September 2023 marks a milestone in the history of leading African law firm Bowmans. Fifteen years ago, Bowmans Kenya was established in a move that marked the start of Bowmans’ growth across the continent. 

Today, Bowmans Kenya is one of the largest law firms in the country and operates as a hub with Bowmans’ other East African offices to assist clients in Eastern and Central Africa.

Managing partner of Bowmans Kenya, Paras Shah said: ‘Fifteen years ago, a vision was born, a vision that sought to redefine the legal landscape in Kenya and East Africa as a whole. Today, as we look back on our journey, we can proudly say that we have not only realised that vision but have exceeded our own expectations.’ 

Managing partner Alan Keep said, ‘For Bowmans, the incredible success of this office is something of which we are all proud, and it has formed the bedrock of further growth of the firm on the continent.’

He highlighted that Bowmans Kenya was the first Bowmans office to be established outside of South Africa and continues to set the standard for further growth on the continent. 

He said, ‘Our ambition to build an African law firm to service clients across borders remains more relevant than ever. We do not intend to stand still, and we have great hopes for this region as the economies grow and Africa continues to take its rightful place in the global world.’

He thanked clients for placing their trust in a fledgling operation and commended the team in Kenya for delivering on expectations and repaying that trust.

Shah reflected on the journey saying that it had ‘been marked by groundbreaking transactions and precedent-setting cases’. He noted that the team had been at the forefront of legal developments and had also been pioneers in the development of new specialist practice areas. He said that one of the cornerstones on which Bowmans success had been built was its people, thanking them for their ‘dedication, hard work and commitment to excellence’.

He concluded, ‘Looking ahead, we are excited about the future. The legal landscape is ever evolving, presenting new challenges and opportunities. But I am confident that with the talent, dedication, and innovation that define Bowmans, we are well-equipped to continue our journey of success and continue delivering value to our clients.’