Kisumu: The Federation of Women Lawyers (Fida-Kenya) is progressing towards the completion of an Sh80 million family mediation centre, which is anticipated to be operational by January next year. The centre aims to provide an alternative justice pathway for families, focusing on quicker, affordable, and dignified dispute resolution, especially benefiting women and girls who often face expensive and prolonged court processes.
According to Kenya News Agency, Head of Programmes Janet Anyango revealed that the project is currently 70 percent complete. She emphasized the centre’s capability to facilitate virtual mediation sessions globally, enhancing justice access for women and girls across the nation. Anyango made these comments during a fundraising golf tournament at the Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu, an event organized to advance the initiative as the organization celebrates 40 years of service.
Anyango expressed excitement about Fida’s 40-year milestone, emphasizing the focus on sustainability and the establishment of a mediation centre where family disputes can be resolved peacefully. She highlighted that nearly three-quarters of the required Sh80 million has been raised and urged more partners to contribute to the project, which will also serve as a safe haven for survivors of violence.
The facility will include a virtual justice space, counseling units, pro bono legal services, and self-representation training facilities. This initiative responds to the increasing demand for such services across FIDA’s national network. Anyango noted the organization’s reputation for resolving matters out of court, restoring relationships, and supporting families, with men increasingly participating as allies, paralegals, and pro bono lawyers.
Fida aims to complete the final construction phase and fully equip the centre before January, establishing it as a key alternative justice hub in the country. Anyango reiterated the mission to ensure that no woman or girl experiences violence and that all can access justice with dignity and inclusion.
Advocates Phyllis Chepkemboi and Silvya Mudai, participants in the tournament, lauded Fida for organizing the event in the Western region, underscoring the organization’s impact and strengthening partnerships with local lawyers, golfers, and institutions. Chepkemboi emphasized that the true beneficiaries of the day were the women and girls, while Mudai praised the turnout and increasing partner support.
