Ciarb Kenya Chairman Calls for Stronger Collaboration Between AJS and ADR at the 4th Alternative Justice Systems Conference
Embu, Kenya – The Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Kenya Branch, Prof. Kenneth Wyne, MBS, C.Arb, delivered a keynote address at the recently concluded 4th Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) Conference held in Embu, where he reflected on the significant progress made in advancing people-centred justice and highlighted the growing role of Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Kenya.
Addressing delegates from across the justice sector, Prof. Wyne emphasized that AJS and ADR are not competing approaches but complementary mechanisms that should work hand in hand to improve access to justice for all. He noted that both systems are driven by a shared objective: delivering justice that is affordable, accessible, efficient, and timely.
“Alternative Justice Systems and Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms share a common purpose of bringing justice closer to the people. By strengthening collaboration between these approaches, we can ensure that more individuals and communities are able to resolve disputes effectively and without unnecessary barriers,” he stated.
Prof. Wyne underscored the importance of adopting dispute resolution processes that are responsive to the realities faced by many citizens. He observed that access to formal justice systems remains a challenge for numerous individuals due to factors such as cost, distance, and procedural complexities. In this regard, he noted that both AJS and ADR provide practical, flexible, and community-centred pathways for resolving disputes while preserving relationships and promoting social harmony.
The Chairman further called for enhanced cooperation among courts, mediators, arbitrators, community leaders, traditional justice actors, policymakers, and other justice sector stakeholders. He stressed that the continued success of justice sector reforms depends on building strong partnerships that place the needs of citizens at the centre of dispute resolution processes.
“A truly effective justice system is one that is inclusive, responsive, and accessible to all. This can only be achieved through meaningful collaboration among the various actors who contribute to the administration of justice,” he remarked.
During his address, Prof. Wyne also took the opportunity to commend Hon. Justice Prof. Joel Ngugi and his team for their outstanding leadership and dedication in advancing the Alternative Justice Systems agenda in Kenya. He praised the significant strides that have been made in institutionalizing AJS and integrating it within the broader justice framework, noting that these efforts have greatly expanded access to justice and strengthened public confidence in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
As the conference concluded, Prof. Wyne encouraged participants to carry forward the discussions, lessons, and commitments emerging from the gathering. He reiterated that the future of justice lies in continued innovation, collaboration, and the strengthening of both AJS and ADR as essential tools for delivering justice that is accessible, affordable, and effective for all Kenyans.
The 4th Alternative Justice Systems Conference brought together judges, legal practitioners, ADR professionals, policymakers, community leaders, and development partners to explore strategies for enhancing access to justice and strengthening alternative dispute resolution mechanisms across the country.
In addition to the Chairman’s remarks, Ciarb Kenya Vice Chair, David Njoroge, FCIArb who was part of the conference organizing team, emphasized the strong and complementary relationship between Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Speaking during the conference, he observed that while AJS is a system, ADR is a method, making the two natural partners in the pursuit of justice. He noted that AJS provides the broader framework through which justice can be delivered in a people-centred manner, while ADR offers the practical tools and processes—including mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and conciliation—that help parties resolve disputes efficiently and amicably.
He further highlighted that the continued integration of ADR mechanisms within the AJS framework presents an important opportunity to expand access to justice, strengthen community-based dispute resolution, and build public confidence in alternative pathways for resolving conflicts.
His remarks reinforced the conference’s overarching theme of collaboration and underscored the need for justice sector stakeholders to continue working together in developing innovative, accessible, and sustainable approaches to dispute resolution.
Ciarb Kenya remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote the effective use of ADR and contribute to the development of a justice system that serves the needs of all members of society.
