A distinguished career in the legal system spanning over three decades, it’s no wonder Judge Martha Karambu Koome, 61, highly reputed for her firm personality and passionate advocacy for gender equality and children rights, recently attained the historic feat of becoming Kenya’s first Woman Chief Justice. The law veteran was appointed by the country’s President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Koome, 61, kicked off her career as a legal associate in 1988 before forming her own law firm as managing partner in 1993. She joined the judiciary in 2003 after practising as a lawyer for over a decade. She later rose to the Court of Appeal.
Ms. Koome served on the African Union Committee on the Rights and Welfare of Children between 2005 and 2010. She headed the Land and Environment Division of the High Court.
Koome won the chief justice position over nine other candidates, prominent lawyers and academics inclusive.
The top judge joined the International Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya, was elected chair of the organization and has also been treasurer of the East Africa Law Society.
She studied law at the University of Nairobi, graduating from the Kenya School of Law in 1987 with a distinction, and then was admitted to the roll of advocates.
