Today we honour #YouthDay and remember the courage of the 1976 students who stood up for change and helped shape our freedom.

Arbitration clauses are often treated as standard wording, but their real value emerges when a project is under pressure. Ahead of the Africa Energy Forum (AEF) taking place from 16–19 June, Kirsten Wolmarans reflects on how the 2026 ICC Rules can support project teams in managing disputes effectively, preserving momentum, and protecting project outcomes in complex energy and infrastructure environments. Read more: bit.ly/4vbMxYk #DisputeResolution #Arbitration #EnergyLaw #InfrastructureLaw #ProjectFinance #AEF2026 #AfricaEnergyForum #WebberWentzelInsights

South Africa’s Dust Control Regulations, 2026 mark a significant shift from reactive to proactive environmental compliance. With mandatory upfront dust management plans, expanded scope, and stricter enforcement, operators must now take a far more structured and forward-looking approach to managing dust risk. Garyn Rapson, Mikaella Bodeux and Lia Wheeler break down what’s changed — and what action is required. Read more: bit.ly/4uCqpFr #EnvironmentalLaw #MiningLaw #WebberWentzelInsights

In a recent High Court judgment, the Court confirmed that workplace grievance processes and disciplinary steps, particularly in cases involving allegations of sexual harassment, are protected where conducted in good faith and in line with legal obligations. Mpumelelo Nxumalo, Matlhatsi Ntlhoro and Avuyile Nonxuba unpack how the doctrine of qualified privilege safeguards both employers and employees, ensuring that legitimate complaints can be raised and addressed without fear of defamation claims. Read more: bit.ly/3SfbWBJ #EmploymentLaw #WebberWentzelInsights

AfCFTA’s Investment Protocol marks a bold step towards a unified African investment framework, but key questions on dispute resolution remain unresolved. One of the conversations that featured prominently at Johannesburg Arbitration Week 2026 was the AfCFTA and its still‑unresolved dispute resolution architecture, particularly the ongoing deadlock over whether ISDS should form part of the framework and what that means for investors and arbitration practitioners across the continent. Chandni Gopal and Chanelle Janse van Rensburg take a closer look, read more: bit.ly/4ezx8Lu #AfCFTA #InvestmentLaw #ISDS #AfricaInvestment #TradeAndInvestment #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

From 16–19 June, Webber Wentzel will join Africa's Energy Leaders in Cape Town for the Africa Energy Forum 2026. This year's theme, "Building Africa's Industrialised Future," reflects the urgent need for pragmatic, diversified energy solutions to power growth for more than 1.5 billion people – and speaks directly to the work our team undertakes across the Continent. From structuring bankable projects and mobilising long-term capital, to facilitating strategic acquisitions, joint ventures and investments, and supporting the development of critical minerals and the regulatory frameworks that underpin large-scale infrastructure, Webber Wentzel is deeply engaged with the opportunities and challenges shaping Africa's future. Our delegation brings together specialists across Corporate/ M&A, Projects & Construction, Banking and Finance, Dispute Resolution, Environmental and Public Law, providing clients with integrated advice throughout the project and investment lifecycle across the energy and infrastructure sectors. We welcome the opportunity to connect with clients, developers, investors, lenders, government stakeholders and industry participants throughout the forum. We look forward to seeing you in Cape Town. #AEF2026 #EnergyLaw #ProjectsAndConstructionLaw #WebberWentzel

We are proud to have represented residents of Ward 28 in the Mnquma Local Municipality in a landmark case that affirmed the constitutional right of access to sufficient water. In a judgment delivered by the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Mthatha, the Court ordered the implementation of a long-term plan to provide sustainable access to water and directed ongoing reporting to ensure progress is made. The judgment is an important affirmation of socio-economic rights and accountability across all spheres of government. Our team consisted of Ayanda Khumalo, Jos Venter and Mariam Ismail, with Geoff Budlender on brief. #WWprobono #ProBono

South Africa’s water regulatory landscape is tightening rapidly. The 90-day registration deadline forms the opening mechanism of a broader legislative reform agenda driven by the Department of Water and Sanitation to move away from historical existing lawful water uses towards time-limited, reviewable licensed uses. Before the 23 July 2026 deadline, Garyn Rapson and Gwen Mathebula highlight key operational adjustments and structural details businesses must evaluate. Read more: bit.ly/3Q49HAG #EnvironmentalLaw #CorporateGovernance #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

The Cost of Overlooking BGR 16: Retrospective VAT apportionment, penalties, and interest. If your operating business receives dividends—whether regularly or as a one-off event—assuming your input tax position is unaffected is a major risk. BGR 16 requires active engagement with the default turnover formula, its adjustments, and its exclusions. In this update, Des Kruger and Joon Chong break down what you need to know about, read more: bit.ly/4dLejok #TaxLaw #VAT #CorporateTax #TaxLitigation #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

Webber Wentzel partners Martin Versfeld, Bernadette Versfeld, Siya Ngcamu, and Lebohang Noko recently spent a fantastic afternoon hosting some of our key clients at the Nedbank International Polo Day. Set against a backdrop of high-calibre sport, it was a great opportunity to connect and strengthen relationships. Thank you to our clients for joining us - we value your continued trust and partnership. #NedbankPolo

