Suzan Michael

Suzan Michael is an Advocate with extensive experience in litigation and a highly developed corporate and commercial practice, focusing on the energy and natural resources sectors. She advises local and international clients on complex regulatory frameworks, transactional structuring, project development, compliance, and risk management across mining, oil and gas, and infrastructure-related investments. Her litigation background enables her to deliver commercially pragmatic advice informed by a strong understanding of dispute risk and enforcement.

Areas of Expertise
Energy & Natural Resources
Mining Law & Regulatory Compliance
Corporate & Commercial Law
Transactional Advisory
Data Protection & Regulatory Compliance
Telecommunications Law
Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Noteworthy Achievements

Suzan has developed a strong practice advising on complex legal and regulatory issues in Tanzania’s energy and natural resources sector, with particular depth in mining projects involving foreign investment. Her work spans the full project lifecycle, from entry structuring and regulatory due diligence to transactional execution and risk management, often in matters involving significant capital investment and heightened regulatory scrutiny.

Mining Sector Advisory: She regularly leads legal due diligence exercises for international investors entering the Tanzanian mining sector, assessing mineral rights, license validity, tenure security, and compliance with the laws and related regulations. This work frequently involves direct engagement with the Mining Commission, coordination of site visits, and evaluation of land access, community, and dispute-related risks affecting proposed project areas. Suzan also advises on investment structuring, including farm-in and joint venture arrangements, with a focus on ensuring regulatory alignment while preserving commercial objectives.

Corporate Structuring & Local Content: In addition to transactional due diligence, Suzan advises mining companies on corporate and ownership structuring, particularly in relation to Tanzania’s local content framework. Her work includes reviewing shareholder and beneficial ownership structures, advising on restructuring options, and supporting clients to achieve compliance while maintaining operational efficiency and investment flexibility.

Telecommunications: She led a legal team on the novation of over 200 tower site lease agreements for two telecommunications companies, a large-scale, time-sensitive exercise involving coordination with multiple stakeholders and alignment of commercial, land, and regulatory considerations.

Data Protection: Suzan has delivered training to various stakeholders on compliance with Tanzania’s Personal Data Protection Act and related legislation. She regularly advises organizations on regulatory compliance across highly regulated sectors, translating statutory and regulatory requirements into clear, actionable guidance that supports effective risk management and sustainable business operations.