The corporate and M&A practice at DLA Piper Africa, Kenya (IKM Advocates) provides both domestic and international clients with the full range of advice, including on project finance, private equity, corporate restructurings, and compliance reviews. David Lekerai heads the team and is experienced in M&A, as well as corporate advisory work. Kamami Christine Michira is a key contact for capital markets and financial regulatory advice, while John Mwangi and James Kamau are also notable members of the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Highly experienced and diverse expertise. Very responsive and excellent involvement of senior partners in deal structuring and key legal aspects.’
- ‘The legal counsel was very experienced and solution driven, responsive and client centric. Really enjoyed working with the team.’
- ‘The Firm's ability to navigate complex legal challenges with clarity and strategic insight remains invaluable.'
- 'The Firm is able to think outside the box and offer innovative solutions to complex legal matters.'
- 'They have a keen eye and attention to detail that ensures that there are no blindspots with their assignments, be it in structuring complex M&A transactions, dealing with government agencies or just difficult or sensitive clients.’
- ‘Their collaborative approach and responsiveness stands out for me.'
- ‘The team is flexible and efficient in their approach.'
Key clients
- Access Bank PLC
- Ascent Capital Holdings Africa II Ltd
- African Development Bank
- Ramco Inc.
- Kenbe Investments Ltd
- Ramoda Ceramics Ltd
Work highlights
Advised Ascent Capital Holdings Africa II Ltd on its acquisition of up to 49% shareholding in Dune Packaging Ltd, a paper packaging manufacturer based in Kenya.
Advised Access Bank PLC on its acquisition of 100% of National Bank of Kenya Ltd from KCB Group PLC; this acquisition aligns with Access Bank's strategy to expand its presence in the Kenyan and East African markets.
Advised AfDB on its acquisition of 25% stake in Dhamana Guarantee Ltd, which reinforced the catalytic role and potential of credit enhancement companies in leveraging opportunities for infrastructure financing in local currency.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
David Lekerai
Other key lawyers
Kamami Christine Michira; John Mwangi; James Kamau