About Ndumbe & Partners

Building Legal
Excellence
Since 2008

Founded by a second-career lawyer and former entrepreneur wrongfully accused and publicly shamed, Ndumbe & Partners is born out of the fire of real injustice. We are a bilingual law firm, serving clients in English and French across Cameroon and Rwanda. Our commitment is rooted in lived experience, legal excellence, and purpose-driven service.

Our Mission

Exceptional legal services that drive business success across the CEMAC region

To simplify law, empower businesses, and deliver justice that works — from startups and investors to underserved communities.

15+
Years of Excellence
500+
Successful Cases
Our Vision

A leading law firm in Central Africa, recognized for innovation, integrity, and exceptional client service

To become a continental legal force known for innovation, integrity, and impact.

Bilingual legal services (English & French)
International network and partnerships
Comprehensive practice areas

Our Core Values

The principles that guide our practice and define our relationship with clients

Excellence

We strive for the highest standards in everything we do, from legal analysis to client service.

Integrity

We maintain the highest ethical standards and build trust through honest, transparent relationships.

Access to Justice

We empower individuals with resources for equal access to legal systems.

Innovation

We embrace new approaches and technologies to deliver creative, effective legal solutions.

Our Regional Presence

We are committed to serving diverse communities across the region.

Headquartered in Douala, Cameroon

Our main office in Douala coordinates operations and strategic initiatives.

Operations in Kigali, Rwanda

We expand our reach in Kigali, collaborating with local partners for better services.

Cameroon & CEMAC Region

We serve clients across Cameroon and the CEMAC region, addressing their unique needs.

Rwanda & EAC Region

Our services extend to Rwanda and the EAC, fostering regional integration and development.

DRC & Great Lakes Zone

We engage in the DRC and Great Lakes Zone, promoting stability and community-focused programs.

Gabon, CAR, Chad, and More

We extend services to Gabon, CAR, Chad, and neighboring countries, addressing diverse community needs.

Our Story

Our firm was founded by Vally Ndumbe, a former entrepreneur whose business collapsed due to injustice. He chose law as a path to protect others from similar fates. His story drives our mission to make law accessible and protective.

08
Beginning2008

Foundation

Ndumbe & Partners established in Douala with a vision for legal excellence and regional leadership.

12
Growth2012

Regional Expansion

Expanded services across Cameroon and established first international partnerships.

15
Achievement2015

Energy Sector Leadership

Led landmark $1B oil & gas transaction, establishing energy practice dominance.

19
Milestone2019

CEMAC Coverage

Established partnerships across all 6 CEMAC countries, becoming truly regional.

22
Recognition2022

International Recognition

First Cameroon firm ranked Band 1 by Chambers Global in Banking & Finance.

24
Current2024

Record-Breaking Year

Closed $500M infrastructure project finance, our largest transaction to date.

Our Practice Areas

We offer a wide range of legal services tailored to meet your needs.

Corporate & Business Law

We support entrepreneurs, SMEs, and multinationals through strategic structuring, transactions, and corporate governance.

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Investment & Market Entry (Cameroon & Rwanda)

We provide tailored legal support for foreign and local investors seeking to operate or expand in Cameroon and Rwanda.

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Real Estate, Rent-to-Own & Property Management

We don’t just close land deals. We safeguard dreams and manage value across Cameroon and Rwanda.

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Dispute Resolution (Civil & Commercial)

We advocate for our clients with strategic litigation, mediation, and arbitration services across borders.

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Energy, Extractives & Infrastructure Law

We provide legal counsel for energy companies, infrastructure developers, and extractive sector operators.

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Legal Tech & Compliance Advisory

We equip clients with modern legal solutions, leveraging technology to enhance compliance, data protection, and automation.

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Tax Advisory & Compliance

We provide integrated legal and tax services to ensure that clients remain compliant, efficient, and protected from liability across the Central and East African region.

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Pro Bono & Legal Empowerment (via CLAAP)

Through our CLAAP initiative, we promote access to justice and legal literacy for underserved communities.

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Legal Branding & Content Services

We help law firms and professionals build influence through premium content, websites, and online presence.

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Family & Succession Law

Sensitive and expert handling of family matters, including divorce, child custody, estate planning, and inheritance disputes.

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Employment Law

Guidance on labor relations, employment contracts, workplace policies, and dispute resolution for both employers and employees.

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Banking & Finance

Expert legal counsel for banking transactions, project finance, securities law, and regulatory compliance in the financial sector.

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Telecommunications Law

Legal expertise in telecom regulations, licensing, infrastructure development, and data protection for modern communications.

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Intellectual Property Law

Protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights across all sectors and jurisdictions, including patent, trademark, and copyright law, and IP litigation.

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Our Leadership

Meet the experienced professionals who lead our firm and drive our success

Jean Ndumbe

Jean Ndumbe

Managing Partner

Banking & Finance, Corporate Law

Leading the firm's strategic direction and major transactions across the CEMAC region.

Marie Kouam

Marie Kouam

Senior Partner

Energy & Natural Resources

Specializing in oil & gas, mining, and renewable energy projects.

Paul Mbarga

Paul Mbarga

Partner

Corporate & M&A

Expert in mergers, acquisitions, and complex corporate transactions.

Why Choose Us?

Discover the compelling reasons why clients trust us with their most critical legal matters.

Pan-African Scope & Bilingual Services

Leverage our extensive network and expertise across Africa, complemented by seamless communication in both English and French to serve diverse clients.

Diaspora & Investor Support

We provide comprehensive legal assistance to the African diaspora and international investors looking to establish or expand operations on the continent.

Compliance & Risk Advisors

Proactive and strategic advisory services to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and mitigate legal risks, ensuring your business's integrity.

Human-First Legal Team

Our approach prioritizes clear, empathetic communication and tailored solutions, ensuring you feel understood and supported through every legal challenge.

Affordable & Tech-Driven Solutions

Benefit from cost-effective legal services powered by modern technology, enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in our processes.

Join Our Mission

Whether you're launching a startup, expanding your business, resolving a dispute, or seeking justice — we're your trusted legal partner in Africa.

Get Involved

Industry Recognition Recognition

Consistently recognized by leading legal directories for our expertise and client service.

Chambers Global

Banking & Finance

2024Band 1

Legal 500

Energy & Resources

2024Tier 1

IFLR1000

Project Finance

2023Notable

Who's Who Legal

Thought Leaders

2023Recommended

Book a Legal Consultation

Contact our legal experts today for a consultation on your legal needs. We're here to provide the guidance and representation you deserve.