Ashurst‘s London emerging markets group has a broad focus, with strengths in the energy, mining, infrastructure, telecoms, media & technology and transport sectors. Head of the Africa group Yann Alix is particularly active in M&A transactions and project development mandates. Alongside a robust mining practice, Alix is well-positioned to advise on matters related to oil and gas and renewables. Beyond Africa, the firm is building out its presence in India, spearheaded by co-heads Kalpana Unadkat and Shishir Mehta. Projects expert Sanja Udovicic has extensive experience in emerging markets and was recently instructed by the consortium involved in the development of a hydropower project on the Zambezi River in Mozambique. Matthew Wood and Quentin Robinson are also singled out for their specialist energy and infrastructure expertise in developing countries.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This team has an excellent range of coverage and provides advice across a broad range of jurisdictions. The juniors are particularly well-trained and extremely efficient. Overall, this is an extremely professionally run team.’
‘Sanja Udovicic has a remarkable ability to recall the smallest details on complex large scale project financing structures, which allows her to provide astute solutions to any issues which may arise.’
‘The team demonstrates solid legal expertise and an organised, methodical approach to complex matters. Their ability to manage multi-jurisdictional aspects and coordinate internally is effective. Communication is generally clear and timelines are respected, which facilitates collaboration.’
‘Claudia Cicone was involved from start to finish. She showed consistency, good command of the applicable legal framework, and remained available throughout. Her input contributed to the smooth progression of the process.’
‘Bilingual abilities are very helpful, especially in Francophone Africa. Deep understanding of business needs and practical yet thorough advice provided. Team is very collaborative and approachable.’
‘Yann Alix is a strong team leader, has deep expertise, and is collaborative, timely, and bilingual. Claudia Cicone is thorough, timely, bilingual and has experience.’
Key clients
- Chappal Energies
- Chariot
- OMV
- Meta
- Africa Finance Corporation
- KfW IPEX
- ADNOC
- EWEC
- One-Dyas
Work highlights
Representing the consortium comprising EDF (40%), TotalEnergies (30%) and Sumitomo Corporation (30%) in connection with the development of the Mphanda Nkuwa hydropower project, on the Zambezi River in Mozambique.
Advised Chappal Energies, an indigenous Nigerian oil and gas company, on the USD $1.2 billion acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Equinor's Nigerian subsidiary, Equinor Nigeria Energy Company Limited, including its 20.21% share of the prolific Agbami offshore oil field operated by Chevron.
Advised the financiers on the multi-sourced (DFI, ECA and commercial bank) financing of a greenfield combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant of approx. 1,590MW capacity and associated infrastructure in Surkhandarya region in Uzbekistan.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Yann Alix; Kalpana Unadkat; Shishir Mehta
Other key lawyers
Sanja Udovicic; Matthew Wood; Quentin Robinson; Claudia Cicone