Kenya is celebrating a major diplomatic triumph after Professor Phoebe Nyawade Okowa, one of the country’s most respected scholars in international law, was elected as a Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.
The announcement, made through an official press release by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs on Thursday, 13th November 2025, marks a momentous milestone not just for Kenya, but also for Africa and the global legal fraternity.
Her election followed voting conducted on 12th November 2025 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where Kenya’s candidate secured a decisive victory by a marked majority. The result reflected overwhelming confidence in Professor Okowa’s distinguished credentials, integrity, and contribution to international law.
The Government of Kenya, in a statement signed by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, expressed deep pride in Professor Okowa’s achievement, describing it as a “historic milestone” and a “proud moment for Kenya and the African continent.”
“This election represents a historic milestone, as this marks the first time Kenya has nominated a candidate for election to the International Court of Justice,” read the statement.
It further noted that Professor Okowa is the first African woman ever elected to the International Law Commission and the Institut de Droit International (Institute of International Law) — two of the most prestigious bodies in the field of international legal research and policy.
Her election to the ICJ, the world’s principal judicial organ, underscores Kenya’s growing influence in global diplomacy and legal affairs, and highlights Africa’s increasing role in shaping international justice.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi Leads National Tribute
Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, led the country in celebrating the appointment.
“Delighted to celebrate Prof. Phoebe Nyawade Okowa, a distinguished Kenyan scholar in public international law, on her election as a Member of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague, Netherlands,” Mudavadi said in a statement.
He described Okowa’s win as a “resounding affirmation of Kenya’s growing influence as a champion of justice, peace, and global cooperation.”
Mudavadi highlighted Professor Okowa’s illustrious career, noting her vast experience and academic leadership at international institutions.
“Prof. Okowa, an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, has built an illustrious career marked by academic excellence and international distinction,” Mudavadi stated.
“Her achievement is an inspiration to scholars, jurists, and every Kenyan who believes in the power of intellect and integrity to shape the world for the better,” he added.
A Distinguished Scholar with a Global Footprint
Professor Phoebe Okowa’s academic and professional record is nothing short of remarkable. With over three decades of experience in international law, she has built a global reputation as both a scholar and practitioner.
She previously served as Director of Graduate Studies at Queen Mary University of London, one of the UK’s leading institutions in legal education.
In 2021, she was elected to the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC), becoming the first African woman ever to hold that position.
In 2016, she joined the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague — an intergovernmental organization that resolves disputes between states, international organizations, and private parties.
Her academic works, legal contributions, and advisory roles to governments and international bodies have positioned her as one of Africa’s foremost experts in public international law, particularly in areas related to environmental law, state responsibility, and the law of armed conflict.
According to the Ministry’s press release, Professor Okowa’s election is both a recognition of her personal merit and a testament to Kenya’s rising stature in international diplomacy.
“This victory demonstrates that for an increasingly sought-after Court, Member States are cognizant of the need for equality in participation and equity in opportunity,” the statement noted.
It emphasized that her election would ensure that the composition of the Court reflects the diversity of legal systems and traditions across the world, reinforcing fairness and inclusivity in the international legal order.
The International Court of Justice: What It Represents
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the World Court, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Established in 1945, it settles legal disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies.
Judges of the ICJ serve nine-year terms, and their election is a highly competitive process requiring an absolute majority in both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.
By securing a majority in both bodies, Professor Okowa’s election symbolizes broad international trust in her competence and Kenya’s growing reputation as a promoter of global peace and justice.
A Testament to Excellence, Integrity, and Service
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs praised Professor Okowa as a “distinguished scholar and practitioner of international law” who brings to her new role “a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of the evolving challenges facing the international legal order.”
Her extensive experience advising governments, participating in international tribunals, and contributing to legal scholarship has earned her wide respect among her peers.
“Professor Okowa’s victory is a proud moment for Kenya and the African continent,” the statement read, adding that it “demonstrates the growing recognition of African excellence in global governance.”
Kenya’s Gratitude to the International Community
Kenya expressed profound gratitude to all UN Member States that supported Professor Okowa’s candidacy. The Ministry acknowledged the “overwhelming confidence demonstrated in Professor Okowa’s candidacy” and thanked the African Union and regional partners for their solidarity.
“The Government also acknowledges the invaluable solidarity of African and other regional groups and partners, whose steadfast support made this victory possible,” the statement added.
This collective backing highlights Africa’s commitment to ensuring representation in key international institutions and demonstrates Kenya’s success in forging strong diplomatic alliances.
Strengthening the Rule of Law Globally
The Government emphasized that this election reaffirms Kenya’s position as a strong advocate for international justice, equality, and representation.
“Professor Okowa’s tenure will further contribute to strengthening the rule of law,” the statement said, underscoring the importance of her role in addressing emerging global legal challenges such as climate change, maritime disputes, human rights, and international peacekeeping.
Her appointment aligns with Kenya’s long-standing diplomatic philosophy — “peace, justice, and multilateral cooperation.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Professor Okowa’s story serves as a powerful inspiration for young Kenyans, particularly women pursuing careers in law, academia, and diplomacy.
Her rise from an academic background to one of the world’s most prestigious judicial appointments is a reminder that hard work, integrity, and excellence transcend boundaries.
Education leaders and legal scholars across Kenya have lauded her achievement, calling it a reflection of Kenya’s world-class intellectual talent and a beacon of hope for future generations.
Her election to the ICJ also reinforces the need for African nations to continue supporting academic and professional development in the field of international law and diplomacy.
Government’s Commitment and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the Government of Kenya extended its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Phoebe Okowa and pledged its full support as she takes up her duties at The Hague.
“The Government of Kenya extends its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Okowa and pledges its full support as she embarks on this honourable service to humanity,” the press release stated.
With this appointment, Kenya joins the ranks of nations whose jurists have made lasting contributions to international jurisprudence.
Professor Okowa’s victory is not just a win for Kenya — it’s a victory for Africa, for women in leadership, and for the global pursuit of justice.
As Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi aptly summarized,
“Her achievement is an inspiration to every Kenyan who believes in the power of intellect and integrity to shape the world for the better.”