SARS has officially detailed the implementation guidelines for its much-anticipated Advanced Pricing Agreement (APA) pilot programme. Though a positive development for international trade compliance, its narrow scope means many multinationals will fall just outside its reach. Karen Miller outlines what large taxpayers need to know about the new notices, covering eligibility, the application process, and potential pitfalls like the exclusion of issues already subject to historical disputes. Read more: bit.ly/3ROlnbc #TaxLaw #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

When employees copy proprietary data, client files, or sensitive contracts into public AI tools to save time, they may think they're being efficient. In reality, they could be exposing the company to severe legal liability. Speaking to Daily Maverick, Leanne Mostert, emphasizes that while basic legal principles remain the same, complying with them in an AI-driven workplace is uniquely challenging. She highlights the dual nature of the IP risk: companies must ensure they aren't unlawfully utilizing protected material, while simultaneously recognizing that they cannot easily protect what AI helps them create. Because AI models evolve and risks shift constantly, dynamic boardroom oversight is non-negotiable, read more: bit.ly/4u99sC9 #IntellectualProperty #AI #DataPrivacy #AICorporatePolicy #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

In a landmark ruling, South Africa’s Constitutional Court has reshaped the country’s refugee protection framework. The court found that under the current Refugees Act, asylum seekers whose applications have been finally rejected cannot submit a new application, even if conditions in their home countries subsequently deteriorate. Nivaani Moodley and Bianca Rutherfoord-Jones break down the majority and minority judgements, the unresolved constitutional questions, and why the ball is now firmly in Parliament’s court. Read the full article: bit.ly/4fltrtL #ImmigrationLaw #ConstitutionalCourt #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

Senior Associate Sayo Akinbohun will be attending the 10th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration, hosted by ICC Arbitration, taking place from 03–05 June 2026. The conference brings together arbitration practitioners, industry leaders and stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to discuss key developments, procedural innovations, and emerging trends shaping dispute resolution. Sayo is looking forward to connecting and networking with fellow professionals within the arbitration community. Find out more: bit.ly/3qqEREX #ICCAfrica #InternationalArbitration #ICCArbitration #DisputeResolution #WebberWentzel

Congratulations to Nicolette van Vuuren on being elected to the steering committee of the International Pension and Employee Benefit Lawyers Association. This achievement is a testament to her expertise, leadership, and contribution to the pensions and employee benefits legal sector. We are proud to see Nicolette recognised on an international platform and look forward to the valuable impact she will continue to make through her role with IPEBLA. #EmploymentLaw #PensionsLaw #IPEBLA

Proposed overhauls to the OHS Act Certificate of Competency regulations mean that employers must carefully consider the impact of raised entry requirements and the removal of examination exemptions. Kate Collier, Cindy-Lee Bekeer, and Edgar Malomane break down why the delayed age of entry, strict new academic criteria, and administrative realignment under the Department of Higher Education and Training will impact corporate resource planning. Read more on the upcoming baseline changes before the 9 July 2026 public comment window closes: bit.ly/4egEsve #OccupationalHealthAndSafety #Infrastructure #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

Webber Wentzel partner Priyesh Daya (Member of the ICC Court of Arbitration) will be attending the 10th ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration, hosted by ICC Arbitration, taking place from 03–05 June 2026. Priyesh Daya will also be speaking at the conference, presenting on the ICC Mock Court session on the topic: “Cost allocation in international arbitration.” The conference brings together arbitration practitioners, industry leaders and stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to discuss key developments in international arbitration, including procedural innovations, cost allocation, and emerging trends shaping dispute resolution. The programme will provide valuable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing and networking within the arbitration community. Find out more: bit.ly/3qqEREX #ICCAfrica #InternationalArbitration #ICCArbitration

For construction firms and project developers, how you manage a site after work stops can dictate your legal exposure. A recent High Court judgment confirms that informal handovers will not shield you from public liability claims. To protect future projects, corporate clients should note these three critical takeaways outlined by Raynold Tlhavani, Maano Manavhela, and Roberto Brown, read more: bit.ly/4dDaKAt #Disputes #InsuranceLaw #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel

We are proud to have been recognised as South Africa Law Firm of the Year: Transactional at the Chambers Africa Awards 2026. 🏆 This recognition reflects an exceptional year of supporting clients on complex, market-shaping transactions across Africa and beyond. Haydn Davies commented: “Behind every successful deal is a team navigating complexity, solving problems and helping clients move with confidence.” Congratulations to our Corporate team on this outstanding achievement. Learn more: bit.ly/3RRMYIt #ChambersAndPartnersAwards2026 #CorporateandCommercialLaw #MergersandAcquisitions #WebberWentzel

Treating environmental risk as a static checkbox is no longer viable. The proposed overhaul of South Africa’s waste licensing rules introduces widespread threshold shifts that will redefine waste recovery, recycling, and mining residue management. Garyn Rapson, Cobus Hoon, and Lia Wheeler explain why pending applications for activities no longer listed will be treated as withdrawn, meaning businesses must manage this transition at the planning table right now. Read more on the upcoming changes before the 11 July 2026 public comment window closes: bit.ly/4v3D2tM #EnvironmentalLaw #MiningLaw #InfrastructureLaw #ESG #LegalInsights #WebberWentzel