ALN · 2019. 4. 10. · ALN is an alliance of leading corporate law firms currently in fifteen key...
24
REACH . CONNECTIVITY . KNOW-HOW ALN ALGERIA ETHIOPIA GUINEA KENYA MADAGASCAR MALAWI MAURITIUS MOROCCO MOZAMBIQUE NIGERIA RWANDA SUDAN TANZANIA UGANDA ZAMBIA UAE
Transcript of ALN · 2019. 4. 10. · ALN is an alliance of leading corporate law firms currently in fifteen key...
REACH . CONNECTIVITY . KNOW-HOW
ALNALGERIA
ETHIOPIA
GUINEA
KENYA
MADAGASCAR
MALAWI
MAURITIUS
MOROCCO
MOZAMBIQUE
NIGERIA
RWANDA
SUDAN
TANZANIA
UGANDA
ZAMBIA
UAE
ALN is an alliance of leading corporate law firms currently in fifteen key African jurisdictions, including the continent’s gateway economies. We have a presence in Francophone, Anglophone, Lusophone and Arabic-speaking Africa: Algeria, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. The firms are recognised as leading firms in their markets and many have advised on ground breaking, first-of-a-kind deals. ALN also has a regional office in Dubai, UAE.
ALN firms work together in providing a one-stop-shop solution for clients doing business across Africa. ALN’s reach at the local, regional and international levels, connectivity with key stakeholders, and deep knowledge of doing business locally and across borders allows it to provide seamless and effective legal, advisory and transactional services across the continent. Our high level of integration is achieved by adherence to shared values and an emphasis on excellence and collaboration. We share sector-specific skills and regional expertise thus ensuring our clients benefit from the synergies of the alliance.
ALN is proud to have won the “Africa Network/Alliance of the Year” award at the 2018 African Legal Awards hosted by Legal Week, which recognises its leadership in the market in legal expertise and innovation, strategic vision, business winning, service delivery across the continent and commitment to CSR.
Chambers Global has consistently ranked the ALN alliance as Band 1 in the “Leading Regional Law Firm Networks – Africa-wide” category.
“ALN is a distinguished legal network covering an expansive and growing number of jurisdictions in Africa. It has a broad coverage of the Sub-Saharan region and continues to expand its reach with the addition of member firms in francophone and North Africa. The network offers clients engaging in pan-African cross-border matters a single integrated service with deep local knowledge.’’ – Chambers Global 2019
ABOUT
ALN
PRACTICE
AREAS
As a group, ALN has unrivalled strength across the full range of corporate legal services, complemented by knowledge of business, customs and local culture across Africa. ALN firms’ core areas of practice include:
BANKING & FINANCE
COMPETITION
EMPLOYMENT
PROJECTS & INFRASTRUCTURE
CAPITAL MARKETS
CORPORATE
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
REAL ESTATE
COMMERCIAL
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
PRIVATE CLIENTS
TAX
◤ ALN firms represent a unique blend of Africa legal experience and market-knowledge, coupled with proven expertise. Our close partnership allows us to provide seamless and efficient service to clients, by sharing our practice and sector expertise, know-how and teams. Together, we have worked on some of the most sophisticated deals in the continent.
◤ ALN firms have the ability to draw on the skills and expertise of each other and are able to offer a ‘one-stop-shop’ approach and one key point of responsibility for clients. The ALN network works on a highly united basis, as the member firms have worked together for many years and the partners and associates have personal relationships between them. ALN lawyers are seconded within firms, train together and routinely work together in cross-border groups.
◤ We have developed good relationships with several other ‘best friend firms’ across the continent, which has enhanced our ability to act effectively in Africa. Since we are large buyers of legal services across the continent, we tend to get good service from legal counsel across Africa, including in more challenging jurisdictions.
◤ ALN firms are in constant contact, and enjoy excellent relationships with, the relevant local and regional regulators.This is by virtue of being on the ground and working on some of the most sophisticated transactions on the continent.
◤ ALN firms have the ability to ensure the availability of dedicated professional teams with sufficient bandwidth to meet clients’ needs.
◤ We are able to combine international best practices with our on-the-ground experience and local knowledge. Many of our lawyers have trained with international firms in Europe and North America and so understand how multinational clients work and what their expectations are with respect to service delivery from their professional advisers.
◤ ALN member firms are supported by a centralised team of professionals to ensure that all members have access to top of the range office-related infrastructure, connectivity and advice. All firms have agreed policies relating to confidentiality, client information protection and the handling of conflicts.
◤ ALN lawyers embody the firms’ core values – they are Pan African, down to earth and practical minded. The firms exemplify these qualities by being accessible and committed to their clients.
◤ ALN knows Africa. More importantly, we know that Africa is not one country and that all 54 countries on the continent are different in terms of political regime, culture, language, legal and regulatory systems, business practices and generally how to deal with people effectively. We understand clearly that there is no ‘one-size fits all’ approach and that every country must be treated differently. Due diligence on the country, the industry, the business community and one’s potential local partner is key to successfully doing business in Africa.
THE ALN
MODEL
The ALN model is designed to enhance the process of working efficiently and effectively with our clients, stakeholders and each other to provide seamless service.
OUR
COVERAGE
ALN 1
Founded by two highly experienced lawyers who were educated and trained in top universities and law firms in Algiers, Paris and London, Bourabiat Associés aims to provide its clients in Algeria a pioneering offering as a fully independent local firm, providing legal services that match international standards.
