n a major victory that underscores its growing reputation in complex litigation, Karanu Kanai & Co. Advocates has secured a landmark ruling in a high-stakes commercial dispute involving a multinational corporation and a Kenyan supplier. The ruling, delivered by the High Court’s Commercial Division, is being hailed as a precedent-setting moment in contractual enforcement and commercial equity in Kenya.
The Dispute
The dispute centered on a multi-million-shilling breach of contract claim filed by Karanu Kanai & Co.’s client — a leading local enterprise — against a global logistics firm over non-performance, delayed payments, and breach of exclusivity clauses.
After nearly 18 months of hearings, document disclosures, and legal arguments, the court ruled in favor of the plaintiff, awarding substantial damages, interest, and costs. The decision also affirmed the validity of local jurisdiction in cross-border commercial contracts governed by Kenyan law.
Strategic Litigation, Expertly Handled
The legal team, led by Senior Partner Julia Kanai, developed a rigorous litigation strategy that blended contract law, commercial practice, and jurisdictional arguments. The case involved extensive forensic documentation, expert testimony, and multiple interlocutory applications — all of which were expertly handled by the litigation unit.
“Our client’s business suffered greatly due to the defendant’s failure to honor key terms of the agreement,” said Ms. Kanai. “We are proud to have secured a just outcome that reinforces the principle of commercial accountability.”
Key Legal Takeaways
- Affirmation of Local Jurisdiction: The court upheld Kenya as the appropriate forum for dispute resolution, despite the international dimension of the contract.
- Performance Obligations Enforced: The judgment sends a strong message that performance clauses in B2B contracts are not optional and can attract serious legal consequences if breached.
- Damages & Deterrence: The award included both direct and consequential damages, signaling that Kenyan courts are prepared to award meaningful compensation in cases of bad faith or gross negligence.
Implications for Kenyan and Foreign Businesses
This judgment is expected to influence future commercial litigation by reinforcing Kenya’s position as a credible jurisdiction for resolving complex business disputes. Legal experts also believe it will encourage better contract drafting, clearer dispute resolution clauses, and more rigorous enforcement of commercial obligations.
Looking Ahead
Karanu Kanai & Co. Advocates continues to position itself as a leading litigation firm for businesses seeking not just legal support, but strategic representation in high-value, high-impact cases. The firm is now advising several clients in similar contract and commercial disputes, leveraging its litigation success and in-depth knowledge of Kenya’s evolving commercial legal environment.
About Karanu Kanai & Co. Advocates
Karanu Kanai & Co. Advocates is a full-service law firm based in Nairobi, Kenya. The firm is widely recognized for its expertise in litigation, real estate, commercial law, and dispute resolution.
