As the World Moves: reshaping Africa’s status quo, law as a lever for change

For more than a century, the renowned African law firm now known as Deneys has adapted, evolved, and served clients through some of the most complex and consequential periods in South Africa’s history, from political transformation and changing economic cycles to a global pandemic, CEO Brent Botha told Africa Legal ahead of the pioneering firm’s public launch of its new brand identity in late March.

“Independence gives us something deeply valuable: the freedom to set our own pace, invest in our own priorities, and make decisions that are calibrated entirely around our clients and our people,” said Botha, as Deneys concluded its membership of the global Norton Rose Fulbright verein and looked firmly to the future. “We are accountable to the relationships we have built over generations.”

The new Deneys is agile, deeply connected, and firmly rooted in the African market, a powerful proposition for clients who need deep Africa expertise informed by a genuinely global perspective. With the freedom and drive to build a firm that reflects the ambitions and values of its people, says Michelle David, the firm’s’ Chair of the Board, Deneys is also a platform for the next generation of great African lawyers.

Over the course of this year, Africa Legal is profiling some of Deneys’ leading lawyers and practice areas, alongside rising stars, impactful pro bono projects, thought leadership for a fast-changing market, and more.

Now some of those stories, along with some additional material, are available to enjoy in a special As The World Moves digital magazine.

The first issue includes an op-ed from Deneys CEO Brent Botha reflecting on the example of Nelson Mandela and the legal system’s role as one of the most powerful levers to bring about necessary change, and a feature story on the firm’s pro bono involvement in the landmark Baby Savers case before the Constitutional Court.

As The World Moves also includes feature interviews with Greg Nott on Africa’s energy (r)evolution and modern energy lawyers needing a holistic view of the society they operate in; and with Andrew Robinson on how Africa’s next great trade breakthrough may lie not with critical minerals or fintech but something less glamorous: getting goods moving more efficiently. Meanwhile, Paul Cartwright, Michael Homveld, and Jakop Mphofu survey the insurance risks and gaps arising from more drones in the sky.

You can read the full special digital magazine, As The World Moves, here