President William Ruto has congratulated Judge Phoebe Okowa following her election to the International Court of Justice.

In a post on his official X account on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Ruto announced that her election makes her the first Kenyan to serve on the court since its establishment.

“Kenya is proud to have reached a historic milestone with the election of Judge Phoebe Okowa to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), making her the first Kenyan to serve on the court since its establishment in 1945,” Ruto said.

While celebrating her remarkable achievement, Ruto noted that her election to fill the mid-term vacancy reflects the strong confidence of UN Member States in her credentials, experience, and integrity.

Further adding that her success reflects not only personal excellence but also Kenya’s continued commitment to contributing distinguished professionals to the multilateral system.

“Met and congratulated Judge Phoebe Okowa at State House, Nairobi, on her remarkable achievement, and reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support as she takes up this important international responsibility,” he added.

Nine-year full term bid

Meanwhile, Kenya has formally launched the candidature of Judge Phoebe Okowa for election to a full nine-year term at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), covering the 2027–2036 period.

The State Department of Foreign Affairs announced the move on Saturday, January 31, 2026, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to a strong, inclusive and rules-based international legal system.

Speaking during the launch, Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing’Oei expressed confidence in Okowa’s candidacy, citing her track record in international law as shaping global jurisprudence. 

“Kenya is proud to formally launch the candidature of Judge Phoebe Okowa for a full term at the International Court of Justice (2027–2036).  As the first African woman on the International Law Commission and now a Judge of the World Court, Judge Okowa is a trailblazer whose scholarship and practical expertise in international law have shaped global jurisprudence,” he stated. 

The launch event took place in Nairobi and brought together members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, judges, and representatives of international legal institutions. It followed Judge Okowa’s successful election in November 2025, when she filled a casual vacancy on the court.

“Her re-election isn’t just a win for Kenya; it is a commitment to a fair, diverse, and rules-based international order. We invite our partners in the diplomatic community to support this distinguished jurist as she continues to serve the cause of global justice.” Sing’oei said.

Sing’Oei also thanked United Nations member states for backing Kenya’s candidature and urged continued support as the country campaigns for Judge Okowa’s election to a full term.