Bowmans Zambia specialises in banking and finance, regularly assisting financial institutions and corporates in project finance and finance structuring. The team maintains a focus on the energy and natural resources sectors, including mining and clean energy projects. The firm is also adept at handling commercial disputes, with much of its work in relation to disputes arising from infrastructure and construction projects in Zambia. Bwalya Chilufya-Musondais a key banking and finance lawyer with deep sectoral expertise, especially in the energy industry. Litigators Mabvuto Sakala and John Kawana act for major private and public clients, while Joshua Mwamulima is a key contact for energy and mining clients seeking advice on corporate, banking and finance matters. Mwansa Nachula is also noted.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Their advice is poignant and relevant to our business. The team is accessible and easy to work with.’
- ‘They don’t just provide legal advice in isolation, they take the time to understand the broader business context and tailor their advice accordingly. This combination of legal expertise and business insight ensures that their advice is both legally sound and commercially strategic.
- 'Innocent Sampa is always willing to assist despite any deadlines we may have.'
- ‘Mabvuto Sakala is an all around excellent legal practitioner, highly competent, and deeply knowledgeable. He has a strong command of the law and consistently demonstrates sound judgement in complex matters. What sets him apart is his ability to communicate both the legal process and the expected outcomes in a clear and accessible manner.'
- 'The team is very responsive, very engaging and before decisions are made, there is a thorough discussion of what we need to do and possible outcomes.'
- ‘The individuals are readily available, at no time do you feel like you are not a priority client.'
Key clients
- The Standard Bank
- The Coca-Cola Company
- ABSA Bank Zambia Limited
- First Quantum Minerals Limited
- Mopani Copper Mines
- Axian Energy Limited
- Mitsui O.S.K Lines Ltd
- Pepkor Holdings Limited
- Kal Tire
- Garneton South Solar Limited
Work highlights
Advised Stanbic Bank Zambia, a part of the Standard Bank Group, in relation to the financing of Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation (KNBEPC), a wholly owned subsidiary of ZESCO, for the development of the 100MW Chisamba Solar PV Project.
Advised Garneton South Solar (GaS), a subsidiary of Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) focused on developing solar power projects, in relation to the development of a 25 MWp solar photovoltaic plant and a 10 km 33kV transmission line in Garneton, Kitwe, under the GetFit Solar Programme.
Advised First Quantum Minerals in relation to an equity investment through a preferential share subscription in Barotse Highway (BHL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Mabvuto Sakala; Bwalya Chilufya-Musonda
Other key lawyers
Johsua Mwamulima; John Kawana; Mwansa Nachula; Twaambo Mukuni