Judge Professor Phoebe Okowa is welcomed by senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs on her arrival from The Hague, December 12, 2025. /ICJJustice Phoebe Okowa, the first Kenyan to serve on the International Court of Justice, arrived in Nairobi on Friday from The Hague to begin a round of official engagements that reaffirm Kenya’s rising profile in global judicial affairs.
Justice Okowa serves on the world’s premier judicial body for the peaceful settlement of disputes between states.
She was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, reflecting the importance Kenya places on her role at the World Court.
In a statement, the ICJ confirmed her visit, noting, “Judge Professor Phoebe Okowa has arrived in Nairobi from The Hague, Netherlands, to undertake a series of official engagements.”
The court said the trip is part of continuing efforts to strengthen engagement with member states and enhance public awareness of its mandate.
Judge Professor Phoebe Okowa signs the visitors' book as officials from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs look on after her arrival from The Hague, December 12, 2025. /ICJ
Justice Okowa’s election in November 2025 drew widespread acclaim at home and across the continent.
The ICJ underscored the significance of that moment, stating, “Judge Okowa’s election to the ICJ marked a significant milestone for Kenya and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening international justice and elevating Africa’s representation within global judicial institutions.”
Her elevation followed a long and distinguished career in public international law, during which she became a respected figure in academic, diplomatic and legal circles.
“Her distinguished academic and professional career, extensive experience in international law, and unwavering integrity have earned her widespread respect in the global legal community,” the court highlighted her credentials and professional standing.
Justice Okowa's presence on the bench is expected to amplify African perspectives in the development of international jurisprudence at a time when global governance frameworks are under renewed scrutiny.
Judge Professor Phoebe Okowa holds talks with an official from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs on her arrival from The Hague, December 12, 2025. /ICJ
Elections for the regular ICJ term running from 2027 to 2036 will take place in November 2026 during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.
Kenya, meanwhile, continues to mobilise support for her long-term tenure.
The court acknowledged these efforts, saying, “Kenya remains confident that Judge Okowa’s tenure on the court will further advance the rule of law and contribute meaningfully to the development of international jurisprudence.”
The International Court of Justice, established in 1945, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations and is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.
It comprises 15 judges elected for nine-year terms and handles cases only where states consent to its jurisdiction.
Beyond contentious cases, it also issues advisory opinions on complex legal questions, offering governments a peaceful, rules-based avenue for resolving disagreements.
Justice Okowa's engagements in Nairobi are expected to reinforce Kenya’s longstanding commitment to multilateralism while highlighting the country’s contribution to shaping global legal norms.
