Charles Kanjama stands out as a prominent figure in Kenya’s legal community. On February 19, 2026, he was chosen as the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) after securing 3,728 votes. This victory placed him ahead of other contenders, including Peter Wanyama with 2,616 votes and Mwaura Kabata with 2,086 votes. As the 52nd LSK President, he will serve in this role from 2026 to 2028.
So, who exactly is Charles Kanjama? He holds the prestigious rank of Senior Counsel, an honor awarded to him in 2022 for his outstanding legal work. He serves as an advocate, arbitrator, and corporate secretary with more than two decades of experience. His main areas of focus include resolving disputes, providing guidance on corporate rules, and teaching law. He currently leads Muma and Kanjama Advocates as its Managing Partner, a firm he co-founded.
His path demonstrates how dedication and ability can lead to major success in the legal profession. He has guided organizations such as the Kenya Christian Professionals Forum and supported efforts to improve justice and professional standards. Now, as LSK President, he aims to strengthen the rule of law and assist the development of lawyers across the country. The Law Society of Kenya represents more than 20,000 advocates and plays a vital role in promoting fair justice systems.
This article explores his early years, professional journey, key accomplishments, family background, and other important details. It is written to help readers understand how someone rises to become a leading lawyer in Kenya. Legal work involves solving conflicts fairly, and Kanjama’s example reflects that principle clearly. During his campaign, he emphasized values such as trust, honesty, and bravery, which helped him gain strong support from fellow lawyers. Many see him as capable of leading the profession effectively, especially with important national events like the 2027 elections approaching.
Kanjama’s story serves as motivation for students and young professionals interested in law. It proves that consistent effort combined with solid education can open doors to high positions. Next, we will look at the beginnings of his life.
Early Life and Background of Charles Kanjama
Charles Njiru Kanjama was born on November 17, 1977, in Kenya. As of February 2026, he is 48 years old. His name points to roots in the Mount Kenya area, and he is generally understood to belong to the Kikuyu community, though he does not often speak publicly about his family origins. He appears to have grown up in an environment that placed strong importance on education and discipline.
He completed his secondary education at Strathmore School in Nairobi. During that time, he performed well in subjects such as mathematics and science, but he also enjoyed reading and discussion, which eventually drew him toward a career in law. He has mentioned that his mother was very talkative, and he believes he inherited that trait from her.
Kanjama earned his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Nairobi in 2001, graduating with Second Class Upper Division honors. Following that, he completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Law at the Kenya School of Law. He continued his learning by qualifying as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) and a Certified Secretary (CS). Later, he obtained an MBA from Strathmore University and is currently pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) at the University of Nairobi.
This broad education gave him knowledge not only in law but also in business and finance, which are useful for handling corporate and commercial cases in Kenya. In the Kenyan legal system, becoming an advocate requires a law degree, completion of the Advocates Training Programme at the Kenya School of Law, and a period of pupillage. Kanjama finished these steps and was admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in 2003.
His early experiences built a strong base of discipline and ambition, preparing him well for the challenges of a legal career.
Career of Charles Kanjama
After qualifying in 2003, Charles Kanjama began practicing law as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya. He initially worked at Triple Oak Law Advocates before joining forces with his former classmate Andrew Muma in 2006 to establish Muma and Kanjama Advocates. He now holds the position of Managing Partner and oversees the Disputes Department as well as Support Services.
His practice covers a wide range of fields. He deals with constitutional matters, commercial court cases, tax advice, corporate governance, intellectual property and information technology law, and alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation.
Since 2014, he has been a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (F.CIArb). He is also a member of several professional bodies, including the Law Society of Kenya, East African Law Society, Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya, and Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya.
Within the Law Society of Kenya, he has taken on several leadership positions. He served as Chairman of the LSK Nairobi Branch from 2010 to 2012, then as Council Member and Treasurer from 2012 to 2014. Between 2017 and 2020, he was the first Chair of the LSK Caucus of Branch Chairs.
In the academic sphere, he lectures at Strathmore Law School and acts as Administrator for the Strathmore Educational Trust. He also chairs the Kenya Christian Professionals Forum and serves as Executive Director of Lexserve Trust, an organization dedicated to advancing the rule of law, improving access to justice, and supporting judicial integrity.
