ABA 2015 Africa Forum Opens in Nairobi
The 2015 Africa Forum has opened in Nairobi with focus on legal policy and frameworks surrounding the energy and extractive industries in Africa with a focus on East Africa.
According to the organizers the American Bar Association Section of International Law the time is now for both leading experts and interested legal professionals to cultivate their professional understanding of the prevailing legal framework and industry international best practices.
The forum which was opened by the cabinet secretary for Mining Najib Balala will also to foster key strategic professional alliances to ensure effective future collaboration to tackle the most pressing industry demands that will soon be inundating the East African legal market.
“I urge you to be proactive and cognizance that any loop-sided agreement signed by Government and multinational is detrimental to the extractive industry, a recipe for chaos and curse to the people. We appeal to the legal fraternity and stake holders to have balanced arrangements that will benefit both parties,” Balala told the delegates.
Panelist at the event will discuss various issues including legal and regulatory frameworks, policy approaches to the energy and extractive sectors, social and environmental considerations, taxation schemes, and procurement in energy and extractive contracting.
“Through robust dialogue and professional networking opportunities, this program aims to strengthen legal professional’s understanding of the complex legal and regulatory frameworks surrounding the industry, while also helping to positively impact and promote the sound management of the region’s natural resources,” reads a statement from the organizers.
The American Bar Association Section of International Law is the top U.S.-based international legal organization with approximately 22,000 members from nearly 100 countries including high-level practitioners with leading global law firms; lawyers from prominent regional and national firms inside and outside the U.S.
The forum that started today at the Sarova Panafric Hotel closes tomorrow.