Banking and finance specialist Olwethu Gusha joins Webber Wentzel as new partner

Leading African law firm Webber Wentzel, which has served clients for more than 150 years, has bolstered its future alongside its banking and finance firepower with the addition of Olwethu Gusha as a new partner in its Johannesburg office.

South African-based full service firm Webber Wentzel has this week expressed its delight when revealing that banking and finance specialist Olwethu Gusha, formerly of White & Case, has been appointed as a new partner in its Johannesburg office.

Olwethu brings over a decade of experience advising on complex banking and finance matters across Africa. His expertise spans a wide range of financing transactions, including debt restructurings, ESG-linked financing, Tier 2 capital instruments and cross-border deals governed by English law.

“I’m excited to be joining a firm with such a strong reputation and exceptional people,” says Olwethu, a University of Cape Town graduate who rose from candidate attorney to senior associate at ENSafrica, before joining White & Case. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. I’m truly grateful.”

His elevation to partner was roundly welcomed and celebrated by colleagues old and new, along with many members of the wider African legal community. Olwethu has acted for banks, development finance institutions, asset managers and corporates, and has a strong track record in navigating multi-jurisdictional mandates.

His fluency in English, Xhosa, and Afrikaans helps him bridge communication in diverse markets, translating legal complexities into strategic advantages for stakeholders across emerging and established financial landscapes. He is pursuing an English law qualification to further strengthen his capability for Africa-wide work.

“We are delighted to welcome Olwethu to the firm and look forward to the value he will bring to our clients across the continent,” said Webber Wentzel, which has a collaborative alliance with British ‘Magic Circle’ law firm Linklaters, alongside strong relationships with outstanding law firms all across Africa.