He regularly contributes columns to newspapers such as The Standard, where he discusses legal issues and public concerns. He has appeared on television to offer commentary on political and legal topics.
His career illustrates the many ways a lawyer can contribute: through courtroom work, organizational leadership, teaching, and community service. His expertise in corporate governance helps prevent issues like mismanagement, while his arbitration skills offer faster and less costly alternatives to traditional court proceedings. Over more than twenty years, he has steadily built a reputation as a versatile and respected professional.
Achievements and Recognitions of Charles Kanjama
Charles Kanjama has earned several notable distinctions throughout his career. In 2022, he was conferred the title of Senior Counsel, making him one of the younger recipients of this prestigious recognition in Kenya.
He co-founded Muma and Kanjama Advocates in 2006, and under his leadership as Managing Partner, the firm has developed into a respected full-service practice.
His leadership roles in the Law Society of Kenya include:
- Chairman of the LSK Nairobi Branch from 2010 to 2012.
- LSK Council Member and Treasurer from 2012 to 2014.
- Inaugural Chair of the LSK Caucus of Branch Chairs from 2017 to 2020.
On February 19, 2026, he won the election for LSK President with 3,728 votes.
He chairs the Nairobi Legal Awards Trust, an initiative that celebrates excellence among lawyers and law firms. He is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a Certified Professional Mediator.
In addition, he has authored publications and articles covering subjects such as matrimonial property law, constitutional law, and taxation.
Through his work with the Kenya Christian Professionals Forum, he promotes ethical standards in leadership and public life.
These accomplishments reflect his strong influence on both the legal profession and broader society. The Senior Counsel designation in 2022 recognized his exceptional skill and service, while his 2026 election as LSK President represents the latest milestone in his career.
Personal Life and Family of Charles Kanjama
Charles Kanjama maintains a low public profile regarding his private life. He is married, though he does not share details about his wife in public forums. Similarly, information about any children remains private.
His active role in Christian professional organizations indicates that family values and faith hold significance for him. He is fluent in both English and Kiswahili.
Like many professionals in demanding fields, he balances a busy legal career with personal responsibilities. By keeping family matters away from public attention, he protects their privacy while concentrating on his professional duties.
Conclusion
The journey of Charles Kanjama illustrates steady progress from student to one of Kenya’s most respected legal leaders. Born in 1977, he pursued extensive education and applied himself consistently to build a meaningful career. His involvement in law firms, the Law Society of Kenya, teaching, and community initiatives highlights his dedication to justice, ethics, and professional excellence.
Having been elected LSK President on February 19, 2026, he now faces the responsibility of guiding Kenya’s legal profession through important periods, including potential judicial reforms and the national elections scheduled for 2027.
His work continues to support good governance, fair access to justice, and strong ethical standards. Students and young lawyers can draw valuable lessons from his example: invest in learning, develop diverse skills, and contribute to the wider community.
Readers interested in following his ongoing contributions can stay informed through updates from the Law Society of Kenya or Muma and Kanjama Advocates. Charles Kanjama’s story reminds us that the legal profession, at its best, serves to make society more just and equitable.
FAQs
Who is Charles Kanjama?
Charles Kanjama is a Kenyan Senior Counsel, advocate, and the Managing Partner of Muma and Kanjama Advocates. He was elected President of the Law Society of Kenya on February 19, 2026.
What is Charles Kanjama’s career?
He was admitted to the bar in 2003, co-founded his law firm in 2006, and specializes in litigation, corporate governance, arbitration, and related fields. He has held various leadership positions in the Law Society of Kenya and now serves as its President.
Is Charles Kanjama married?
Yes, he is married, although he keeps personal details about his spouse private.
What is Charles Kanjama’s age?
He was born on November 17, 1977, making him 48 years old as of February 2026.
What tribe is Charles Kanjama from?
He is generally identified as belonging to the Kikuyu community, based on his name and origins in the Mount Kenya region.
What are Charles Kanjama’s achievements?
Among his main accomplishments are being named Senior Counsel in 2022, co-founding and leading Muma and Kanjama Advocates, holding multiple leadership roles in the Law Society of Kenya, and winning the LSK presidency election in 2026.