East Africa 2026
Supported by the Association of Corporate Counsel
Company secretary and director of legal services | Kenya Airways
Regional general counsel and company secretary | Africa Global Logistics
General counsel and chief compliance officer | Trinity Metals Group
Head of litigation, prosecution and legal advisory | Uganda Communications Commission
Director, legal and corporate affairs | Petroleum Authority of Uganda
Group vice president, deputy managing director and general counsel | TDB Group
Head of legal, compliance and corporate affairs, company secretary | Hima Cement
General counsel and group data protection officer | WPP Scangroup
Head of legal and regulatory affairs, East and West Africa | Liquid Intelligent Technologies
Head legal, corporate and investment banking | Stanbic Bank (Tanzania)
General manager, corporate services and company secretary | MTN Rwandacell
The role of the modern General Counsel has never been more consequential. Across East Africa, corporate legal leaders are navigating increasingly complex business environments while helping their organisations respond to rapid technological, regulatory and economic change. In doing so, they have cemented their position not only as trusted legal advisers, but as influential voices within the highest levels of corporate leadership.
It is therefore a privilege to present the third edition of Legal 500’s GC Powerlist: East Africa, a recognition of the exceptional in-house counsel who continue to raise the standards of the profession throughout the region. This year’s research has once again highlighted the remarkable breadth of talent within East Africa’s in-house legal community. The lawyers featured in this publication represent leading organisations across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Malawi, reflecting the diversity, and growing influence of the region’s legal profession. While operating in different markets and sectors, they share a common ability to combine legal expertise with commercial acumen, strategic vision and strong leadership.
This year’s research has once again highlighted the remarkable breadth of talent within East Africa’s legal community. The lawyers featured in these pages represent a diverse range of sectors, jurisdictions and organisations, yet they share a common ability to combine legal expertise with commercial acumen, strategic vision, and strong leadership. Whether supporting regional expansion, managing regulatory challenges, driving governance initiatives, or helping businesses embrace innovation, they play a central role in shaping the success of their organisations.
One of the most striking observations from this year’s research is the growing prominence of legal departments as business partners. General counsel are increasingly involved in conversations that extend far beyond legal risk, contributing to decision-making on growth, investment, transformation, sustainability and organisational culture. Their influence continues to expand as executive teams seek guidance in an era marked by uncertainty and opportunity in equal measure.
At the same time, East Africa remains one of the continent’s most dynamic regions for business and investment. As markets mature and organisations become more interconnected, legal leaders are being called upon to navigate cross-border challenges, evolving regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies, all while maintaining the highest standards of governance and ethical leadership. The individuals recognised in this edition have demonstrated an outstanding ability to meet these demands and deliver meaningful impact.
The GC Powerlist: East Africa 2026 celebrates not only professional excellence, but also the resilience, innovation, and dedication that continue to define the region’s in-house legal community. We are proud to honour the achievements of those featured and grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s research process.
Finally, we extend our sincere thanks to ENSafrica for its continued support of this publication and its commitment to recognising excellence within the in-house legal profession across East Africa.
Congratulations to all those included. Your leadership and achievements continue to strengthen the profession and inspire the next generation of legal talent across the region.
Francisco Faria e Castro, Senior Research Editor, GC Porfolio team
On 1 September, Legal 500 unveiled the third edition of the GC Powerlist: East Africa, in partnership with leading African law firm ENS. Hosted at the Sankara Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, the event brought together many of the region’s most accomplished in-house lawyers to celebrate a distinguished community of legal leaders shaping the future of business across East Africa.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Giulio Tomassi Galanti, Business Development Manager at Legal 500, who highlighted the importance of recognising the dynamic growth and increasing sophistication of the East African legal market. He also reflected on the rigorous research and selection process behind the GC Powerlist series, congratulating this year’s honourees for their exceptional contributions to both the legal profession and the organisations they serve.
Following this introduction, Mahesh Acharya, Managing Partner of ENS Kenya, addressed the audience to commend the individuals recognised in the 2026 edition.
The launch of the GC Powerlist: East Africa 2026 proved a fitting celebration of the region’s leading in-house legal talent. The evening showcased the depth of expertise, influence, and innovation within East Africa’s corporate counsel community, while reaffirming Legal 500’s commitment to recognising and championing its achievements. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this year’s research process and to ENS for once again partnering with Legal 500 to provide a platform that honours these outstanding legal professionals.
On Thursday, 3 September, Legal 500 will host the second launch event celebrating the GC Powerlist: East Africa 2026 at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, Uganda. Building on the success of the Nairobi launch, the event will bring together many of region’s most accomplished in-house counsel and senior legal leaders to recognise their achievements and celebrate the continued growth and influence of the region’s corporate legal community.
