Robinson Bertram

Robinson Bertram stands as a distinguished law firm rooted in the commercial and legal landscape of Eswatini. Operating out of the capital, Mbabane, the firm has been strategically involved in shaping the nation's economic and infrastructural development. As an indigenously owned Swati practice, Robinson Bertram bridges the gap between private enterprise and public sector governance, offering comprehensive legal solutions that drive wealth creation and streamline public service delivery.

The firm is structured to handle complex, multi-disciplinary legal matters. With a dedicated team comprising experienced partners, professional assistants, and candidate attorneys, the practice delivers precision in every mandate. From the iconic Ingcongwane Building on Gwamile Street, the team serves a diverse clientele, including governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and private corporations. The firm's ethos, "Innovative approaches to legal matters," is not just a tagline—it is a core operational philosophy that guides the resolution of intricate legal challenges across Eswatini.

Services & Core Practice Areas

Robinson Bertram offers a sophisticated suite of legal services designed to cover every facet of commercial and civil law. The firm is equipped to act as attorneys, notaries, conveyancers, patent attorneys, and trademark agents, making it a one-stop destination for corporate legal needs. The team's expertise extends deeply into sectors that are vital for national growth, including institutional development, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance.

• Real Estate & Conveyancing: Handling all aspects of property law, from title transfers and mortgage bonds to sectional title developments and commercial leasing agreements. The firm manages the full spectrum of conveyancing work with meticulous attention to detail.
• Corporate & Commercial Law: Advising on company formations, mergers and acquisitions, shareholder agreements, joint ventures, and corporate restructuring. The team acts as a trusted advisor for both established corporations and start-up ventures navigating the Swati market.
• Labour & Employment Law: Representing employers and employees in industrial relations matters, drafting employment contracts, managing disciplinary hearings, and handling disputes at the Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration Commission (CMAC) and the Industrial Court.
• Litigation & Dispute Resolution: Providing robust representation in civil and commercial litigation before the High Court, Magistrate Courts, and specialized tribunals. The firm equally prioritizes alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including mediation and arbitration.
• Intellectual Property: Assisting clients with trademark searches, registrations, patent applications, and the enforcement of IP rights within Eswatini and beyond, ensuring that brands and innovations receive rigorous protection.
• Environmental & Competition Law: Offering niche advisory services on environmental compliance, impact assessments, and competition regulations, helping clients navigate the intersection of business growth and regulatory frameworks.

Meet the Partnership

The strength of Robinson Bertram lies in the depth of its professional leadership. The partners bring decades of cumulative experience, blending deep local insight with qualifications from prestigious institutions. Their hands-on approach ensures that clients receive strategic counsel directly from the senior practitioners responsible for the firm's direction.

The partnership is anchored by Zwelethu Desmond Jele, who holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Eswatini (UNESWA), along with an Industrial Relations Diploma from Wits Business School. Kenneth Jabulani Motsa complements this expertise with a Bachelor of Laws from UNESWA and UCT, bolstered by a Master of Laws from UNISA. Derrick Ndo Jele and Gabsile Maseko-Gamedze, both UNESWA law graduates, round out a formidable leadership team that drives the firm's commitment to rigorous legal scholarship and practical advocacy.

Sustainable Development & Institutional Impact

Robinson Bertram has played a pivotal and documented role in sustainable economic development within Eswatini. The firm’s involvement goes far beyond standard legal advisory; it has been instrumental in institutional and infrastructure development projects that form the backbone of the nation's progress. By facilitating public-private partnerships and advising on the legal frameworks for large-scale infrastructure, the practice contributes directly to improved public service delivery.

This commitment is evident in the firm’s work with governmental and non-governmental organizations, ensuring that projects are not only legally sound but also aligned with broader socio-economic goals. The team's ability to navigate regulatory environments while keeping an eye on developmental outcomes makes Robinson Bertram a unique asset in the Swati legal sphere, combining high-level commercial acumen with a distinct public-interest orientation.

Why Clients Trust the Practice

Clients choose Robinson Bertram for its steadfast reliability, local expertise, and innovative problem-solving. As a firm deeply embedded in the Eswatini context, it understands the nuances of local laws, business customs, and regulatory pathways. This indigenous ownership is a significant advantage, ensuring that legal strategies are not imported templates but bespoke solutions crafted for the Swati reality.

The firm's modern approach integrates technology and efficient practice management to enhance responsiveness and transparency. Whether dealing with a complex multi-party conveyancing transaction or a high-stakes corporate negotiation, the team maintains a client-centric focus, emphasizing clear communication and practical, results-driven advice. The modest 4.0-star rating on local platforms, while from a small sample size, reflects a quiet satisfaction rooted in consistent, professional delivery rather than flashy marketing.

Hours, Location & Serving Mbabane

Robinson Bertram operates from a centrally located, historically recognized office within one of the older buildings in the city, contributing to the professional fabric of Mbabane. The office is situated at the Ingcongwane Building, Lot #44 & 45 on Gwamile Street, a well-known location accessible via multiple public and private transport routes. The firm is open for client consultations and inquiries from 08:00 to 16:30, Monday through Friday.

The practice’s location in the Hhohho District positions it perfectly to serve clients throughout the capital and the broader region. Directions are readily available on the firm's website, and the office can be reached via the main contact phone numbers: +268 2404 2953, +268 2404 0246, or +268 2404 5287. For written correspondence and initial inquiries, the email address info@robinsonbertram.law.sz is actively monitored.

Future-Focused Legal Partnership

Robinson Bertram continues to build on its legacy by fostering the next generation of legal talent. The firm’s Candidate Attorney program is a vital part of its structure, ensuring that skills and knowledge are transferred while maintaining a steady pipeline of fresh, dynamic legal thinkers. This investment in human capital ensures that the firm remains adaptable and forward-thinking in a rapidly evolving legal landscape, ready to handle the emerging challenges facing Swati businesses and institutions.