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Signum Advocates is a Ugandan law firm based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is active in financial and corporate and project development work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Partech Partners, Finasi-ishu Construction and Tolea Securities.
ABMAK Associates is a corporate law firm based in Kampala, and its main office is in Kampala. The firm specializes in the corporate, transactional and regulatory aspects of oil & gas, mining, power, and infrastructure projects.
Highlights
ABMAK Associates acted as lead legal advisor for HMH-Kuku Limited (HMH) and its outgoing shareholders in the acquisition of 100% ownership of the company by African Poultry Development Limited. The team, led by Festus Akunobera and Joshua T. Byabashaija, drafted and negotiated legal documentation and advised the client on the corporate and regulatory compliance requirements for the acquisition. This included securing no-objection approvals from the National Environment Management Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. The acquisition was completed in June 2024, but amalgamation is ongoing.
The firm is also advising Platinum, a licensed microfinance institution in Uganda, on its proposed issuance of unsecured medium-term notes which will be listed on the Fixed Income Security Market Segment (FISMS) of the Uganda Securities Exchange (USE). Acting as lead counsel, the team has engaged with the Capital Markets Authority on approval requirements for the programme; drafted the programme documents, including the trust deed, agency agreement, and placing agent agreement; and conducted due diligence on the corporate file of Platinum at the Uganda Registration Services Bureau to determine the company’s statutory eligibility. The transaction is currently ongoing and led by partner Hakim Muwonge.
Key Clients
East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd; HMH-Kuku Limited; ARPE Limited; Platinum Credit (U) Limited; Marsh Insurance Brokers Limited; Kikagati Power Company Limited; H5 Resources Limited; Sino Minerals Investments Company Limited; Zhurong Technologies Limited
Testimonials 2024/2025
“They are precise in their deliverables and explain clearly options available to SENOK.” (Project Development)
“We appreciated ABMAK Associates for their highly professional and efficient legal services. The team communicated smoothly and coordinated effectively, especially in land acquisition and project management.” (Project Development)
“Their extensive experience and proactive approach allowed them to foresee potential issues and provide practical solutions, which significantly contributed to the smooth progress of our project.” (Project Development)
“We appreciate the firm’s professionalism.” (Capital Markets)
“Aisha N. Wamala speaks clearly and factually reports the requirements.” (Project Development)
"Denis Kusaasira excels in project coordination and handling legal matters. He communicates clearly and efficiently, quickly understands issues, and provides practical solutions. Additionally, his extensive experience in contract negotiations has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth progress of our project.” (Project Development)
“Jemimah Mushabe is good in her statements.” (Project Development)
“Sheenah Ainerukundo is good at communication and managing client relationships.” (Capital Markets)
“Hakim Muwonge is good at client relationships.” (Capital Markets)
Katende Ssempebwa Advocates is a Ugandan law firm founded in 1969 by John W. Katende and Prof. Frederick Ssempebwa. The firm employs over sixty legal and support staff and is based in Kampala.
Cristal Advocates is a corporate law firm, and its main office is in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on financial and corporate work and is active in project development.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include SGS SA, CNOOC Uganda Limited, Africa Matters Limited, Alistair Logistics Uganda Limited, Movit Products Limited, Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited, NIC Holding Limited, AECOM, Trafigura Group, Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited, Metropolitan Republic Uganda Limited, Clyde and Co, Addleshaw Goddard, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, SICIM SPA, Elecnor SA, Oil Marketers (Uganda) Limited, Echotel Proprietary Uganda Limited and Uganda Revenue Authority.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm was active in financial and corporate transactions and project development.
In financial and corporate the firm worked in structured finance, blended finance, Start-up fund, share offers, non-contentious financial services regulatory, project development for clients connected with insurance, financial services, oil and gas, energy, international investment, financial services sectors and government and public policy services.
In project development the firm worked in concessions and projects for clients connected with the oil and gas industry, energy and power, and international investment sectors.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Africa Matters Limited €15 billion project development
Addleshaw Goddard €70 million project finance
Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited €1 million restructuring
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Banking
"Cristal Advocates are generally responsive to emails and requests and demonstrate a willingness to provide support on matters with their managing partner being the main point of contact. They provided a reasonable fee estimate and their WIP was only 12.5% above their fee estimate."
Banking and finance
"Efficient and effective in executing instructions with timely reporting and solutions for the firm's clients."
