“The presence of women in the judiciary is not just about representation; it is about ensuring that justice is seen, felt, and experienced by all.” – Justice Meaza Ashenafi, Ethiopia’s first female Chief Justice
For centuries, the judiciary was a domain dominated by men, with women largely absent from the halls where justice was deliberated and delivered. Today, across Africa, women judges are not just filling seats on the bench; they are shaping the future of law, redefining justice, and dismantling long-standing biases that once kept them out of the courtroom.
On this International Day of Women Judges, Amazons Watch Magazine celebrates the unstoppable rise of African women in the judiciary, women who stand as guardians of justice, champions of human rights, and architects of a more equitable legal system.
Breaking Barriers, Delivering Justice
Despite systemic barriers, African women judges are proving that the robe is more than just a symbol of authority—it is a mantle of responsibility, fairness, and inclusion.
Take Hon. Lady Justice Imani Daud Aboud of Tanzania, the President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. She is a leading force in ensuring human rights protection at a continental level, ruling on cases that shape Africa’s legal landscape.
In Nigeria, Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun is at the forefront of some of the country’s most critical judicial decisions, from election petitions to constitutional matters.
Meanwhile, Justice Martha Koome of Kenya, the first female Chief Justice in her country, is spearheading judicial reforms and pushing for greater access to justice for women and marginalized communities.
These women, and many others, are not just presiding over cases; they are reshaping the legal, social, and political structures of their nations.
The Power of Representation
Women judges bring unique perspectives to the bench, perspectives rooted in lived experiences of gender-based discrimination, inequality, and resilience. Their presence matters because justice is not one-size-fits-all—it requires diverse voices to ensure that the law serves everyone fairly.
According to the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), only 30% of judges worldwide are women, and in some African nations, that number is even lower. In contrast, countries like Rwanda have made remarkable progress, with women making up 49% of the Supreme Court.
This representation matters. Studies have shown that courts with more women judges are more likely to rule in favor of gender-based violence survivors, uphold women’s property rights, and challenge discriminatory laws.
The presence of Justice Tujilane-Rose Chizumila (Malawi) and Justice Fatoumata Dembélé Diarra (Mali) in international courts demonstrates the growing influence of African women in global jurisprudence, setting new legal precedents that extend beyond borders.
Beyond the Bench: Advocating for Equality
Many of Africa’s women judges are not only rendering verdicts but also mentoring, advocating, and empowering the next generation of women in law.
Justice Meaza Ashenafi (Ethiopia), the first female Chief Justice of Ethiopia, has spent decades fighting for women’s rights, legal reform, and access to justice for the underserved. Her advocacy extends beyond the courtroom, she has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that protect women from gender-based violence and discrimination.
Justice Julia Sebutinde (Uganda), who serves at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has been vocal about the need for more women in global legal leadership, inspiring young female lawyers to aim for the highest legal positions.
In Sudan, Chief Justice Nemat Abdullah Khair is playing a crucial role in judicial reforms, ensuring gender-sensitive legal frameworks are implemented in a country that is undergoing significant political transition.
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro (South Africa), a former judge of the Constitutional Court, has dedicated her career to human rights and social justice, proving that legal power can drive societal change.
The work of these women extends far beyond the courtroom. They are shaping policies, influencing legislation, and ensuring that the rule of law does not discriminate.
Challenges Persist, But Progress is Unstoppable
The rise of women in Africa’s judiciary has not come without resistance. Deep-seated gender biases, systemic discrimination, and cultural stereotypes continue to make it difficult for women to ascend to the highest judicial ranks.
In some countries, women judges face threats, intimidation, and underestimation simply because of their gender. A 2022 study by UN Women found that women in legal professions are twice as likely as their male counterparts to experience workplace harassment and discrimination.
Yet, they persist. They rise. They lead.
Justice Nthomeng Majara (Lesotho), a former Chief Justice, stood firm in the face of political pressure, proving that women judges will not be silenced.
The message is clear: African women in the judiciary are not just seeking seats at the table—they are redefining the entire legal structure.
A Call to Action: Every Woman’s Role in Justice
Amazons Watch Magazine invites YOU—yes, YOU—to be part of this movement. Here’s how:
For the young girl dreaming of law school—you are needed. Your voice, your perspective, and your presence will shape the future of justice.
For the women in the legal profession—keep rising. Keep pushing boundaries. Your success is paving the way for those who will follow.
For governments and legal institutions—let’s commit to gender-inclusive judicial appointments and policies that create space for more women in leadership.
For every woman reading this—justice isn’t just what happens in the courtroom. It starts in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Stand up for fairness, equity, and the right of every woman to lead.
The work isn’t done, but together, we will build a future where justice has a woman’s voice, wisdom, and unwavering strength.
Final Verdict: The Future of Justice is Feminine
The robes they wear are not just symbols of authority; they are woven with the threads of resilience, courage, and determination. Women judges in Africa are proving every day that the courtroom is stronger, fairer, and more just when women are leading the charge.
On this International Day of Women Judges, let’s not just celebrate their achievements—let’s commit to ensuring that the next generation of women judges has no barriers to break, only justice to deliver.
The future of Africa’s judiciary is female, and justice has never looked better.
Amazons Watch Magazine salutes all African women judges—past, present, and future.
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