Tag: profiles and features

Timeless values, modern expertise

As East- and Central Africa’s oldest firm celebrates its 125th anniversary, partners Samir Inamdar, Julius Wako and Harpreet Ubhi discuss legacy and evolution, loving the law, and helping clients and staff in a fast-changing world.

Gaining a competitive edge

With a wide array of specialised LLMs available on campus and online, the University of Edinburgh offers lawyers cutting-edge continuing education. Faith Jumba shared her experiences and insights with Craig Sisterson.

Integrity and reliability in a fast-changing world

As the oldest law firm in East and Central Africa celebrates its 125th anniversary, its past and present senior leaders reflect on how CMS Kenya | Daly Inamdar Advocates has built an exciting, modern future on old school foundations.

Committing to continuous learning

With a wide array of specialised LLMs available on campus and online, the University of Edinburgh offers lawyers cutting-edge continuing education. Fred Chumo spoke to Craig Sisterson about balancing work and studies.

Edinburgh unveils innovative Global Law degree

The University of Edinburgh’s Law School welcomed the first cohort of students onto the new Global Law LLB programme in September 2024, a historic moment for the highly regarded law school.

Lessons in service and self-awareness

While the number of women lawyers in Africa continues to rise, obstacles to leadership remain. Corporate, commercial and projects legal expert Asmahaney Saad chatted with Craig Sisterson about her journey and advice for new generations.

Spotlight on Africa's arbitration excellence

The expertise of the lawyers involved in arbitration in Africa was clearly evident at the annual Africa Arbitration Awards where Toheeb Amuda was named as the Young Arbitration Practitioner of the Year.

Finding and using your voice

With an array of specialised LLM programmes on campus and online, the University of Edinburgh offers lawyers cutting-edge continuing education. Mercy Christopher spoke to Craig Sisterson about her journey in human rights law.

Partnering in education, powering the future

Later this month, lawyers and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond will meet in Nairobi for CMS Africa Academy. Duncan Weston spoke with Craig Sisterson about holistically developing the next generation of legal talent.

Opening up your thinking

With a wide array of specialised LLMs available on campus and online, historic University of Edinburgh offers lawyers cutting-edge continuing education. Julia Penn spoke to Craig Sisterson about her experience.

Positioned for growth in Tanzania’s booming economy

Tanzania is one of Africa’s fastest growing economies and is opening its doors for investment. Sunday Ndamugoba spoke to Craig Sisterson about three leading firms coming together to help local and international clients make the most of this opportunity.

Funding the future in Kenya

Kenya has emerged as a leading destination for private equity and venture capital deals. Ahead of a key webinar on important new regulations, Nelson Karumba and Clarence Dongkeng spoke to Craig Sisterson about the evolving funds landscape.

Journeying safely through the Zambian property landscape

Zambia is experiencing vibrant growth and development in its residential and commercial property markets, but this comes with some challenges. Nathalie Mbuyi and Kelvin Sianga spoke with Craig Sisterson about helping clients navigate a changing landscape.

Powering an exciting future

Renewable energy generation in East Africa has quadrupled since 2000 and is now 65% of the region’s electricity capacity. Stephen Mallowah and Aisha Naiga spoke to Craig Sisterson about pursuing an even greener future.

Using commercial litigation as a platform to fix things

Ansie Menezes’ personal desire to help people “fix things” is what prompted her to pursue a legal career with a focus on commercial litigation. She spoke to Nikita Smith about her journey in the field.

Leveraging the competitive advantage of dual qualifications

As cross-border transactions grow in Africa, dual-qualified lawyers bring a number of benefits to clients. Belinda Msungama spoke to Craig Sisterson about the advantages of being New York qualified while working in Malawi.

Bright future for Kenya’s privately owned SEZ

As the first privately-owned business services special economic zone in Kenya, The Two Rivers International Finance & Innovation Centre could have a huge impact on the business landscape in Kenya and beyond. Africa Legal asked Brenda Mbathi about its significance for the region’s economic development.

