Kenya’s distinguished legal scholar, Professor Phoebe Okowa, has been elected as a Judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) following a decisive vote by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

An official notice dated November 12, 2025, issued by Michael Imran Kanu, the President of the Security Council, confirmed Okowa’s victory during the Council’s 10,040th meeting held in New York.

The election was convened to fill a vacancy left by a departing judge whose term concluded on September 30, 2025.

“I have the honour to inform you that Ms. Phoebe Okowa (Kenya) obtained an absolute majority of votes in the Security Council,” Kanu stated in a formal letter addressed to Annalena Baerbock, President of the UN General Assembly.

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Kenya’s Growing Global Influence

Professor Okowa’s election is being celebrated as a significant achievement for Kenya and Africa at large.

Her appointment strengthens Kenya’s global standing in matters of international law, diplomacy, and judicial excellence.

A renowned legal mind, Okowa has previously served as Kenya’s Agent at the ICJ, representing the country in high-profile international legal matters.

She is globally recognized for her scholarly contributions in public international law, environmental law, and human rights, fields where she has published extensively and taught at leading institutions.

Her election underscores Kenya’s increasing participation and credibility in shaping international legal discourse.

The ICJ, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, serves as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, adjudicating disputes between states and offering advisory opinions on critical questions of international law.

Global and National Reactions

The announcement of her victory drew widespread congratulatory messages from across the world, highlighting the respect she commands in international legal circles.

Ireland’s Mission to the UN tweeted; “Today, the #UNGA & #UNSC voted to elect Prof Phoebe Okowa of Kenya to serve as Judge of the International Court of Justice. Ireland congratulates @Phoebe_Okowa on her election to @CIJ_ICJ and reaffirms our strong support for the Court and its vital role.”

Kenya’s Permanent Mission to the UN expressed national pride, stating; “With profound gratitude to UN member states, Kenya announces the election of Prof. Phoebe Okowa as Judge of the ICJ, securing victory by a marked majority,” the post stated.

“A historic first for Kenya reflecting broad confidence in her credentials, integrity, and contribution to international law,” the post added.

Kenya’s Diplomatic Triumph

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei lauded Okowa’s triumph, emphasizing the diplomatic effort that led to her success.

“After four rounds of voting, Prof Phoebe Okowa has been duly elected by both the UNGA and UN Security Council, a judge of the International Court of Justice @CIJ_ICJ, defeating three other candidates,” lamented Sing’Oei.

“This victory demonstrates confidence in Prof. Okowa’s judicial competence and Kenya’s standing. I commend our New York and Geneva Teams for leading the charge,” Sing’Oei congratulated.

Australia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador James Larsen, also celebrated her appointment, noting:

“Congratulations to Professor @Phoebe_Okowa of Kenya who was elected to the International Court of Justice today. Professor Okowa will join a bench of Judges who demonstrate the highest expertise and integrity in advancing the rule of law in the UN’s principal judicial organ,” Larsen posted.

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A Victory Beyond Borders

Okowa’s election to the ICJ bench marks not only a historic first for Kenya but also a moment of pride for Africa.

Her elevation to one of the world’s most prestigious judicial bodies symbolizes the continent’s growing voice in global justice and governance.

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Phoebe Okowa with Kenyan Delegates under the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs at the United Nations Headquarters. PHOTO/ Phoebe Okowa X