Our connection with Africa extends beyond clients; we have formed strong relationships with local law firms, governments and businesses. We visit the continent regularly and many of our team were born and lived there. Our advice is set against a background of in-depth local knowledge.
We are stand-out specialists in arbitration and litigation, asset finance, capital markets, fraud and asset recovery, oil and gas, projects and infrastructure and renewables. We have particular expertise in the aviation, banking, construction, energy, infrastructure, mineral, rail and shipping sectors.
Our Africa practice, headquartered in London, includes members from our international offices in Paris, Dubai, Singapore, Seoul and Hong Kong. This allows us to offer a full range of services to our clients.
We have a strong working relationship with leading local law firms in Africa, and well-developed secondment programme which has so far seen 50 secondees from leading African law firms and corporate entities spend time at Stephenson Harwood, along with members of our own team seconded to law firms in Africa.
"provide excellent work all round"
Chambers Global 2017
Misappropriation of assets from the Arab Republic of Egypt
Advising and managing the global tracing and recovery of approximately US$ billions in misappropriated assets by the former regime. Involving allegations of fraud, corruption and money laundering over nine jurisdictions.
Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigeria's state-owned oil company
Advising in allegations of fraud and forgery in the high-value case involving the defence in England of several attempts to enforce a Nigerian arbitration award, now valued at over US$350 million.
Transport for Cape Town, South Africa
Advised the City of Cape Town on the establishment of its new transport authority, Transport for Cape Town. Now advising on the development of TCT's integrated transport strategies.
Large African-based mining and metals company
Defending a US$400 million claim in arbitration proceedings and concurrent English High Court proceedings which resulted in clarifying the High Court's view on seeking interim relief in support of arbitration.
African Government
Advising on previous and future transportation contracts, reviewing contract terms, potential breaches of local procurement rules and potentially set aside contracts because of undue influence/fraud.
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC)
Advised on a 23% investment into an AIM-listed company, Ncondezi Energy Limited, an African power development company which is developing a coal mine and associated coal-fired power plant in the Tete region of Mozambique.
Ambience Ventures and Qalaa Holdings, Kenya and Uganda
Advised on the initial acquisition of a majority stake in the national rail operator of Kenya and Uganda, Rift Valley Railways. We subsequently advised on the buy-out of Transcentury, bringing Ambience's overall holding to 85%.
Soma Oil & Gas, Somalia
Advised on its agreement with the government of Somalia to assist in the development of the country’s hydrocarbons sector and its subsequent US$50 million equity investment.
Green Africa Power LLP
We continue to advise this fund established to stimulate private sector investment in renewable energy in sub-Sahara Africa. Providing on-going advice on all corporate and commercial needs and on its investment in African projects.
Shipping company
Advised on the commercial and legal issues of its negotiations in respect of a seven year US$360 million charter, including operation and maintenance.