We are a premier law firm in Kenya built on a simple conviction: legal counsel should be as human as it is strategic. In an industry often defined by rigid jargon and detached service, we choose a different path—one defined by empathy, agility, and elite expertise.
Whether you are a Kenyan citizen or business, a member of the diaspora looking homeward, an expatriate navigating a new landscape, or a global corporation expanding into Kenya, we bridge the gap between complex local statutes and your peace of mind.
Our Core Specializations
- Advisory: General Legal Consultations & Notarization Services.
- Personal & Family: Real Estate & Property Law, Family Law, and Immigration.
- Business & Growth: Corporate & Commercial Law, Intellectual Property, and Employment/Labour Law.
Why Trust Us:
1. A Partner for Local Excellence: for individuals and companies within Kenya, we are an ethics-first firm. We draw our purpose from solving your most complex legal challenges with precision and integrity.
2. The Diaspora’s Eyes on the Ground: distance should never be a barrier to justice. We provide secure, transparent management of property and family matters for Kenyans abroad, serving as your trusted boots on the ground.
3. Navigating the Kenyan Market for Global Interests: we simplify the transition for foreign nationals and international companies. Our tailored solutions ensure full compliance and local integration, allowing you to focus on growth while we handle the legal landscape.
4. Radical Transparency: we have eliminated the "legal black hole." With us, you get honest, upfront fee structures, clear milestones, and no hidden costs.
5. A Collaborative Approach: we don't just represent you; we partner with you. We prioritize active listening and strip away the "jargon" so you can make informed decisions with absolute confidence.
6. Regional Recognition: as proud members of the Law Society of Kenya and the East Africa Law Society, our practice is anchored by the highest regulatory and ethical standards in the region.
Firm Information
Founded
2023
Team Size
6 people
Office
1 location
Our Office
Contact our office for legal assistance.
Nairobi
Kenya
ABC Place, 10th Floor, Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi
Languages
Practice Areas
Foreclosure
Annulment
Adoption
+61 more
Not sure how to proceed?
Let us find the right lawyers for you.
Case Results
Successful outcomes we've achieved for our clients
Case Study: From Initial Consultation to Title Transfer
Commercial Real Estate
Case Study: From Initial Consultation to Title Transfer
Commercial Real Estate
Client Profile:
A private buyer who sought to purchase a residential property in Nairobi.
1. Initial Consultation
The client approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after identifying a half-acre parcel in a developing suburb. During the consultation, the client outlined their objectives, raised concerns about potential risks, and requested guidance through the acquisition process from offer to ownership.
The firm’s team provided an overview of:
The importance of comprehensive due diligence
Expected timelines, legal costs, and negotiation parameters
Searches and documentation required for a valid transfer
Zoning and land-use considerations related to the property
The firm requested property details from the seller and obtained formal instructions to proceed.
2. Due Diligence Phase
Upon receiving authority, the lawyers at Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates conducted extensive due diligence, which included:
a. Title Search at the Lands Registry
Verification of the registered owner
Checks for encumbrances (such as charges, cautions, or disputes)
Confirmation of the title’s authenticity and history
b. Survey and Boundary Verification
Coordination with a licensed surveyor to confirm boundaries
Cross-checking parcel numbers with deed plans and registry records
c. Local Authority and Zoning Review
Confirmation of permitted land use
Verification of compliance with planning and development standards
d. Physical Inspection
Verification of vacant possession
Identification of any informal claims or occupation risks
The findings confirmed legitimate ownership, the absence of encumbrances, and acceptable zoning. The firm prepared a due diligence report, which was shared with the client, who approved moving to the next stage.
3. Sale Agreement Negotiation and Execution
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates drafted a detailed sale agreement that outlined:
Purchase price and method of payment
Completion period and timelines
Obligations of each party
Default and penalty clauses
Conditions precedent (including clearance of land rent and rates, consent to transfer, and valuation)
The firm negotiated terms with the seller’s advocates to ensure fairness and legal protection. Once agreed, the parties executed the agreement, and the client paid the deposit into escrow.
4. Completion and Transfer
After confirmation that all conditions precedent had been satisfied, the firm:
Prepared and reviewed transfer documents
Oversaw stamping and registration at the Lands Registry
Managed the release of the balance of the purchase funds
Confirmed settlement of land rent and rates
The transfer was successfully registered in the client’s name.
