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Africa
Africa’s diverse regulatory and business landscapes can create barriers to doing business. Freshfields’ international expertise working with carefully selected local partners has been a pivotal force in ensuring the success of landmark infrastructure deals, disputes and complex cross-border M&A.
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Whether raising capital, winning contracts or resolving disputes, our Africa-focused teams give you a competitive edge.

There is no uniform way to do business in Africa. Laws, regulations and business cultures vary widely across the continent. Navigating these diverse landscapes can be challenging, but with Freshfields by your side, you gain a strong foundation for sustainable growth.  

Our Africa-focused teams blend extensive local knowledge with global reach. Clients trust us with their most complex challenges across industries – from mining, energy and infrastructure to telecoms, technology, consumer products and healthcare. We specialise in first-of-a-kind or first-in-country assignments that often forge legal precedents.  

Our work in Africa spans projects of regional and global significance, and we recognize that no one-size-fits-all approach exists – delivering bespoke solutions tailored to your critical needs. 

Leveraging strong ties with local institutions, intermediaries and Africa's top law firms through our StrongerTogether network, we deliver outstanding legal and practical advice. Our relationships offer you instant access to crucial insights, ensuring your business is optimally placed for success. 

We don’t just work in Africa – we work for Africa. We share your commitment to making a positive impact on local communities. Through initiatives like the Reforestation in East Africa Programme, we've strengthened the livelihoods of over 55,000 farmers in Kenya and Uganda. We empower female entrepreneurs with training, community support, and resources to diversify income and build capacity. 

Whatever the challenge, we know what's around the corner – and that means you do too. Wherever you are in Africa, we're here to help you succeed, grow, and make a lasting impact. With Freshfields as your partner, navigate Africa's dynamic landscape with confidence. 

Highlight experience

Case studies

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Driving connectivity in Kenya and the East Africa region
With a track record of leading on the most significant infrastructure project developments and financings globally, Freshfields advised a consortium comprising Vinci and Meridian SAS on a €1.3bn public private partnership contract for the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway project in Kenya. When complete, the highway will support economic growth and improve the quality of life of the people in the region.

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Transnet on its award-winning bridge to bond financing

This deal won the 2024 Quasi-Sovereign/GRE Bond Deal of the Year, awarded by Bonds, Loans & ESG Capital Markets Africa.

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A long fight for justice

Freshfields worked with Econet for eight years to secure a favourable arbitral award over a dispute relating to its stake in Nigerian telco VNL

 

A long fight for justice

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Contacts

Contacts

Dubai
Pervez AkhtarPartner
London
Andrew MurphyPartner
London
Sylvia Noury KCPartner
Paris
Christophe SeragliniPartner
London
Bukunola AlakijaCounsel
London
Duncan KellawayPartner
Riyadh
Amani KhalifaPartner, Head of KSA Disputes Practice
New York
Timothy HarknessPartner
Awards & recognition
Chambers Africa Awards 2025
Africa-Wide Law Firm of the Year for Dispute Resolution
Chambers Africa Awards 2024
Africa-Wide Corporate/M&A Law Firm of the Year
Bonds, Loans & ESG Capital Markets Africa
Winner of the Quasi-Sovereign / GRE Bond Deal of the Year 2024
IFLR 2024
Winner of the IFLR Africa Net Zero Transition Award 2024 for our involvement with the Reforestation in East Africa Programme
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