Rwanda

Trust Law Chambers is a Rwandan law firm established in 2004. The firm is led by Apollo Nkunda and has one office in Kigali. 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a focus on project development, banking and M&A work. 

Key clients 

Key clients of the firm include New Bugesera Airport, Symbion Power, ContourGlobal, UAP Insurance, CIMERWA, I&M Bank, Ecobank, Equity Bank, Airtel, Atlas Mara-BPR Rwanda and Charis. 

Highlights  

ENSafrica (Rwanda) advised on the USD 10,000,000 equity investment of the clients in ARC Power Rwanda Limited. The team, led by Dieudonné Nzafashwanayo, assisted with conducting legal due diligence, reviewing transaction documents from a local law perspective, and handled the closing aspects of the deal. The transaction has been completed.  

The firm also acted as local counsel for Admaius Capital Partners in its acquisition (through its local SPV) of a controlling stake in TRES Infrastructure Ltd, a licensed tower owner, operator, and developer of shared telecommunications infrastructure in Rwanda. The firm’s mandate included conducting due diligence on the target, providing structuring advice, reviewing and drafting transaction documents, advising and assisting on the necessary regulatory and anti-trust approvals, and advising on the general closing aspects of the transaction. The transaction was led by Dieudonné Nzafashwanayo and has now completed.  

Key Clients  

Oikocredit; Ecumenical Development Cooperative Society U.A (Oikocredit); Triodos Sicav II; Triodos Groenfonds N.V; Admaius Capital Partners; Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A. (CDP); Yyussa Company Ltd; NEA Rwanda Ltd; Kasada GP Limited; Enviroserve LLC 

Testimonials 2024-2025 

“The firm provided expertise to avoid after sale issues. (PPP/PFI) 

“ENS has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise and specialization where they have a specialized tax partner with strong reputation in country. They have also a strong regional perspective that allows them to offer solutions that are both locally grounded and internationally aligned.” (Restructuring) 
 
“Their approach is highly strategic and collaborative. They take the time to understand the commercial objectives behind each transaction and tailor their advice accordingly.” (Restructuring) 

“Elie Nshimiyimana provided legal analysis and contract management.” (PPP/PFI) 

“Dieudonné Nzafashwanayo leads on business law matters at ENSafrica Rwanda and is widely recognized for his deep technical expertise and strategic insight, particularly in the field of taxation. His ability to navigate complex legal and tax frameworks with clarity and precision has been invaluable to our corporate restructuring efforts.” (Restructuring) 

“What truly sets Dieudonné Nzafashwanayo apart is not only his exceptional knowledge, arguably the most comprehensive I’ve encountered among tax lawyers in Rwanda but also his genuine passion for the work. His commitment to delivering thoughtful, solution-oriented advice makes him a standout advisor and a trusted partner in high-stakes transactions.” (Restructuring) 

Abayo & Co Advocates is a Rwandan law firm based in Kigali. The firm is led by managing partner Jean Claude Mutabazi Abayo. 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a focus on financial services regulatory work. 

Key clients 

Key clients of the firm include OQ Technology, Equity Bank Rwanda, Mobile Satellite Services Rwanda, Ncba Bank Rwanda, Jmp Tax Consultancy, Akagera Business Group, Mode Consultancy, Roko Construction Rwanda and Unguka Bank.