Chief Justice Martha Koome has announced a remarkable surge in cases filed at Kenya’s Small Claims Court, describing the institution as one of the most transformative and fastest-growing courts in the country.
Speaking during the 3rd Small Claims Court Symposium, Koome highlighted the Judiciary’s performance for the 2024–2025 financial year, noting that filings soared to 158,357 cases from 41,524 the previous year nearly a fourfold increase. Despite the surge, the court successfully resolved 155,227 cases, achieving an impressive 98% case clearance rate, which Koome hailed as a model of judicial efficiency.
“The Small Claims Court has emerged as a key driver of our quest to transform access to justice in our country,” Koome said. She attributed the growth to public confidence in a judicial model designed to be simple, affordable, and expeditious.
Established under the Small Claims Court Act of 2016 and operational since 2021, the court handles civil and commercial disputes valued at Sh1 million or less. It provides individuals and small businesses with access to justice without the complexity and cost of higher courts. Typical cases include contracts, torts, compensation for goods or services, and disputes over movable property.
A key feature of the court is its mandate to resolve cases within 60 days, a factor that has significantly contributed to its popularity among traders, suppliers, service providers, and ordinary litigants seeking timely outcomes.
Koome also noted that the Judiciary has expanded Small Claims Court stations across major towns, with plans to cover all counties. This expansion has been crucial in managing the rising caseload and improving service delivery.
As reforms continue, Koome emphasized that scaling up the Small Claims Court remains a priority, calling it a cornerstone of Kenya’s journey toward a people-centered justice system.
