THIKA—Kiambu County has allocated a 10-acre plot of land for the expansion of Thika law courts, significantly enhancing the judiciary’s capacity in the region. The land, part of a larger 695-acre parcel formerly owned by Delmonte Ltd., is set to support not only judicial services but also other county projects including an Export Processing Zone, government offices, and affordable housing.

According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke at a court open day forum organized by Thika High Court along with the Environmental and Land Court and the Chief Magistrate’s Court, the donation aims to address the current infrastructure challenges faced by the judiciary due to limited space. The event focused on educating the public about the judiciary’s services. Wamatangi highlighted the strategic importance of the new site, which, despite its distance from the town center, is expected to meet future needs as Thika progresses towards becoming a smart city.

The forum also served as a platform for judiciary officials to voice their concerns and needs. Chief Magistrate Stella Atambo and Principal High Court Judge Eric Ogolla, representing Chief Justice Martha Koome, expressed issues with underfunding and inadequate facilities impacting service delivery. Ogolla emphasized the need for increased budgetary allocations for the judiciary, noting the current allocation of Sh24.64 billion in the 2024-2025 budget estimates as insufficient.

Justice Florence Muchemi, presiding over the newly established Thika High Court, noted improvements in handling cases previously directed to Kiambu and called for the appointment of an additional judge to manage the growing caseload in Thika and neighboring sub-counties.

The expansion project follows closely after another significant contribution by Wamatangi, involving the donation and renovation of a facility now serving as the temporary Thika High Court.