"The firm renders very clear advice to the bank, is very responsive and proactive."
Financial services regulatory
"Great at communication. Good at problem solving and advisory."
"The most impressive attribute of Cristal Advocates is the timely implementation of client's instructions. They always revert to us on time with quality, well-researched opinions. "
Project development
"Exceptionally knowledgeable (no one in Uganda knows the oil and gas sector better). Very senior networks, extending to the highest levels of industry and government. Highly responsive."
"Timely delivery. Important connections. Honesty."
Restructuring
"Timely execution of the assigned duties. Excellent engagement with the client and provision of feedback."
Denis Kakembo
"Denis is a very knowledgeable professional, he remains very close to the client and therefore understands the bank's strategic priorities."
"Denis is excellent with client relationship management. He's also good at problem solving. Denis is committed and always finds a practical solution for every challenge."
"Effective communication. Honesty. Displayed expertise in the area required."
"Good industry knowledge, creative and innovative in client solutioning and an effective communicator. "
"He is diligent and professional in handling assignments."
"Is very knowledgeable and has good appreciation of the law."
"Very detailed knowledge of Uganda's oil and gas sector. Proactive - shares information and opportunities. Exceptional networks"
Ligomarc Advocates is a corporate law firm founded in 2003 by Ruth Sebatindira. The firm has one office in Kampala and collaborates with Andersen Global.
MMAKS is a full-service corporate firm and is a member of the Africa Legal Network. The firm has a presence in 15 African countries and a regional office in Dubai. The firm is strong in banking and finance and serves clients in financial services.
Highlights
MMAKS advocates acted as lead counsel for the Office of the Auditor General on a special audit of the Lease and Assignment Agreement between Umeme Limited and Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited, which was coming to an end. The team determined the buy-out amount due to Umeme Limited at the expiry of the Concession, established financial liability owed by either party, verified the completeness of the electricity distribution network assets, and established any outstanding legal non-compliance and associated liability by Umeme Limited to the Government of Uganda. The project was completed in March 2025 and was led by Fiona Davies Nalwanga and Godwin Kakande.
The firm is also advising Olea Insurance Solutions Africa, seeks to purchase all the issued shares in Marsh Insurance Brokers Limited, resulting in the amalgamation of Olea Uganda Limited and Marsh Uganda. Acting as lead counsel for the client, the firm is involved in reviewing and advising on the share purchase agreement and the regulatory approvals involved, as well as obtaining approvals from the ministries of government. The transaction is currently ongoing and led by partner Fiona Davies Nalwanga.
Key Clients
Standard Bank; Standard Chartered Bank; Inspired Group; BlackRock Inc.; Olea Insurance Solutions Africa
Testimonials 2024/2025
“They were responsive and solution oriented.” (Banking & Finance)
“Fred Sseyonga was helpful in providing very helpful solutions to the practical challenges. He was available and reliable.” (Banking & Finance)
Kampala Associated Advocates is a full-service law firm and has been active in the Ugandan market for 20 years.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is focused on financial and corporate work, project development and restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Rubis Energy Uganda Limited, Mtn Uganda Limited, National Social Security Fund, National Water and Sewerage Corporation, Standard Chartered Bank Uganda Limited, Uganda Communications Commission, Sure Telecom Uganda Limited (In Liquidation), Afriland First Bank (In Liquidation), Industrial Promotion Services, East African Development Bank, Solarnow Uganda Limited and Piston Medical Limited commission.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm was active in banking, M&A and project development work.
In financial and corporate the firm worked in asset acquisitions, financing, insolvency proceedings, procurement, financing, divestment, administration, refinancing deals for clients connected with the banking, technology and communications, energy and financial services.
In project development the firm worked in financial and corporate: project development deals for clients connected with the construction, pharmaceutical and life science and agriculture sectors.
During the research period corporate associates Patricia Kamugisha and Charlotte Ahabwe joined the firm from Lidomarc Advocates and OsKagere Advocates respectively.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
National water and sewerage corporation €6.2 million project development
Plexus Cotton Limited €50 million project development and joint venture
Standard Chartered Bank €284 million refinancing
Kyagaba & Otatiina Advocates is a Ugandan law firm based in Kampala which since 2019 has been a member of Dentons.
