Bowmans > Johannesburg, South Africa > Firm Profile

Bowmans
11 ALICE LANE
SANDTON
JOHANNESBURG 2146
South Africa

South Africa > Banking and finance Tier 1

Allen Leuta and Ulrike Naumann co-head the banking and finance practice at Bowmans, which continues to handle a high volume of sustainability-linked funding transactions and large-scale restructurings. Cross-border mandates are prominent in the ‘responsive and knowledgeable‘ team’s workload, and the group is well versed in representing borrowers and lenders in complex matters. Naumann is a key contact for debt restructurings, leveraged and mezzanine finance, and preference share funding transactions. Jan Kruger is highly regarded for his solid track record in acting for financial institutions, and Michael Swartland‘s practice takes in BEE funding matters. Pride Jani joined the group in December 2023, and the practice was also bolstered by the arrival of Ryan Nelson and Amanda Jones in January 2025. Deborah Carmichael and Jayson George left the firm in December 2024.

Practice head(s):

Allen Leuta; Ulrike Naumann

Other key lawyers:

Jan Kruger; Jason Wilkinson; Michael Swartland; Ivan Vorster; Yolande Murphy; Pride Jani; Ryan Nelson; Amanda Jones

Testimonials

‘They dedicate the right resources at the right level of seniority. They communicate and keep us updated the whole time. ’

‘Ulrike Naumann and Ivan Vorster are exceptionally talented individuals who are not only counsel, but trusted advisors to the banking fraternity. They provide exceptional legal advice.’ 

‘Ivan Vorster is young, energetic, thinks outside the box.’

‘The team is responsive, knowledgeable and consistently delivers as per agreed transaction timelines. ’

‘Michael Swartland is commercially minded and an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘The depth of expertise means that we are always able to get the required advice and assistance without delay. ’

‘Pride Jani is extremely knowledgeable and works hard. He ensures that the client get the best possible outcome from the transaction. He is a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Absa Bank Limited

AbInBev, The South African Breweries

African Rainbow Capital

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

AgDevCo Limited

Alexander Forbes Group Holdings Limited

Alexander Forbes Life Limited

ARM Coal Limited

Ashburton Fund Managers Proprietary Limited

Bank of China

Capitec Bank Limited

Caterpillar Financial Services Proprietary Limited

Clindeb

Coca Cola Beverages South Africa Propriety Limited

Development Bank of Southern Africa

Dis-Chem Pharmacies Limited

Fairfax Africa Investments Proprietary Limited

FirstRand Bank Limited, Rand Merchant Bank

Future growth Asset Management Proprietary Limited

HSBC Bank plc

Imperial Logistics Limited, Imperial Capital Limited, Imperial South Africa Holdings Proprietary Limited, Imperial South Africa Group Proprietary Limited, Imperial Mobility International B.V., and Imperial Mobility Finance B.V.

Investec Bank Limited

JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A. (London Branch)

Nedbank Limited

Netcare Limited

Ninety-One Limited

Old Mutual Alternative Investments Proprietary Limited, Old Mutual Hybrid Equity Fund, Old Mutual Specialised Finance

Orion Mine Finance, Orion Resources Partners

Prescient Investment Management Proprietary Limited

Rio Tinto Mining and Exploration Limited

RMB International (Mauritius) Limited

Sanlam Investment Management Proprietary Limited

Sanlam Life Insurance Limited

Standard Chartered Bank

The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Stanbic Bank IBTC PLC, Stanbic Bank Kenya Limited

Stanlib Management Proprietary Limited

Tongaat Hulett Limited

Trafigura PTE Limited

Vedanta Resources

Work highlights

  • Advising a large syndicate of banks on the multi-million dollar restructuring of the Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa.
  • Acted as lead counsel to SBSA and RMB (as mandated lead arrangers in a syndicate of banks) in connection with the ZAR14,500,000,0000 refinancing of the Foschini Retail Group Proprietary Limited’s (FRG) existing debt.

South Africa > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1

Led by Tholinhlanhla Gcabashe, the M&A practice at Bowmans is ‘distinguished by its deep expertise and extensive experience in handling complex transactions‘. Ezra Davids regularly advises domestic and international blue-chip clients on complex transactions, and Nanga Kwinana has a solid track record in handling corporate finance, cross-border securities matters, restructuring, and equity capital markets issues. Ryan Wessels‘ workload includes BEE matters, and James Westgate counts private equity work as a core strength.

Practice head(s):

Tholinhlanhla Gcabashe

Other key lawyers:

Ezra Davids; Nanga Kwinana; Lerato Thahane; Charles Douglas; Ryan Wessels; James Westgate

Testimonials

Highly professional and diligent.’

Bowmans has a client-first approach. Strong technical work and good dealmakers.’

Key clients

Absa Bank Limited

Nedbank Limited

FirstRand Bank Limited

AECI Limited

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

AgroFresh Solutions Inc.

Amazon.com, Inc.

Anheuser-Busch InBev

Barloworld Limited

Coca-Cola Company

Groupe Canal +

Harmony Gold Limited

Hollard International

Kuehne + Nagel International AG

MTN Group Limited

Meta Platforms, Inc.

Old Mutual Limited

Peermont Global Hotels and Resorts

Sasol Limited

Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners

TotalEnergies

Telkom SA Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Sanlam on its ZAR6.5bn acquisition of Assupol.
  • Acting for Peermont Global on its proposed acquisition by Sun International.
  • Advising Groupe Canal+ on its proposed acquisition of the Multichoice Group.