Bourabiat Associés is well known for its expertise in corporate, commercial, projects and banking matters. The team regularly advises on mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructurings and project financing. It is also known for its expertise in complex arbitrations. The firm’s client base includes international
organisations across a wide range of industry sectors, including telecommunications, transport, automotive, pharmaceutical and agribusiness.
The firm advises clients in Algeria, France and throughout the MENA region, cultivating close relationships with leading law firms in the relevant jurisdictions, which helps to provide seamless services to clients on their cross-border transactions and projects. The firm regards a deep understanding of the local laws, culture and business practices as essential to successfully meeting clients’ needs in Algeria.
ALGERIA
BOURABIAT ASSOCIÉS
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘This firm is highly respected locally and internationally for its breadth of experience, advising clients across industry sectors including banking, telecommunications, energy and engineering. The team is also noted for its skill in private equity matters and international investments, notably in the projects space.’ - Chambers Global, 2018
Foued Bourabiat started his career at the Algiers office of a leading French law firm. His recent experience includes assisting and advising various major investors and credit institutions in respect of investments and financings in the MENA region, including in Algeria. He has been involved in complex cross-border financing transactions and cutting edge Islamic finance deals.
Before establishing Bourabiat Associés, Foued spent eight years at top-tier international law firms in Paris, Hogan Lovells and Herbert Smith Freehills.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
FOUED BOURABIAT Partner T: DZ +213 775 388 597 | FR : +33 660 790 822 E: [email protected]
ALN2
Mesfin Tafesse & Associates (MTA) is one of the leading law offices in Ethiopia providing legal advisory services to local and international clients in the areas of commercial and investment law, mining and energy, mergers and acquisitions, banking and finance, construction, environmental law, and taxation.
MTA’s team of lawyers has substantial experience in diversified areas of Ethiopian law, offering a range of services, including investment advisory relating to mergers and acquisitions, corporate structuring, business negotiations, preparation of corporate and transaction documents, local presence facilitation,
research and consultancy. The office is committed to excellence and aims to provide world-class services to its clients.
MTA’s client base includes players in diverse sectors, including consumer and industrial goods manufacturing, banking, agriculture, media, telecommunications, hospitality, healthcare and professional services.
Chambers Global has consistently ranked MTA as a Band 1 legal service provider in Ethiopia.
ETHIOPIA
MESFIN TAFESSE & ASSOCIATES
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘Mesfin Tafesse Law Office maintains an active practice and has significant corporate advisory capabilities. The team demonstrates strength across the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. It is singled out for its handling of IP-related matters and impressive banking and finance expertise. High-profile corporations and international law firms frequently rely on this office to assist with construction and development projects. Market commentators are “very impressed” with the “spot-on advice and turnaround.”’ - Chambers Global 2018
Mesfin Tafesse is the Principal Attorney at MTA and has over 25 years of legal experience in the private, public, and civil society sectors in Ethiopia. As an attorney, Mesfin has substantial experience representing foreign investors, setting up subsidiary companies, undertaking legal due diligence in sectors including, but not limited to, commercial and investment, banking and finance and mining and energy, including oil and gas. He represents international clients such as Boeing, Heineken, GlaxoSmithKline, Standard Chartered Bank and others.
Mesfin is consistently recognised by Chambers Global as a Band 1 legal service provider in Ethiopia, and is described as having ‘an established commercial practice that focuses on energy and natural resources.’ The directory further notes that ‘Market sources admire his work ethic and responsiveness.’
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
MESFIN TAFESSE Principal Attorney T: +251 11 6 672341 | +251 11 6 672271 E: [email protected]
ALN 3
Based in Conakry, SD Avocats is an independent law firm that was established in 2013 by Salimatou Diallo, who is a member of the Conakry, Paris and New York Bars. The firm was founded with a true entrepreneurial spirit and strives to represent clients with a great deal of flexibility and responsiveness. Having begun her career in the Paris offices of major UK and international law firms Hogan Lovells and Herbert Smith Freehills, Salimatou has over 10 years’ experience working on African projects, particularly on cross-border transactions across all sectors and contract negotiation and structuring partnerships with African government bodies.
The firm advises on all investment facets and project phases, ranging from identifying the applicable legal framework to risk assessments, while playing an active role in a wide array of
transactional matters, such as commercial partnerships, contract negotiations, financing, and achieving a project’s external growth and share/asset transfers. SD Avocats offers legal advice in both French and English to investors in West Africa, specialising in natural resources, energy, telecoms and infrastructure. The firm also has strong expertise in OHADA law, mining and project financing.
SD Avocats provides technical experience gained from leading international law firms, enabling clients to benefit from legal advice which meets international standards, coupled with on-the-ground presence, strong relationships with the various local governmental bodies and a thorough understanding of local customs and practices.
GUINEA
SD AVOCATS
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘This dynamic practice is frequently commended for its handling of complex project financing matters throughout the OHADA region. It services a largely international clientele from a wide array of sectors including energy and mining. One highly impressed source went so far as to compliment the team as “the best, not only in Guinea but in francophone Africa generally.”’ - Chambers Global 2018
Salimatou Diallo is the founding Partner of SD Avocats and is a member of the Conakry, Paris and New York Bars. Having graduated from the University of Paris I - Pantheon Sorbonne and the American University of Washington DC with an LLM, Salimatou began her career in the Paris offices of major international law firms where she was promoted to Of Counsel. After 10 years’ experience working on African projects, Salimatou decided to establish her own independent law practice in Conakry.
