Nairobi, Kenya — The Chairperson of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Authority, H.E. William Samoei Ruto, has presided over the swearing-in of judges to the COMESA Court of Justice (CCJ) at State House, Nairobi.
The ceremony was attended by members of the judiciary, cabinet secretaries, senior government officials, and representatives from the COMESA Secretariat led by Secretary General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, alongside officials from the Court.
A total of 12 judges were sworn in, comprising five appointed to the Appellate Division and seven to the First Instance Division. The judges were elected during the 27th Meeting of COMESA Ministers of Justice and Attorneys General in 2024 and will serve renewable five-year terms.
In his remarks, President Ruto underscored the critical role of the Court in interpreting the COMESA Treaty and shaping the region’s legal and socio-economic direction.
“By doing what is right, consistently and without compromise, we protect our region and strengthen the values that define us,” he said. “Your decisions will shape lives and influence the broader trajectory of our society.”
He noted that cases brought before the Court extend beyond legal disputes, touching on livelihoods, investments, and the aspirations of citizens across member states. He urged the judges to ensure that justice remains both legally sound and responsive to societal needs.
Justice Mwanamwambwa of Zambia was sworn in as Judge President of the Court and will serve in the Appellate Division alongside Justice Onesphore Baroreraho (Burundi), Justice Monica Kalyegira Mugenyi (Uganda), Justice Masauko Timothy Msungama (Malawi), and Justice Salohy Randrianarisoa (Madagascar).
The First Instance Division will be led by Principal Judge Justice Aggrey Muchelule (Kenya), supported by Justice Lavender Makoni (Zimbabwe), Justice Mazwendoda Mavuso (Eswatini), Justice Ahmed Tharwat Mohamed (Egypt), Justice Cecile Samia Bella Andre (Seychelles), Justice Ibrahim Osman Hamid (Sudan), and Justice Tewodros Getachew Tulu (Ethiopia).
Earlier, President Ruto also witnessed and officiated the swearing-in of 24 High Court judges and 13 judges of the Environment and Land Court of Kenya.