South Africa > Competition Tier 1

Bowmans stands out for its strong offering across the full range of competition law matters. The group regularly acts as counsel to a solid client base of blue-chip companies on a wide range of complex competition issues, and continues to advise on multi-jurisdictional merger matters, high-profile market inquiries, and abuse of dominance claims. Practice co-head Derek Lötter is ‘very commercial and very experienced‘, and practice co-head Tamara Dini fields expertise in cross-border transactions and merger control issues. Heather Irvine has solid expertise in acting for clients in the financial services and manufacturing sectors. Xolani Nyali is well versed in handling pan-African merger transactions.

Practice head(s):

Derek Lötter; Tamara Dini

Other key lawyers:

Heather Irvine; Judd Lurie; Xolani Nyali; Rudolph Labuschagne; Richard Bryce; Lital Avivi

Testimonials

The practice combines legal excellence with practical advice.’

They provide practical and implementable solutions.’

The competition department has an incredible depth of knowledge and experience.’

The practice has a deep understanding of local regulatory nuances as well as good awareness of international developments.’

Xolani Nyali is my go-to on competition law matters because of his expert knowledge, industry experience and practical approach.’

Key clients

Astron Energy SA (Pty) Ltd

Old Mutual

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa

Vita Gas (Pty) Ltd

TPG Inc.

Booking.com B.V.

Anheuser-Busch InBev

BeIN Media Group WLL

Pharmanovia

NCR Corporation

Akzo Nobel Nederland B.V

MTN South Africa (Pty) Ltd

SMBC Bank EU AG

Macquarie Group

Total Energies

British Airways

Cisco

Amazon

Agroberries Limited

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

Deutsche Lufthansa AG

Barloworld

Engen

Universal Music Group

Blackstone Group LP

Puma Energy South Africa Proprietary Limited

Dis-Chem Pharmacies Ltd

The Veritas Capital Fund VIII, L.P.

Macmillan South Africa (Pty) Ltd.

Prominent Paints (Pty) Ltd

Imperial Group

Sanlam

Work highlights

  • Advised Bunge Global SA (Bunge) and Viterra Limited (Viterra) on the South African, Nigerian, and COMESA competition clearances required for the merger of the two companies.
  • Advising Apple and Booking.com on ongoing matters in relation to the Online Intermediation and Platforms Market Inquiry.

South Africa > Dispute resolution Tier 1

Commended as a ‘very well oiled litigation machine‘, Bowmans is jointly led by Jonathan Sahli and Lyndal AndersonClement Mkiva, Jonathan Barnes and Adam Anderson are key contacts in this space, and they are adept at handling shareholder disputes and international arbitrations. Anderson is also singled out for his excellent track record in advising on contentious insurance, construction, and financial matters, while James McKinnell is ‘an excellent negotiator.’ Tim Gordon-Grant is a highly regarded practitioner in the dispute resolution space and Kelly Calvert-Evers is knowledgeable of constitutional and administrative law disputes. In September 2024 Kelly Mzobe joined the team;, whle Gerhard Rudolph, Callum O’Connor and Wihan Meintjes arrived at the firm in January 2025.

Practice head(s):

Lyndal Anderson; Jonathan Sahli

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘James McKinnell is a seasoned litigator with excellent commercial acumen. He is knowledgeable and strategic and has a well-run team who delivers high-value work under tight timelines.’

‘James McKinnell is a good communicator and has the ability to calm down clients in difficult situations. He is also an excellent negotiator who advocates for his clients while being understanding of the counterparty’s position.’

‘Tim Gordon Grant has excellent client relationship skills, and meticulous attention to detail.’

‘Jonathan Barnes is becoming a leader in South Africa’s dispute resolution space. Jonathan is precise, efficient, and knowledgeable. I value his forthright approach and his practical insights.’

‘They are a very well-oiled litigation machine.’

‘They allocate the right level of seniority to our queries. They understand our business and have experience of litigating in court and via arbitration.’

‘The dispute lawyers are highly skilled strategic partners and understand the commercial realities facing our business. They are responsive and have the ability to gear up quickly when given an urgent instruction.’

‘The Bowmans team is always available to pick up on issues that need to be addressed ahead of strict deadlines. The dynamics of litigation require agile engagement. The Bowmans attorneys understand this.’

Key clients

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

Coronation Fund Managers Limited

Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI)

African Rainbow Minerals Limited and Patrice Motsepe

Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited

KPMG Incorporated

South African Heritage Resources Agency

The Robben Island Museum and the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture

National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA)

BHP Billiton Plc (BHP)

Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited (PIC)

KPMG Incorporated

Work highlights

  • Defending African Rainbow Minerals Limited against an application for the certification of a class action brought by former and current coal mineworkers, concerning allegations that the mineworkers contracted lung diseases caused by exposure to coal dust.
  • Representing the Coronation group in a dispute with the South African Revenue Services concerning whether the income of the client’s Irish subsidiary should be taxed in South Africa.

South Africa > Employment Tier 1

Lauded for providing ‘exceptional labour law advice’, Bowmans is headed by Helen Wilsenach, who well versed in trade issues and major retrenchments and restructurings. Jerry Kaapu fields expertise in collective bargaining matters, and Karen Fulton has an excellent reputation for assisting financial services sector entities with a broad range of employment matters. Nadine Mather‘s workload includes unfair dismissal cases, and Talita Laubscher is a key contact for advising on discrimination claims. Keshni Naicker is very experienced in disciplinary matters.

Practice head(s):

Helen Wilsenach

Other key lawyers:

Jerry Kaapu; Karen Fulton; Nadine Mather; Talita Laubscher; Keshni Naicker; Khomotso Makapane; Amandla Makhongwana; Pascale Towers; Graham Damant

Testimonials

‘They are human and create good rapport even in difficult situations. They approach things strategically, not just by the letter of the law.’