Salimatou has been recognised by various leading directories in the ‘Rising Star Lawyer’ and ‘Leaders in their fields’ categories. In particular, Chambers Global has consistently ranked her as a Band 1 lawyer since 2015 in its lawyer rankings for Guinea, recognising her as the ‘preferred choice for Lenders’. Chambers Global highlights in its 2018 Rankings that ‘She benefits from a stellar reputation for her work on a broad spectrum of high-value transactional mandates.’
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
SALIMATOU DIALLO Partner T: GN +224 620 56 54 95 | FR +33 7 78 02 72 84 E: [email protected]
ALN4
Anjarwalla & Khanna (A&K) is generally considered the leading corporate law firm in Kenya, and is the largest full-service corporate law firm in East Africa with close to 100 lawyers. A&K has developed specialist expertise in several practice areas, including corporate and commercial law, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, banking and finance, competition, capital markets, intellectual property, employment, tax, project finance, energy, infrastructure, real estate, and dispute resolution. A&K operates Africa-wide, handling deals in several countries across Africa, both in its own capacity and in collaboration with ALN firms across the continent A&K has sizable offices in both Nairobi and Mombasa, which are Kenya’s two commercial centres.
A&K is the founding member of ALN.
In 2018, A&K was named Kenyan Law Firm of the Year by Chambers & Partners. Additionally, the firm has won “African Law Firm of the Year – Large Practice” four times in the last six years, awarded by the prestigious African Legal Awards, which celebrate ‘excellence, achievement and innovation in the legal profession’. A&K has been ranked for this distinction in 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2013 and been shortlisted for it in 2018 and 2014. Further, in 2018, the firm won the African Law Firm of the Year – M&A Team of the Year Award.
A&K is ranked first in Kenya by various legal guides, including Chambers Global, IFLR, and Legal 500. IFLR1000 in their 2017 edition noted that ‘A&K has become the largest legal practice in Sub-Saharan Africa, outside of South Africa, and continues to work on the largest and most complex transactions in the region’. As reported in Chambers Global 2018, A&K is ‘highly regarded for having a dominant corporate and commercial team with an established regional practice’. A&K is also ranked by Chambers Global as having Africa-wide capabilities. The firm has on-the-ground presence coupled with regional and international connectivity and expertise.
KENYA
ANJARWALLA & KHANNA
ABOUT THE FIRM
AWARDS & RANKINGS
Under Karim’s leadership, A&K has won the African Law Firm of the year Award for four of the previous six years.
ALN 5
‘Prominent Kenyan firm with an impressive reputation in the region and an expansive reach across the continent supported by ALN, its network of allied law firms. Active presence advising African clients on M&A and intellectual property in the TMT, banking and finance and real estate sectors. Represents overseas corporations and equity funds on inbound acquisitions in the energy, manufacturing and security industries.’ – Chambers Global 2018
Karim Anjarwalla is the Managing Partner of A&K and heads the firms’ Corporate Department. Karim has a wide array of experience advising domestic, regional and international clients on M&A, joint ventures and private equity investments.
Karim is consistently involved in the most prominent transactions in the region. He has advised Helios Investment Partners on several deals, including on the disposal of its stake of 24.99% of its shareholding in Equity Group Holdings, and on its acquisition of 70% of the share capital of Telkom Kenya from France Telecom. Karim also acted for the shareholders of Giro Commercial Bank on its sale of the entire issued share capital to I&M Holdings followed by the simultaneous transfer of assets from Giro to I&M Bank. Previously, Karim advised the Kenyan Government on its USD 2 billion sovereign Eurobond issuance – the largest sovereign debut debt issue in Sub-Sarahan Africa to-date. Karim’s clients include Helios Investment Partners, Equity Bank, Giro Bank, Schneider Electric Industries and Actis, amongst others.
Under Karim’s leadership, A&K established ALN, the first and most integrated alliance of leading independent law firms in Africa. Since its inception in 2004, ALN has expanded into sixteen jurisdictions in Africa with an affiliate office in Dubai.
Karim is regularly an invited expert at various international legal and business forums.
He is rated as a Leading Lawyer by Chambers Global, IFLR1000 and Legal 500 and is featured in Who’s Who Legal. Chambers Global’s 2017 rankings note that he is praised for having led the firm ‘to be a leading law firm in Kenya and beyond.’
KEY CONTACT
KARIM S. ANJARWALLA Managing Partner T: +254 703 032 000 E: [email protected]
ALN6
Located in the heart of Antananarivo’s business district, Madagascar Law Offices (MLO) is a modern, multi-service law firm with a specialty in corporate and project finance transactions. The firm advises on all matters affecting the day-to-day operations of businesses in Madagascar, including corporate compliance, sectoral compliance, high level tax, land and real estate, labour and environmental compliance, amongst others. It also provides advice on specific investment sectors, including mining, petroleum, telecommunications, electricity, tourism and hotel, agribusiness and manufacturing.
The MLO team has the unique ability to draft, negotiate, understand and comment on documents in both English and French. The firm has experience in cross-border transactions and has assisted national and international investors doing business in Madagascar.
MLO offers an essential combination of knowledge of local content, on the one hand, and an understanding of international business practices, on the other. Its understanding of civil law regimes on which Malagasy law is based, and common law systems from which many investors come from, is a key component of its practice. The firm provides advice and assistance to first tier international companies seeking to invest in Madagascar or to enter into agreements with Malagasy entities, whether private or governmental. Its main clients include financial institutions funding projects in Madagascar, large multinationals involved in mining or petroleum exploration, established Malagasy companies seeking partners or financing from abroad, and investors or potential investors in a wide variety of regulated and unregulated sectors.
