Webinar Recording | Unpacking the Finance Act 2025: game-changer or business as usual?

Comments invited on proposed Policy Direction to ICASA regarding Individual Electronic Communications Network Licences

On 21 May 2025, the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies gave notice of his intention to issue a policy direction to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa ( ICASA ), directing the regulatory body to conduct an inquiry into the demand, need, and benefits of issuing new individual electronic communications network services ( I-ECNS ) licences.

Key considerations for investors in mining mergers and acquisitions in Africa

Africa’s mining sector presents significant opportunities, but it also comes with unique challenges for investors. It is being reshaped by both global and local forces, with international powers competing for valuable resources and regional initiatives enhancing trade and investment. The importance of navigating regulatory complexities, understanding shifting geopolitical dynamics, and embracing new technologies within this environment cannot be overstated.

Lender’s victory: Essential strategies for effective security enforcement

On 11 November 2024, the High Court in East African Cables PLC v Equity Bank (Kenya) Limited KEHC 14009 (KLR) delivered a ruling that reaffirmed the strong position of secured creditors in enforcing security. When East African Cables PLC (the borrower) defaulted on a KES 1.7 billion loan that was granted to it by Equity Bank (the bank), the court upheld the bank’s right to exercise its statutory power of sale over the charged properties despite the borrower’s attempts to block the process. This ruling reinforces key legal principles regarding the enforceability of different types of security and offers valuable lessons for lenders on how to navigate borrower disputes and ensure smooth enforcement of their rights.

Banking and Finance Amendments introduced by the Business Laws (Amendment) Act 20 of 2024

The Business Laws (Amendment) Act 20 of 2024 (Act) was enacted on 11 December 2024 and took effect on 27 December 2024. It introduces several amendments to banking and finance laws under the Central Bank of Kenya Act Cap. 491 Laws of Kenya (CBK Act), the Banking Act Cap. 488 Laws of Kenya (Banking Act) and the Microfinance Act Cap. 493C Laws of Kenya (Microfinance Act).

Objecting to an additional assessment: When playing possum isn’t an option

When a taxpayer is aggrieved by an assessment raised by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the first step in disputing this is to file an objection under section 104 of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 (TAA). In the recent case of Dr X and Dr X Inc v Commissioner, SARS (52/2023), the Tax Court dealt with the importance of complying with the requirements of Rule 7(2)(b) of the dispute resolution rules promulgated under section 103 of the TAA (Rules) in order for an objection to be valid. The Tax Court also clarified some of these prescribed requirements.