Sitef & Co., a firm focusing on energy and mining law expertise in South Africa, has been shortlisted for The African Legal Awards 2024 for the ESG Initiative of the year for their outstanding work in advancing ESG initiatives in the region. 

This esteemed recognition highlights the firm’s dedication to making a positive impact through its legal knowledge and solidifies its reputation as an ESG industry leader.

An Important Recognition in the Industry

The African Legal Awards are highly regarded in Africa’s legal community and are organised by Law.com International in partnership with the Corporate Counsel Association of South Africa (CCASA). These awards recognise achievements in areas such as innovation and leadership in the field, and being nominated is a notable appreciation of Sitef & Co.’s outstanding contributions to energy, mining law and renewable projects in Africa.

The shortlisting acknowledges the services provided by Sitef & Co for the Technology Innovation Challenge project launched by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ). This endeavour involves partnering with African entities like the Department of Mineral Resources , Eskom Holdings SOC Limited, and the Tshimolong Digital Innovation Precinct to test new energy solutions relevant to South African needs and interests.

Expertise in The Field is Propelling Advancements in The Energy Sector

Led by Mihlali Sitefane, Sitef & Co offered essential legal and policy guidance to help implement the energy solutions identified by GIZ and its collaborators effectively.  Mihlali Sitefane is an experienced, specialist attorney and Director of Sitef &Co who offers a seasoned approach to advising, representing, negotiating and drafting for clients. 

 The team’s task included exploring the aspects of African energy regulations, environmental laws, and land usage planning in the region. Sitef & Co. provided in-depth advice on the approvals needed to set up energy initiatives in the nation by covering licenses and permissions. Additionally, Sitef &Co tackled hurdles encountered by governments and assessed how global trade rules affected domestic energy ventures.

The legal assistance provided by Sitef &Co played a role in the project’s success in the Mogale City Local Municipality, the partner for the Innovation Challenge initiative there. Mogale City Local Municipality has a population of 4,38217 residents and is poised to gain access to cost-effective energy solutions intended to be expanded to other municipalities in South Africa.