In an era of digital transformation, our technology lawyers combine in-country experience with the global skills and resources of one of the world’s biggest business law firms.
We work for the world's leading tech companies on corporate transactions, intellectual property rights (IPR), patents and litigation, across commercial, regulatory, compliance and employment issues.
We are already one of the most active law firms in Africa, and our teams advise domestic and multinational clients ranging from tech giants, pharmaceutical companies, banks and financial institutions to mid-market businesses, startups, scaleups, governments and NGOs.
Local insight, global reach: with teams in 20 African countries, our people understand the political, legal, cultural and regulatory issues in the region, and bring those insights to bear on behalf of our clients.
Our global Africa team itself comprises more than 200 lawyers in Johannesburg, Casablanca, London, New York, Paris, Dubai, Perth, Hong Kong and Beijing.
Being part of one of the world's biggest business law firms means we can draw on the multidisciplinary resources of a global technology practice enabling us to deliver a fully integrated cross-border business legal service across multiple jurisdictions.
This means we can advise tech companies throughout the business lifecycle: from startups that are seeking funding to established companies that are addressing employment matters, commercial and technology transactions, as well as IP patent protection strategies.
Companies offering evolving technologies in evolving markets also need strong legal support in areas including M&A, IPOs and disputes, as well as guidance on international tax planning, regulatory compliance, establishing new entities, complying with local employment laws, and setting out benefits and company policies and procedures. We can help in all of these areas, with IP and tech experience that encompasses:
- Software
- Computer hardware
- Cloud
- FinTech
- PayTech
- InsureTech
- PropTech
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics
- Blockchain
- Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)
- Telecommunications
- Digital and new media
- Games and entertainment
- E-commerce
- IT and outsourcing services
- CleanTech
- Semiconductors
- Internet of Things (IoT)
Please contact us to discuss how we can help you to achieve your objectives.
The coming into effect and promulgation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has ushered in a new and exciting era for the continent. AfCFTA aims to enhance intra-African trade by providing a complete and mutually beneficial trade agreement among Member States. It covers goods and services, investment, intellectual property rights and competition policy. On December 5, 2020, the African Union Assembly approved the start of trading under AfCFTA as of January 1, 2021.
Digital transformation is a driving force for innovative, inclusive and sustainable growth. The digital economy encompasses the economic and social activities that are boosted by platforms such as mobile and sensor networks, including e-commerce. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents an opportunity to boost growth, reduce poverty and expand economic inclusion in Africa.
The fintech industry is popular for its dynamic approach to delivery and relies on technological advances. Innovations such as blockchain, mobile payments and savings, peer-to-peer lending platforms, crowdfunding and similar internet-based solutions have radically transformed the financial services landscape in Nigeria, challenging its traditional business models and regulatory infrastructure. However, beyond the noteworthy advancements in this sector, a key concern is giving the country’s growing population access to these innovative solutions.
Many African countries are still grappling with the impact of the lockdown initiatives caused by COVID-19.1 Adapting to the health and safety protocols across Africa has meant a significant increase in the sheer volume of data being processed, particularly in the health and education sectors.