CA, Judiciary Launch Sh250 Million Project Digitising 42 Law Courts With Local Area Networks

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), in collaboration with the Judiciary, has launched a transformative ICT project aimed at modernizing the country’s judicial system.

Unveiled at the Msambweni Law Courts in Kwale County, the KES 250 million Local Area Network (LAN) Project, connects 42 law courts across the country, enabling faster, more secure, and efficient judicial services through enhanced digital infrastructure.

This digital upgrade enables virtual hearings, remote case management, and real-time data access, significantly reducing the need for physical court attendance. The result is a more transparent, efficient, and accessible justice system, particularly for underserved and remote communities.

The Local Area Network (LAN) is a system that links computers and devices within law courts, allowing sharing of data and communication securely and instantly. With the Local Area Network, courts can now manage cases electronically, hold virtual hearings, and share information faster—making justice more efficient, transparent, and accessible for all Kenyans.

The official launch was presided over by Hon. Lady Justice Martha Koome, EGH, Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, alongside Hon. William Kabogo, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy; Mr. Stephen Isaboke, EBS, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications; Hon. Winfrida Boyani, Chief Registrar of the Judiciary; and other distinguished guests.

“This project is a testament to our commitment to the Social Transformation through Access to Justice (STAJ) blueprint,” stated Chief Justice Koome. “By embracing digital solutions, we are bringing justice closer to the people, enhancing trust in the judiciary, and reinforcing the right to a fair and timely hearing for all.”

Echoing the importance of the initiative, Hon. William Kabogo remarked, “The Local Area Network project is a giant leap forward in deploying technology to power key pillars of Kenya’s socio-economic development. It exemplifies our commitment to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).”

Mr. Stephen Isaboke added, “This is a tangible example of how strategic investment in digital infrastructure drives the government’s broader digitization agenda — improving service delivery, increasing transparency, and promoting accountability.”

Representing CA Board Chairperson Ms. Mary Mungai, CA Board Director Hon. Daniel Rono noted: “This project reflects our 25-year commitment to digital inclusion. By bridging the digital divide between rural and urban areas, we promote justice that is both efficient and affordable.”

CA Director General Mr. David Mugonyi, EBS, underscored the broader impact of the USF: “Since 2018, the USF has connected nearly 800,000 people across 24 counties to mobile networks and converted 56 libraries into e-resource hubs. The LAN initiative is aligned with the Judiciary’s STAJ strategy, especially in empowering vulnerable communities.”

Hon. James Ongwae, Chairman of the USF Advisory Council, emphasized the fund’s long- term goals: “Our 2023–2027 Strategy is focused on expanding ICT infrastructure, building digital skills, and addressing access barriers such as high device costs and connectivity gaps

— to ensure no Kenyan is left behind.”

With the Local Area Network connectivity, people who once travelled hundreds of kilometres for a court date can now participate from the comfort of their homes. Now, bail applications, plea-taking, and even full trials happen through video conferencing — saving time, cutting costs, and making justice more accessible.

The collaboration between the Judiciary and the Authority is part of Kenya’s broader digital transformation agenda — harnessing technology to uphold the rule of law, enhance transparency, and build public trust.

The LAN project complements Kenya’s broader Digital Superhighway programme, which includes the rollout of 2,500km of fibre optic cable across 19 counties, reinforcing CA’s leadership in fostering strategic partnerships to transform public service delivery.

The following are the beneficiary law courts across 28 Counties.