Both the High Court and Supreme Court are to be hit by the retirement of a number of judges within the next five years.

Chief Justice Peter Shivute describes this as a national concern, as far as how the departing judges will be replaced.

There are five permanent judges of appeal at the Supreme Court and thirty at the High Court.

The anticipated retirements that will have an impact on the courts of law are explained as occurring for personal reasons prior to retirement age.

The process of replacing and recruiting judges is already proving difficult.

Chief Justice, Peter Shivute says it has been a challenge for the Judicial Service Commission to fill crucial vacancies at the courts owing to a shortage of funds.

This particularly affects the Supreme and High Courts and also the Judiciary's commitment to balance the male and female ratio in appointments.