Legal team size: Currently 2

Looking forward, what trends do you foresee in the legal landscape over the next 5–10 years that companies should prepare for?

We foresee the following in the legal landscape in the next 5–10 years:

Legal and regulatory compliance, especially in the financial services sector, data privacy, ESG, and anti-money laundering. Companies should invest in compliance infrastructure, internal audits, and risk management systems to avoid sanctions and reputational damage.

Expansion of data privacy and cybersecurity laws

Cross-border legal complexity

Use of AI in legal and business processes, which will transform contract review, compliance monitoring, legal research, and even litigation forecasting—though this will also introduce legal risks.

Litigation around Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). With increasing ESG disclosures, we expect lawsuits to increase.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?

One particularly unique and fulfilling experience in my legal career was during my tenure as the Head of Legal at one of the microfinance institutions in Tanzania. I was honoured to be recognised by the Group company as an outstanding lawyer in the region, and that recognition was largely due to the transformative work we did in strengthening the company’s ethical culture.

At the time I joined the institution, we were facing recurring incidents of fraud involving both staff and clients. I took a firm but fair approach in managing these cases from internal investigation through to formal prosecution. Each case was reported to the police, pursued diligently through the court system, and appropriate disciplinary and legal action was taken against those found guilty.

This consistent and transparent handling of fraud cases sent a strong message throughout the organisation that unethical behaviour would not be tolerated. It created a positive effect—staff became more vigilant, clients gained trust in the institution, and we began to see a noticeable shift towards a culture of accountability and integrity across the board.

For me, this was not just about enforcing the law—it was about using legal tools to strengthen governance, rebuild trust, and help create a values-driven institution. That experience reaffirmed the power of legal leadership in driving not just compliance, but cultural transformation.

How does your team contribute to the overall business strategy of the company?

The legal team plays a critical role in supporting the company’s strategic objectives by providing timely and sound legal advice across all areas of operations. The team advises on a wide range of matters, including regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, litigation management, corporate governance, and risk mitigation. By working closely with all departments, the legal team ensures that the company’s activities are conducted within the bounds of applicable laws and regulations, while also enabling the achievement of business goals.

The team provides legal advice to support the company’s operations and overall business activities, contributing to a strong foundation of integrity, accountability, and sustainable growth. Additionally, the legal team serves as a vital link between Management and the Board of Directors, and between the Board and the shareholders, ensuring good corporate governance, effective communication, and a smooth flow of information and decision-making.

How are you bringing the legal department closer to your business colleagues?

Although our legal team is small, we play a dynamic and collaborative role within the secondary lending space. Given that the majority of our clients are banks and financial institutions, we work closely with their legal teams on a regular basis. Our engagements range from reviewing legal documentation and addressing governance matters to exchanging insights on emerging legal and regulatory developments in the market.

Beyond formal work settings, we also prioritise building strong professional relationships. We often come together with fellow legal practitioners—whether during end-of-quarter catch-ups or mid-year gatherings—to relax, network, and create lasting memories. These interactions not only strengthen our partnerships but also foster a vibrant, supportive legal community.