Galana Road renamed to honour human rights lawyer Pheroze Nowrojee

The Nairobi County Government has renamed Galana Road in Kilimani to Pheroze Nowrojee Road following extensive public consultation with residents and the wider community.

New signage has been installed to honour the late lawyer and constitutional scholar, who died on April 5, 2025. Nowrojee was a prominent defender of human rights and the rule of law throughout his career.

Speaking at a press briefing at the site, Martha Karua described Nowrojee as a remarkable patriot who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice.

Representing the senior bar, Karua highlighted his service to the vulnerable, noting that he embodied professionalism and integrity.

“He was deeply invested in the search for ethical leadership and good governance. He challenged and advised the political class with sincerity and conviction, while also mentoring the next generation of leaders,” Karua said.

Karua added that for him, the practice of law was never about personal gain or fees earned, but about justice served. She noted that beyond the courtroom, he was a teacher and a guide who nurtured purpose in others.

Nairobi South B MCA Waithera Chege confirmed she tabled the motion in October last year. The proposal sparked robust debate before being passed unanimously by the assembly.

“We have had several requests to name roads after different individuals, about 40 in total. But Pheroze’s motion stood out. All 122 members voted in support, making it one of the most popular motions in the House,” Chege said.

Chege cited constitutional provisions that assign county governments functions over transport and local roads. She noted that since independence, the county has renamed facilities to honour those who made significant societal contributions. 

“He was an advocate who pursued justice on principle, often offering his services pro bono, and who believed in the sanctity of the Constitution even in turbulent political times,” Chege said.

Nowrojee’s career included lecturing at the University of Nairobi and the Kenya School of Law. He received numerous accolades, including the Law Society Roll of Honour and the Bernard Simons Human Rights Prize. 

His widow, Viloo Nowrojee, thanked the county government and the Kilimani community, stating the renaming means a great deal to the family.