Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome was on Friday night feted with the African Female Leader of the Year award 2023 at a ceremony held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

CJ Koome in her acceptance speech noted that she was dedicating the award to Kenya’s judiciary which she had been leading for the past two years.

“This award is not mine alone to claim. It is an accolade that I dedicate wholeheartedly to the institution I am privileged to lead, the Judiciary of Kenya. This recognition shines a light on our collective endeavor to establish a truly people-centered justice system,” she added.

She emphasised that the justice system in Kenya was making deliberate efforts to provide justice to all.

“A system that is responsive and attuned to the needs, experiences, and expectations of the Kenyan people, especially those who are marginalized and vulnerable.”

CJ Koome urged other African states to ensure their institutions work towards the advancement of their people and not against them.

“Together, we can forge a brighter, more prosperous future for Africa,” she added.

CJ Koome was honoured for becoming the first female Chief Justice in Kenya as well as various achievements in her leadership capacity.

The African Persons of the Year Awards was launched to honor individuals within the continent who have made positive contributions.

Tanzania’s retired president Jakaya Kikwete was honoured with the African Peace and Security Leader of the Year & Congressional Award for the year 2023.

Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, Group CEO of First Bank Nigeria Limited, took home the Lifetime Achievement Award in Banking.

Notable leaders who have been feted in the African Persons of the Year Awards in past years include; Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General, World Health Organisation, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, among others.