MADAGASCAR
MADAGASCAR LAW OFFICES
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘This firm is well established in the Malagasy market and lauded for providing a first-rate service… It is particularly adept at assisting international investors with infrastructure, mining and energy projects. The team also provides advice on corporate transactions, real estate and tax law.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Sahondra Rabenarivo is the Managing Partner at MLO. She specialises in corporate and transactional matters, with extensive experience in project finance, mergers and acquisitions, corporate and employment law. She regularly advises clients investing in petroleum, mining, telecommunications, hospitality, and energy projects in Madagascar.
She is a graduate of Harvard Law School who returned to Madagascar in 2004 after having practiced for several years in San Francisco, California. She is also a graduate of the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University and Reed College. She is a dual citizen of Madagascar and the United States, and is fluent in English, French and Malagasy.
Sahondra is the only attorney ranked in Band 1 of Chambers Global’s 2018 rankings, and is described as an “excellent” practitioner and a key player in the market. The rankings also note that “every member of the team is highly competent”.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
SAHONDRA RABENARIVO Managing Partner T: +261 32 07 005 56 E: [email protected]
ALN 7
Savjani and Co. is one of the largest law firms in Malawi and is ranked as Malawi’s leading law firm by Chambers Global, the only Band 1 law firm in the country. The firm was established in 1977 by Mr. Krishna Savjani OBE SC. Based in Blantyre, the country’s commercial capital, the firm offers extensive insight into the opportunities and intricacies of Malawi’s economic and legal environments.
Savjani & Co. is recognised both for its depth of knowledge of the Malawian market and its international experience and skill level. The firm has an outstanding reputation amongst national and international corporations. Its client base includes
major agricultural, banking, bottling, brewing, broadcasting, freight forwarding, insurance, mining, telecommunications, and petroleum, railway and manufacturing companies.
Given the consolidated nature of the legal profession in Malawi, Savjani & Co. provides both advisory and advocacy services. The firm’s combination of expertise and commitment has attracted an extensive international and local client base. It seeks to provide top quality focussed and consistent advice and to respond with agility. According to Chambers Global’s 2017 rankings, the firm is referred to by some sources as ‘the most thorough, most professional law firm in Malawi.’
MALAWI
SAVJANI & CO.
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘Savjani & Co ... remains a go-to choice for international law firms and multinational corporations seeking Malawi counsel. The firm also attracts an abundance of praise from a variety of commentators, who draw attention to its extensive resources as well as the consistently high calibre of the team.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Krishna Savjani OBE SC is the Managing Partner at Savjani & Co. and a leading professional in Malawi. He is a Barrister-at-Law (England), Senior Consul, an appointment made by the President of Malawi, and the Honorary Legal Adviser to the British High Commission in Malawi. Mr. Savjani was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Chambers Global refers to Mr. Savjani as “a veteran of the Malawi legal market and possesses a formidable reputation”. .’ He is well recognised for his broad-based expertise, with sources affirming that he is “impressive in both the courtroom and the boardroom.” He has significant experience acting for clients in both the public and private sectors and is regarded as a strong choice for large transactions. Krishna has a diverse practice, and, in particular, his expertise in banking and finance, commercial litigation, PPPs and NGO work. Corporate investors appreciate his discreet approach and in-depth knowledge of the Malawian market. His combination of local understanding, international experience and eye for detail, set him apart as the leading lawyer in Malawi, with some clients noting that ‘his knowledge is second to none in the country.’
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
KRISHNA SAVJANI OBE SC Partner T: +265 1 824 555 / +265 1 824281 E: [email protected]
ALN8
BLC Robert & Associates is one of the leading independent business law firms in Mauritius. The firm has seven partners and over 25 locally and internationally trained fee earners. BLC Robert serves a diverse client base including regional and international financial institutions, corporations, funds and public sector bodies, among others.
The core strength of BLC Robert is its unique and concurrent understanding of both the public and private sector, which enables it to offer distinct service, with industry knowledge, commercial awareness and legal expertise under one roof. The firm prides itself on offering practical commercial solutions to complex transactions and legal issues. BLC Robert is committed to understanding its clients’ business as this is the key to providing commercially sound solutions.
As a testament to the excellence of its services, BLC Robert has been on the list of the Chambers and Partners prestigious global ranking of law firms since 2008 and is now simultaneously ranked as a First Tier firm and a Band 1 firm, respectively, by both IFLR and Chambers and Partners.
BLC Robert is described as ‘a top firm’ and its lawyers as being ‘thorough and professional’ and ‘attentive and responsive’. According to Chambers Global, BLC Robert ‘enters the table on the back of stellar market recommendation’ and its strength is its ‘in-depth experience of financial instruments, tax matters and corporate work’.
MAURITIUS
BLC ROBERT & ASSOCIATES
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘A highly reputed firm with one of the largest teams on the island. Its diverse offering includes work undertaken in sectors such as real estate, energy, infrastructure, private equity and telecommunications. The firm benefits from increased strength in litigation following its recent merger with André Robert’s Etude Robert.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Iqbal Rajahbalee is the Managing Partner of BLC Robert and specialises in banking and finance, litigation and dispute resolution, PPP and regulatory work. He is a Senior Counsel with over 30 years of practice at the Bar of Mauritius advising on a number of diverse cross-border finance transactions, including asset financing and investment funds both for the public and private sector.