‘Legal excellence combined with practical insights and advice.’

‘Jerry Kaapu has an excellent understanding of the labour law landscape in South Africa and always provides pragmatic, simple, and effective advice. Jerry is professional and very knowledgeable. Amandla Makhongwana is accessible, knowledgeable and precise with her support.’

‘The team is dependable and able to work under pressure.’

‘The team is always available for the client’s needs.’

‘The practice offers relevant advice that is current and factual.’

Karen Fulton is so pleasant and enjoyable to work with and has always presented several different options to consider when approaching complex matters. I have always appreciated her transparency and willingness to go the extra mile for us. She is truly an absolute gem.’

Key clients

Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA)

Lombard Insurance Company Limited

Standard Bank Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation with establishing offices in three jurisdictions in Africa, namely Kenya, Senegal and Ethiopia.
  • Assisted Coca-Cola Beverages Africa with multiple executive terminations.
  • Represented the PSA in proceedings before the High Court relating to the enforcement of a collective agreement against the South African Revenue Service.

South Africa > Shipping and transport Tier 1

Top-tier firmBowmans garners praise for its ‘deep jurisdictional expertise‘. The ‘responsive‘ team has an excellent reputation for advising on a broad spectrum of shipping, aviation, and transport matters. Andrew Pike is a highly regarded practitioner in the port infrastructure and development space, and is regularly instructed by international port and terminal developers; Craig Cunningham brings over three decades of experience in shipping law, and acts for shipowners, financiers, marine insurers, charterers and suppliers in a wide range of contentious and non-contentious maritime work. Heather Manson, who leads the aviation group, fields expertise in aviation insurance, disputes and regulatory issues; Claudia Jackson has ‘a very impressive intellect and knowledge of the law, as well as strategic insight‘. Lana Stockton‘s workload includes shipping litigation and cross-border shipping insolvency issues, and Jeremy Prain‘s broad practice takes in ship finance, rail and road transportation work, and marine insurance cases.  Bills of lading and charterparty matters are core areas of instruction for Mark van Velden, and Shanae Durman lends support on aviation insurance and dispute resolution matters.

Practice head(s):

Craig Cunningham; Heather Manson; Andrew Pike

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The aviation team, and in particular Claudia Jackson, has a wonderful attitude towards solving third party claims in a timely manner. I appreciate her pragmatism. Claudia is always available to discuss any concerns I may have and actually listens. ’

‘The firm is efficient, professional and all the team have a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in aviation.’

‘We have worked with Heather Manson, Shanae Durman and Claudia Jackson. We have found them all to be very knowledgeable, friendly, professional, and approachable. The team have always been a pleasure to work with. On the cases we have worked with them they have a great relationship with clients.’

‘Claudia Jackson has a very impressive intellect and knowledge of the law, as well as strategic insight.’

‘Bowmans are a top-tier firm and are my ‘go to’ firm in South Africa, especially for shipping and transport related matters.’

‘Clear practical advice which is attune to commercial needs of the client.’

‘Deep jurisdictional expertise.’

‘The Bowmans team are responsive and provide a great service all round. We are very happy using Bowmans.’

Key clients

Airports Company of South Africa

Macquarie

South African Civil Aviation Authority

Standard Bank

AXA XL

The American Club

Britannia

British Marine (QBE group)

The Charterers Club (MECO group)

Gard

Guardrisk

Global Aerospace

The Japan Club

The London Club

MS Amlin (MS&AD group)

NorthStandard

Nordisk

Santam Limited

Starr Underwriting Managers

The Shipowners Club

Skuld

Tokio Marine

The Swedish Club

The UK Club

West of England

Allen & Gledhill

HFW

Hill Dickinson

Kennedys

MFB Solicitors

Nautica Law

Preston Turnbull

Reed Smith

Oon & Bazul

Rajah & Tann

Shoreside Law

Stephenson Harwood

Squire Patton Boggs LLP

Watson, Farley & Williams

Work highlights

  • Representing the vessel owners in an ongoing dispute with the South African Revenue Service arising from the detention and seizure of the vessels within the context of offshore bunkering operations.
  • Acting on behalf of the marine liability insurers in proceedings arising from the grounding of a fishing vessel off the coast of South Africa.

South Africa > Tax Tier 1

At Bowmans, the ‘approachable‘ tax team is regularly instructed by clients in the mining, manufacturing, financial services and oil and gas sectors in a broad range of contentious and non-contentious work. Practice co-head Barry Garven specialises in tax litigation, and is equally adept at assisting blue-chip companies with international tax matters. Practice co-head Mike Benetello is a key contact for mining taxation, as well as the tax aspects of business rescue mandates, corporate restructurings and private equity transactions, to name a few areas. Roné la Grange and Samir Ellary are well known for their strength in corporate tax, and firm managing partner Alan Keep has an excellent track record in advising on the tax aspects of structuring prominent B-BBEE transactions. Kelly Wright brings experience in assisting domestic and international clients with the tax structuring of M&A deals.

Practice head(s):

Barry Garven; Mike Benetello

Other key lawyers:

Wally Horak; Alan Keep; Roné la Grange; Kelly Wright; Samir Ellary; Robyn Berger; Mogola Makola; Dean du Toit

Testimonials

‘The Bowmans tax team is very dynamic and responsive to the client’s needs and are more than capable of managing the client’s expectations. The technical skills are amongst the best in the industry.’

‘Roné la Grange is quick to respond to client matters with professionalism and a technical skill set that is beyond reproach – always our go to person on technical matters.’

