Murtaza Ahmed Lakha was born on 6 August 1940 in Zanzibar to a pious lady by the name of Sughra and to Ahmed Abdulrasul Lakha MBE who was a zakir, a linguist and a successful industrialist recognised by all the communities that knew him to be an influential leader.
He was the last born with five siblings. He emulated his father whom he had served to the end. From a very tender age he was reputed to be wise with a formidable and charming personality, yet humble. Having always been an excellent student in Zanzibar, he completed his Barrister-at-law qualifications at the age of twenty and graduated top of his year. Being underage he had to wait another year before he could be called to the Bar at Lincoln's Inn in London. His devotion to his parents is inspiring, for he declined a prestigious offer from Lord Denning to join his chambers in London, in order to swiftly return to Zanzibar where he served his family and the community under trying circumstances.
Professionally he was widely regarded as one of the best lawyers in East Africa and he continued to command respect for his knowledge of the law and its application when he moved to London. He was often invited to present papers at the International Bar Association conferences around the world. In times of crisis he was relied upon for his wisdom and sincerity by both individuals and institutions.