Dentons builds its growing pan-African presence by officially launching in DRC

The expansion of Dentons into the Democratic Republic of the Congo strengthens the global law firm’s ability to deliver sophisticated, high-quality legal services for clients around the world across key practice areas in one of Africa’s most dynamic and high-potential markets, says Mohamed Zaanouni, CEO of Dentons’ Africa region. 

Yesterday afternoon, the world’s largest global law firm announced the launch of its presence in the resource-rich Central African nation as it officially teamed with leading local firm Pathy Liongo & Associates SCP and its offices in the DRC’s capital, Kinshasa and in Brazzaville, located in the neighboring Republic of the Congo.

“We are excited to welcome our new team in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Dentons as part of our continued growth across Africa,” says Zaanouni.

This week’s news continues Dentons’ recent investment into the African continent and growth as a leading pan-African law firm. Last month, Dentons expanded into Ethiopia with the formation of Dentons Tamrat Assefa, and opened a further Tunisian office in Sousse. In October 2024 it revealed plans to team with local firms across East, Central, and West Africa, to expand into Ethiopia, DRC, Senegal, and Cameroon.

With 12,500+ lawyers working across more than 200 locations in over 80 countries, Dentons now has a presence in 26 locations in 17 nations across the continent.

“Our expansion in Africa reflects our commitment to being where our clients need us most,” says Kate Barton, Global CEO of Dentons. “The addition of our new team in the DRC strengthens our ability to support clients with cross-border needs with trusted, on-the-ground legal expertise in this key market. This move enhances our capacity to deliver seamless services to clients operating in Africa and reinforces our position as a truly global firm.”

Dentons noted the DRC is strategically positioned in the heart of Africa, boasts abundant resources (notably cobalt and copper), and is actively pursuing initiatives aimed at driving economic growth, with major investments in hydropower and transportation infrastructure. For two decades, the members of Pathy Liongo & Associates have delivered exceptional legal services across all areas of business law.

“With deep roots in the DRC and extensive experience working across Africa and globally, the firm has consistently supported local and international clients through complex legal landscapes, offering strategic counsel in sectors ranging from mining and energy to finance, telecommunications, and infrastructure.”

Leading Congolese lawyer Pathy Liongo has 20 years of legal practice, advising multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government entities in both local and cross-border matters. He and his multilingual team bring a thorough understanding of Congolese law, business practices, OHADA rules, and regulatory environments, which combined with the global strength and reputation of Dentons, will help local and international clients navigate complexity with confidence.

Liongo says the move marks an exciting new chapter for him and his team. “Together, we’ll combine global perspective with our deep local understanding to deliver enhanced solutions for clients operating in this dynamic market and beyond.”

Dentons expansion into the DRC is a proud moment and key accomplishment for the global firm, says Zaanouni, and means clients can count on the firm for unparalleled expertise across Africa’s most critical sectors. The move brings together trusted local insight and Dentons’ global reach, says Noor Kapdi, Africa Region Chairperson. 

“It’s another meaningful step in strengthening the support we provide to clients across Africa and globally,” adds Kapdi. “Welcome Pathy Liongo and team!”