5. Title Issuance and Ownership Handover
In the weeks that followed, the title deed reflecting the client as proprietor was issued and collected by Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates. The firm verified its accuracy before formally handing it over to the client.
Vacant possession was granted, allowing the client to move forward with their intended use.
Outcome
With the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the client obtained lawful ownership of the property while avoiding common risks such as forged documents, boundary disputes, or undisclosed encumbrances.
This case demonstrated the firm’s commitment to thorough due diligence, effective negotiation, and structured legal oversight in securing seamless and safe property transfers.
Case Study: From Consultation to Court Orders in a Family Law Matter
Family
Case Study: From Consultation to Court Orders in a Family Law Matter
Family
Client Profile:
An individual seeking legal intervention in a marital dissolution matter and the establishment of custody and maintenance arrangements.
1. Initial Consultation
The client approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after experiencing prolonged marital conflict that had become emotionally and financially overwhelming. During the consultation, the client expressed concerns about separation, child welfare, and the division of shared assets. The client also sought clarity on legal rights and obligations under Kenyan family law.
The firm listened carefully, gathered background information, reviewed relevant documentation, and provided guidance on possible legal pathways, including:
Mediation and reconciliation options
Filing for divorce under the Marriage Act
Custody and maintenance considerations
Protection of the client’s safety and economic interests
The client gave formal instructions for the matter to proceed.
2. Case Preparation and Mediation Attempts
After receiving instructions, the firm initiated case preparation. This included:
Reviewing marriage records, financial documents, and communication history
Identifying key issues: custody, maintenance, and shared property
Advising the client on available evidence and required documentation
The firm encouraged an initial attempt at mediation to promote an amicable resolution, prioritizing the best interests of the children involved. Mediation meetings were held between the parties and their legal representatives.
While some progress was made, significant disagreement over custody and asset division prevented full settlement.
3. Court Filing and Representation
Following the unsuccessful mediation attempts, Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates filed divorce proceedings and applications for interim custody and maintenance orders.
The matter proceeded through several court mentions and hearings, during which the firm:
Presented supporting evidence
Advocated for the client’s parental role and financial needs
Responded to allegations and submissions from the opposing party
Ensured strict adherence to court timelines and procedural requirements
The court ultimately issued interim orders on custody and maintenance pending final determination.
4. Case Progress and Negotiation
As the case progressed, both parties expressed readiness to settle out of court. The firm guided structured negotiations that resulted in:
Agreement on joint legal custody with primary residential custody to the client
A clear visitation schedule for the other parent
A mutually acceptable monthly maintenance amount
A formula for division and transfer of matrimonial property
This reduced the need for further litigation and allowed for faster resolution.
5. Final Court Orders and Implementation
The negotiated settlement was filed in court and adopted as a binding consent order. Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates then assisted in ensuring compliance with the orders, including:
Formalizing custody and visitation transitions
Confirming commencement of maintenance payments
Facilitating transfer of matrimonial property and final decree issuance
The client received closure through a lawful dissolution of the marriage and a clear path for family stability.
Outcome
Through the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the client secured a structured, legally binding resolution to a complex family matter. The client gained clarity on parental rights, financial responsibilities, and asset division without the emotional and financial strain of prolonged litigation.
This case demonstrated the firm’s commitment to compassionate client service, thorough preparation, strategic negotiation, and advocacy grounded in the best interests of families.
From Initial Consultation to Work Permit Approval in an Immigration Matter
Immigration
From Initial Consultation to Work Permit Approval in an Immigration Matter
Immigration
Client Profile:
A foreign professional seeking authorization to live and work in Kenya under a formal employment contract with a local company.
1. Initial Consultation
The client approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after receiving a job offer from a Kenyan employer. During the consultation, the client expressed concern about the complexity of Kenyan immigration requirements and the urgency of commencing employment.
The firm listened to the client’s needs, reviewed the job offer, and outlined the legal steps required to apply for a work permit. The client also raised questions regarding dependent passes for family members, lawful residence, timelines, and possible risks of application rejection.
The firm obtained formal instructions to move forward.
2. Eligibility Assessment and Preparation
After receiving instructions, the firm undertook a detailed eligibility review. This included:
Assessing the client’s qualifications and professional experience
Verifying the employer’s registration status and compliance records
Identifying the appropriate work permit category under Kenyan immigration regulations
Advising on documentary requirements and potential challenges
The firm guided the client and the employer in gathering and preparing necessary documents, including:
Passport copies
Curriculum vitae and certifications
Employment contract
Employer registration documents
Tax compliance records
Justification letter outlining the need for the foreign professional
All documents were reviewed for accuracy and completeness.