Iqbal is the founder of the offshore industry in Mauritius, has served as the first Executive Director of the Mauritius Offshore Business Activities Authority, and was appointed as the first Chief Executive of the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius. He served for more than ten years at the Attorney General‘s Office, Ministry of Justice, rising to the position of Assistant Solicitor General. He is often called upon by the Government to advise on financial law matters and has drafted numerous pieces of legislation in Mauritius, including the Securities Act, the Financial Services Development Act and the Insurance Act.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
IQBAL RAJAHBALEE Senior Counsel & Managing Partner T: +230 403-2400 E: [email protected]
ALN 9
BFR & Associés is an independent law firm based in Casablanca, Morocco’s business capital. The firm specialises in business law, with its multidisciplinary teams assisting clients in a wide range of legal services. Under the leadership of three founding partners, each with their own area of speciality, the firm’s practice areas include dispute resolution, projects, mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, capital markets and financings and corporate finance among others. Prior to founding BFR & Associés, two of its founding partners practiced law in renowned international law firms in Paris and London, including Gide Loyrette Nouel, Ashurst, Jones Day and Shearman & Sterling.
The partners and associates at the firm are major players in the Moroccan business law community, advising their clients in all their operations, whether Moroccan or cross-border. BFR & Associés’ client base is made up of companies based in Morocco,
public corporations, government agencies and foreign investors active in the banking, insurance and energy sectors.
BFR & Associés also serves foreign law firms whose clients have interests in Morocco, providing reliable advice, and independent, suitable and tailor-made services to meet their specific needs in the local environment, in accordance with the best international standards. The dedication, reliability and responsiveness of each team member assigned to the matter at hand, supported by the entire firm to provide practical and innovative solutions, is the basis of BFR clients’ satisfaction. The firm maintains close and longstanding relationships in principal jurisdictions including Europe and the Middle East.
BFR is ranked by Chambers Global 2018 and IFLR 1000 and described as ‘highly recommended’ in Financial and Corporate.
MOROCCO
BFR & ASSOCIÉS
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘This firm has a growing market standing in Morocco since opening in 2015. The team handles significant M&A and joint venture work, amidst its broader corporate law portfolio. Clients are extremely impressed with its work, describing it as “very proactive and clear” and as “very professional, very reactive, very much aware of local market practice.”’ - Chambers Global 2018
Safia Fassi-Fihri is the Managing Partner of BFR & Associés, working alongside two other founding partners of the firm. She qualified as a lawyer (avocat) and specialises in mergers and acquisitions (including listed and non-listed companies, and investment funds), joint-ventures, capital markets transactions and financings. She also advises on real estate and touristic developments in connection with the structuring of investment funds and takes interest in corporate governance and socially responsible investments.
Safia worked as a lawyer in a renowned international law firm in Paris and London before accepting a position as general counsel for a major insurance company in Morocco. She holds a Masters degree in business law from the University of Paris II – Assas and is a graduate of ESSEC Business School.
Chambers Global recognises Safia’s experience across the spectrum of corporate law issues in industries including banking, energy and employment, and notes that she is respected in the local and international markets.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
SAFIA FASSI-FIHRI Managing Partner T: +212 (0) 6 64 62 56 46 E: [email protected]
ALN10
Avillez, Bacar, Centeio & Cambule (ABCC), a leading firm in Mozambique, (formerly SCAN - Sociedade de Advogados, Limitada) was established in May 2009 by a team of reputable and experienced lawyers with the shared vision of building an independent law firm which would service domestic, regional and international players looking for real on-the-ground representation. Currently, under the leadership of four partners, the firm has been involved in some of the largest and most pioneering projects in Mozambique.
ABCC has a significant and diverse law practice, offering day-to-day advice on all matters pertaining to corporate, commercial, mergers and acquisitions, investment, banking and finance, privatisations, property, import and export, tax, mining, tourism, agribusiness, litigation and arbitration, construction and civil engineering as well as related licensing aspects, to a large number of clients, including
many multinational companies. It is particularly recognised for its corporate, banking and finance, real estate, tax and litigation practices. Locally, the firm has unmatched experience in advising private companies and government-owned institutions on projects, and extensive experience in representing clients on a wide range of industries, including energy, oil and gas, banking and finance, communications, advertising, air and road transportation, logistics, food and beverages and public institutions.
The firm offers a dynamic and constructive approach, with added value to its clients’ businesses. The team is able to draft and negotiate contracts in English and Portuguese, and the solid local and international experience of its partners is acknowledged and valued both in and out of Mozambique. Chambers Global 2018 ranks the firm highly and notes that they have an enviable client roster.
MOZAMBIQUE
ABCC
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘The firm is frequently retained by global players hailing from the banking, finance, mining and infrastructure sectors to assist with corporate and commercial issues in Mozambique. The group regularly assists clients with project financing as well as offering additional assistance with arbitration and litigation cases. Numerous sources single out the firm’s responsiveness and the technical quality of the team.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Francisco Avillez is the Managing Partner and one of the founding partners of ABCC. His previous experience includes working as a trainee at Pereira & Leal (now PLMJ law firm) as well as an internship at Banco Mello, where he attended bank training courses and provided legal support to the business management. He was also responsible for the litigation departments at several companies in Portugal, having also held the office of legal and administrative counsel.
Francisco advises mainly private companies, with a focus on financial institutions and large investment projects. Chambers Global says that he is recognised by clients as be being “very responsive and provides technically correct but also commercially savvy advice. Clients feel that they are in good hands.”