Highlights
Kyagaba & Otatiina Advocates acted as lead legal counsel to Spouts International in connection with a US$3.5 million equity investment by the Water Access Acceleration Fund S.L.P. The team, led by Dennis Otatiina, drafted and negotiated the share subscription agreement, share buyback agreement, disclosure letter, and amendments to the existing shareholders’ agreement; advised on key regulatory and compliance issues; and ensured strategic alignment with both Ugandan law and international investment standards. The transaction closed in November 2024.
The firm is also advising National Housing and Construction Company Ltd. on the structuring and implementation of a custom-built, state-of-the-art headquarters for the Electoral Commission of Uganda. Acting as lead counsel, the team is advising on the project structure, negotiating the legal and commercial framework, and drafting and reviewing all construction and ancillary contracts. The transaction closed in November 2024 and was led by David Mpanga.
Associate partner Julius Kyamanywa joined the Banking & Finance team from DFCU Bank in May 2025.
Key Clients
WBPF; Salaam Bank; Umunthu Investment Co. II; SPOUTS International Ltd.; Cooperatieve Rabobank U.A.; National Housing and Construction Company Limited; Credinvest International Corporate Finance
Testimonials 2024/2025
“The team is extremely knowledgeable in matter commercial law, local legal framework, transaction support, PE/VC transactions and Private Credit.” (Private Equity)
“We appreciate the timely and comprehensive legal expertise offered by the firm during the project structuring process.” (Project Development)
“The firm provided sound legal advice with a commercial lens. They were quick to respond to questions and issues.” (Project Finance)
“The firm helped to coordinate counsel from other jurisdictions and made the transaction very smooth and easy for us.” (Project Finance)
“Agatha Etyang is responsive and has good client management skills.” (Project Finance)
“We appreciate David Mpanga’s structuring of construction projects and client management.” (Project Development)
“Dennis Otatiina worked on corporate advisory, providing creative solutions on deal structuring to align with local laws, legal due diligence, KYC and AML, and preparing quality legal documentation.” (Private Equity)
“Dennis Otatiina is extremely trustworthy.” (Private Equity)
Testimonials 2023/2024
“Kyagaba & Otatiina Advocates excels in their turnaround time, which is crucial in the banking sector. The firm consistently meets deadlines, ensuring efficient processing of work. Their commitment to timely service enhances client satisfaction and reliability, setting them apart in a competitive legal landscape.” (Banking)
“The firm is diligent.” (Banking)
“The firm offers pragmatic advice suited to needs of the entity and constantly follows up with the client in the event of any matters arising.” (Project finance)
“Esther always gives timely feedback on inquires that arise. Esther is also very professional and meets all set deadlines and incase of delays communicates in a timely manner. Esther is also extremely knowledgeable, readily available and flexible in how she does her work.” - Esther Ntale, Senior Associate
“She is good at communicating and client relations.” - Pearl Nyakabwa, Managing partner
“Provision of pragmatic advice in the context of the legal question at hand.” - Pearl Nyakabwa, Managing partner
“Pearl is the care partner for our company. She is readily available when needed, especially where instructions are complex. Pearl ensures that the bank’s instructions are handled with the necessary care and professionalism that is required.” - Pearl Nyakabwa, Managing partner
Engoru Mutebi Advocates is a Ugandan law firm established in 2015. The firm is based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on banking and project development work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Advance Global Capital, Standard Chartered Bank, Master Card, World Bank, Islamic Development Bank, Financial Access East Africa, Platinum Equity, The Carlyle Group, Siemens Health Liners, Walmart and British Telecom.
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"The Firm has an extensive financial services profile. They also handle the billing process smoothly. The team is highly qualified and simplifies complicated transactions."
Mukumbya Musoke Advocates is a Ugandan law firm established in 2016. The firm is led by managing partner Julius Mukumbya Musoke and is based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on financial and corporate and project development work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include African Export-Import Bank, International Finance Corporation, DEG, Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund, FMO, Proparco, Barclays Bank, JP Morgan Securities, African Development Bank and ABSA.
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Banking and finance
"They are reliable and have a deep understanding of the local law."
"Responsive and accurate in their answers, very experienced in international aspects."
Sebalu & Lule Advocates is a member of the DLA Piper Africa Group, an alliance of independent legal practices working together across Africa. Sebalu & Lule was established in 1980 and is currently led by Barnabas Tumusingize and based in Kampala.