Running a marathon in law

Working on projects that bring about a significant change to the African continent is what drives Simone Izzard. She spoke to Nikita Smith about her journey in the legal field and shared some of her most treasured moments.

Mozambique shines bright in the renewable energy sphere

With many African countries battling to fulfil their populations’ power needs, Mozambique seems to hold the trump cards, potentially enabling it to become an electricity hub within the Southern Africa region. CMS recently investigated the region’s renewable energy prospects.

Finding solutions in a shifting world

Running strong against the tide, Zambia’s economy actually diversified and grew in response to the global downturn. Corporate experts Siakamwi Chikuba and Clarence Nkhata spoke to Craig Sisterson about the Zambian dream.

Taxing times

From tribunals to the digital economy, ongoing tax reforms create challenges for businesses and investors. Kenvine Odhiambo and Kivindyo Munyao explained to Craig Sisterson how they help clients navigate changing tax landscapes.

The solution to South Africa’s energy security?

South Africa’s energy crisis has created numerous opportunities for innovation, especially given Africa’s abundant natural resources which can be harnessed for renewable energy supply. Bridgett Majola and Gavin Noeth look at the potential for green hydrogen to fill this gap.

Seeing beyond

DFIs are investing billions in East Africa to kickstart ambitious projects and lift productivity and sustainability. Real estate and infrastructure expert Renice Midar spoke to Craig Sisterson about opportunities amid challenges.

Quick dispute resolutions favour all parties

South Africa’s multi-billion-dollar construction industry plays a critical role in the economy, job creation and enabling business. Tamlynn Caelers-Avis spoke to Craig Sisterson about the industry’s use of ADR to keep things moving.

An evolution in excellence

Nigeria’s leading commercial law firm recently rebranded as ALN Nigeria | Aluko & Oyebode. Joke Aliu and Gbenga Oyebode spoke to Craig Sisterson about their growing pan-African reach and shaping the future of Nigeria’s legal services.

Leveraging networking opportunities at Mining Indaba

August Hill & Associates is one of the firms that will attend the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024. Augustine Hamwela and Layeni Phiri told Africa Legal what they hope to achieve there.

WMN holding their own in a male-dominated sector

Three years after opening their doors, WMN Attorneys, a South African-based specialist law firm, has made a name for itself in the infrastructure and natural resources sectors across Africa, advising on multiple major projects. Zama Ngcobo told Africa Legal about their future plans.

A bold vision of transformation and pan-African growth

Aluko & Oyebode, Nigeria’s leading full-service commercial law firm, has rebranded itself as ALN Nigeria | Aluko & Oyebode, marking a significant milestone on its journey of offering top-tier legal services, pan-African expansion and global prominence.

AI growth forces law firms to change business models

The explosive growth of generative AI technology over the past year has created the long-anticipated inflection point for law firms where it is no longer possible to maintain business as usual, says Rob Otty. Ben Edwards interviewed him to find out more.

Tapping into the potential of the Silicon Savannah

Innovation has helped power Kenya’s economy since M-PESA’s launch in 2007 and there are many new developments on the horizon. Leading fintech lawyers Catherine Kariuki Mulika and Janet Othero spoke to Craig Sisterson about risks and new opportunities on the Silicon Savannah.

Harnessing synergies to drive innovation

Leading energy and infrastructure lawyer Deji Adegoke was recently appointed head of White & Case’s Africa practice. He chatted to Craig Sisterson about the continent’s bright future in a fast-changing world.

First Ethiopia, now the world

In a strategic move that marks a significant milestone in its growth trajectory, Ethiopia’s DABLO Law Firm has joined the prestigious Alliott Global Alliance (AGA). This partnership is set to propel the firm onto the international legal stage, enhancing its service offerings and extending its global reach.

Recognised far and wide

Mehrteab & Getu Advocates LLP, based in Addis Ababa, has been recognised as a top tier firm for 2023 by IFLR 1000, Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500. Mehrteab Leul Kokeb told Africa Legal how the firm achieved this.

