FCS Jeremiah N. Karanja, MBS/HANDOUT
When the High Court of Kenya convenes today, November 20, to admit new Advocates to
the Bar, one name carries a weight far beyond the ceremonial gown and parchment
certificate.
FCS Jeremiah N. Karanja, MBS, reaches this milestone through a life shaped by mud-walled beginnings, academic challenges, personal loss, professional responsibility, and faith.
Later this Thursday afternoon, at the ABSA Bank Sports Club, he will gather with close family and friends for a private Thanksgiving Ceremony. The event will mark both his admission to the Bar and the unveiling of three books he co-authored in 2025 with FCS Prof. Kenneth W. Mutuma.
Humble beginnings and early lessons
Karanja was born in Gatanga Constituency, Murang’a County, the sixth child in a family of eleven. His father worked as a jua kali lorry mechanic in Thika, while his mother supplemented the family income by cultivating neighbours’ shambas and picking coffee.
FCS Jeremiah N. Karanja, MBS/HANDOUT
“Life was simple and sometimes very difficult,” Karanja recalls. “But we were anchored in faith in Christ and the discipline my parents instilled in us. Those two things have carried me through every season of my life.”
These early experiences instilled a sense of responsibility and resilience. Karanja remembers observing his parents’ dedication to both work and family, lessons that would influence his leadership style and professional approach.
Education, second chances, and perseverance
Karanja’s academic path faced early setbacks. At Gaichanjiru Boys, he struggled and eventually failed his KCSE. Later, the Principal of Murang’a Boys High School, Mr. Lawrence Kiwara, allowed him to repeat Form Four without paying fees—a decision Karanja describes as pivotal.
“That second chance gave my life a new direction,” he says.
Karanja improved his performance, earned a B+, and secured admission to the University of Nairobi to study Political Science and Public Administration. This provided a foundation for leadership, scholarship, and eventual national influence.
After graduating in 2008, Karanja aspired to study law. However, financial pressures, family responsibilities, and professional obligations delayed this ambition.
FCS Jeremiah N. Karanja, MBS/HANDOUT
Balancing his studies with his role as CEO of the Institute of Certified Secretaries extended his Advocates Training Programme from nine months to four years. Despite the extended timeline, he remained committed to completing the course, demonstrating persistence and discipline.
Professional and personal milestones
Karanja has contributed to governance frameworks in Kenya, including the Mwongozo Code of Governance for State Corporations, codes for private organisations, church governance guidelines, sectoral governance standards, governance audit frameworks, and KASNEB syllabuses.
He has trained boards of State Corporations, constitutional commissions, church institutions, and private sector entities.
As CEO of the Institute of Certified Secretaries, he has overseen institutional reforms, financial stabilization, the establishment of a Governance and Ethics Hub, national expansion of governance training, and strengthening of the GEMIP mentorship programme.
He has also modernised systems and services, enhancing standards for professional bodies in Kenya.
Karanja’s personal life has been marked by significant losses, including his younger sister in 2013, his eldest brother in 2020, and his mother at age 68.
“I only wish my dear mother were here to witness this day,” he says. “Her sacrifices, prayers, and unwavering faith built the foundation on which this moment stands.”
In addition to professional responsibilities, he co-authored three books in 2025 with Prof. Kenneth W. Mutuma: The Animal Firm International Ltd, Navigating Home Guards Syndrome, and Church Governance & Leadership. These publications reflect his focus on governance and professional development.
Recognition of his contributions includes the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) awarded in 2023 for his work in governance and public service. He describes the award as a recognition of sustained professional commitment and ethical leadership.
A life of learning, service, and purpose
Karanja’s journey underscores the importance of lifelong learning and service. He believes that professional growth requires continuous study, teaching, and sharing knowledge.
“If you stop learning, you stop leading,” he often says.
FCS Jeremiah N. Karanja, MBS/HANDOUT
His story highlights how perseverance, discipline, and purpose can shape a professional life, regardless of humble beginnings or early setbacks.
From a mud-walled home in Gatanga to the High Court of Kenya, Karanja’s life reflects resilience, faith, and a commitment to public service.
His journey demonstrates that challenges can be overcome, delayed dreams can be achieved, and professional ambitions can coexist with personal growth and ethical leadership.
As he takes the oath of an Advocate, his story serves as a reminder that determination and purpose can define success more than circumstances, and that persistence through adversity can lead to both personal and national impact