DLA Piper is a global business law firm with 4,200 lawyers in 77 offices in the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a strong practice across both financial and corporate and project development achieving top tier status in both.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include MTN Uganda/MTN Group, British American Tobacco Uganda, Stanbic Uganda Holdings/Stanbic Bank Uganda, Standard Chartered Bank Uganda, dfcu Bank, Citibank Uganda, Bank of Uganda, Trade and Development Bank, TOTAL E&P and Hima Cement.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Capital markets
"In-depth knowledge. Excellent delivery. Reliable and trusted. Well resourced. "
Project development
"This firm has good in-depth knowledge on the areas in which they advise and are well informed on their subject matter, meaning that they can be relied upon to provide valued, useful and constructive advice. They also respond within short time frames and are responsive to requests. They are professional but also approachable. I have been really impressed by them."
Bytelex Advocates is a Ugandan law firm based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on loan deals as well as general financial services regulatory work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include HiLight Technologies, Culipa, ATAD Steel Structure Corporation, Veron Intercontinental Shipping Investments, Ecological Christian Organisation, Yellow Card Financial, I4policy, GIZ: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, Government of Rwanda and ThinkIT.
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"The team has been quite thorough in their preparation work, going ahead to clear any potential blockers and leveraging their extensive network to acquire all relevant paperwork in a timely manner."
"Bytelex has a good level of experience and knowledge in regulatory engagements in Uganda. They were very clear on expectations and advisements when the engagement began. We successfully navigated the long approval process thanks in part to their foresight and preparations they made for us."
K&K Advocates is a Ugandan law firm based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on loans, acquisitions and project related work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Bank of Uganda, Stanbic Bank Uganda, Diamond Trust Bank Uganda, Dfcu Bank, I&M Bank Uganda, Airtel Uganda, PricewaterhouseCoopers, British American Tobacco and Uganda Communication Commission.
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Bank lending: Lender side
"K&K are very meticulous in their work and pay a lot of attention to detail. They also provide feedback on time and their turnaround time is very good."
PPP/PFI
"They give extra attention to the work and all time needed."
TASLAF Advocates is a Ugandan law firm is led by managing partner Stephen Tumwesigye and is based in Kampala.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on loan and project work.
Birungyi Barata & Associates is a commercial firm based in Uganda. It was established in 2003 by Enoch Brata and Birungyi Cephas Kagyenda, the managing partner. It has an office is in Kampala and a team of 14 lawyers.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm advises on transactions within the banking, M&A, project finance, and restructuring and insolvency (R&I) practice areas, and can advise on Ugandan and English law.
Key clients
The firm has developed strong relationships with Absa Uganda, Chestnut, Ziba, Mahoma, Airtel, World Bank Group, Capital Shoppers, Marriot Hotel and Apartments, and Uganda Breweries.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
During the research period the firm was active in banking, M&A, project finance, and R&I.
In banking it was active on behalf of borrowers and lenders, and it advised on project financing for developments in the energy sector.
In corporate work the firm advised on acquisitions on behalf of buyers and sellers and assisted with restructurings.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Kibaale District hydro power plant
SACCO restructuring
Windforce / Akbar Group / ECL Energy 10MW solar power plant
Client feedback: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Financial services regulatory
“Timely delivery on the defined deliverables, creative tailor made tax-related solutions. A well experienced and tax savvy team. The firm has had 100% success in all the tax matters concluded thus far and continue to provide satisfactory representation both in court and the tribunal. Timely sharing of significant changes in the regulatory and legal regimes. They are a leader in shaping tax Jurisprudence and practice.”
Project development
“Honest and realistic in analysing cases, timely actions, and problem-solving.”
Birungyi Cephas Kagyenda
“Excellent customer care and managing the needs of the customer. Approachable and available 24/7, attention to detail. Goes an extra mile to deliver results Strong drafting skills, sharp reasoning on all matters, a thorough understanding and appreciation of the tax Legal framework. Well thought out arguments/submissions.”
Enoch Barata
“Excellent customer care, very good time management, skilled problem-solving and is very honest.”
AF Mpanga is a Ugandan firm founded in 2003 and located in Kampala. The firm is a pan-African firm with a focus on business law. The firm has a strong practice in both financial and corporate as well as project development transactions. Within these areas the firm has a particular specialism for buyers in M&A transactions.