Creating legal legacies

Joseph Jalasi’s dream was originally to be an engineer, but his second choice of law has turned out well, with his firm now ranked in Tier 1 in Legal 500. He told Africa Legal about his journey.

Opening up our (A)eyes…

In recent years there’s been a boom in people using AI to address healthcare problems in Africa. Timothy Kajja and Shehzada Walli talk with Craig Sisterson about the risks and opportunities for this exciting new frontier.

Going green in Nigeria

Industry commitments to Net Zero and action on climate change have been key topics at recent Mining Indabas. Samuel Olawepo spoke to Craig Sisterson about the status and prospects for green mining in Nigeria.

International reach brings large local impact

Susan T Nelima credits Hilton Law Group’s impeccable industry knowledge, good working relationships with government authorities, and a large international presence through a global network, with their continued success. Africa Legal found out more about the practice.

Building the world’s most respected African law firm

Mobolaji Oriola, founding partner of Allen & Brooks in Nigeria, takes pride in the fact that the firm, founded during the 2020 pandemic, is sailing well. He told Africa Legal that being recognised by clients and relevant institutions is the firepower that keeps them going.

Ethiopian reforms aim to foster investment

Ethiopia has seen an unprecedented level of legislative reforms in the past five years, primarily aiming to attract investment and spur economic growth. Mekdes Mezgebu spoke to Craig Sisterson about the reforms, opportunities and challenges for the country.

Building energy independence in Africa

Zambia is blessed with numerous waterways and generates most of its energy from renewables, but fresh solutions are needed. Augustine Hamwela discussed the challenges and opportunities in Zambia’s energy sector with Craig Sisterson.

In it together as one

At COP28 in Dubai, global leaders from government, business and NGOs will discuss why climate action can’t wait. Lusungu Gondwe and Nobert Phiri spoke to Craig Sisterson about using carbon credits to make a difference.

Financing a better future

Although venture capital funding slowed globally over the last couple of years, Kenya has continued to show strong growth and attract record investments. Corporate experts Jinaro Kibet SC and Brian Muindi spoke to Craig Sisterson about new risks and opportunities.

Quality, efficiency and innovation in legal service delivery

Legal practice internationally is evolving as clients and lawyers progressively embrace technology and new relationships. Tasleema Dramat spoke to Craig Sisterson about the benefits of managed legal services.

Breaking new ground: making a splash

Olaniwun Ajayi broke new ground for African law firms by opening its own London office in December 2021. Craig Sisterson interviewed Juanita Derex-Briggs about African lawyers and firms making an international impact.

Charting Legal Excellence in Africa's Largest Economy

Stren & Blan Partners has had a standout year in 2023, with the firm and some of its lawyers being lauded by numerous leading ranking bodies including Legal500, IFLR1000, ManagingIP, IP Stars, IAM Strategy 300 Global Leaders and WIPR. Africa Legal spoke to Christian Aniukwu to find out how they manage this.

Meet the most influential black lawyer in the UK

White & Case partner Joshua Siaw MBE has been recognised as the sixth most influential black person in the UK and the most influential in law, by Powerlist 2024. He spoke to Craig Sisterson about influence and inspiration.

Investing in Africa

Despite global challenges, Africa boasts a variety of opportunities for proactive businesses and investors. Deepa Vallabh and Chris Green spoke to Craig Sisterson about how developing markets can embrace their future.

Powering through from Nigeria to the world

Six years ago Chukwusolukwue “Chisolu” Obumneke-Okeke did not fancy himself being a lawyer at the forefront of advocating for clean energy. He spoke to Paul Ogemba about his journey – physically and metaphorically.

LegalTech for contracting experts

Lighthouse Law is fast establishing its identity as a law firm that is “people centred, solution driven, and tech enabled”. Lalena Posthumus and Paul Waugh spoke to Africa Legal’s Craig Sisterson about LightHub and what drove their creation of this innovative lawyer-friendly technology.

Innovative approach to ESG drives positive impacts

Winning ESG Initiative of the Year Award at the African Legal Awards for three years in a row, as well as the ESG Legal Adviser of the Year - Emerging Markets award at the 2023 IJGlobal ESG Awards for the second year in a row, suggests that Webber Wentzel’s ESG approach is paying off, writes Ben Edwards.