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
FRANCISCO AVILLEZ Managing Partner T: +258 823 026 110 E: [email protected]
ALN 11
G. Elias & Co. was founded in 1994 and has become one of Nigeria’s leading business law firms. The firm has always had an international outlook, with a reputation and outstanding record of carrying out critical, innovative and complex work to the highest standards. It has advised and represented clients on several of the most significant recent developments in Nigerian business law practice, particularly in the fields of sale of businesses, infrastructure financings denominated in hard currencies and tax and securities law disputes.
The firm is organised into eight practice areas, which include litigation, corporate (including mergers and acquisitions), banking, capital markets, compliance, tax, intellectual property, and employment, operating across ten sectors, including oil-and-gas and mining, electric power, telecommunications and technology,
media and entertainment, food and healthcare, trade and industry, transport and logistics, financial services, real estate and construction, and infrastructure. The firm’s clients in these sectors include leading global multinational enterprises, ambitious, home-grown fledglings, government-controlled enterprises which the firm has advised on numerous privatisations, and companies controlled entirely by private sector actors.
G. Elias & Co. maintains instrumental relationships in business and government circles in Nigeria and abroad.
Chambers Global cites that sources value the firm’s responsiveness and meticulous approach, describing it as an “excellent law firm” and noting that the “quality of the work is very good. They are quick and the work is always spot-on.”
NIGERIA
G. ELIAS & CO.
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘Respected firm sought after by domestic and international clients alike for the breadth and depth of its commercial and corporate knowledge. Covers an array of sectors, most notably real estate, healthcare, consumer goods and energy.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Fred Onuobia is the Managing Partner of G. Elias & Co. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nigeria, and a Master of Laws from University College London. His practice covers banking, securities, intellectual property, telecommunications, media and technology, commercial litigation, project finance, petroleum and energy and intellectual property law.
According to Chambers Global’s 2018 rankings, Fred is a well respected practitioner and clients appreciate his detailed approach and legal intellect.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
FRED ONUOBIA Managing Partner T: +2341 4607890| 2806970 E: [email protected]
ALN12
Rwanda’s economy is rapidly evolving and the country is consistently praised for the pace of its business climate reform and improvements in economic freedom. K-Solutions & Partners is a prominent law firm in Rwanda, exceptionally well positioned to offer clients practical insights on the legal issues arising in Rwanda’s rapidly evolving economic environment. The firm has a reputation for delivering in-depth knowledge of both local and international business practice.
With extensive commercial and financial legal expertise, K-Solutions & Partners represents clients in major business matters nationally, regionally and internationally. The firm regularly advises financial institutions, multinationals, telecommunications companies, airlines, government bodies, embassies, NGOs,
international manufacturers and retailers. In addition, the firm’s lawyers are known for their cutting edge expertise in IT law (including internet and e-commerce), intellectual property law, media and tourism law.
The lawyers at K-Solutions & Partners are admitted to the Brussels Bar Association, the East African Law Society and Rwandan Bar Association. As such, they are subject to the provisions of the Interior Regulation of the Rwandan Bar Association. In addition to a high level of legal education and training, the firm’s lawyers have a practical understanding of the needs of business organisations, having worked in international business law firms and multinational companies and some occupied academic positions.
RWANDA
K-SOLUTIONS & PARTNERS
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘An established firm that focuses much of its practice on the international market, assisting investors entering Rwanda with various regulatory and registration issues. The team is adept across a range of industries, including banking and telecommunications, and notably in mining and electricity. It also continues to gain prominence in real estate.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Eric Cyaga is the Managing Partner at K-Solutions & Partners in Kigali, Rwanda. Eric’s role is to ensure the legality of commercial transactions, advising companies on their legal rights and duties. Eric has knowledge of aspects of contract law, securities law, insolvency, business organisation and employment. He has over eight years of experience in hospitality operations and has worked extensively in the field of Hospitality, Tourism and Travel Industry Law.
Eric has a keen interest in environmental and ecological issues and has acted as legal advisor to the Rwandese Ecologist Association.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
ERIC CYAGA Managing Partner T: +250 788 300 973 E: [email protected]
ALN 13
Based in Khartoum, Omer Ali Law Firm has been advising clients on Sudan’s business environment since 2005. The firm offers a wide range of legal services, including corporate and commercial, banking and finance, insurance, employment, intellectual property, mergers and acquisitions, shipping, energy and natural resources, arbitration, international trade, real estate, and construction.
The firm serves a rapidly expanding client base of local, international and multinational entities in Sudan, operating in a range of sectors, including oil and gas, aviation, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, telecommunications and financial services.
The firm’s founder, Dr. Omer Ali Abdelrahman, has over thirty years’ experience of practising law both inside and outside Sudan. He acted as a legal advisor at the helm of the executive branch of the Sudanese Government, and acted as in-house counsel for a multinational conglomerate operating across four continents. Dr. Omer Ali Abdelrahman specialises in commercial and corporate law, including company law, contracts, insurance, banking law, law of finance, intellectual property, joint ventures, carriage contracts, construction law, shipping law, mergers and acquisitions, energy law, arbitration, international trade.