‘Dean du Toit understands the client’s brief and delivers a well-researched and workable outcome. ’

‘The team is highly skilled, approachable and a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

All of the major African banks including Absa Bank Limited, Nedbank Limited, FirstRand Bank Limited (including Rand Merchant Bank) and Nedbank Limited

African Bank

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

AgroFresh Solutions Inc

Alexander Forbes

AngloGold Ashanti

Anheuser-Busch InBev

Blackstone Inc.

Consolidated Infrastructure Group Limited

Coronation Investment Management International Pty Ltd

Grindrod

Harmony Gold Limited

Peermont Global Proprietary Limited

Petredec SA Holdings Proprietary Limited

South 32 SA Limited

South African Breweries

TotalEnergies

Transnet

Work highlights

  • Advised AgroFresh Inc., a portfolio company of US private equity firm Paine Schwartz Partners, on the tax aspects of its acquisition of Tessara (Pty) Ltd from Carlyle Group Inc.
  • Acted as tax counsel to Harmony Gold Limited on a B-BBEE ownership transaction.
  • Advising Peermont Global Proprietary Limited on the tax aspects of the  disposal of certain assets to Sun International.

South Africa > Investment funds Tier 2

Bowmans’ ‘responsive‘ investment funds team, headed by John Bellew, operates out of the firm’s wider private equity department, and has a solid track record in advising prominent private equity houses and limited partners on complex fund formation and structuring work. Jutami Augustyn is highly regarded for assisting South African funds and private equity houses with transactions, and regularly acts for managers and investors. Joshua Janks is a key contact for venture capital matters.

Practice head(s):

John Bellew

Other key lawyers:

Joshua Janks; Jutami Augustyn; Alessandro Balutto; Chibie Odimegwu; Tanaka Dhombo

Testimonials

The team is professional.’

Key clients

4D Innovative Capital (Pty) Ltd

Absa Bank Group Limited

Adenia Partners Limited

African Development Bank (AfDB)

Africa Capitalworks

AgroFresh Solutions Inc.

AlphaTalents Limited

Apex Group Limited

AutoX Proprietary Limited

Capitalworks Private Equity Advisor Proprietary Limited

Climate Fund Managers

Convergence Partners Management Proprietary Limited and Convergence Partners Digital Infrastructure Fund

Development Partners International

Easy Holdco

Enza Capital II LP

Everstrong Capital

Frontend Ventures

Grit Services Limited

IDEAS Infrastructure II GP Proprietary Limited

International Housing Solutions

Investec Bank Limited

LR Africa Holdings Limited

Ninety-One SA Pty Limited

OneBio Proprietary Limited

Phatisa Fund Managers

Rand Merchant Bank

Rockwood Private Equity

SA SME Fund Limited

Sanari Capital (Pty) Ltd

SIOC Community Development Trust

STOA S.A.

Tamela Capital Partners

The SA SME Fund VC GP Proprietary Limited and The SA SME Fund of VC Funds I

The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited

Thebe Investment Corporation Proprietary Limited

Trinitas Private Equity

University of Cape Town Retirement Fund

Work highlights

  • Advised The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Investec Bank Limited, and Rand Merchant Bank on investment and subscription matters as limited partners in the Acre Export Finance Fund I LP.
  • Advising African Development Bank and DFC in relation to investments in the Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund II.
  • Advising Trinitas Private Equity Proprietary Limited on the establishment of a continuation fund for Trinitas Fund I.

South Africa > Mining Tier 2

The mining group at Bowmans has traditional strength in advising technology entities, financial services clients and prominent mining companies on mining-related corporate matters; practice head Charles Young is a key contact for M&A deals in the mining space. The team reports an increase in instructions with a focus on minerals, and has also been kept busy handling restructurings and environmental impact matters. Mining title issues and regulatory work are core pillars of strength in Claire Tucker‘s practice, and Wandisile Mandlana is sought after for his expertise in advising on mineral rights disputes. Deepa Vallabh joined the group in November 2024.

Practice head(s):

Charles Young

Key clients

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

Anglo American

AngloGold Ashanti

Assmang

Barrick Gold

Caledonia Mining

Harmony Gold

Ivanhoe Mines

Lanxess Deutschland GmbH, Lanxess Proprietary Limited

Merafe Resources Limited

Minerals Council of South Africa

Northam Platinum Limited

Orion Mine Finance, Orion Resources Partners

Richards Bay Titanium Proprietary Limited

Rio Tinto

Royal Bafokeng Platinum Limited

Sibanye-Stillwater

Seriti Resources

South 32

Trafigura PTE Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Vedanta in connection to its subsidiary, Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited (VRHL), re-entering Konkola Copper Mines PLC (KCM) as a majority shareholder.
  • Advised ARM through its wholly-owned subsidiary ARM Copper Company Proprietary Limited on its acquisition of a 15% stake in Canadian company Surge Copper.
  • Advised African Rainbow Minerals Limited on its acquisition of Norilsk Nickel Africa Proprietary Limited’s partnership interest in an unincorporated joint venture, which was established to operate the Nkomati Mine.

South Africa > Projects and infrastructure Tier 2

At Bowmans, the projects and infrastructure team reports an uptick in instructions from the renewable energy sector, as well as advising on matters concerning the financing of battery storage projects. The practice is led by Allen Leuta, who heads the firm’s banking and finance department and acts for developers, export credit agencies and development finance institutions in project financing transactions. Shamilah Grimwood-Norley fields expertise in all areas of infrastructure project development, and Bavesh Pillay brings experience in assisting with the construction law aspects of energy infrastructure projects. Onalerona Phiri joined the group in November 2024, and the team was bolstered by the arrivals of Alexandra Clüver, Alessandra Pardini, Alexandra Felekis and Mongezi Dladla in January 2025. Emma Bleeker joined the team in March 2025.

