Okowa secured the required majority in both chambers to fill the seat vacated by Somali Judge Abdulqawi Yusuf, who resigned on 30 September, nearly two years before the end of his term. She will serve the remainder of Yusuf’s mandate until 5 February 2027.
A respected international law scholar, Okowa previously served as Kenya’s representative to the International Law Commission and has taught at the University of London. Her appointment reinforces Africa’s continued representation at the ICJ, which plays a crucial role in interpreting international law and resolving disputes between states.
The next regular ICJ elections for the nine-year term beginning in 2027 will take place in November 2026, with candidates again required to secure an absolute majority from both the General Assembly and the Security Council.
African diplomats in New York welcomed Okowa’s election, describing it as a recognition of the continent’s growing influence in shaping international law and global governance.