3. Application Submission and Follow-Up
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates submitted the complete work permit application to the Directorate of Immigration Services.
Over several weeks, the firm actively:
Monitored the application’s progress
Responded to departmental queries and requests for clarification
Made follow-up visits and calls to ensure steady movement of the file
The firm also advised the client on lawful status in Kenya during the processing period and assisted in planning for potential travel and work start dates.
4. Approval and Permit Issuance
After thorough review, the Directorate issued approval for the work permit. The firm notified the client immediately and coordinated the remaining steps, including:
Issuance and collection of the permit
Registration formalities with immigration authorities
Guidance on permit conditions, compliance obligations, and renewal timelines
The lawyer also helped the client apply for dependent passes to allow family members to reside lawfully in Kenya.
5. Post-Approval Support
Following permit issuance, Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates continued to support the client by:
Providing advisory services on employment compliance
Offering renewal reminders and future immigration planning
Documenting the case outcome in the firm’s internal records
The client successfully commenced employment and settled into life in Kenya with a valid immigration status.
Outcome
With the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the client secured lawful authorization to work and reside in Kenya, minimizing stress and avoiding delays.
This case demonstrated the firm’s commitment to thorough assessment, strategic preparation, proactive communication, and diligent follow-up—ensuring clients navigate immigration processes confidently and efficiently.
From Employer Consultation to Approval of Foreign Staff Work Permits
Immigration
From Employer Consultation to Approval of Foreign Staff Work Permits
Immigration
Client Profile:
A Kenyan-based company seeking work permits for several foreign specialists required to support a major expansion project.
1. Initial Consultation
The company approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after securing a contract to roll out a new technical programme. The project required foreign expertise not readily available in Kenya. During the consultation, company representatives expressed concern about strict immigration requirements, processing timelines, and the potential impact of permit delays on project delivery.
The firm listened carefully, analysed the scope of the project, and outlined the legal procedures for securing work permits for foreign employees. The company formalised instructions to begin the process for multiple applicants.
2. Compliance Review and Strategy Development
After receiving instructions, the firm conducted a compliance audit and eligibility assessment covering:
The company’s incorporation and registration records
Employment and tax compliance status
Job descriptions and roles for the foreign specialists
Matching of employee qualifications to specific permit categories
The review confirmed eligibility, though the firm identified areas requiring strengthening, such as updated tax compliance certificates and detailed justification for the employment of foreign staff.
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates then developed a structured plan for:
Document compilation
Permit categorisation
Staggered submission timelines
Risk management and internal communication
3. Document Preparation and Verification
The firm guided the company and foreign employees in compiling critical documentation, including:
Certified passport copies
Professional certificates and CVs
Detailed job descriptions
Employment contracts
Proof of company registration and tax compliance
Justification letters demonstrating the need for specialised foreign expertise
All documents were reviewed for accuracy and consistency. The firm ensured that job roles aligned with immigration regulations and labour market considerations.
4. Submission and Application Follow-Up
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates submitted the work permit applications to the Directorate of Immigration Services. The firm:
Monitored progress for each application
Responded promptly to queries and requests for additional documentation
Made follow-up visits to clarify technical points and prevent delays
Provided weekly status updates to company management
Despite complex requirements, the applications advanced without major obstacles.
5. Approval and Implementation
After the Directorate’s review, all permits were approved. The firm assisted with:
Collection and issuance of permits
Registration formalities with the immigration department
Staff briefings on permit conditions, compliance obligations, and renewal timelines
The company was also advised on planning for future expatriate needs to avoid operational disruption.
Outcome
With the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the company secured work permits for all foreign specialists within the required timeframe. The foreign professionals began their assignments lawfully, allowing the company to meet contractual obligations and complete its expansion project.
This case demonstrated the firm’s expertise in managing complex, multi-applicant immigration matters—combining strategic planning, proactive communication, and detailed compliance support to achieve a successful outcome.
From Consultation to Work Permit and Business Establishment for a Foreign Company
Immigration
From Consultation to Work Permit and Business Establishment for a Foreign Company
Immigration
Client Profile:
A foreign company planning to establish a subsidiary in Kenya and relocate key staff to support operations.