Highlights
AF Mpanga assisted Coca-Cola Bottling Africa Proprietary Limited (CCBA) with the refinancing of the Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda Limited (CCBU) facilities. The funding was advanced by way of a bilateral term and revolving facilities agreement, in an aggregate amount of US$ 86,490,000. The team acted as local counsel and was led by William Kasozi. The transaction closed in March 2025.
The firm also advised the Standard Bank of South Africa Limited in connection with SIFMA/ICMA Global Master Repurchase Agreement and the negotiated Terms and Conditions where the Bank of Uganda agreed to sell to the Standard Bank of South Africa Treasury Bills. The cross-border transaction closed in December 2024 and was led by partner William Kasozi.
Key Clients
Coca-Cola Bottling Africa Proprietary Limited (CCBA); Standard Bank of South Africa; Absa Bank Uganda Limited; European Development Finance Institutions Management Company (EDFI MC); KCB Bank Uganda Limited
Testimonials 2024/2025
“AF Mpanga was able to assemble a team of experts in the shortest time possible and delivered the assignment within timelines to the satisfaction of the client.” (Banking & Finance)
“Frederick Mpanga is good at finding innovative legal solutions.” (Banking & Finance)
ORTUS Advocates is a full-service corporate law firm based in Kampala and established in 2019. The firm is focused predominantly on banking, corporate matters, project development and is active serving clients in the financial services sector.
Highlights
Ortus Advocates acted as legal counsel to KCB Bank Uganda in its financing of up to $10,000,000 towards the development, construction, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project (EACOP). Acting as local counsel, the firm advised on the legal landscape to ensure the transaction aligned with both Ugandan and international legal standards. This included examining the draft financing term sheet; drafting and reviewing the commitment letter; and negotiating and reviewing English law financing documents, including the Facility Agreement, Common Terms Agreement, Security Trust & Intercreditor Deed, the Onshore Accounts Agreement, and the project documents. The transaction closed in January 2025 and was led by Birungi Kaburara.
The firm is also advising Verity Nature on the structuring, regulatory clearances, and implementation of a 12‑year programme to plant up to 5 billion trees across Uganda. The firm’s mandate includes corporate structuring; land-tenure strategy and long-term leases with farmers; environment and social impact assessments; carbon-credit documentation; and alignment with Uganda’s nascent carbon-market and climate-policy framework. The team acted as lead counsel to the sponsor and was led by Birungi Kaburara. The project is currently in the implementation stage.
Partner Simon Peter Kinobe left the Infrastructure & Construction team in February 2025 to be appointed as a judge of the High Court of Uganda.
Key Clients
KCB Bank Uganda Limited; Ecobank Uganda Limited; Abler Nordic; Green Lexus LLC; Verity Nature; Colombo Capital US; East African Crude Oil Pipeline Limited (EACOP); Verity Nature Limited; African Women Industrial Park LLP; CNOOC Uganda Limited
Testimonials 2024/2025
“They are very knowledgeable and have a good understanding of local law, whilst providing international standard legal advice.” (Project Development)
“Their experts are readily available to the project, deliver within the timelines, and offer innovative solutions above the scope.” (Project Development)
“We appreciate the firm’s attention to detail, personal initiative, and connections in the political sector.” (Project Development)
“They are responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with.” (Project Development)
“Birungi Kaburara-Mugisha is switched on, innovative, energetic knowledgeable and easy to work with.” (Project Development)
“Birungi Kaburara-Mugisha is energetic, responsive, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.” (Project Development)
“Caroline Mbabazi engages with the client and delivers detailed reporting.” (Project Development)
“Emmanuel Tumuhaise is extremely organized. We appreciate his attention to detail and full commitment.” (Project Development)
ENSafrica is the Ugandan office of the pan-African law firm of the same name. Founded in South Africa in 1905, ENSafrica employs more than 600 hundred lawyers across as offices in Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda.
Highlights
ENSafrica Uganda advised Absa Bank on a USD 100 million cross-currency repurchase transaction with the Bank of Uganda. The Bank of Uganda agreed to sell to Absa treasury bonds issued by the Government of Uganda denominated in Uganda Shillings against an agreement by the Bank of Uganda to repurchase the securities from Absa at a later date. The transaction was completed in June 2024 and led by partner Phillip Karugaba.
The firm also assisted Inua Impact Fund Limited in the acquisition of a 20% stake in Flow Uganda Limited. The team, led by partner Rehema Nakirya Ssemyalo, assisted the client in the negotiation of the term sheet, drafting of the share purchase and shareholders agreements, and assisting in the deal closure. The transaction was completed in December 2024.