Perpetual students making waves globally

Despite having one of Africa’s smaller populations, Botswana has long had one of the continent’s best-performing economies. Odirile Itumeleng and Tshepo Dipatane spoke to Craig Sisterson about harnessing an international outlook.

Beyond policy, to action

Sustainable building practices are moving from nice-to-haves to must-haves in East Africa. In the final article, of our three-part series on the REC landscape in Africa, Nicole Gichuhi spoke to Craig Sisterson about helping clients navigate a landscape where actions outweigh words.

A shining example of excellent leadership

Just because you’re at the top doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a good leader, but Isabel Boaten clearly is, and her excellent leadership was recently spotlighted. Annie Dorasamy spoke to her about her professional journey.

Big plans for Uganda Law Society

Bernard Oundo was recently re-elected as the president of the Uganda Law Society (ULS) and shared some of his plans for the year ahead with Africa Legal.

A plethora of opportunities

Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu, has told the UN that he wants to foster economic growth and investor confidence in the country. Samuel Olawepo spoke to Craig Sisterson about some key opportunities in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Rule of law champions

The International Senior Lawyers Project takes pro bono work to a fully global level. Sara Lulo spoke to Craig Sisterson about sustainable development and the positive power of pro bono.

Keeping up with the times

Recent law reforms have bolstered cyber security in southern Africa but more needs to be done in a fast-changing field. Layeni Phiri spoke to Craig Sisterson about cyber security’s impact on foreign investment and the role of lawyers.

Kenya takes lead on climate law in East Africa

Momentum on ESG issues is building as Kenyan businesses embrace the challenges and opportunities of climate change, says TripleOKLaw LLP’s Stephen Mallowah in an interview with Ben Edwards.

Pioneering innovative legal solutions in Namibia

Passion has sparked numerous innovations in countless arenas, and law is no exception. Fedden Mainga Mukwata’s passion for everything law-related and a deep desire to share legal knowledge with the world led to him founding FASZ Legal Consultancy.

Dispute Resolution Team of the Year

One of the most hotly contested divisions of the 2023 African Legal Awards was for Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team of the Year, ultimately won by TripleOKLaw LLP

Exploiting Zim’s best kept secret

With Africa’s largest lithium deposits and vast, diversified mineral resources, mining in Zimbabwe could soon be worth $12 billion annually. Shepherd Machigere and Simbarashe Absolom Murondoti discussed the prospects with Craig Sisterson.

The benefits of good neighbours

Regional economic communities like ECOWAS, SADC and COMESA provide many benefits to members. Lusungu Gondwe and Adetunji Adedoyin-Adeniyi spoke to Craig Sisterson about corporate finance and asset recovery.

Model contracts’ roles in the energy transition

Energy development in Africa and the energy transition is a hot topic at the moment, and model contracts have an important role to play. Namibia’s Shakwa Nyambe will be sharing his expertise on this topic with an international audience at the AIEN Model Contracts Workshop this week.

Gauging success in today’s REC landscape

East Africa’s real estate and construction (REC) sector is dynamic and quickly evolving. In this article, the first in a three-part series on the REC landscape in Africa, Nicole Gichuhi spoke to Craig Sisterson about implementing justice in a commercial sphere.

Catalytic collaborations

Kua Ventures is passionate about financing and supporting local businesses that are creating change. Peter Fry spoke to Craig Sisterson about ways to bring greater collaboration to the investment landscape.

Opportunities aplenty

Kenya has proven a resilient economy during global turmoil. Ahead of a sector roundtable on investment, banking and finance expert Ribin Ondwari spoke to Craig Sisterson about key factors creating an even brighter future.

An incubator for smart power solutions

Access to electricity has quadrupled in Mozambique in the past 15 years, but over half the population still needs to be connected for the goal of universal access by 2030. Gisela Graça discussed the impact of development finance institutions and renewable energy solutions with Craig Sisterson.

