Residents of Murang’a County have been encouraged to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms as a faster, cheaper and more peaceful way of resolving conflicts.
The call was made during the Courts Dialogue Day 2026 held at the Murang’a Law Courts on Friday, where members of the public were sensitised on how the justice system works and the different options available for seeking justice.
Speaking during the event, Murang’a High Court Judge Justice Cecilia Githua observed that arbitration and mediation offer win-win solutions to parties in dispute unlike traditional court processes that often result in one party losing.
Justice Githua noted that court-annexed mediation has several advantages over judicial litigation explaining that ADR is cost-effective, as it is typically less expensive than taking matters through lengthy court proceedings.
She added that mediation also saves time with most disputes being resolved within a period of about 60 days.
“Alternative dispute resolution allows parties to reach agreements in a shorter time compared to litigation which can take years to conclude,” said Justice Githua.
She further pointed out that ADR helps in the preservation of relationships since it is less adversarial than court battles.
According to the judge, mediation encourages dialogue and understanding making it suitable for disputes involving family members, neighbours and business partners.
Justice Githua further highlighted that ADR allows for creative solutions as parties are free to suggest remedies that go beyond legal provisions and address the root causes of their disputes.
She noted that confidentiality is another key benefit since mediation sessions are private and attended only by the disputing parties protecting their privacy and reputations.
The judge added that agreements reached through mediation often enjoy higher compliance as they are created by the parties themselves rather than imposed by a court.
On his part, the Secretary of Murang’a County Court Annexed Mediators (CAM), Peter Kimani underscored the importance of ADR in addressing the growing number of succession cases that have piled up in courts.
Kimani said many family disputes, especially those related to inheritance can be resolved amicably through mediation. He noted that CAM ensures matters are handled in the shortest time possible while maintaining harmony among families.
“Some cases are better handled through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms where parties can talk freely and agree without hostility,” said Kimani.
He assured residents that they should not fear seeking help from court-annexed mediators, adding that the process is voluntary, friendly, and guided by trained professionals.
During the Courts Dialogue Day, members of the public interacted with court officials, who guided them on how courts operate and the best ways to seek justice.
Residents were also advised on when to pursue litigation and when ADR would be a better option.
The event aimed to enhance public awareness of the justice system and promote peaceful dispute resolution within the community.
By Bernard Munyao
