A reflective look at my first experience as a Moot Court Judge at the Supreme Court of Kenya, exploring advocacy skills, legal education, and the future of young lawyers.
From 12th to 14th November 2025, the Supreme Court of Kenya hosted its Annual Moot Court Competition, bringing together 16 universities for one of the most anticipated events in the legal academic calendar. The competition forms part of the Supreme Court Mentorship Programme, a growing initiative designed to strengthen legal education by exposing students to real-world judicial processes.
This year, I had the privilege of participating as a moot court judge for the very first time. What unfolded over those three days will stay with me for a long time.
A Competition That Mirrors Real Justice Work
Moot court competitions are more than academic exercises. They simulate real court proceedings, pushing students to research the law, prepare well-reasoned arguments, draft persuasive memorandums, and present their submissions with confidence and courtroom etiquette. It is one of the few spaces in legal education where theory meets practice. It is where students stop simply studying the law and begin thinking like lawyers.
This year’s theme was particularly timely:
Examining the intersection of Human Rights Law, Administrative Law, Refugee Law and Artificial Intelligence.
The students argued complex issues touching on refugee and migration rights, echoing global conversations about displacement, conflict, state responsibility, and the role of technology. The theme aligned with the 14th World Conference of the International Association of Refugee and Migration Judges, held in Nairobi that same week. The overlap reminded us that moot problems are not abstract; they reflect real human rights challenges unfolding across continents.
Hearing Arguments From Both Sides
As a Moot Judge, I alongside my colleagues spent hours listening to students argue their memorandums, whether appearing for the appellants or the respondents. They tackled intricate questions of international law with a depth and maturity that was truly inspiring.
The finals were presided over by Supreme Court judges led by the Hon. Chief Justice, joined by three visiting judges who are experts in migration and refugee law. Sitting there, watching the finalists take the floor, I felt an unexpected wave of emotion. I remembered myself as a law student over 18 years ago, imagining what it would feel like to stand before the Supreme Court, even in a simulated setting. For these young advocates, this moment will live with them forever.
A Full-Circle Moment
There was something almost surreal about seeing law students argue before the highest court in the country. It is an experience that many of us never had during our own studies. I kept thinking about the courage it takes to prepare a case, anticipate questions, defend your reasoning under pressure, and stay composed in front of an esteemed bench.
We were genuinely impressed. These students had put in the hours of research, team preparation, and practice. They knew the facts of the case, understood the legal issues, and delivered articulate and convincing arguments. The competition was tight, and the future of the Kenyan legal profession looks incredibly promising.
Why Moot Court Matters in Legal Education
For any law student wondering whether mooting is worth the effort, the answer is a resounding yes. Moot court participation strengthens skills that no textbook alone can teach. Some of the most valuable skills students develop include:
1. Legal Research and Analysis
Mooting forces students to go beyond the surface, to read widely, interpret statutes and case law, and build logical arguments. This mirrors how real advocates prepare cases.
2. Written Advocacy
Drafting a memorandum requires clarity, structure, precision, and persuasion—skills essential for any lawyer who hopes to excel in litigation, policy, academia, or legal advisory work.
3. Oral Advocacy
Standing before a bench and responding to questions in real time helps students practice confidence, articulation, and quick thinking.
4. Courtroom Etiquette
From addressing the bench correctly to managing time and maintaining professionalism, mooting helps students understand courtroom culture long before their pupillage days.
5. Teamwork and Collaboration
Most moots require teams to coordinate research, share responsibilities, and support each other through hours of preparation.
6. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
A single legal issue can have multiple interpretations. Mooting trains students to anticipate counterarguments and refine their positions.
7. Professional Identity Formation
Perhaps most importantly, moot courts push students to imagine themselves as future advocates. It shapes confidence, discipline, and leadership.
What Moot Court Judges Look For
Judging a moot is different from reading an exam paper. It is dynamic. Moot judges look for:
- A clear understanding of the facts and legal issues
- Well-structured arguments that flow logically
- Use of relevant statutes, case law, and international instruments
- Ability to answer questions directly and calmly
- Respectful and confident courtroom presentation
- Team consistency—both speakers should carry the same standard
- Persuasive delivery without theatrics or unnecessary jargon
- Strong rebuttals that stay focused on issues, not personalities
Students who excel combine preparation with poise. They know that good advocacy is not about sounding sophisticated, but about being clear, grounded, and convincing.
A Bright Future for Kenya’s Legal Profession
Watching these law students reminded me that the next generation of advocates, judges, scholars, and policymakers is already rising—and they are brilliant. They understand global issues. They are fearless in their analysis. And they are hungry for opportunities to test their skills in meaningful ways.
Moot court competitions like the one hosted by the Supreme Court of Kenya are not just events. They are formative experiences that help shape the identity and competence of future legal professionals. They bridge the gap between theory and practice and build the intellectual courage that our legal system will depend on in the years to come.
As I left the court after the final session, I felt grateful. Grateful to have judged. Grateful to witness a full-circle moment. And grateful to see a legal fraternity whose future is brighter than ever.