Practice head(s):

Allen Leuta

Other key lawyers:

Daryn Webb; Anton Barnes-Webb; Shamilah Grimwood-Norley; Bavesh Pillay; Londiwe Khoza; Sbusisiwe Masondo; Alexandra Clüver; Alessandra Pardini; Alexandra Felekis; Mongezi Dladla; Yolande Tshimbombo; Onalerona Phiri; Emma Bleeker

Testimonials

‘They bring a level of energy needed to get things done, they are very commercial and are able to solve problems based on their expertise.’

‘Allen Leuta stands out in that he is able to mitigate legal risks but also has a strategic mind to problem solving. He is very commercial and has the ability to manage difficult clients or peers.’

‘Good industry knowledge and reputation.’

‘Pedigree, attention to detail, clarity of thought. Deeply analytical. Well rounded and in-depth knowledge of the regulatory aspects of their respective sector and ability to communicate simply and clearly.’

‘Allen Leuta is a solid, intelligent, innovative and wise lawyer. He understands the mind of lenders and brings all this experience to the fore when providing advice.’

Key clients

ABSA Bank Limited

First National Bank Limited (acting through Rand Merchant Bank division)

The Standard Banks of South Africa

Nedbank Limited

Investec Bank Limited (acting through its Investec Corporate and Investment Banking Division)

Work highlights

  • Advised the lenders on the financing of a solar plus battery storage project for TotalEnergies and its partners, implemented under the Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme.
  • Acted for FirstRand Bank Limited (acting through its Rand Merchant Bank division) (RMB); Development Bank of Southern Africa Limited (DBSA; Old Mutual Specialised Finance Proprietary Limited (OMSFIN); and Merchant Place Project Bond (RF) Limited (Merchant Place) on the debt and preference share refinancing of the Lesedi and Letsatsi solar power projects.
  • Acted as counsel to the Standard Bank of South Africa Limited as third-party project financier of three solar PV power plants being developed by Scatec ASA within the South African Government’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme.

South Africa > Real estate Tier 2

Bowmans‘ ‘experienced‘ commercial property team provides ‘sound and balanced advice‘ on a broad range of real estate issues. Practice head Craig Schafer fields extensive expertise in property finance matters, while Samantha Saffy acts for renewable energy and mining clients in commercial property matters, among work in other sectors. Julia Power is ‘extremely knowledgeable on real estate and provides superb assistance with real estate-related matters‘. Philippa Sutherland is another key contact.

Practice head(s):

Craig Schafer

Testimonials

‘Julia Power works efficiently with great project management skills to drive a transaction over the line. She works tirelessly on a transaction and interacts well with all stakeholders in a transaction.’

‘Julia Power is a very good lawyer. She is able to simplify things and makes herself available to her clients.’

‘Julia Power is extremely knowledgeable on real estate and provides superb assistance with real estate related matters.’

‘Reliable, smart, up to date on all legal and regulatory developments and experienced.’

‘Julia Power – responsive, always available, friendly, knowledgeable in real estate, efficient, trusted advisor.’

Key clients

Liberty 2 Degrees

First Rand Bank Limited (acting through its Rand Merchant Bank division)

The Standard Bank of South Africa (Commercial Property Finance)

Absa Bank Limited (CIB and CPF Divisions)

West Property Fund Limited

Vantage Data Centers South Africa

Zara Retail South Africa Proprietary Limited

Sanlam Life Insurance

African Rainbow Minerals Limited

Assmang Proprietary Limited

Grindrod Holdings (South Africa) Proprietary Limited

Capitec Bank Limited

SOM Group Proprietary Limited

Flanagan & Gerard

Barloworld Limited

Transnet Property

Coca Cola Beverages South Africa (Pty) Ltd

Regus Management Group Pty Ltd

Engen Petroleum Limited

Mpande Property Fund

Eris Property Group

Nedbank Limited (acting through its Nedbank Property Partners division)

Vukile Property Fund Limited

South Africa > Construction Tier 3

Bowmans‘ team has ‘deep industry knowledge‘ and ‘excels in resolving construction disputes‘. Lize-Meré Ludick heads up the practice, and is highly regarded for her strong track record in handling construction litigation. Front-end construction work is a core area of strength for Bavesh Pillay, who is well versed in advising on contractual issues, equipment supply agreements, and professional services agreements. Diana Burger left the firm in September 2024, while the practice was bolstered by the arrival of Gerhard RudolphAlessandra Pardini and Wihan Meintjes in January 2025.

Practice head(s):

Lize-Meré Ludick

Testimonials

‘What makes this practice unique is their unwavering commitment to client-centric service combined with deep industry knowledge. The team excels in resolving construction disputes. Their collaborative approach fosters a strong partnership, ensuring we as clients feel supported throughout every legal process.’

Overall, the combination of their unique approach, strengths, and innovative practice positions them as a leading choice for clients seeking effective legal counsel.’

‘The individuals we work with stand out due to their exceptional expertise. For instance, Lize-Meré Ludick has consistently provided strategic insights that have proven invaluable in navigating complex legal challenges. She has the ability to anticipate potential issues and offer proactive solutions.’

