Step-by-Step Enforcement Timeline in Africa

By ClintonOur Publications

(Typical timeframes — may vary by jurisdiction and complexity)

Stage 1 – Award Finalisation (0–2 Weeks)

  • Receive final award from arbitral tribunal.

  • Verify compliance with procedural requirements for enforcement.

  • Collect all exhibits and certified copies.

Stage 2 – Pre-Enforcement Planning (2–4 Weeks)

  • Identify asset locations in Africa and abroad.

  • Engage local counsel in relevant African jurisdictions.

  • Determine enforcement route under the New York Convention or domestic laws.

Stage 3 – Filing for Recognition (1–3 Months)

  • Submit application to the High Court or Commercial Court.

  • Attach certified award, arbitration agreement, and translations (if required).

  • Court schedules initial hearings and reviews jurisdictional challenges.

Stage 4 – Oppositions & Challenges (1–6 Months)

  • Debtor may file to set aside or resist enforcement.

  • Clinton Consultancy argues for dismissal of objections.

  • Possible appeals handled in parallel to asset preservation measures.

Stage 5 – Asset Tracing & Interim Measures (Ongoing)

  • Secure freezing orders to prevent dissipation.

  • Identify bank accounts, cargo, mineral shipments, or receivables.

  • Coordinate with international investigators.

Stage 6 – Execution of Award (1–6 Months)

  • Court issues writ of execution.

  • Sheriff or bailiff seizes and sells assets, or compels payment.

  • Negotiate settlement where commercially favourable.

Stage 7 – Completion & Recovery (Variable)

  • Funds transferred to client account.

  • Full report on enforcement process provided.

  • Post-recovery legal and PR management (if necessary).

Indicative Enforcement Durations in Selected African Markets

Country Average Duration (Uncontested) Average Duration (Contested)
Ghana 3–6 months 6–12+ months
Nigeria 4–8 months 12–18+ months
Kenya 6–9 months 9–15+ months
Morocco 3–5 months 6–9 months
Egypt 3–6 months 6–12+ months
South Africa 6–8 months (domestic law) 9–14+ months

Why Clinton Consultancy

  • Pan-African Enforcement Network – Direct access to courts, sheriffs, and regulators in every major African jurisdiction.

  • Asset Recovery Experts – Specialists in tracing, freezing, and realising value.

  • Local & International Reach – Coordinating parallel enforcement in multiple countries.

  • Results-Focused – Our goal is not just to win — it’s to recover what you’re owed.

Email: amanda@clintonconsultancy.com (cc: info@clintonconsultancy.com)
WhatsApp/Call: +233 27 252 2695