1. Initial Consultation
The foreign company approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after finalizing plans to open a regional office in Kenya. During the consultation, the company outlined its business goals, anticipated staffing requirements, and concerns about navigating Kenyan immigration and corporate compliance laws.
The firm provided a detailed overview of:
Requirements for registering a foreign company in Kenya
Work permit procedures for expatriate staff
Immigration regulations for foreign directors and employees
Compliance obligations under Kenyan corporate and tax law
The company gave formal instructions to assist with both corporate establishment and staff work permits.
2. Company Registration and Compliance Planning
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates began by assisting with the legal establishment of the company in Kenya, including:
Name reservation and incorporation of a Kenyan subsidiary
Drafting and reviewing the company’s constitution and shareholding structure
Guidance on licensing and regulatory compliance for the specific sector
Ensuring registration with relevant tax authorities and statutory bodies
Simultaneously, the firm developed a strategic immigration plan for relocating key expatriate staff to ensure business continuity.
3. Work Permit Preparation
The firm identified the appropriate work permit categories for foreign directors and specialists. It guided the company in compiling all necessary documentation, including:
Certified copies of passports and professional qualifications
Employment contracts and job descriptions
Proof of corporate registration and tax compliance
Justification letters outlining the need for expatriate expertise
Each document was reviewed for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with immigration regulations.
4. Application Submission and Follow-Up
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates submitted the work permit applications to the Directorate of Immigration Services. The firm:
Monitored the progress of each application
Responded to requests for clarification or additional documentation
Coordinated communication between the company and immigration officials
Provided regular updates to management on application status
The firm also advised the company on lawful residence arrangements for staff and dependents during the processing period.
5. Approval and Operational Launch
After approval of the work permits, the firm assisted with:
Issuance and collection of permits
Registration of staff and company with immigration authorities
Briefings on compliance obligations, renewal timelines, and local labor laws
Ensuring dependent passes for family members of expatriates
Following these steps, the company officially launched its Kenyan operations, with expatriate staff legally authorized to work.
Outcome
With the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the foreign company successfully established a subsidiary in Kenya and secured lawful work permits for all key staff. This enabled the company to commence operations without delay while remaining fully compliant with immigration and corporate regulations.
The case demonstrated the firm’s capability to manage complex corporate and immigration matters simultaneously, providing strategic guidance, thorough compliance support, and proactive communication to ensure a seamless market entry.
From Consultation to Shareholder Agreement and Corporate Restructuring
Corporate & Commercial
From Consultation to Shareholder Agreement and Corporate Restructuring
Corporate & Commercial
Client Profile:
A mid-sized Kenyan company seeking legal support for a corporate restructuring and the drafting of a new shareholder agreement to accommodate new investors.
1. Initial Consultation
The client approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after securing interest from external investors. During the consultation, the company’s management outlined their objectives:
Structuring the investment to ensure compliance with Kenyan corporate law
Protecting the rights of existing shareholders
Aligning governance structures with growth plans
Minimizing potential disputes among stakeholders
The firm reviewed the company’s incorporation documents, memorandum and articles of association, and previous shareholder agreements to assess existing governance arrangements.
2. Legal Assessment and Strategy Development
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates conducted a detailed corporate review, including:
Verifying the company’s compliance with the Companies Act and other relevant legislation
Identifying any potential legal or regulatory risks with the proposed restructuring
Reviewing existing contractual obligations with clients, suppliers, and partners
Assessing shareholder rights, voting thresholds, and dividend entitlements
The firm then proposed a strategy for restructuring shareholding, drafting a new shareholder agreement, and documenting the process to ensure enforceability and clarity.
3. Drafting and Negotiation
The firm drafted a comprehensive shareholder agreement addressing:
Equity allocation and subscription terms for new investors
Voting rights, board representation, and decision-making processes
Dividend distribution and profit-sharing mechanisms
Exit strategies, pre-emption rights, and dispute resolution procedures
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates negotiated terms between existing shareholders and incoming investors to balance control, risk, and governance obligations. The firm ensured that all parties fully understood their rights and obligations under the agreement.