SUDAN
OMER ALI LAW FIRM
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘Omer Ali Abdelrahman of Omer Ali Law Firm is viewed by sources as a “very strong business lawyer” with a respected corporate and commercial consultancy practice. He advises international clients on company, employment, mining and telecoms law.’- Chambers Global 2018
Dr. Omer Ali Abdelrahman is the Managing Partner of Omer Ali Law Firm, and has been practising law both inside and outside Sudan since 1980. Dr. Omer Ali started his career in Sudan by practising in a prominent law firm, then as legal advisor at the helm of the executive branch of the Government. His practice outside Sudan is also diversified, as a legal advisor in a law firm in Saudi Arabia advising multinational corporations, public companies and family owned businesses, and as in-house legal counsel for a family owned conglomerate with businesses in various countries, including Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, U.S., Indonesia and Malaysia.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
OMER ALI ABDELRAHMAN Managing Partner T: +249 155 155 554 E: [email protected]
ALN14
ATZ Law Chambers is a leading full service corporate and commercial law firm based in Dar es Salaam with substantial experience and knowledge of the Tanzanian market.
The ATZ team has significant experience handling sophisticated transactions, including corporate commercial, infrastructure, real estate, complex mergers and acquisitions, banking and project finance, capital markets, privatisation projects, corporate restructuring, insolvency, mining, energy and telecommunications.
ATZ aims to become the preeminent firm in Tanzania and a leading regional powerhouse by having a specialist focus and ability to deliver timely and efficient legal services. The firm values the
development and cultivation of long-term client relationships and focus on understanding our clients’ business needs and requirements so as to partner in their growth and development. The background experience of the firm’s lawyers allows them to offer the best legal services in the country in all aspects of law.
In 2014, ATZ and Anjarwalla & Khanna entered into a close-knit strategic alliance to service the increasing number of clients doing Tanzania-Kenya cross-border deals. The alliance allows for seamless interaction on deals, sharing of know-how and the exchange of lawyers between firms. ATZ also works closely with ALN’s Regional Office in the UAE, Anjarwalla Collins & Haidermota.
TANZANIA
ATZ LAW CHAMBERS
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘Has a well-rounded service and a network of correspondent firms both regionally and internationally. Demonstrates particular expertise in M&A, capital markets and competition law, with recent notable involvement in both the energy and real estate sectors. Lauded for its ability in cross-border transactions.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Shamiza Ratansi is the Managing Partner of ATZ Law Chambers, and a member of both the Tanganyika Law Society and the East African Law Society. Her areas of expertise include banking and finance, private equity, corporate commercial, merger and acquisitions, conveyancing, regulated sector, real estate, mining, and capital markets. She has acted for and advised lenders on the obtaining, perfection and enforcement of securities and in the reviewing of loan and facility agreements in Tanzania. She also undertakes all types of company commercial work, and has acted for and advised vendors and purchasers on the acquisition and disposal of shares and assets.
Shamiza is recognised by Legal 500, Chambers Global, IFLR1000, and Who’s Who Legal.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
SHAMIZA RATANSI Managing Partner T: +255 75 499 9667 E: [email protected]
ALN 15
MMAKS Advocates is amongst the top law firms in Uganda, formed by the ground-breaking merger of three respected law firms with a well-developed client base. The firm specialises in the fields of corporate and commercial law, with particular expertise in banking and finance, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, employment and intellectual property. With a total of 26 qualified legal professionals, MMAKS Advocates is one of the largest firms in Uganda, and is committed to delivering practical and quality legal services with professionalism and integrity. The firm provides strategic and commercially insightful transactional advice to an array of high profile local and international entities, and has been involved in numerous ground-breaking legal cases in Uganda.
The firm adopts a proactive approach to high quality, timely and efficient legal services and prides itself on a policy of open communication, teamwork, and client satisfaction. A number of its lawyers are qualified solicitors and barristers, whilst others have worked at leading international law firms, with two of its partners qualified as solicitors of the Supreme Court of England and Wales.
According to Chambers Global 2018, clients describe MMAKS Advocates’ as ‘proactive, spotting possible issues that might arise and then working towards a solution.”
UGANDA
MMAKS ADVOCATES
ABOUT THE FIRM
Well-regarded firm with a strong and experienced dispute resolution team. Frequently acts on high-profile commercial and financial litigation matters, as well as local and international arbitrations. Also assists clients with transactional matters pertaining to the oil and gas, mining and energy sectors, and maintains an active intellectual property practice. The firm continues to benefit from its long-standing membership of the acclaimed Africa Legal Network.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Timothy Masembe is the Managing Partner of MMAKS Advocates and the head of the firm’s Litigation Department. His practice focuses mainly on commercial litigation and arbitration, as well as corporate and commercial law.
He is a Barrister-at-Law and a Member of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, UK. He holds an LLB (Hons.) degree, was called to the Bar of England and Wales in 1992, and holds a diploma in Legal Practice of the Law Development Centre in Uganda.
Timothy is one of the leading litigators in Uganda, and has appeared in many ground breaking cases involving banks. He was recently granted a special license to appear in the courts of Tanzania. He has also been consistently ranked as a Band 1 commercial lawyer by Chambers Global. He is an external lead counsel for the Bank of Uganda and has thus been at the centre of the reconstruction and improvement of Uganda’s entire banking sector.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
TIMOTHY MASEMBE Managing Partner T: (+256 414) 259 920 E: [email protected]
ALN16
Founded in 1958, Musa Dudhia & Co. (MDC) is one of the most established law firms in Zambia. The firm is experienced in handling cross-border transactional work and innovative international assignments, and is recognised by international directories as the law firm of choice for major clients seeking skilled domestic representation. Its extensive client base includes public and private companies, investment and retail banks, international financial institutions and private equity providers. MDC’s diverse client base reflects the high regard in which the firm is held, both domestically and internationally, having handled transactions for some of Zambia’s largest firms, as well as sizeable international clients.
