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Legal services continue to be a cornerstone of business and governance, offering essential support in corporate law, commercial disputes, real estate transactions, and intellectual property rights. As the industry evolves, client needs also shifts toward more responsive, human-centred solutions that emphasize both technical precision and relationship-based services. With emerging trends, legal professionals are called to be agile advisors embracing innovation to deliver forward thinking legal solutions.
Sally Mahihu brings a wealth of legal, governance, and leadership expertise, with a distinguished legal career spanning over decades. Educated in the UK, she earned her LLB from the University of Bristol and an LLM from the London School of Economics and Political Science. As the Proprietor of Bowyer Mahihu & Company Advocates, Sally oversees the practice in Nairobi. Her governance experience includes board memberships, trustee roles, and prior appointments in national legal policy developments and land reforms. Sally is a published author of leadership and faith-based world committed to both personal and professional life.
WALK US THROUGH THE MOST DEFINING MOMENTS IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY. WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR KEY INFLUENCES GROWING UP?
A pivotal moment in my professional journey came on 19th December 1985, when I was formally admitted to the bar as an advocate. The achievement marked the culmination of rigorous academic training in the UK where I obtained my LLB from the University of Bristol and an LLM from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), an institution that has shaped many distinguished leaders, including Kenya’s late President Mwai Kibaki. My qualifications as a registered arbitrator and mediator have strengthened my legal practice and public service contributions.
Key influences in my personal and professional growth include a values-based upbringing by my father and the consistent mentorship of teachers and professors who championed discipline, integrity, and accountability. Their affirmations helped build deep self-confidence and a strong sense of worth, qualities that anchored me when facing unexpected challenges such as rejection and negativity later in life.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO VENTURE INTO THE LEGAL PROFESSION AND LATER EXPAND INTO PUBLIC SERVICE, COACHING AND WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT?
While my early passion for writing and communication pointed me towards journalism, my father persuaded me, given my academic standing, to pursue a more intellectually demanding path, such as law. Trusting his guidance proved invaluable. Today, that passion for expression continues through my work as an author, with seven published self-help books that reflect both my professional journey and personal growth.
Grounded In Belief, Guided By Integrity, Driven By Purpose
Recognized for my outspoken advocacy on public matters, I have been consistently selected for leadership roles in spaces where influence matters. Driven by passion for women’s empowerment, I established the Seasoned Woman ten years ago, which is a strategic initiative to support professional women in realizing their purpose and expanding their impact. I created a consistent environment for mentorship, leadership coaching, and engagement, enabling women to recognize their strengths and emerge as influential voices within their industries and communities.
Introduce us to Bowyer Mahihu and Company. Tell us about your roles and the key focus areas that drives your leadership and strategy.
My legal career began at a prominent law firm where I served as a legal associate for several years. Following a strategic split among the founding partners, I partnered with one of the original founders to co-lead the firm. After his passing, I assumed full ownership and have continued to lead the firm as sole proprietor.
Bowyer Mahihu and Company’s practice spans commercial, corporate & conveyancing law, real estate & conveyancing, family & succession law, trusts & foundations, and cross-border contracts. With the support of a dedicated team of legal associates and administrative staff, I focus on client acquisition and oversee the strategic execution of legal instructions. My leadership approach empowers team members by immersing them in high-responsibility roles early, accelerating both confidence and capability.
WHAT CORE PRINCIPLES GUIDE YOUR APPROACH TO LEADERSHIP AND HOW DO YOU LEAD ORGANIZATIONS TO RESPOND TO EVOLVING NATIONAL AND GLOBAL DEMANDS?
Guided by a future-focused mindset, I prioritize strategic vision while remaining flexible in execution. This balance allows me to adapt to change without compromising core objectives. Across both my legal practice and broader leadership roles, I consistently apply foundational values, integrity, discipline, accountability, and a strong work ethic, to meet the evolving local and international demands.
HOW IS YOUR WORK SHAPING THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE IN KENYA? WHAT BROADER IMPACT DO YOU WISH TO CREATE THROUGH YOUR CROSS-SECTORAL WORK?
By leveraging my roles in both public and faith-based platforms such as Kenya Investment Authority, the Seasoned Woman Forum, and community-based initiatives, I am actively shaping Kenya’s socio-economic landscape, from promoting investment to empowering communities with legal and economic literacy. My long-term vision is committed to expanding this influence regionally and across the African continent.
LOOKING BACK AT YOUR JOURNEY, WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES? WHAT VALUES OR PRINCIPLES HAVE GUIDED YOUR GROWTH AS A LEADER?
One of the most meaningful accomplishments lies in the impact I have made through the Seasoned Woman Forum, the lives touched through ministry in Kenya and abroad, and the recognition received for advancing both foreign and local investment while positioning Kenya as a prime destination for global investors.
Core values such as integrity, accountability, discipline, and a strong work ethic, which is deeply rooted in my Christian faith, continue to shape my professional conduct and leadership approach.
HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT IN KENYA AND BEYOND?
As systems and structures evolve and enhance, women across Kenya and globally are building momentum and gaining increased access to leadership and civic engagement opportunities in environments designed to support their success. With rising resilience and determination, women are positioning themselves for stronger influence and measurable contributions across key industries.
Sally Mahihu, Co-Founder, Bowyer Mahihu & Company Advocates
With over three decades in legal practice and excellence through leadership, Sally Mahihu, brings deep insight being a legal expert and strategic leader. She is the founder and principal of Bowyer Mahihu & Company Advocates. A prolific author and community leader, Sally is also a devoted wife and a mother of two.
ON THE DECK
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