and gives advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised UN organs and agencies. Judges are elected for their independence, competence and high moral character, and are expected to act impartially, regardless of nationality.
Government officials said Judge Okowa’s election was also a recognition of Kenya’s investment in legal scholarship and international law, noting that her presence at the court would inspire a new generation of Kenyan jurists.
Kenya has in recent years intensified its diplomatic engagement at the multilateral level, seeking greater representation in global decision-making bodies. Judge Okowa’s election adds to Nairobi’s broader push to position the country as a credible voice in international governance and justice.
