IFLR Africa Legal Awards names Shakwa Nyambe as The Lawyer of the Year For Namibia

Shakwa Nyambe, Managing Partner of SNC Incorporated, has been named the Lawyer of the Year For Namibia at the IFLR Africa Awards 2026.


The awards highlight law firms, lawyers and in-house teams shaping Africa’s legal landscape, covering sectors like mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, commercial and corporate, finance and energy projects. It recognises leading lawyers across Africa whose work demonstrates innovation and excellence in complex legal and business matters. Shakwa Nyambe recognised for his work and leadership in corporate, commercial and energy sector transactions, as well as his role in supporting the development of Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry.


The Judges also recognised Nyambe as a leading corporate and energy lawyer, praising his experience of over two decades advising on complex transactions in the Namibia’s natural resources and capital market sectors.


His work has contributed to key transactions and legal developments that continue to strengthen Namibia’s position as a credible destination for international investment.


“It is truly encouraging to be honoured by the IFLR. What makes this meaningful is the continued trust our clients place in my judgement on matters that are often complex and commercially significant. I am equally grateful to my colleagues, whose teamwork and professionalism make it possible to deliver work we are proud of.”


The awards ceremony was held at the Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa on the 17th of March 2026, where leading practitioners from across Africa gathered to recognise the most notable achievements in dealmaking.


This award further highlights Shakwa Nyambe’s contribution to the legal profession and his role in shaping Namibia’s growing presence in the global investment landscape.

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Olavi Popyeinawa

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Olavi Popyeinawa is a Candidate Attorney at SNC Incorporated, a full service Energy, Natural Resource, Corporate & Commercial and Dispute Resolution law firm based in Windhoek, Namibia. Olavi joined the firm as a legal and communication intern and has since developed his skillsets, where he now brings a unique blend of legal expertise and communication skills to the firm. Olavi previously served as a Columnist at the largest state owned newspaper in Namibia, where he wrote and authored the widely-read column in the New Era Newspaper for half a decade. His insights into critical and social matters attracted thousands of readers. He holds a Bachelor of Law Honours (LLB) degree and a Diploma in Alternative Dispute Resolution, both from the University of Namibia. He is currently enrolled at the Justice Training Center, where he is pursuing his admittance as a Legal Practitioner in the High Court of Namibia.