Coghlan & Welsh

Managing and Senior Partner: Mr. Promise Ncube

Consultant: Raymond Maxime Smithwick

Number of Lawyers: 6

Founded in 1903 by Sir Charles Coghlan and Sir Allan Welsh, Coghlan and Welsh Legal Practitioners stands as one of Zimbabwe’s most established legal firms. With a legacy rooted in advocacy and public service, the firm has played a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape in Bulawayo and across the country. From its early contributions through Sir Coghlan’s tenure as the first Premier of Southern Rhodesia and Sir Welsh’s influence in Parliament, the firm has developed into a cornerstone of legal expertise. Its notable alumni include Supreme Court Judge Nicholas Mathonsi and Member of Parliament Kucaca Phulu, demonstrating a legacy of leadership in both law and public service.

Firm Mission

Coghlan and Welsh is committed to delivering exceptional legal services to clients across the SADC region, prioritising professionalism, responsibility, and integrity. The firm’s personnel dedicate themselves to both client and community, contributing to the legal and economic development of the region.

Assurance System

Coghlan and Welsh’s Quality Assurance System supports the firm’s mission through a comprehensive strategy that includes continuous professional development, strategic departmental oversight, and mentorship. With a five-year strategic plan set to guide the firm until 2024, every department and employee adheres to the firm’s core values of professionalism, efficiency, and results orientation.

Continuous Professional Development and Mentorship

Each lawyer at Coghlan and Welsh completes a minimum of 12 professional development hours annually, attending national and international seminars. In-house training and mentorship further ensure that quality standards are maintained across the firm, with senior practitioners guiding junior staff to uphold the firm’s excellence.

1. Commercial Law Department

Led by Senior Partner Mr. Promise Ncube, the Commercial Law Department at Coghlan and Welsh handles mergers and acquisitions, company restructuring, joint ventures, due diligence, and corporate law matters including e-commerce, tax, and banking regulations. With over three decades of experience, Mr. Ncube brings in-depth knowledge to the field, advising major Zimbabwean clients such as the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, First Capital Bank, Old Mutual, Datlabs, Tregers etc

2. Conveyancing Department

As one of the oldest conveyancing departments in Zimbabwe, Coghlan and Welsh has provided real estate legal services for over a century. The department manages immovable property transfers, bond registration, and housing schemes, and has served as the City of Bulawayo’s official conveyancer for over 100 years. This esteemed department, trained under the guidance of late expert Francis Ferguson Slaven, has garnered a respected reputation for excellence. It is headed by Mr. Herbert Chimbetete

3. Labour Law Department

The Labour Law Department advises clients on employment contracts, collective bargaining, retrenchment procedures, and HR issues. The firm also provides complimentary training for clients to ensure best practices are met within international labour standards. It is led by Mrs. Sithandile Ngwenya

4. Family Law and Deceased Estates Department

This department provides comprehensive support in family law, including divorce, custody, maintenance, and estate management. The firm’s longevity has equipped it with extensive records and experience in this area, offering unparalleled expertise in matters involving family law and the winding up of estates. It falls under Mr. Herbert Chimbetete’s jurisdiction

5. Mining, Energy, and Environmental Law Department

The Mining and Environmental Law Department serves clients in the extractive industries, handling due diligence, mergers, and environmental law matters. The team remains informed on international developments through regular participation in global mining law conferences and seminars. This department is led by Mr Shepherd Huni.

6. Intellectual Property, Local Government, and Administrative Law Department

Reporting to Senior Partner and Town Solicitor Mr. Ncube, this department manages intellectual property, estate agency, local governance, and administrative law, representing entities such as the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority. Key expertise includes trademark and patent law, reflecting the firm’s commitment to corporate and governmental service.

7. Risk, Insolvency, and Criminal Law Department

This department is renowned for its effective management of debt recovery, insolvency, and criminal law cases. It has successfully defended industries during national operations and provides clients with proactive risk assessment and audit services to mitigate credit exposure. Mr Shepherd Huni heads this department.

Coghlan and Welsh has engaged in substantial international projects, particularly in mining, energy, and corporate law. The firm’s participation in international conferences, such as the SADC Lawyers Association Seminars and the International Bar Association, reinforces its commitment to global standards and practices.

First Capital Bank Building

Second Floor

Corner JMN Nkomo Street and 8^th Avenue

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe