CDH Conversations

In the second episode of the Clause & Effect Podcast Series, Phetha Mchunu and Roxanne Bain unpack some of the biggest myths in mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

In the second episode of the Clause & Effect Podcast Series, Phetha Mchunu and Roxanne Bain, in the Corporate & Commercial practice, unpack some of the biggest myths that quietly shape how deals unfold, from “price is all that matters” to the assumption that “synergies will sort themselves out.”

Together, they unpack and pressure-test the common assumptions that influence deal timelines, value, and risk. Expect practical insights, clear takeaways you can apply with your teams and clients, and a few light moments along the way.

Stay tuned until the end for a fun myth about what it’s really like to be an M&A lawyer.

In episode four, Taryn and Lee unpack frequently asked questions by employers about immigration compliance in South Africa

In the fourth and final episode of our Immigration Law podcast series, Taryn York and Lee Masuku, in our Employment Law practice and Immigration Law service offering, unpack frequently asked questions by employers about immigration compliance in South Africa including:

• employer liabilities for employing illegal foreigners;
• the consequences for employees with fraudulent or expired visas;
• the concepts of “prohibited persons” and “undesirable persons" and the implications of such categorisations;
• estimated visa processing times;
• appeal procedures and the protections for foreign nationals during pending appeals; and
• protections for foreign employees under South African labour laws.

This episode highlights the vital role of LGBTQIA+ inclusion in South Africa’s fight against gender-based violence and femicide.

Building on the legal foundations discussed in Episode 1, Brigitta Mangale, Elgene Roos, Sibonokuhle Baart in our Pro Bono & Human Rights practice, explore the protection of gender and sexuality rights and unpack the significance of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act 16 of 2023.

Importantly, this conversation is released as the country continues to observe the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a global campaign running annually from 25 November to 10 December. Against the backdrop of this year’s themes addressing digital violence and calling for collective action across society, the participants reflect on the urgent need for stronger protections, informed communities, and accountability across public and private institutions. They emphasise that meaningful progress requires systemic reform, proper implementation of the law, and ongoing collaboration between government, civil society, the legal sector, and communities.

As we observe the 16 Days campaign, this episode serves as a reminder that LGBTQIA+ rights are integral to the fight against GBVF, and that efforts to end violence must extend beyond these 16 days into every sector, every space, and every day of the year.

Following a dynamic and engaging panel discussion on the topic - and valuable feedback received at the recent Employment Law Conference  - our team has taken a closer look at generational issues in the workplace.

In the latest episode of CDH Conversations, Employment Law experts Phetheni Nkuna, Jean Ewang, and Thato Maruapula unpack the complexities of diversity in South Africa’s workplaces, from generational and cultural differences, to evolving gender identities.

The participants explore practical ways employers can foster inclusion, manage multi-generational teams, address social media challenges, and understand the legal frameworks supporting equality and cultural sensitivity. The discussion also highlights how the law continues to evolve around parental leave, gender recognition, and workplace inclusivity.

In Episode 1, CDH Namibia Managing Partner, Patrick Kauta, lead counsel in the matter, is joined by Senior Associate, Esther Shigwedha, to set the historical and legal context of the case. The discussion unpacks

• Namibia’s early colonial history and Germany’s influence from the 1880s.
• The 1904–1908 genocides, including the extermination orders issued against the OvaHerero people.
• The social and economic consequences of land dispossession, mass killings, and forced labour.
• The 2006 Parliamentary Motion calling for acknowledgement, reparations, and direct participation of affected communities—cornerstones of the present litigation.
• The communities’ legal challenge, which seeks to set aside the Joint Declaration between Germany and Namibia and to compel Germany to acknowledge the atrocities as genocide, consistent with the 2006 Motion.

This introductory episode provides a foundational understanding of the issues before the court and outlines why the case represents a critical step in the pursuit of restorative justice.

Listen to Episode 1 now and follow the series for deeper insights into one of the most significant reparations cases in Africa.

Click here to listen.

On this month's podcast, Njeri had a powerful fireside chat with Thibault Flichy, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Kenya and President of the French Chamber of Commerce in Kenya.

The conversation explored Thibault’s leadership journey, his vision for the Chamber, and the future of sustainable, innovative business partnerships between Kenya and France.

Ever sealed a deal on a call or over coffee and wondered if it would stand up if things went south? In this episode of CDH Conversations, Roxanne Bain in the Corporate & Commercial practice, and Belinda Scriba, in the Dispute Resolution practice, unpack when a verbal agreement is legally enforceable in South Africa, where the real risks lie, and the simple steps you can take to protect yourself. They break down the “no‑go” categories that must be in writing, the grey areas where verbal deals are common, and why evidence can make or break your case.

If you move at speed and do business in the real world, this is a practical, jargon‑free guide to doing it safely. You will walk away knowing how to turn a handshake into something you can rely on, what clauses in your existing contracts can trip you up, and how to document just enough, just in time, to avoid costly disputes later.

As women in law, the career journey is shaped not only by matters argued or contracts drafted, but rather by the moments that put you to the test, the mentors that lift you up, and the values that keep you grounded.In this candid Q&A, CDH’s Nastascha Harduth - Director in the Dispute Resolution practice and Head of the Corporate Debt, Turnaround & Restructuring sector - zooms in on the next generation.

Tebello Mosoeu, Senior Associate in the same team, reflects on how their generational differences shape their experiences in the legal profession.

One a Xennial, the other a Zennial. Both navigating legacy, leadership and what it means to grow while staying grounded.

In this episode of our CDH Women Empowerment Series, Safee-Naaz Siddiqi, Senior Associate in the Knowledge Management practice speaks with Nelisiwe Khumalo, Senior Associate in the Competition Law practice.

Fresh from obtaining competition approval for the multibillion-rand telecommunications mega-merger between Vodacom and Maziv, Nelisiwe shares her journey from a humble town in Mpumalanga to becoming a Competition Lawyer in a leading law firm, her reflections on working in a still male-dominated field, and the importance of mentorship and support for young women in law. She explains how competition law impacts everyday life, from protecting consumers against unfair practices to shaping key industries such as telecommunications and agriculture.

Nelisiwe also offers candid insights into balancing motherhood and a legal career, the value of resilience, and how AI is transforming the practice of law. Her story is one of courage, conviction, and inspiration for young professionals considering a future in law.

Those who have worked with the NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract know that compensation events are at the very heart of how change is managed and those who have heard of the standard form may have heard of the word "compensation event".

Those who have worked with the NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract know that compensation events are at the very heart of how change is managed and those who have heard of the standard form may have heard of the word "compensation event". But what exactly are they, and what is expected of the contractor and project manager when a compensation event occurs?

Join Associate, Zodwa Malinga and Associate Designate, Lakeen Kowlas from our Dispute Resolution practice and part of the Construction & Engineering sector, as they discuss compensation events under the NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract.