Kenya courts push mediation to resolve family disputes
The Judiciary is encouraging families locked in disputes to consider mediation instead of lengthy court battles, saying the approach helps resolve conflicts faster while preserving relationships.
Speaking during the National Mediation Open Day at Kibera Law Courts on Monday, Principal Judge Justice Eric Ogola said mediation provides a less confrontational way of settling family disagreements.
“Traditional litigation can sometimes intensify conflicts,” Justice Ogola said. “Mediation allows parties to talk, understand each other, and reach agreements that work for everyone.”
The event brought together judges, judicial officers, lawyers, accredited mediators, and representatives from the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Justice Ogola said the Constitution recognises the family as the natural and fundamental unit of society, making peaceful conflict resolution critical.
He noted that mediation is gaining ground across Kenya’s courts.
Between 2016 and 2025, a total of 35,731 cases were referred to mediation, helping ease pressure on the courts while allowing parties to settle disputes more quickly.
The Principal Judge praised the Steering Committee on Court-Annexed Mediation, chaired by Court of Appeal Judge Justice Aggrey Muchelule, for strengthening mediation programmes within the Judiciary.
He also highlighted the Family Mediation Guidelines introduced in November 2024, which provide a clearer framework for resolving sensitive family disputes through mediation.
Justice Ogola urged families to consider mediation early before conflicts escalate and end up in court.
“Mediation empowers parties to shape their own solutions,” he said.
The Judiciary is marking National Mediation Service Week from March 9 to March 13, 2026, to raise awareness about the benefits of mediation.
The week will culminate in the 4th Annual Mediation Summit on Family Disputes, scheduled for April 15 to April 17 at Strathmore University in Nairobi.
Others who addressed the event included Kibera High Court Judge Justice Diana Kavedza and Kibera Law Courts Head of Station Stella Atambo.
Justice Ogola officially declared the mediation awareness week open, urging Kenyans to embrace dialogue as a path to justice and stronger families.
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