Under the leadership of five experienced partners with extensive
knowledge of the commercial world, and deep business and professional contacts both locally and internationally, MDC is committed to maintaining a strong culture of entrepreneurship and client focus. This commitment has always been one of the most important qualities of its practice and involves the active promotion of close working relationships with clients.
Chambers Global has consistently ranked MDC as a Band 1 firm in its jurisdiction for the last 13 years. In its 2018 rankings, MDC is described as having ‘good principles and are well thought of in the market.”.’
ZAMBIA
MUSA DUDHIA & CO.
ABOUT THE FIRM
‘This eminent firm has extensive experience in a wide variety of commercial matters and is especially active on energy, banking and M&A deals. The firm has a wide reach, advising both international and local clients. It is widely respected for its involvement in complex transactions.’ - Chambers Global 2018
Arshad Dudhia is the managing partner of MDC, based in Lusaka. Arshad has widespread expertise in commercial transactions. He is also widely recognised for his expertise helping clients resolve disputes efficiently and effectively through arbitration, litigation and other alternative dispute resolution techniques.
In addition, Arshad has extensive insolvency experience in which he is regarded as an expert. He holds a First Class Bachelor of Law degree from Kings College, London University, and was admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Zambia in 1992 and later qualified as a Solicitor of the High Court of England and Wales in 2002. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and has experience sitting as an arbitrator in Zambian commercial disputes. He also serves as the secretary of the Law Association of Zambia’s Ethics Committee.
According to Chambers Global 2018, clients highlight Arshad Dudhia and describe him as ‘the kind of guy who, if you have him across the table, you know you’ll get things moving.”.’ Market commentators respect him for his activity in the market, in particular, in litigation and advisory work.
KEY CONTACT
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
ARSHAD DUDHIA Managing Partner T: +260 211 253 822 E: [email protected]
ALN 17
ALN
CONTACTS
ALGERIA Bourabiat Associés Chemin Mackley, Résidence de la Présidence, Bat C, Ben Aknoun, Alger, Algérie Tel: DZ: +213 775 388 597 | FR: +33 660 790 822 Email: [email protected]
ETHIOPIA Mesfin Tafesse & Associates Tensae Building, 2nd Floor, Office No. 001, Bole Road, Cape Verdi Street Tel: +251 11 667 2341 +251 11667 2271 Email: [email protected]
GUINEA SD Avocats Carrefour de Nongo, Pont de Kaporo, à côté de l’Ecole Centrale Tel: GN +224 620 56 54 95 | FR +33 7 78 02 72 84 Email: [email protected]
KENYA Anjarwalla & Khanna 3rd floor, The Oval, Junction of Ring Road Parklands & Jalaram Road Westlands Tel: +254 0 203 640 000 | +254 0 703 032 000 Email: [email protected]
MADAGASCAR Madagascar Law Offices Ankorondrano, Antananarivo Madagascar Tel: +261 20 23 256 23 Email: [email protected]
MALAWI Savjani & Co. Ground Floor, Hannover House Hannover Avenue - Blantyre, Malawi Tel: +265 1 824 555 Email: [email protected]
MAURITIUS BLC Robert & Associates 2nd Floor, The Axis, 26 Cybercity Ebene 72201 Mauritius Tel: +230 403 2400 Email: [email protected]
MOROCCO BFR & Associés 201, Boulevard Zerktouni Casablanca, Morocco Tel: +212 5 22 94 96 77 Fax: +212 5 22 94 85 25 Email: [email protected]
MOZAMBIQUE ABCC Av. Kenneth Kaunda, 660, Bairro da Sommershield, Maputo, Mozambique Tel: +258 823 026 110 | +258 843 894 872 Email: [email protected]
NIGERIA G. Elias & Co. 6 Broad Street Lagos, Nigeria Tel: +2341 4607890 | +2341 2806970 Email: [email protected]
RWANDA K-Solutions & Partners KN 50ST Ganza -Kiyovu Nyarugenge, Kigali City, Rwanda Tel: +250 727 000 973 Email: [email protected]
SUDAN Omer Ali Law Firm 3rd floor, Tower of Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development Plot 2/1, Block 9/E, Khartoum East, Sudan Tel: +249 155 155 554 Email: [email protected]
ALN18
TANZANIA ATZ Law Chambers 1st Floor, Opal Place, 77 Haile Selassie Road, Masaki, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Tel: +255 22 260 1151/2 Email: [email protected]
UGANDA MMAKS Advocates 3rd Floor, DTB Centre, Plot 17/19 Kampala Road, Uganda Tel: +256 414 259920 Email: [email protected]
ZAMBIA Musa Dudhia & Co. 3rd Floor, Mpile Office Park, 74 Independence Avenue Tel: +260 211 253822 Email: [email protected]
UAE (Regional Office) Anjarwalla Collins & Haidermota Saaha Offices, Block C, Office 501A The Palace Downtown Tel: +971 4 4529091 Email: [email protected]
ALN
CONTACTS
ALN The Oval, 3rd Floor, Junction of Ring Rd. Parklands & Jalaram Rd.
P.O. Box 200-00606, Sarit Centre, Nairobi, Kenya T: +254 (0) 20 364 0000, +254 (0) 703 032 000
www.africalegalnetwork.com
