Overview

The Commercial & Transaction Advisory practice is the firm's flagship department. It leads complex transactions from inception through to execution and post-closing implementation.

We act as lead counsel, structuring transactions and coordinating all legal aspects to ensure that deals are commercially viable, regulator-ready, and operationally sound.

Core Areas of Work

  • Project and investment structuring
  • Regulatory approvals and licensing
  • Negotiation and drafting of transaction agreements
  • Financial close and conditions precedent
  • Post-closing implementation
  • Ongoing transaction management

Sector Focus

Mining & Energy

We advise on the structuring and execution of projects across the mining and energy sectors, including licensing, joint ventures, and offtake arrangements. Our work integrates regulatory, land, and ESG considerations to ensure that projects are capable of attracting investment and operating sustainably.

Access to Finance & Financial Structures

We advise on the structuring of transactions and institutions to enable access to capital. This includes positioning projects and financial institutions to meet the requirements of multilateral lenders, development finance institutions, and foreign investors, as well as structuring financing arrangements that support funding.

Infrastructure & Land Development

We advise on the structuring and implementation of infrastructure and land-based developments, including EPC projects, public-private arrangements, and the development of government farmland. Our work brings together project structuring, regulatory approvals, and land frameworks to ensure that developments are commercially viable and capable of execution.

Agriculture

We support agricultural investments and land-based projects, working alongside clients and technical partners to structure land use arrangements, commercial farming operations, and supply chain frameworks. Our role focuses on aligning legal and regulatory structures with the broader commercial and operational objectives of the project.

Integrated Approach

We work closely with the Data, ESG & Regulatory Systems Advisory team to ensure compliance and reporting frameworks are embedded from the outset, and with the General Legal Services team to ensure transactions are properly implemented and maintained over time.

Department Head

Mutsa Remba

Managing Partner with extensive experience in complex commercial transactions, project finance, and cross-border investments.

Full Transaction Lifecycle Support

Our practice is structured to provide seamless support across every phase of a transaction:

  • Phase 1: Origination & Structuring
  • Phase 2: Due Diligence & Risk Assessment
  • Phase 3: Negotiation & Documentation
  • Phase 4: Regulatory Approvals & Licensing
  • Phase 5: Financial Close & Conditions Precedent
  • Phase 6: Post-Closing Implementation & Monitoring