In Kenya’s vibrant and competitive business landscape of 2025, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) continue to be powerful tools for growth, consolidation, and navigating economic pressures. As businesses seek strategic avenues to expand amid financial challenges, the demand for expert corporate lawyers has surged. At S.K Muriungi & Company Advocates, we specialize in guiding clients through these complex transactions, ensuring seamless integration and value maximization. This post explores why we’re among the best corporate lawyers in Kenya for M&A and shares key best practices to help you succeed.
Key Best Practices for M&A in Kenya
Drawing from the latest regulatory updates and market trends, here are essential strategies to execute successful M&A deals:
- Engage Experts Early and Conduct Comprehensive Due DiligenceStart with a multidisciplinary team, including legal and financial advisors, to identify risks early. Under the Companies Act, 2015, thorough due diligence—covering legal, regulatory, financial, and operational aspects—is crucial to uncover hidden liabilities like pending litigations or IP disputes. In 2025, with heightened scrutiny from the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), skipping this step can lead to deal failures.
- Navigate Regulatory Approvals ProactivelySecure approvals from the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) within 3 days of acknowledgment, focusing on merger notifications for deals exceeding thresholds (e.g., KES 1 billion in assets). Best practice: Maintain a compliance calendar and engage CAK early for complex transactions to avoid delays.
- Structure Transactions for Optimal Risk AllocationChoose between share purchases, asset sales, or mergers based on tax implications and liability transfer. Legal due diligence and risk assessments are pivotal, especially under the evolving framework of the Finance Act 2025. Incorporate post-merger integration plans to ensure cultural and operational alignment.
- Focus on Value-Driven NegotiationsEmphasize warranties, indemnities, and earn-outs to protect against post-deal surprises. In 2025, with M&A momentum building to counter economic headwinds, proactive contract drafting can save millions.
Why Choose S.K Muriungi & Company Advocates for Your M&A Needs?
As one of Kenya’s top corporate law firms, we bring over two decades of experience in structuring multimillion-shilling deals, from fintech startups to multinational expansions. Our proactive approach has reduced client timelines by up to 40% through expert CMA filings and due diligence. Unlike generalists, our team anticipates regulatory shifts—like the 2025 amendments to merger thresholds—ensuring compliant, innovative solutions tailored to your vision. Clients praise our integrity and results-driven ethos, making us the go-to for seamless M&A success.
M&A in Kenya offers untapped potential for resilient growth, but only with the right legal partners. At S.K Muriungi & Company Advocates, we’re committed to turning your ambitions into reality. Ready to explore your next deal? Contact us today at +(254) 740 513 372 or info@skmuriungiadvocates.com for a confidential consultation.