Key Clients
Absa Bank Uganda Limited; Inua Impact Fund Limited; The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited; Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited; Alterra Africa Accelerator Manager; International Finance Corporation (IFC); African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank); Africa Go Green Fund for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency S.C.S. SICAV-RAIF
Testimonials 2024/2025
“They are one of the market leaders in international lending and offered practical advice to overcome legal hurdles during the negotiations.” (Banking & Finance)
“Excellent services, great and experience team of advocates in a vast number of areas.” (Banking & Finance)
“Rachel Musoke is an expert at navigating complex transactions to ensure favourable outcomes for all parties.” (Banking & Finance)
"Rachel Musoke demonstrates leadership.” (Banking & Finance)
KTA Advocates is a full-service law firm in Kampala and has been in the market for 12 years. The firm also has a presence in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is experienced in project development and M&A.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include SafeBoda, Jumia, Multigate, Umba Inc., Dimo, KCB, Orient Bank, Airtel, MTN, C-squared, Echote and Optima Mines.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm was active in banking and finance, corporate and M&A, financial services, insolvency and project development.
In banking and finance the firm’s work focused on assisting clients with debt recovery, unsecured and secured debt deals for clients connected with agriculture, banking and healthcare services.
In M&A the firm worked in private acquisitions and joint ventures for clients connected with the investment management and technology and communications sectors.
In project development the firm assisted with exploration contracts, project development for clients connected with the construction, transport and materials and technology and communications sectors.
In restructuring and insolvency, the firm assisted with an equity share acquisition for a client connected with the entertainment sector.
During the research period corporate senior associate Stella Arinaitwe joined the firm from Tropical Bank.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"They understand the details of all the regulatory aspects and have built good relationships with the regulator. They are able to advise clearly on the implications of regulations and laws."
"Understand local context."
Project development
"KTA embraces technology thus is very agile. Have professional lawyers. More importantly, they are client centred and understand the value of relationship building. "
Kenneth Muhangi
"Agile. Problem solving. Leadership. Available."
Bonita Mulelengi
"Bonita explains clearly the implications of laws and regulations. She has an excellent knowledge of our business and advocates well on behalf of the company."
SM&Co Advocates is a Ugandan law firm established in 1987. The firm also has a branch office is in Burundi.
Highlights
SM&Co Advocates acted as Ugandan local counsel to Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (TBD) as the lender and the Standard Bank of South Africa (SBSA) as the security agent in respect of a USD 36,000,000 facility to Kinyara Sugar Limited. The team assisted in the due diligence investigations on Kinyara Sugar LImited, focusing on its corporate affairs, regulatory compliance, and material project developments. The firm also advised on the financing phase of the transaction, including the review of the finance documents, drafting the necessary corporate authorizations, and collecting and confirming of conditions precedent. The transaction closed in December 2024 and was led by Andrew Kibaya.
The firm also acted as local counsel to Nederlandse Financierings-Maatschappij Voor Ontwikkelingslanden N.V. (FMO) in relation a US$ 5,000,000 to Watu Credit Uganda Ltd to finance the borrower’s electric motorcycle financing portfolio in Uganda. The team, led by Andrew Kibaya, drafted an English Law Term Loan Facility Agreement as well as the FMO Policies Agreement; drafted the required corporate authorizations; assisted with the collection and confirmation of conditions precedent; and attended post-closing local matters. The transaction was completed in December 2024.
Partner Hellen Nakiryowa departed the Banking & Finance at the end of 2024 to join the African Development Bank.
Key Clients
Bank of Uganda; Louis Dreyfus Commodities; Umeme Limited; Uganda National Airlines Limited; East African Crude Oil Pipeline Limited.
MMAKS Advocates is a leading specialized full-service law firm in Kampala with a longstanding reputation of quality and excellence. It is one of the largest firms in Uganda, with a total of 34 proficiently trained lawyers and a total support staff complement of 69. The firm combines well-established litigation practice and commercial transactional practice. MMAKS is a member of Africa Legal Network, a leading independent alliance of top tier African law firms. MMAKS is also a member of the Employment Law Alliance and First Law International.