Key clients

Goldwind New Energy South Africa Proprietary Limited

Goldwind New Energy South Africa Proprietary Limited

Onomo Hotels

Uphondo Lwe Nyathi Implementation and Training Proprietary Limited

Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa

Beluluane Gas Company

Babcock Africa Group

Babcock Ntuthuko Engineering

Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure plc

Siemens Mobility (Pty) Ltd

Enza Construction (Pty) Ltd – Consortium

Work highlights

  • Acted for the contractor in a contractual matter concerning a large-scale rebrand project worth around ZAR 1 billion.
  • Advising a developer on a major infrastructure development project for the Government of Botswana.

Kenya > Banking, finance and capital markets

Praised by clients for its ‘very creative solutions for client’s transactions’, Bowmans‘s banking and finance team benefits from the firm’s full-service offering, advising lenders and borrowers on the full spectrum of strategic finance matters, including debt restructuring, projects, real estate and commodities finance, acquisition finance, capital markets, leveraged and acquisition finance, and structured finance.  The team is highly sought after for its international expertise, advising clients from the banking, energy, telecommunications, and other industries on local and cross-border transactions. Cornelius Kigera heads the team, and is frequently approached for high-value corporate financing matters, while Dominic Indokhomi has a strong track record in fintech, capital markets, and debt structurings. Paras Shah is highly active in complex transactions, including syndicated loans.

Practice head(s):

Cornelius Kigera

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The firm is able to think of very creative solutions for their client’s transactions.’

‘They have wide reaching networks within and outside of the Kenyan government and are able to give business and legal insight where needed.’

‘The associates and teams in the firm are relatively young and tech savvy which makes communication and quick turnaround time efficient and friendly to their clients.’

‘Cornelius Kigera offers exceptional service in terms of prompt legal advice and legal opinions. He is client focused, understands our business and his technical ability is outstanding.’

‘I work with the Banking and Finance team led by Cornelius Kigera. He is easy to reach, thinks on his feet, gives sound opinions that take into account our customer needs and the bank’s bottom line.’

‘They take their time to network and touch base with their clients. Ensuring to properly equip them with new knowledge, free trainings on any trending legal matters that would affect our day to day operations etc. They are fun, easy going and extremely knowledgable. An absolute pleasure to work with!’

‘I have had the pleasure of working with Cornelius Kigera who leads the team. He has maintained a very practical and commercially sound approach in his legal advice. He is super responsive.’

‘The Bowmans team has a profound grasp of local and international laws & financing regulations and have wide Africa footprint which makes it very simple when engaging them on regional deals. The team is also uniquely placed in the market when advising on complex English law financing transactions.’

Key clients

E3 Energy Kenya Limited

KCB Bank Kenya Limited

Greenlight Planet Kenya Limited

Stanbic Bank Botswana Limited,

The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited

Cordiant Capital Inc.

Vantage Mezzanine III Pan African Sub Fund Partnership

United Nations (Acting through Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP)

FMO

Mirova Sunfunder Inc

Apollo Agriculture Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted as Kenyan counsel to Greenlight Planet Kenya Limited in a securitisation relating to the purchase of its receivables by Sun King Financing Limited, who in turn were being financed by several lenders through the issuance of notes.
  • Advised E3 Energy on the financing they were to receive from KCB Bank Kenya.
  • Acted as counsel for KCB in connection with secured banking facilities for up to USD110m to Fort Retail Kenya Limited.

Kenya > Real estate and construction

Bowmans‘s real estate department is noted by clients for fielding a ‘very knowledgeable and collaborative team’ and is sought after by clients for its extensive experience in major real estate mandates, including most master plan projects in Kenya, construction transactions, disputes, and contracts, including energy and infrastructure projects. The team is also known for its strong presence in environmental and conservation matters, frequently being retained by environmental NGOs, along with negotiating commercial leases for local and international clients. Cornelius Kigera heads the team, and boasts considerable conveyancing, construction, and commercial real estate matters. He is ably assisted by Alex Njage, a specialist in complex real estate and master planning matters. Simon Kiriba is another key member of the team for construction contracting and dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Cornelius Kigera

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They have experience, knowledge and availability for the Client.’

‘Simon Kiriba has the right experience for the project and he also makes himself available to attend when is needed, compliying with the defined deadlines.’

‘Great people at Bowman’s – polite and respectful, thorough, innovative advise – ahead of the curve. Always up to date with dynamic local legal context.’

‘Alex Njage – always willing to go the extra mile – calm, patient and charming. Ready to listen and discuss issues and ideas. Consistently available for quick updates and calls. Very thorough and current.’

‘Great expertise in real estate and construction law.’

‘Understanding of African market realities and risk reflected in their commercial and billing attitudes. Great professionalism yet very reachable.’

‘Very knowledgeable and collaborative team. The attention to detail is also quite exceptional.’

‘Simon Kiriba went above and beyond in preparing construction agreements that matched our needs exactly. He was also quite easy to reach and collaborative too.’

Key clients

Tatu City Limited

Tatu City Phase 2 SEZ Limited

Superior Homes (Kenya) PLC

IHS

Base Titanium

Game Ranching Limited

BW LPG

Great Plains Conservancy Ltd

Suyian Ranch Limited

Loisaba Conservancy

Lolldaiga Conservancy

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

IX Africa Data Centre Limited

Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa

Printcare Packaging East Africa Limited

Domino Investments Limited

Maisha Housing Limited

Skanem Developments Nairobi Limited

Ecograf Limited

Vantage Capital

Work highlights

  • Advised Base Titanium Limited on matters relating to settlement of persons displaced by their mining activities and closure of their mining operations in Kwale, Kenya.
  • Advised Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on the acquisition of control over various properties measuring approximately 37,000 acres with an aim of creating a model and catalyst for the conservation of wildlife and its habitat.
  • Advising HCB on the major refurbishment of the 1,420 kilometres high voltage direct current transmission lines superhighway from the HCB power plant in Songo, North Mozambique to Apollo power station in Pretoria, South Africa.

