August Hill and Associates

19/08/2026

Think before you post.
And think again before you delete.

Emails, WhatsApp conversations, screenshots, social media posts, photographs and other electronic records can all become relevant in legal proceedings where they satisfy the applicable evidentiary requirements. In today's digital world, online activity often creates a record that lasts far longer than intended. Whether you're communicating personally or professionally, it's worth remembering that your digital footprint may one day be examined more closely than you expected.

Electronic records may be admissible under the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, No. 4 of 2021, together with the applicable rules of evidence.

This content is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

12/08/2026

Zambia’s mining sector is entering an important period of regulatory change, with reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, certainty, and investor confidence across the industry.

In a recent Africa Legal podcast, our Executive Partner, Augustine Hamwela, and Managing Partner, Layeni Phiri, discussed these reforms and explored their implications for Zambia’s mining sector and the country’s broader investment landscape. What do these reforms mean in practice, and what could they mean for Zambia’s investment landscape?

Explore the conversation in full here: https://www.africa-legal.com/podcast/podcast-mining-reforms-and-building-a-more-transparent-predictable-investment-environment/129472

The discussion is particularly timely as we, in partnership with Africa Legal, prepare for the inaugural GC Forum Extractives – Zambia Edition, themed “Structuring Growth in a New Extractives Era,” taking place in Livingstone on 29th of September 2026.

With our very own Augustine Hamwela moderating the flagship panel, “Managing Exposure | Governance, Disputes & Risk in a Changing Environment,” we look forward to bringing these important discussions to the Forum. Interested in joining the conversation? Find out more about the Forum, its speakers and registration here: https://lnkd.in/dE6PZpxq

In a new episode of the Africa Legal podcast, Augustine Hamwela and Layeni Phiri of August Hill & Associate chat with Scott Cowan about significant recent changes to the regulatory framework for one of Africa's leading mining jurisdictions, and a resulting new chapter in Zambia's investment story.

07/08/2026

It's easy to see laws as restrictions, but most exist for one reason: to create order, protect rights and promote fairness.

From traffic regulations to consumer protection and employment standards, the rules we encounter every day help communities and businesses function with greater certainty. Sometimes the best laws are the ones we only notice when they're ignored.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

03/08/2026

Happy Farmers' Day to the hardworking men and women whose dedication help feed and grow our nation.

31/07/2026

Can your employer search your phone? It depends.

One of the most important distinctions is whether the phone belongs to you or your employer. Company-issued devices may be subject to monitoring where there are clear workplace policies, legitimate business reasons or security concerns. Personal devices, however, generally attract stronger expectations of privacy, although factors such as consent, workplace policies and the circumstances of an investigation may also be relevant.

Understanding these boundaries helps both employers and employees navigate workplace privacy with greater confidence.

Relevant legal considerations include workplace policies, the Employment Code Act, No. 3 of 2019, and applicable constitutional principles relating to privacy.

This content is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

28/07/2026

Not everything that happens at work is automatically lawful or unlawful.
• Can an employer deduct money from your salary?
• Can annual leave be postponed?
• Can workplace conversations be recorded?
The answer often depends on the circumstances, company policies and the applicable law. Employment law is designed to balance the rights of employees with the legitimate interests of employers. Understanding those rights and responsibilities helps create fairer, more productive workplaces for everyone.

Examples are simplified for educational purposes and should be considered alongside the Employment Code Act, No. 3 of 2019. This content is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

24/07/2026

As Zambia enters another election period, conversations, public gatherings and online engagement naturally become more active.

The Constitution protects important freedoms, including the right to express your views, assemble peacefully and associate with others. These rights, however, also come with a responsibility to exercise them lawfully and respectfully. Whether you're attending an event, participating in community discussions or engaging online, understanding your rights and responsibilities helps strengthen public confidence and supports peaceful democratic participation.

Relevant legal framework: Articles 20 and 21 of the Constitution of Zambia.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

22/07/2026

We've all received emails that seem perfectly ordinary…
"Just following up."
"As discussed."
"Please see the attached."
To most people, they're everyday workplace phrases. To a lawyer, they may also be part of a paper trail. Emails often become important records when businesses need to clarify what was communicated, when decisions were made or how issues were handled. A clear, professional email today can help avoid misunderstandings tomorrow.

Communication isn't just about getting the message across. It's also about creating clarity and accountability.

At AhA, we believe informed decisions begin with a clear understanding of the law.

17/07/2026

The best legal strategy is often the one that avoids a dispute altogether. Strong contracts, clear policies, proper governance, and routine legal review can reduce exposure before problems arise. They help businesses set expectations, manage accountability, and respond with confidence when issues do come up. Prevention is not just safer. It is usually cheaper too.

That is why legal support works best before the crisis, not after it.

14/07/2026

Imagine if every meeting had its own in-house counsel.
“Let’s just agree informally” would be rejected immediately.
“We can fix the contract later” would not survive the first draft.
“Send it without reading” would end the conversation.
“It’s probably fine” would trigger immediate concern.

A little caution now can prevent a much bigger problem later.