Litigation And Shareholder Activism: Advancing Esg Compliance Across Africa
At RBGLP, we specialise in guiding clients across Zambia, the sub-region, and Africa in navigating the complex and evolving landscape of litigation and shareholder activism related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues. Leveraging our market-leading litigation expertise and deep understanding of local industry sectors, we achieve exceptional outcomes for our clients.
The Issue
With the increasing prominence of ESG-focused investing and consumer behaviour, businesses face growing scrutiny from shareholders, stakeholders, and consumers. Shareholder activism and litigation, particularly in relation to environmental and governance issues, are on the rise across Africa as stakeholders leverage courts and financial influence to drive corporate action. Backed by advocacy groups, stakeholders increasingly use legal systems to highlight environmental risks, demand corporate accountability, and seek compensation.
In Zambia and the sub-region, this trend is exacerbated by evolving regulatory landscapes, climate-related risks, and mounting pressures for businesses to align with international ESG standards. Companies must proactively manage their ESG compliance to mitigate the risks of shareholder activism and ESG-related litigation.
What We Do
RBGLP provides a comprehensive suite of legal services to support businesses in managing ESG-related risks and responding to shareholder activism and litigation.
Proactive Preparation and Risk Mitigation
- ESG Risk Assessments: We evaluate operations to identify vulnerabilities, particularly in energy consumption, production, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- Governance Structures: Advising on robust governance frameworks to ensure environmental compliance and avoid governance disputes.
- Policy Development: Assisting companies in crafting forward-looking climate policies aligned with Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) principles.
- Strategic Communications: Reviewing public-facing statements to minimise the potential for ESG disputes, litigation, and stakeholder backlash.
Crisis Response and Litigation Support
- Defence in ESG Litigation: Representing clients in all stages of litigation related to environmental and governance challenges.
- Stakeholder Negotiation: Finding mutually beneficial resolutions to disputes through dialogue and strategic engagement.
- Shareholder Activism Defence: Supporting clients in responding to shareholder demands and activism campaigns.
Our Impact
Our work in Zambia, Africa, and beyond demonstrates our expertise in navigating ESG disputes and shareholder activism. Representative matters include:
- Consumer Product Design: Advising leading manufacturers on sustainable product design, climate impact, and governance issues to minimise litigation risks.
- Litigation Avoidance Strategies: Supporting companies in mitigating legal risks associated with climate-related statements and environmental impact disclosures.
- Environmental Compliance Frameworks: Developing ESG strategies for multinational companies, ensuring alignment with local and global regulatory requirements.
- Crisis Management: Guiding a global manufacturing company through stakeholder engagement and litigation risk management concerning climate change and sustainability.
- Public Perception and Governance: Advising publicly listed companies in Africa on managing public and stakeholder expectations related to their environmental and governance activities.
Why RBGLP?
RBGLP is committed to delivering exceptional legal guidance to help businesses in Africa navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by ESG litigation and shareholder activism. We combine local expertise with global best practices to offer solutions that are both strategic and practical, ensuring our clients are well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly ESG-conscious market.
Partner with us to strengthen your ESG compliance and secure your organisation’s long-term success.