About Bowmans South Africa: With more than 300 specialist lawyers and a total staff complement of over 650, Bowmans’ South African practice is widely regarded as one of the leading corporate law firms in the country.

Its specialist legal services cover the spectrum of corporate and commercial law, banking and finance law and dispute resolution. The team is recognised for its professionalism and ability to assist clients in the region.

Clients include investment banks, industrial conglomerates, financial institutions, governments and state authorities from both South Africa and around the world.

Awards:
Chambers Africa Awards: South Africa Law Firm of the Year, 2023 and 2025
Who’s Who Legal: Country Firm of the Year: South Africa, 2023 and 2022
IFLR Africa Awards: Jurisdictional Firm of the Year: South Africa, 2022
IFLR Africa Awards: National Law Firm of the Year: South Africa, 2021

About bowmans: Bowmans helps its clients manage legal complexity and unlock opportunity in Africa. Its enviable track record of providing legal services to the highest professional standards on the continent, spans corporate, finance, competition, taxation, employment, technology and dispute resolution matters.

With over 650 specialist lawyers, Bowmans draws on its unique knowledge of the business and socio-political environment in Africa to advise on a wide range of legal issues.

The firm delivers integrated legal services from nine offices (Cape Town,
Dar es Salaam, Durban, Johannesburg, Lusaka, Moka, Nairobi, Swakopmund and Windhoek) in six countries (Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia).

Everywhere it operates, Bowmans offers its clients a service that uniquely blends expertise in the law, knowledge of the local market, and an understanding of their businesses. The firm’s aim is to assist its clients to achieve their objectives as smoothly and efficiently as possible while minimising the legal and regulatory risks.

The firm works closely with its Alliance firms Aman & Partners LLP in Ethiopia and Udo Udoma & Belo-Osagie in Nigeria. Bowmans has a non-exclusive co-operation agreement with French international law firm Gide Loyrette Nouel that provides access to lawyers in francophone west and north Africa; regularly works with other leading independent law firms across the rest of Africa; and is a representative of Lex Mundi, a global association of independent law firms in more than 125 countries.

Clients include domestic and foreign corporates, multinationals, funds and financial institutions, across a range of industry sectors, as well as state-owned enterprises and governments.

Offices
Kenya: Nairobi
5th Floor, ICEA Lion Centre, West Wing, Riverside Park, Chiromo Road, Nairobi
T: +254 20 289 9000
E: [email protected]

Mauritius: Moka
3rd Floor, The Dot, Avenue De Telfair, Moka
T: +230 460 5959
E: [email protected]

Namibia: Swakopmund
No. 6 Antonius Garten, c/o Hendrik Witbooi Str & Theo-Ben Gurirab Avenue, Swakopmund
T: +264 64 406 320
E: [email protected]

Namibia: Windhoek
33 Schanzen Road PO Box 3516, Windhoek
T: +264 61 382 800
E: [email protected]

South Africa: Cape Town
22 Bree Street, Cape Town
T: +27 21 480 7800
E: [email protected]

South Africa: Durban
Ground Floor, Compendium House, 5 The Crescent, Westway Office Park, Harry Gwala Road, Westville, Durban
T: +27 31 109 1150
E: [email protected]

South Africa: Johannesburg
11 Alice Lane, Sandton, Johannesburg
T: +27 11 669 9000
E: [email protected]

Tanzania: Dar es Salaam
2nd Floor, The Luminary Cnr Haile Selassie and Chole Roads, Masaki,
Dar es Salaam
T: +255 76 898 8640
E: [email protected]

Zambia: Lusaka
3rd Floor, Evexia Commercial Building, Plot Number 1014, Church Road, Lusaka
T: +260 21 135 6638
E: [email protected]

Key areas of specialisation
Banking and financial services regulatory
Commercial property
Competition
Corporate investigations
Corporate services
Data protection
Debt capital markets
Dispute resolution
Employment and benefits
Environment, sustainability and climate change
Equity capital markets
ESG
Finance
Fintech
Governance, compliance and investigations
Government contracting and public procurement
Intellectual property
International arbitration
Litigation and arbitration
Local content and broad-based black economic empowerment
Media, entertainment and broadcasting 
Mergers and acquisitions
Oil and Gas 
Pensions law 
Private equity
Project finance
Regulatory services
Restructuring
Shipping, aviation and logistics
Tax
Technology 
Telecommunications 

Key areas of practice
Aviation
Construction
Consumer goods
Education
Energy
Financial institutions
Hotels and leisure
Industrials
Infrastructure 
Insurance
Mining 
Pharmaceuticals and healthcare 
Ports, rail and logistics
Technology, media and telecommunications

