Nairobi, Kenya| The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) successfully hosted the National Rounds of the prestigious Manfred Lachs Moot Court Competition, an annual event organized by the International Institute of Space Law (IISL) since 1992.
This competition plays a crucial role in advancing legal scholarship in space law, reinforcing the rule of law in the peaceful exploration and utilization of outer space.
The event brought together some of Kenya’s most promising legal minds from five universities: Africa Nazarene University, Strathmore University, Mount Kenya University (MKU), Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), and The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA).
The participating teams engaged in rigorous, intellectually stimulating legal arguments, demonstrating their expertise in space law, international law, and advocacy.
Africa Nazarene University Triumphs
After a highly competitive series of moot court sessions, Africa Nazarene University emerged as the overall winner, while Strathmore University secured the first runners-up position.
As the top two teams, they will represent Kenya at the Africa Regional Round in South Africa, scheduled for May 22–24, 2025.
The winning team from the regional competition will proceed to the World Finals, set to take place during the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, Australia, from September 29 to October 3, 2025.
The final round will be held in conjunction with the 69th IISL Annual Colloquium, the world’s premier gathering of space law experts, global space agencies, and industry leaders.
Distinguished Panel of Judges and Coordination
The National Rounds were adjudicated by a panel of esteemed legal and academic professionals, including:
- Prof. Isaac Rutenberg
- Counsel Kuria Waithaka
- Counsel Joyce Ndumia
- Counsel Melanie Munyori
- Counsel Joan Kiama
- Lt. Col. Arnette Naija
The sessions were coordinated by Joan Chesoni, a Board Director at KSA, ensuring a seamless and high-caliber legal debate.
KSA’s Commitment to Space Law and Governance
Speaking at the event, Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, Director General of the Kenya Space Agency, emphasized the critical role of space law education in shaping Kenya’s future in global space governance.
He highlighted the importance of nurturing legal professionals with specialized expertise in space law to ensure that Kenya remains actively engaged in the international legal frameworks governing outer space.
“The future of space governance will be defined by legal minds who understand the complexities of space law. Through competitions like the Manfred Lachs Moot Court, we are not only empowering our students but also positioning Kenya as an active participant in shaping the international space legal regime,” Brigadier Kipkosgey stated.
A Platform for Legal Excellence in Space Law
The Manfred Lachs Moot Court Competition continues to be a key platform for students to develop legal expertise in space-related issues, fostering interest in a field that is increasingly relevant as space exploration and commercialization expand.
Kenya’s participation underscores its growing role in space law, policy, and governance, aligning with the country’s ambitions to develop a thriving space sector.
As the winning teams prepare for the Africa Regional Round in South Africa, their success in the national competition serves as a testament to the quality of legal education in Kenya and the country’s commitment to advancing space law on the African and global stage.
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