4. Corporate Restructuring and Compliance
Following agreement on terms, the firm facilitated the corporate restructuring, which included:
Issuing new shares and updating the company’s register of members
Filing necessary returns and resolutions with the Registrar of Companies
Updating statutory books to reflect changes in shareholding and governance
Ensuring compliance with tax obligations and regulatory reporting requirements
The firm coordinated with accountants and auditors to confirm that all financial and statutory obligations were met.
5. Implementation and Post-Transaction Support
Once the restructuring was complete and the shareholder agreement executed, Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates provided ongoing support by:
Advising on corporate governance best practices
Assisting with board resolutions and management decisions
Ensuring adherence to shareholder agreement obligations
Providing guidance for future capital raising or exit strategies
Outcome
With the assistance of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the company successfully restructured its shareholding and executed a legally robust shareholder agreement that protected the interests of existing and incoming investors.
The restructuring enhanced corporate governance, mitigated potential disputes, and positioned the company for sustainable growth.
This case highlighted the firm’s expertise in corporate law, demonstrating strategic advisory, meticulous documentation, and effective negotiation to achieve a secure and growth-oriented corporate outcome.
From Consultation to Resolution of an Employment Dispute
Employment & Labor
From Consultation to Resolution of an Employment Dispute
Employment & Labor
Client Profile:
A medium-sized company facing a dispute with a senior employee over alleged wrongful termination and claims for unpaid benefits.
1. Initial Consultation
The company approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after receiving a formal complaint from the employee, who threatened to file a claim with the labor authorities. During the consultation, management outlined:
The circumstances leading to the termination
Employee performance records and disciplinary history
Concerns about potential reputational damage, financial liability, and regulatory compliance
The firm reviewed employment contracts, company policies, and relevant correspondence to understand the context and legal position.
2. Legal Assessment and Strategy Development
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates conducted a thorough assessment of the employment dispute, including:
Verification of compliance with Kenyan labor law, including the Employment Act and Industrial Relations Code
Evaluation of disciplinary procedures followed and whether termination procedures were properly documented
Analysis of potential claims, including wrongful dismissal, unpaid benefits, or breach of contract
Assessment of risks, including reputational, financial, and regulatory exposure
The firm then proposed a strategy that prioritized dispute resolution while protecting the company’s interests and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
3. Negotiation and Mediation
Before proceeding to formal litigation, the firm facilitated negotiations and advised on mediation, which included:
Preparing the company’s position and supporting documentation
Advising management on lawful and fair settlement options
Representing the company in mediation sessions with the employee
Through guided negotiations, the firm helped the parties reach a mutually acceptable settlement that included:
Compensation for certain entitlements
Waiver of further claims by the employee
Agreement on confidentiality and non-disparagement clauses
4. Formal Documentation and Compliance
Once the settlement was agreed upon, Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates:
Drafted a formal settlement agreement legally binding both parties
Ensured compliance with the Employment and Labor Relations laws
Advised management on internal record-keeping and reporting obligations
Provided guidance on updating company policies to prevent similar disputes in the future
5. Post-Resolution Advisory
Following the resolution, the firm continued to advise the company on:
Employee relations best practices
Contract drafting and disciplinary procedures
Compliance audits for employment and labor regulations
This proactive approach helped minimize the risk of future disputes and reinforced fair employment practices.
Outcome
With the assistance of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the company successfully resolved the employment dispute without litigation, saving time, costs, and reputational risk.
The firm ensured that all actions taken were legally compliant, protecting the company while maintaining a fair outcome for the employee.
This case highlighted the firm’s expertise in employment and labor law, demonstrating effective risk assessment, negotiation, and compliance management to resolve disputes efficiently and lawfully.
Intellectual Property Law Expertise: Patents for Foreign Company Employees
Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property Law Expertise: Patents for Foreign Company Employees
Intellectual Property
At Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, we understand the complexities that foreign companies and individual inventors face when seeking patent protection in Kenya. We are intimately familiar with the entire process, from initial assessment to patent grant and enforcement.
1. Strategic Consultation
We recognize that protecting innovative technologies begins with careful consultation. We guide inventors and companies on:
Identifying patentable inventions and understanding their commercial potential
Navigating ownership issues between the inventor and the employer
Safeguarding confidentiality and trade secrets throughout the process
Our experience allows us to anticipate legal and strategic considerations, ensuring both compliance and maximum protection for our clients’ intellectual property.