A leading full-service corporate- commercial law firm in Uganda and the region and consistently ranked Tier 1 by IFLR1000 . The firm holds stellar credentials in: Banking & Finance; Dispute Resolution; Governance, Compliance & Investigations; Technology, Media &Telecoms; Mergers & Acquisitions; Real Estate; Intellectual Property and Infrastructure and Oil & Gas.
We are a market leader in the banking and finance space. - - We service Development Finance Institutions and advise them on transactions not only in Uganda but also in Rwanda and Zimbabwe. We are currently acting for the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Eastern and Southern Africa Trade Development Bank (TDB) and Islamic Corporation for the Development of Private Sector (ICD).
ENSafrica
ENSafrica is Africa’s largest law firm, with offices in Eastern, Southern and Western Africa. With more than 600 specialist practitioners, we have deep expertise and the capacity to solve all your legal, tax, forensics and IP requirements, and help you navigate regulatory hurdles, no matter where in Africa you do business. We are entrusted by major local and international clients to handle and co-ordinate even their most complex and sensitive requirements quickly, efficiently and with excellence. As a result, our consistently high standards have been recognised by prestigious international ranking agencies. Because we have had many years of practical experience working on the ground throughout Africa, we have developed a proven track record and a solid understanding of local cultural, commercial and geopolitical contexts, as well as long-standing partnerships with trusted firms with whom we work.
For more information, visit www.ENSafrica.com or contact one of our offices:
ENSafrica | Ghana
5th Floor Vivo Place, Cantonments City, Rangoon Lane, Accra
tel: +233 30 225 3980
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica | Kenya
15th Floor, One Africa Place, Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi
tel: +254 205 007 000
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica | Mauritius
18 Edith Cavell Street, Port Louis
tel: +230 212 2215
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica | Namibia
Shop 2 Ground Floor, Altstadthof, corner Libertina Amathila Avenue and Bismarck Street, Swakopmund
tel: +264 64 415 380
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
No 4 1st Floor, The Business Park, Sam Nujoma Avenue, Walvis Bay
tel: +264 64 281 100
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
Unit 4 LA Chambers, Ausspann Plaza, Dr Agostinho Neto Road, Windhoek
tel: +264 61 379 700
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica | Rwanda
Kacyiru, KG 7th Avenue #35, Blue Star House, 1st Floor - Wing B, Kigali
tel: +250 252 551 500
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica South Africa
35 Lower Long Street, Foreshore, Cape Town
tel: +27 21 410 2500
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
1 Richefond Circle, Ridgeside Office Park, Umhlanga, Durban
tel: +27 31 536 8600
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
The MARC | Tower 1, 129 Rivonia Road, Sandton, Johannesburg
tel: +27 11 269 7600
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
La Gratitude, 97 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch
tel: +27 21 808 6620
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
ENSafrica | Uganda
4th Floor, Rwenzori Towers, Plot 6 Nakasero Road, Nakasero, Kampala
tel: +256 31 222 5500
info@ENSafrica.com
www.ENSafrica.com
Founded in 1969 by John W. Katende and Prof. Frederick Ssempebwa, we are Uganda’s largest and leading law firm. Over sixty (60) full time legal and support staff. We are a full-service law firm providing all legal and advisory services categorised under: Transactional & Advisory, Litigation & Alternative Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Business Support and Pro bono.
We have an uunparalleled client roster. Our major clientele comprises of major international and local corporations, financial institutions, the Government of Uganda and other nations, non-governmental organisations, airlines, oil companies, insurance companies, cutting edge technology firms, most of the prominent individuals in the nation’s economy and other sectors.
We are a member of LEX Africa – Africa’s first and largest Legal Alliance comprising of over six hundred (600) lawyers in twenty-five (25) jurisdictions across Africa.
We boast of talented, highly qualified and experienced lawyers some of whom, uniquely in this market with some recognized as market leaders in their areas of expertise and specialization, are dual qualified and licensed to practice in the State of New York, London and across East Africa, graduated from some of the world’s leading law schools including Harvard, Columbia, Cambridge, London School of Economics etc, and have had practical legal training at other world renown international firms like Slaughter & May, Hogan Lovells, Eversheds, Doughty Street Chambers, Covington & Burling and Morse, Barnes-Brown Pendleton.
