Two Ugandan law firms are coming together with Techcellerate Limited to launch a new tech hub in Kampala. Called The Tech Hub Technology Incubator. The new hub is located in the central business district of the capital, Kampala.
It is looking to offer co-working space, business incubation, acceleration as well as legal support.
“The focus of the hub is small businesses (start-up and existing) that have technologies of potential interest to the digitization of Uganda and the greater Africa."
They are also looking at offering a “fully integrated solution based on a needs assessment in terms of legal, regulatory and compliance." Something Silver Kayondo, the Managing Partner at Ortus LLP thinks will set them apart.
According to a recent report by GSMA, Uganda has close to 20 hubs and co-working spaces. But, Silver thinks it still makes business sense to come into the market. (See also: There are 442 active tech hubs in Africa, GSMA 2018 report)
“We want to provide a space which is housed within our firm to harness the synergies,” he wrote in a WhatsApp message.
See also: These two law firms are at the forefront of technology in Uganda
“Magic circle firms such as Clifford Chance in the UK have partnered with institutions like Barclays Bank to create hubs. Beyond fintech, agritech, insurtech, etc, we also want to shape some of the emerging trends in legal tech and improved methods of legal services delivery.”
Ortus LLP and KTA Advocates, both newly formed, are branding themselves as the go-to law firms regarding technology and innovation.
Silver Kayondo, a co-founder of DroneNerds, formed Ortus after leaving Bowmans Uganda. While KTA Advocates was formed by dissolving Karuhanga Tabaro and Advocates. Adding Kenneth Muhangi, who, before, was the Managing Director at Signum Advocates.
While Techcellerate was founded by Ron Kawamara, Timothy Mugume & Kenneth Muhangi.
See also: Here’s why Ugandan hubs are coming together
Ron Kawamara works for Jumia Group in East Africa. First, he was the MD of the Group in Uganda. While currently, he is the Managing Director of Jumia Food and Travel East Africa.
Timothy Mugume currently serves as the Country Manager of Jumia Travel in Uganda. The trio hopes to draw from their experiences to support the startups.
To kickstart their journey, the hub will host the HiiL Justice event tomorrow.