Chief Justice Martha Koome has designated four Magistrates’ Courts as Special Magistrates’ Courts to hear and determine cases involving the possession and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances with both municipal and international dimensions.

In a Gazette Notice dated January 15, 2026, the Chief Justice said the designation was made pursuant to the Constitution of Kenya and Section 5(2)(c) of the Judicial Service Act.

The courts designated to handle the specialised cases 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 intended to strengthen the handling of narcotics-related offences, particularly those linked to international trafficking routes and cross-border criminal networks.

The selected courts are located in strategic transit and border areas, including Kenya’s main international airport, major port city, and key border points.

Chief Justice Koome, who also serves as President of the Supreme Court, said the move aligns with ongoing judicial reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency, consistency, and expertise in the adjudication of complex criminal cases.

Kenya has in recent years intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary under pressure to ensure swift and effective prosecution of offenders involved in the illicit drug trade.