History & Philosophy
The Lex Africa legal network was a forerunner in recognising the opportunities offered by the broader African market and the importance of acquiring a comprehensive understanding of applicable laws, business etiquette, as well as cultural practices when safeguarding any business investment.
With the advent of democracy in the early nineties, South African business began making significant investments in Africa, and South Africa became widely perceived as the “gateway” to Africa. Lex Africa, Africa’s first true network of leading law firms, was co-founded by leading South African law firm, Werksmans Attorneys, in 1993 and grew from the need for law firms to provide clients, both local and international, with legal and business advice in whichever jurisdiction they may find themselves, particularly in relation to expanding Africa-to-Africa business.
Today the Lex Africa law community is an established legal network in Africa and is comprised of leading law practices in 27 African countries.
In the broader context of the African Renaissance and NEPAD, lawyers have a role to play in promoting the rule of law and democracy, as well as the harmonisation of business laws between African countries to facilitate trade and investment.
Lex Africa plays an important role in developing, promoting and leveraging African professional legal skills in this broader context.