SM&Co Advocates was registered as Shonubi, Musoke & Company Advocates in 1987. The firm was started at a time when new attitudes and opportunities were emerging in Uganda, and has steadily grown into one of the largest firms in the country. In a jurisdiction where few firms have managed to specialise, we have succeeded in building a specialised practice with core capabilities in, all fields of corporate and commercial law, banking and finance, energy and infrastructure, litigation and dispute resolution practice ranging from non-contentious transactional work to highly contentious complex litigation.
Our expertise and business knowledge have consolidated our position as market leaders, exemplified by our lengthy and ever-increasing portfolio of impressive international and local clients. Our portfolio of clients includes both international and domestic institutions such as large corporate, airlines, banks, academic institutions, electricity generators and distributors, property developers, NGO’s, telecommunication companies, insurance companies, petroleum companies as well as government agencies and statutory bodies.
The firm has continuously been rated as a leading law firm in Uganda by IFLR 1000, Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500 directory of leading financial and energy law firms. The 31st Edition of IFLR1000 rankings accorded it the highest possible Tier 1 classification in the Financial and Corporate and Energy and Infrastructure categories; whilst Chambers and Partners has classified it as a Band 1 General Business Law Firm in their 2023 ranking and a Tier 1 Law firm by the Legal 500 and a leading Intellectual Property Law firm by WTR
The individual partners within the firm have also been recognised as leading lawyers in Uganda within their respective areas of expertise by IFLR 1000 and Chambers Global, these include:
a) Dr. Alan Shonubi, Corporate and Commercial law, Banking and Project Finance
b) Mr. Noah Mwesigwa, Corporate and Commercial law sector
c) Mr. Andrew Kibaya, Banking and Project Finance sectors
d) Mr. Innocent Kihika, Energy and Infrastructure and Project Development sectors.
e) Ms. Brigitte Kusiima, Corporate and Commercial law sector
f) Ms. Hellen Nakiryowa, Banking and Project Finance sectors
With thirty-one (31) professional staff members comprising of nine (9) partners, nineteen (19) associates, one (1) of counsel and two (2) consultants, the firm is among the largest law firms in the country.
Details of our competence with integrated descriptions of our experience can also be found on our website: www.shonubimusoke.co.ug.
Ligomarc Advocates is a corporate, financial, and infrastructure law firm with 22 years of experience. With a team of 21 lawyers and multidisciplinary professionals, we deliver strategic legal solutions rooted in technical excellence and commercial insight. As a member of Andersen Global, we offer cross-border capabilities in every engagement.
ABMAK Associates is a general business law firm with specialised practice in oil and gas, mining and metals, power and electricity, corporate law, tax and revenue, dispute resolution, corporate and project finance, employment and ESG matters.
ABMAK is led by a team of uniquely qualified partners who are the leading practitioners with specialised legal training and knowledge, diverse experience and business acumen in their fields of expertise.
ABMAK predominantly represents multinational corporations, foreign investors, project sponsors, lenders, contractors and sub-contractors on the regulatory and transactional aspects including legal due diligence, establishment, corporate structuring, negotiation of project/transaction documents, permitting, environmental compliance, land acquisition, financing and project implementation and other related matters
ABMAK has established its reputation in project development within its areas of expertise earning international recognition from legal directories. IFLR1000 has ranked ABMAK as a No. 1 top-tier firm for six consecutive years. Chambers and Partners has for over eight years ranked ABMAK in Band two as a general business law firm and described the firm as a dynamic and well-respected law firm with significant skills advising on projects in the mining and natural resources industries, especially the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors.
Ortus Advocates is a full-service corporate and commercial law firm in Uganda with a wealth of experience and knowledge of over 20 practitioners in law, tax and business advisory services. Our key practice areas include corporate advisory, mergers & acquisitions, banking and finance, capital markets, project finance, project development, oil & gas, tax, and business rescue, restructuring & insolvency guiding both local and international clients across a range of industries.
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. Its growth at an average of 6.5% per year and recent oil and gas discoveries position Uganda as one of the most exciting regions for investment.
Dentons has worked in the region for nearly 20 years and, in November 2019, combined with Kyagaba and Otatiina Advocates to launch in Kampala
The firm is well known for its experienced corporate and finance and gifted and technically sound litigation teams with an unmatched understanding of the regulatory frameworks of the industries in which we practice.
As the only global firm in Uganda that can leverage sector expertise, along with an award-winning referral network of more than 500 firms and technological innovation, we provide clients with a real competitive advantage.