Department Name Email Telephone
Chairman and Senior Partner Ezra Davids [email protected] +27 11 669 9000
Group Managing Partner Alan Keep [email protected] +27 11 669 9000
Office Managing Partner, Cape Town Deon de Klerk [email protected] +27 21 480 7800
Office Managing Partner, Durban Yasmeen Suliman [email protected] +27 31 109 1150
Senior Partner, Kenya Richard Harney [email protected] +254 20 289 9000
Managing Partner, Kenya Paras Shah [email protected] +254 20 289 9000
Managing Partner, Mauritius Fazil Hossenkhan [email protected] +230 460 5959
Senior Partner, Namibia Irvin Titus [email protected] +264 64 406 320
Managing Partner, Namibia Stephen Vlieghe [email protected] +264 64 406 320
Senior Partner, Tanzania Wilbert Kapinga [email protected] +255 76 898 8640
Managing Partner, Tanzania Michael Strain [email protected] +255 76 898 8640
Managing Partner, Zambia Mabvuto Sakala [email protected] +260 21 135 6638
Photo Name Position Profile
Adam Anderson photo Mr Adam Anderson Partner
Jane Andropoulos photo Ms Jane Andropoulos Partner
Jutami Augustyn photo Ms Jutami Augustyn Partner
Jonathan Barnes photo Mr Jonathan Barnes Partner
Anton Barnes-Webb photo Mr Anton Barnes-Webb Partner
John Bellew photo Mr John Bellew Head of Private Equity
Mike Benetello photo Mr Mike Benetello Co-head of Tax
Robyn Berger photo Ms Robyn Berger Executive: Tax
Emma Bleeker photo Ms Emma Bleeker Senior Associate
Richard Bryce photo Mr Richard Bryce Partner
Kelly Calvert-Evers photo Ms Kelly Calvert-Evers Senior Associate
Craig Cunningham photo Craig Cunningham Head of Shipping and Logistics
Graham Damant photo Mr Graham Damant Senior Consultant
Rosalind Davey photo Ms Rosalind Davey Partner
Ezra Davids photo Mr Ezra Davids Chairman and Senior Partner
Charles Douglas photo Charles Douglas Partner
Samir Ellary photo Mr Samir Ellary Partner
Alexandra Felekis photo Ms Alexandra Felekis Partner
Karen Fulton photo Ms Karen Fulton Partner
Barry Garven photo Barry Garven Co-head of Tax
Tholinhlanhla Gcabashe photo Mr Tholinhlanhla Gcabashe Head of Corporate
Esther Geldenhuys photo Ms Esther Geldenhuys Partner
Tim Gordon-Grant photo Mr Tim Gordon-Grant Partner
Roné la Grange photo Ms Roné la Grange Partner
Ashleigh Hale photo Ms Ashleigh Hale Ashleigh Hale is a partner in Bowmans’ Johannesburg office Corporate Department. She specialises…
Naqeeba Hassan photo Ms Naqeeba Hassan Partner
Martin Hopkins photo Mr Martin Hopkins Head of Reward Advisory Services
Heather Irvine photo Ms Heather Irvine Partner
Claudia Jackson photo Claudia Jackson Partner
Pride Jani photo Mr Pride Jani Partner
Amanda Jones photo Ms Amanda Jones Partner
Jerry Kaapu photo Mr Jerry Kaapu Partner
Alan Keep photo Mr Alan Keep Managing Partner
Kirsten  Kern photo Ms Kirsten Kern Head of Financial Services Regulatory
Cornelius Kigera photo Mr Cornelius Kigera Partner
Nanga Kwinana photo Mr Nanga Kwinana Partner
Talita Laubscher photo Ms Talita Laubscher Partner
Disebo Leokaoke photo Ms Disebo Leokaoke Associate
Allen Leuta photo Mr Allen Leuta Head of Banking and Finance
Mark  Linington photo Mr Mark Linington Executive Tax
Derek Lötter photo Mr Derek Lötter Co-head of Competition
Derek Lötter photo Mr Derek Lötter Co-head of Competition
Lize-Meré Ludick photo Ms Lize-Meré Ludick Head of Construction
Wandisile Mandlana photo Mr Wandisile Mandlana Partner
Heather Manson photo Ms Heather Manson Head of Aviation
Nadine Mather photo Ms Nadine Mather Partner
Wihan Meintjes photo Mr Wihan Meintjes Partner
Mbali Mnyandu photo Ms Mbali Mnyandu Associate
Kelly Mzobe photo Ms Kelly Mzobe Associate
Keshni Naicker photo Ms Keshni Naicker Partner
Ulrike Naumann photo Ms Ulrike Naumann Head of General Finance
Ryan Nelson photo Mr Ryan Nelson Partner
Ntokozo  Nzima photo Ms Ntokozo Nzima Partner
Callum O’Connor photo Mr Callum O’Connor Partner
Alessandra Pardini photo Ms Alessandra Pardini Partner
Onalerona Phiri photo Mr Onalerona Phiri Senior Associate
Bavesh  Pillay photo Mr Bavesh Pillay Partner
Julia Power photo Ms Julia Power Partner
Lusanda Raphulu photo Ms Lusanda Raphulu Head of Dispute Resolution
Christine Rodrigues photo Christine Rodrigues Partner
Gerhard Rudolph photo Mr Gerhard Rudolph Partner
Samantha Saffy photo Ms Samantha Saffy Partner
Jonathan Sahli photo Mr Jonathan Sahli Co-head of Litigation
Craig Schafer photo Mr Craig Schafer Partner
Angela Simpson photo Ms Angela Simpson Partner
Philippa Sutherland photo Ms Philippa Sutherland Senior Associate
Michael Swartland photo Mr Michael Swartland Partner
Lerato Thahane photo Ms Lerato Thahane Partner
Chris Todd photo Mr Chris Todd Partner
Claire Tucker photo Claire Tucker Head of Public Law and Regulatory
Deepa Vallabh photo Ms Deepa Vallabh Partner
Daryn Webb photo Mr Daryn Webb Partner
Ryan Wessels photo Mr Ryan Wessels Partner
Jason Wilkinson photo Mr Jason Wilkinson Partner
Helen Wilsenach photo Ms Helen Wilsenach Head of Employment and Benefits
Kelly Wright photo Ms Kelly Wright Partner
Charles Young photo Charles Young Partner; Head of Mining
David  Yuill  photo Mr David Yuill Partner
Total staff : 1 100+
Lawyers : 650+
English
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