Kenya is ripe for investment

Kenya is one of Africa’s top destinations for investment, with $676 million in venture capital funding alone in 2022 for Kenyan startups. Corporate law expert Sylvia Kithinji spoke to Craig Sisterson about what the future holds.

Fighting for the disenfranchised in Kenya

To commemorate Women’s Month and the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol, Annie Dorasamy interviewed three of the exceptional women who received the 20 for 20 Solidarity Awards.

An entertaining spin on law

The entertainment industry may look glamorous, but unsuspecting artists can get taken for a ride if they don’t have good legal counsel. Praise Anyaoha spoke to Alfred Olufemi about his path as an entertainment industry lawyer.

Shaped by a formidable partnership

Absolom Attorneys has been rebranded as Absolom and Shepherd Attorneys following Shepherd Machigere’s promotion to managing partner. Africa Legal took a closer look at the firm’s plans.

Prospering on a new frontier

Significant offshore oil and gas discoveries and growing exploration could massively boost Namibia’s economy. Energy law expert Shakwa Nyambe spoke to Craig Sisterson about the necessary legal reforms and the need for transparency and accountability.

South Sudan adopts Maputo Protocol

To commemorate Women’s Month and the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol, Annie Dorasamy interviewed three of the exceptional women who received the 20 for 20 Solidarity Awards.

Productivity partners that make life simpler

There’s no need to fear legaltech, says Fikayo Durosinmi-Etti who spoke to Craig Sisterson about the way legislative frameworks that embrace legal technology help build trust.

Leveraging networks to brighten the future

Despite sanctions, Zimbabwe is full of great commercial opportunities for brave businesses. Theophilus Gambe and Taka Gambe talked to Craig Sisterson about using well established networks to make the most of these opportunities.

Championing women’s rights in Rwanda

To commemorate Women’s Month and the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol, Annie Dorasamy interviewed three of the exceptional women who received the 20 for 20 Solidarity Awards.

Mixing things up

WMN Attorneys Inc has appointed a new director – Lubabalo Satsha – who will assume an advisory role with a focus on technology in corporate commercial law. Africa Legal found out more about the man and his new role.

Visionary nature takes law firm to the top

TripleOKLaw LLP has been shortlisted for an impressive ten categories at the 2023 African Legal Awards, including Law Firm of the Year. In the lead up to the awards, Africa Legal spoke to their team to find out how they achieved this.

Adapting to the evolving insurance claims landscape

New risks are constantly emerging as technology and other factors create an ever-changing business environment. Litigation and Dispute Resolution expert Rupert Candy spoke to Craig Sisterson about being vigilant when managing insurance claims.

Technology forges better collaboration

Evolutions in legal technology offer private practice lawyers and in-house counsel more than just efficiencies. George Njoroge of Enfinite Solutions spoke to Craig Sisterson about the many benefits of digitisation and automation.

Uganda and Mauritius embrace the crypto challenge

The growth of cryptocurrencies as both a store of value and means of payment has presented lawmakers across the continent with a legislative challenge. Ciaran Ryan asked two members of Alliott Global Alliance how Mauritius and Uganda are handling the issue.

Taking corporate law to new heights

Tanzania’s fast-growing economy is attracting foreign investment and diasporic return. Business law experts Keith Mukami and Shemane Amin talked to Craig Sisterson about heading home and raising the bar for legal service.

Ethiopia a step closer to clearing PPP obstacles

With 54% of Ethiopia currently unelectrified, and boundless renewable resources, there are massive opportunities for PPP developments. Mekdes Mezgebu spoke to Africa Legal about the obstacles and reforms that affect these projects.

Consultation is key in retrenchment exercises

The retrenchment process can be a traumatic experience for employers and employees alike. Melanie Hart spoke to Sheena Carnie about how employers can avoid some of the legal pitfalls of a retrenchment process.

A unique approach to corporate law

With a focus on corporate and commercial law, Mosima Attorneys has successfully leveraged its boutique status, black ownership, and deep industry experience to provide top class service to its clients. Nikita Smith delved deeper into the firm’s approach.