IFLR1000 has once again recognised pre-eminent African law firm Bowmans, for its excellence in advising on complex, multijurisdictional matters across the continent. The firm achieved 17 rankings (10 of which were in Tier 1) across 11 practice areas.

In addition, 72 of its lawyers received 76 individual rankings, an increase of 17 from last year. Among these, 34 were identified as ‘Highly Regarded’, seven as ‘Rising Star Partners’, 14 as ‘Rising Stars’, 10 as ‘Notable Practitioners’, four as ‘Women Leaders’, and seven earned the prestigious ‘Market Leader’ ranking.

The firm was ranked in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates

• Kenya: Tier 1 in all four of the categories researched – Banking and Finance, Capital Markets, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Project Development.
• Mauritius: Tier 2 in Financial and Corporate and ‘Active’ in Investment Funds.
• Namibia: Tier 2 in Financial and Corporate.
• South Africa: Tier 1 in all six of the categories researched – Banking, Capital Markets: Debt, Capital Markets: Equity, Mergers and Acquisitions, Project Development (Energy and Infrastructure), and Project Development (Mining).
• Tanzania: Tier 2 in Financial and Corporate and Tier 3 in Project Development.
• Zambia: Tier 2 in Financial and Corporate and Tier 2 in Project Development.

Client comments included:

‘They weren’t just lawyers processing documents; they acted as true strategic partners. They anticipated where counterparties might push and helped you think two steps ahead. Their advice consistently balanced legal precision with commercial pragmatism, which is critical in healthcare M&A.’ (Kenya, M&A)

‘They are highly collaborative, share information promptly, provide sensible reasoned views and present joined up work products. They are a very high calibre of firm.’ (South Africa, Equity Capital Markets)

‘We particularly valued Bowmans’s deep sector expertise, responsiveness, and ability to balance technical legal drafting with practical commercial considerations. Their collaborative approach, clear communication, and strong regional knowledge set them apart from other firms.’ (Kenya, Project Development)

‘We received an opinion with actionable decision points that helped in the in-depth assessment of the restructuring exercise.’ (Mauritius, Banking and Finance)

We appreciate their technical capacity, their understanding of the needs of the lenders, and their flexibility in working.’ (Zambia, Project Finance) 

‘I love how dedicated the team is and business savvy they are. They also have an extensive network in Kenya which means we are able to get a very well rounded service.’ (Kenya, Financial Services Regulatory)

Client feedback: ‘The team have extensive experience in sophisticated mining transactions and structuring in Tanzania and seem to work with all major constituents in the region.’ (Tanzania, Mining)

This feedback reflects Bowmans’ commitment to delivering exceptional legal services to clients across multiple jurisdictions in Africa.