Bowmans > Johannesburg, South Africa > Firm Profile
Bowmans Offices

11 ALICE LANE
SANDTON
JOHANNESBURG 2146
South Africa
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Bowmans > The Legal 500 Rankings
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 KrugerPractice 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 DavidsPractice 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 Anderson. Clement 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-GrantPractice head(s):
Lyndal Anderson; Jonathan Sahli
Other key lawyers:
Tim Gordon-Grant; James McKinnell; Adam Anderson; Tori Herholdt; Clement Mkiva; Kabwela Chisaka; Jonathan Barnes; Kelly Calvert-Evers; Kelly Mzobe; Angela Matlata; Callum O’Connor; Gerhard Rudolph; Wihan Meintjes
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 KaapuPractice 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 firm‘ Bowmans 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 CunninghamPractice head(s):
Craig Cunningham; Heather Manson; Andrew Pike
Other key lawyers:
Jeremy Prain; Claudia Jackson; Mark van Velden; Lana Stockton; Shanae Durman; Kimberleigh Saamlaal; Nthato Padi
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 KeepPractice 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 BellewPractice 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
Other key lawyers:
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
Other key lawyers:
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 Rudolph, Alessandra Pardini and Wihan Meintjes in January 2025.Practice head(s):
Lize-Meré Ludick
Other key lawyers:
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.
Bowmans > Firm Profile
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
Main Contacts
Department | Name | 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 |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Total staff : 1 100+ Lawyers : 650+Languages
EnglishMemberships
Lex Mundi - The World's Leading Association of Independent Law Firms- Banking and finance
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Competition
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Shipping and transport
- Tax
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Investment funds
- Mining
- Projects and infrastructure
- Real estate