DLA Piper Africa, Zambia (Chibesakunda & Co) is experienced in banking, finance and dispute resolution matters, and is also sought for advice on nationally significant projects. This extends to work in the infrastructure and energy sectors, where the firm contributed to developing the Grid Open Access Regulations launched in 2025, as well as working on major national and regional energy and natural resources projects. Louise Chilepa is an experienced banking and finance lawyer. Fellow practice head John Ngisi is a key contact for energy, natural resources and agriculture matters. Charles Joseph Mumba is well-versed in corporate and commercial disputes, and Chishimba Patricia Kachasa is a name to note for corporate matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘At Chibesakunda & Co., the individuals we work with stand out for combining technical precision with practical, regulator-savvy execution.’
- ‘A strong African presence, especially in Zambia with Chibesakunda and Co.'
- ‘The firm offers a diverse suite of legal services to us. In all areas (whether employment litigation, criminal litigation, corporate law, drafting, etc.) we are supported by experts that offer us strong strategies to minimise our risk and exposure.’
- ‘Mwelwa Chibesakunda - world class corporate lawyer - all rounder. Eustace Ngoma- exceptional energy sector and corporate governance lawyer. Chiko Chuula - excellent partner.’
- ‘Compared with larger firms, the practice offers boutique agility with big-firm polish, consistent senior attention, and transparent, phase-based fees. They’ve also introduced useful working innovations while collaborating smoothly with technical consultants so legal steps align with operational reality.'
- ‘We have worked closely with Chiko Chuula, Mahenga Mahenga and Charles Mumba. All three provide solid technical advice and stellar guidance in and out of court. Differences with other competitors is the level of preparatory work we go through with them and their attention to the minutest details.’
Key clients
- Sanlam Life Insurance Zambia Limited
- Kobold Metals Limited
- Tertiary Minerals Plc
- Kagem Mining Limited
- Stanbic Bank Zambia Limited
- Copperbelt Energy Corporation Plc
- Stock Brokers Zambia Limited
- Novare Property Development
- Maamba Collieries Limited
- ZTE Corporation
Work highlights
Advised on legal and regulatory compliance for the Mumbezhi Copper Project, spearheaded by Prospect Resources, an Australian-listed mining company operating locally through its Zambian subsidiary Osprey Resources.
Acted as advisor to Solar Century Africa on the set up, development and operation of the first 25MW of the 100 MW solar project in Kanona.
Advised ETG on its acquisition of a Zambian seed producer, including conducting legal due diligence, reviewing and negotiating the share purchase agreement (SPA) and assisting with the COMESA merger control notification process.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Louise Chilepa; Chansa Kayumba; Chishimba Kachasa; Chilombo Malama; John Ngisi
Other key lawyers
Charles Mumba; Karen Mutale Mumbi