The Supreme Court of Kenya has rolled out a WhatsApp chatbot service, enabling lawyers and the public to access court information and services remotely.
In a notice issued on Monday, February 9, the court announced that the chatbot—available via 0700 340 972—will provide practice directions, court rules, service details, and access to Supreme Court decisions, among other functions.
Expanding Digital Access
The chatbot launch is part of the judiciary’s wider digital transformation aimed at improving efficiency, accessibility, and service delivery. Alongside the chatbot, the court unveiled a new online registry system designed to reduce the need for physical visits to court registries.
Chief Justice Martha Koome emphasized the importance of virtual engagement, noting that the registry is now accessible through Microsoft Teams. The service operates on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Court users can also reach the registry via a dedicated mobile line, judiciary exchange, and ICT support channels for technical assistance. For official correspondence, the Supreme Court advised using its designated email addresses.
Physical Services Still Available
Despite the digital shift, the court clarified that physical services remain available at the Supreme Court Building, Room 8, Nairobi, as well as at sub-registries in Kisumu Law Courts and the Court of Appeal Building in Mombasa.
Judiciary’s Digital Transformation
The transition aligns with the judiciary’s nationwide digital mandate introduced on July 1, 2024, under Chief Justice Koome. Key initiatives include:
- E-Filing & Digital Payments: Centralized system for filing cases, submitting documents, and paying fees.
- Virtual Courts: Hearings conducted via Zoom and Teams, reducing geographical barriers.
- Case Tracking Dashboards: Real-time monitoring of case progress to cut backlogs.
- Infrastructure Investment: KES 250 million by the Communications Authority in 2025 connected 42 courts to high-speed internet.
- AI Integration: Development of an AI policy for legal research and case management.
- Small Claims Court Integration: Faster dispute resolution through digital systems.
Impact on Justice Delivery
- Efficiency: Reduced time and costs for filing and attending proceedings.
- Transparency: Public access to daily court listings via the Cause List Portal.
- Accessibility: Expanded services for citizens in remote areas.
- Paperless Environment: Elimination of physical paper filings.
The judiciary’s digital-first approach is designed to cut costs, ease congestion, and improve turnaround times. The online registry now joins a growing list of services—including virtual courts—that are transforming Kenya’s justice system.
