‘A team defined by deep expertise, integrity, and commitment,’ Bowmans is a market reference for its broad corporate and commercial capabilities, advising clients on cross-border transactions across East Africa. The team is noted for its strength in M&A, corporate finance, restructuring and regulatory mandates, and is equally respected for its disputes offering. Managing partner Michael Strain leads the practice, with Wilbert Kapinga focusing on corporate and litigation matters, Charles Mmasi advising on corporate and finance mandates across key sectors, and James Pius overseeing corporate, commercial and cross-border M&A work.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Bowmans stands out as one of the region’s most trusted firms because of its people — a team defined by deep expertise, integrity, and commitment. Their lawyers combine technical excellence with real-world understanding, ensuring every client receives thoughtful, strategic, and timely advice.'
- 'What truly sets Bowmans apart is the accessibility and responsiveness of its professionals — always available, always engaged, and always focused on delivering the best possible outcome for their clients.'
- 'Led by Michael Strain and his team, including James Pius, the firm combines technical excellence with a deep understanding of the context behind every transaction. Their ability to interpret complex situations and provide clients with clear, strategic, and commercially sound advice sets them apart.'
- 'Responsive, available, business oriented and technically skilled.'
- 'Bowmans team is one of the most professional teams on the ground. The team's expertise, proactiveness and above all professionalism is recommendable. The team's strength is around outstanding collaboration and positive eagerness to work together. The team is well conversant with the key sectors in Tanzania and also the African context when required.'
- ‘Real industry knowledge and experts in their field.’
Key clients
- Perseus Mining Limited (Perseus)
- Bulyanhulu Gold Mine Limited (Barrick Corp)
- Stanbic Bank Tanzania (Stanbic)
- Helium One
- British International Investment plc (BII)
- Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (Adani)
- African Rainbow Minerals Limited
- Axian Telecom Holding and Management Ltd (Axian Telecom)
- Mawingu Networks Limited (Mawingu)
- Peposo Maritime S.A
Work highlights
Advised Perseus on structuring and renegotiating a suite of agreements, including the Framework Agreement and Shareholders Agreement for the joint venture operation of the Nyanzaga Gold Project with the government of Tanzania.
Represented African Rainbow Minerals Ltd in a USD 195 m breach of contract claim concerning mineral exploration rights in Tanzania.
Advised Axian Telecom on the refinancing and upsizing of its existing high-yield bond, revolving credit facility, and club term loan facility.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Michael Strain
Other key lawyers
Charles Mmasi; Wilbert Kapinga; James Pius