The Office of the Attorney General has unveiled an ambitious plan to make justice more accessible to all Kenyans through the rollout of state-run Legal Aid Centres across the country.
Attorney General Dorcas Oduor announced that the first centre will open in Machakos County on Thursday, October 9, marking the start of a nationwide initiative themed “Justice at Your Doorstep.” The program seeks to ensure that every citizen regardless of income, location, or background can access free legal services.
“High legal fees, complex court procedures, and long travel distances have kept justice out of reach for too many Kenyans, especially the poor, the marginalised, and the vulnerable,” Oduor said.
The new centre will offer free legal assistance in areas such as land disputes, succession matters, child protection, and family conflicts. It will also encourage the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to help communities resolve issues amicably and efficiently.
To promote inclusivity, the facility will integrate technology to bridge digital gaps in legal access. Equipped with internet-connected computers and trained staff, clients will be able to file cases online, monitor progress through the e-filing system, and even attend virtual court sessions.
Oduor noted that the initiative is anchored in the Constitution and the Office of the Attorney General Act of 2012, both mandating the state to uphold the rule of law and promote equal access to justice.
“This is not just another government office — it is a beacon of hope,” she said. “Justice in Kenya will not be a privilege for the few, but a right for all.”
The Machakos launch is the first in a phased rollout that will eventually see similar centres established in every region. Oduor urged legal professionals, development partners, and citizens to support the initiative and build a justice system that is fair, inclusive, and trusted.
