Legal team size:   Four

Major legal advisers/ external counsel: Bentsi-Enchill, Letsa & Ankomah, JLD & MB

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience? 

 During periods of instability and crises, my priority is to provide legal advice and direction which ensure minimal or no disruptions to the business. I am able to achieve this mainly by working collaboratively with the team, especially the operational teams to identify areas of potential legal risks and proactively establish contingency plans that outline specific actions to mitigate them. 

Sometimes, these actions include, securing critical supplies and implementing robust security measures, all the while ensuring utmost compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. I typically aim to employ solutions which are simple, cost effective, and which will safeguard the business’ reputation. This often involves leveraging negotiation skills to resolve disputes amicably, avoiding costly litigation or arbitration proceedings that could potentially cause reputational damage. 

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently? 

Economically, the country faced significant challenges, including debt distress, dwindling foreign reserves, and inflation. These issues were triggered by fiscal measures, taken in response to external shocks. To overcome these difficulties, the government has initiated a comprehensive economic reform program, supported by the IMF and World Bank. This program involves debt restructuring, fiscal consolidation, and structural reforms in key sector like  energy and cocoa.  

The legal space has seen the introduction of some all-important laws including “The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121)” which aims at promoting gender equality and women empowerment by addressing the systemic barriers that have hindered women in the Ghanaian society. Companies are to achieve a 30% female employee ratio by end of 2026. 

 Are there any causes, business or otherwise, you are passionate about?

I have been fortunate to receive professional guidance from some great minds in my industry and profession. I therefore try to give back by providing mentorship  to  young lawyers and other young professionals in mining through the sharing of my experiences and expertise, encouraging their ambitions, and holding them accountable.  One of my proudest moments is when any of my mentees achieve either a personal or professional milestone.