2. Patentability Assessment and Strategy
We are well-versed in evaluating inventions under Kenyan law, including:
Assessing novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability under the Industrial Property Act
Conducting thorough prior art searches to identify potential conflicts
Advising on the appropriate applicant structure—whether the patent should be registered in the inventor’s name, the company’s name, or jointly
We also provide guidance on internal processes, such as inventor declarations and confidentiality protocols, to protect IP during development and before filing.
3. Drafting and Filing Expertise
We understand that the strength of a patent depends on precise and enforceable drafting. Our team ensures:
Technical descriptions are clear and comprehensive
Claims are strategically broad yet defensible
All regulatory filing requirements with the Kenya Industrial Property Office (KIPO) are meticulously met
We also manage priority claims and coordinate international filings, ensuring global innovations are protected in Kenya.
4. Examination and Regulatory Navigation
We are experienced in guiding clients through the patent examination process, including:
Responding to queries from KIPO examiners on novelty, inventive step, or specification clarity
Advising on amendments or adjustments to ensure successful registration
Maintaining confidentiality and protecting proprietary information throughout the process
Our insight into examiner expectations allows us to anticipate challenges and minimize delays.
5. Post-Grant Support and Enforcement
Securing a patent is only part of the process. We provide expert guidance on:
Enforcing patent rights against potential infringers
Licensing, assignments, and commercial exploitation strategies
Monitoring the IP landscape to protect against competitive risks
Our holistic approach ensures that patents provide meaningful, enforceable protection and commercial value.
Our Expertise in Practice
At Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, we understand every stage of patent law as it applies to foreign company employees and individual inventors. From initial strategy to drafting, filing, examination, and enforcement, our experience allows clients to navigate complex IP landscapes in Kenya confidently and effectively.
From Consultation to Patent Registration for a Foreign Company Employee
Power of Attorney Notarization
From Consultation to Patent Registration for a Foreign Company Employee
Power of Attorney Notarization
Client Profile:
An individual inventor working for a foreign technology company, seeking patent protection in Kenya for an innovative device developed during employment.
1. Initial Consultation
The client approached Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates after being advised by their employer that patent protection in Kenya was necessary to safeguard the company’s intellectual property rights. During the consultation, the client outlined:
Details of the invention and its potential commercial applications
Ownership considerations under their employment contract
Concerns about confidentiality and potential infringement by competitors
The firm reviewed the invention disclosure, prior patent searches conducted internationally, and the client’s employment agreement to determine the legal framework for filing a Kenyan patent.
2. Legal Assessment and Patent Strategy
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates conducted a detailed legal assessment, including:
Determining patentability under the Kenya Industrial Property Act
Reviewing novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability of the invention
Conducting a preliminary patent search to identify existing prior art in Kenya
Advising on the correct applicant structure—whether the patent would be filed in the name of the company, the employee, or jointly
The firm also advised on confidentiality agreements and internal procedures to protect trade secrets during the patent application process.
3. Patent Drafting and Filing
Once the strategy was agreed upon, the firm drafted the patent specification and claims, ensuring:
Clear and precise technical description of the invention
Broad yet enforceable claims to maximize protection
Compliance with Kenya Industrial Property Office (KIPO) filing requirements
Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates filed the patent application on behalf of the applicant, ensuring all formalities were met, including:
Payment of filing fees
Submission of inventor declarations
Compliance with priority claims if international patent applications were involved
4. Examination and Correspondence
During the patent examination process, the firm:
Monitored the progress of the application at KIPO
Responded to examiner queries regarding novelty, inventive step, or specification clarity
Advised the client and the company on any required amendments to claims or disclosures
Ensured deadlines were met to avoid abandonment of the application
The firm also maintained strict confidentiality during correspondence to prevent disclosure of proprietary information.
5. Patent Grant and Post-Registration Support
After successful examination, the patent was granted and registered in Kenya. Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates:
Verified the accuracy of the patent register
Provided guidance on enforcement of rights against potential infringers
Advised on licensing, assignment, and commercialization strategies
Offered ongoing monitoring services for third-party patent activity in the same technology area
Outcome
With the support of Wambua Syokwaa & Company Advocates, the individual inventor and their employer secured robust patent protection in Kenya, safeguarding their technological innovation and creating a foundation for commercial exploitation.
This case demonstrated the firm’s expertise in intellectual property law, including strategic patent planning, meticulous drafting, regulatory compliance, and post-grant advisory services to protect and maximize the value of inventions.