Trans Nzoia urged to embrace alternative dispute resolution

Trans Nzoia government has rolled out a sensitisation campaign on Alternative Justice System to help resolve disputes across subcounties.

The initiative is funded by the European Union and is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization in partnership with the county.

Agricultural executive Phanice Khatundi praised the initiative, terming it “a timely intervention”.

“There are very many cases that have overstayed in the courts, yet they can be resolved quickly through AJS. This system will help our people get justice without delay,” she said.

Khatundi acknowledged the Judiciary’s role in embracing AJS, saying it empowers communities to settle disputes amicably outside the courtroom.

She said the county has many land related disputes that remained stuck in courts for many years but could be resolved through AJS.

Khatundi said they would sensitise the communities in the region to embrace mediation among other AJS systems that can be used to easily and quickly resolve disputes.

Beatrice Wangila, the county director of physical planning, emphasised the revival of traditional dispute resolution methods.

“This initiative is about bringing back our own ways of solving issues. After the sensitisation, we shall roll out AJS teams in all subcounties. Kiminini and Cherangani have already piloted and established theirs,” she said.

During sensitisation county legal experts outlined the scope of AJS, saying it covers civil matters such as land disputes, marital conflicts and boundary disagreements—but excludes criminal cases, sexual offences and murder.

They also explained the structure of an AJS committee, comprising eight members: a chairperson, commissioners, adjudicators and community representatives.

Facilitator Diana Wabwile encouraged residents to embrace the system:

“AJS is the way forward. Let us own it and use it to resolve our issues as a community,” she said.

The launch was attended by Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi, who praised the initiative, saying it will help reduce the backlog of unresolved court cases and provide timely justice to the people.

The sensitisation forums will culminate in the formation of AJS committees in all subcounties.

Khatundi said the launch reinforced Trans Nzoia’s commitment to accessible, community-driven justice.