NAIROBI, Kenya – Chief Justice Martha Koome has designated four Magistrates’ Courts as special courts to hear and determine cases involving the possession and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, particularly those with cross-border and international links.
In a Gazette Notice dated January 15, 2026, Chief Justice Koome said the designation was made under the Constitution of Kenya and Section 5(2)(c) of the Judicial Service Act, which empowers the Chief Justice to assign courts to handle specialised matters.
The courts selected for the task are the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Magistrates’ Court, Kahawa Magistrates’ Court, Mombasa Magistrates’ Court and Busia Magistrates’ Court.
According to the notice, the move is aimed at strengthening the prosecution and adjudication of narcotics-related offences, especially cases linked to international trafficking routes and organised cross-border criminal networks.
The designated courts are located in strategic transit and border areas, including Kenya’s main international airport, its largest port city, and key land border points that have previously been identified as vulnerable to drug trafficking activities.
Chief Justice Koome said the decision is part of ongoing judicial reforms intended to improve efficiency, consistency and specialised expertise in handling complex criminal cases.
Kenya has in recent years stepped up efforts to combat the illicit drug trade, with law enforcement agencies intensifying operations against trafficking networks.
The judiciary has equally faced pressure to ensure swift, coordinated and effective prosecution of suspects involved in narcotics offences, many of which span multiple jurisdictions.
The designation of specialised courts is expected to streamline case handling, reduce delays and enhance coordination between investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary in the fight against drug trafficking.
