Norton Rose Fulbright, a global legal practice, has expanded its footprint in Africa by agreeing strategic alliances with leading law firms Shonubi Musoke & Co Advocates in Uganda, and Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans in Zimbabwe.

Rob Otty, Managing Director of Norton Rose Fulbright in South Africa, said: “Our alliance with Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans and Shonubi Musoke & Co Advocates reflects the strategic importance of Africa to our global business. Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans and Shonubi Musoke & Co Advocates bring an unparalleled breadth of experience in their respective countries, which will now be available to our clients.”

Shonubi Musoke & Co Advocates is one of Uganda’s top tier law firms with offices in Kampala, Uganda, and with an association in Bujumbura, Burundi.

Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans is one of Zimbabwe’s largest law firms and is based in Harare.

The firms will collaborate on selected client matters to provide seamless legal support to clients, particularly in the areas of energy and infrastructure.

The alliances will see Norton Rose Fulbright significantly extend its current African coverage, which comprises offices in Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Casablanca, into East Africa and Zimbabwe.

Peter Martyr, Global CEO of Norton Rose Fulbright, said: “Africa is a key hub for our clients, and expanding across the region is of great importance to us. We see immediate opportunities in Africa in particular across energy and infrastructure, mining and commodities. Investment into other sectors is also gaining pace, particularly in financial institutions, technology and agriculture."

"These alliances mark a significant step forward in the development of our African practice, and will further enhance our global offering,” he said.

Norton Rose Fulbright has worked with Shonubi Musoke & Co Advocates for more than 15 years and has worked with Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans for more than 20 years.