For centuries, courtrooms across Africa were dominated by men, with women largely excluded from decision-making roles in the judiciary. The legal system reflected deep-rooted gender inequalities, limiting women’s participation in shaping the laws that governed their lives. However, a new era has dawned, one where African women judges are breaking barriers, delivering landmark rulings, and transforming the judicial landscape.
On this International Day of Women Judges, we celebrate the courageous women ensuring justice is fair, inclusive, and representative of all citizens. Their rise is not just about numbers; it is about impact, equity, and restoring faith in judicial systems across the continent.
READ ALSO: Women Judges Converge to Discuss Gender Issue
A Brief Look at the Past
Historically, the legal profession in Africa was an exclusive space, with women often confined to clerical roles or excluded altogether. Even when they entered law schools, many faced significant barriers to judicial leadership due to gender biases, societal stereotypes, and structural discrimination.
It took years of advocacy, legal reforms, and the persistence of trailblazing women to change this narrative. Countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Malawi, Sudan, Uganda, Lesotho, and Mali have witnessed the remarkable rise of female judges who are now shaping policies, leading constitutional changes, and upholding human rights.
Triumphs in the Courtroom: Africa’s Women Judges Leading the Way
Today, women judges across Africa are spearheading judicial reforms, delivering groundbreaking rulings, and proving that justice thrives with diversity. Here are some of the leading women currently reshaping Africa’s legal system:
Hon. Lady Justice Imani Daud Aboud (Tanzania) – Upholding Human Rights at a Continental Level
As President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Hon. Lady Justice Imani Daud Aboud plays a crucial role in strengthening legal frameworks that protect marginalised communities and advocating for judicial independence.
Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun (Nigeria) – Shaping Constitutional Law
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, a highly respected legal mind in Nigeria, has made significant contributions to electoral and constitutional law. Her rulings have set important legal precedents, reinforcing Nigeria’s legal system and democratic governance.
Hon. Lady Justice Tujilane-Rose Chizumila (Malawi) – Promoting Judicial Independence
A judge at the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Justice Tujilane-Rose Chizumila has been instrumental in advancing judicial independence and ensuring gender equality in the legal sector, inspiring aspiring female lawyers across the continent.
Martha Koome (Kenya) – Championing Judicial Reforms and Gender Justice
As Kenya’s first female Chief Justice, Martha Koome is a strong advocate for judicial reforms, access to justice for marginalised communities, and gender equity within Kenya’s legal landscape. Her leadership is paving the way for more women in the judiciary.
Nemat Abdullah Khair (Sudan) – Leading Legal Reforms in a Transitioning Democracy
Sudan’s first female Chief Justice, Nemat Abdullah Khair, has been pivotal in overseeing legal reforms and upholding the rule of law in a country undergoing significant political transitions.
Justice Fatoumata Dembélé Diarra (Mali) – A Key Figure in International Justice
A former judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Justice Fatoumata Dembélé Diarra has played a crucial role in prosecuting crimes against humanity, strengthening African women’s presence in international law.
Justice Julia Sebutinde (Uganda) – Bringing African Perspectives to Global Legal Matters
Justice Julia Sebutinde, the first African woman to serve at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), ensures that African perspectives are represented in global legal decisions, contributing to the evolution of international law.
Justice Nthomeng Majara (Lesotho) – A Defender of Women’s Rights
As former Chief Justice of Lesotho, Justice Nthomeng Majara has tirelessly advocated for gender-sensitive legal policies and the increased representation of women in the judiciary.
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro (South Africa) – A Champion for Social Justice
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, who served on South Africa’s Constitutional Court, played a key role in shaping the country’s post-apartheid legal landscape with a focus on human rights, social justice, and gender equality.
These women stand as symbols of progress, proving that gender should never be a barrier to leadership in the judiciary.
The Numbers Tell the Story
While we celebrate these achievements, statistics reveal that much remains to be done. Women remain underrepresented in Africa’s judicial leadership, with fewer than 30% holding high-ranking positions in many countries. In some nations, female judges still struggle for recognition, and legal reforms addressing gender disparities remain slow.
However, there is hope. Countries such as Kenya, South Africa, and Rwanda are taking active steps to increase female representation in the judiciary. Mentorship programmes for young women in law and policy shifts promoting gender equity are paving the way for the next generation of female judges.
A Call to Action
As we commemorate this International Day of Women Judges, the African Leadership Organisation (ALO) calls on:
Governments to enforce policies ensuring equal representation of women in judicial appointments.
Legal institutions to provide mentorship programmes and career advancement opportunities for women in the judiciary.
Law schools and universities to create more inclusive environments that encourage young women to pursue legal careers.
International bodies to support African women judges by promoting their participation in global judicial institutions.
The rise of women judges in Africa is not just about diversity—it is about justice, fairness, and ensuring every citizen, regardless of gender, receives equal protection under the law. The journey is far from over, but with continued advocacy and commitment, Africa’s courtrooms will become spaces where justice truly knows no gender.
Let’s celebrate, honour, and amplify the voices of the women transforming Africa’s justice system today!
