In brief, Hon. Martha Karua is a social justice advocate and politics and governance expert with a career of over 30 years rooted in law and spanning across social activism, judicial,
constitutional and political arenas. She is an accomplished lawyer and politician who played an important role in the founding and development of Kenya’s pluralistic politics in a bid to expand democratic space in Kenya in the 1980-1990s.
The role of women in Kenyan politics has greatly benefitted Martha Karua’s efforts and exemplary career. As a founder of organizations such as the League of Kenyan Women Voters or leading women’s advocacy through FIDA, Martha actively
lobbied for increased women representation in political positions.
Her prestigious career in public service stems from her 20 years as Member of Parliament for Gichugu constituency, Minister of Water and Public works and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
Beside her impeccable track record, Martha Holds an LLB from the University of Nairobi and Masters degree in Business Administration from USIU-Africa. She is a mother of two and grandmother of three.
Education: She attended several schools in her education journey. She started off at Mugumo Primary School, moved to Kabare Girls Boarding School and then St Michael’s boarding school in Kerugoya. For her O-levels, she first joined Kiburia Girls Secondary School, then Ngiriambu Girl’s Secondary School and Karoti Girl’s Secondary Schools where she sat her East African School Certificate. She then moved to Nairobi Girls' Secondary School for her A-levels. She graduated with a law degree from the University of Nairobi in 1980, followed by post graduate diploma in legal practice in 1981.