Impacting, Empowering and Transforming

Established in 2009 by Helder Julio Rodrigues Bila and later joined by Osvaldo Nido, ONRB Advogados, Lda is not just a law firm;
it’s a transformative force in the legal landscape.

Philosophy

As young lawyers, our philosophy has always been dynamic – adapting to global changes while aligning with the unique needs of the Mozambican environment.

We assist local entrepreneurs, investors, foreign entities, and social organizations.

Evolution

With time and maturity, we decided to transcend the conventional role of a law firm.

We are not just practitioners; we are agents of change, focusing on work that matters and creates a meaningful impact.

Reshaping Our Identity

We have actively reshaped our structure and business model to embark on a new journey – one that Mozambique and the world urgently require.

Our focus is clear: to support startups, SMEs, serial entrepreneurs, social visionaries, and counterparts in the investment and finance realm. Additionally, we are committed to social justice and equality, offering pro bono legal services for women, focusing on litigation in work contexts, divorce, and succession matters.

15 Years of Excellence

With 15 years in the market, ONRB Advogados, Lda has established itself as a reputable and trusted law firm in Mozambique.

We are committed to continuing our legacy of excellence while adapting to the ever-evolving legal landscape.

Values

Upholding the highest ethical standards in all our interactions and decisions, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness in our legal practices.

Embracing creative and forward-thinking solutions to address complex legal challenges, driving progress and adaptation in a dynamic environment.

Committing to responsible and sustainable practices that contribute to the long-term well-being of our communities and the environment.

Fostering strong partnerships and working closely with clients and stakeholders to achieve shared goals and drive positive change.

Striving for the highest quality in our legal services, continuously improving and setting benchmarks for excellence in the legal field.

Actively engaging in pro bono work and community initiatives to support social justice and address inequalities, particularly for vulnerable groups

Mission

Our mission is to provide transformative and impactful legal solutions that support startups, SMEs, social enterprises, and investors in Mozambique and beyond. We are dedicated to fostering responsible and sustainable business practices, driving innovation, and advocating for social justice and environmental stewardship.

Through our expertise and commitment, we aim to empower our clients and contribute to the development of a fairer and more equitable society.

Vision

To be the leading law firm in Mozambique and Africa renowned for our innovative approach, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to social impact. We envision a future where our legal expertise catalyzes positive change, supports the growth of responsible businesses, and advances human rights and environmental stewardship across the continent.

These elements should align well with the profile and the unique focus areas of ONRB Advogados, Lda.

Founder Partner

Hélder Julio Rodrigues Bila

Hélder Júlio Rodrigues Bila is a dynamic and accomplished executive with a proven track record of success in the finance and legal sectors. As the first and only Mozambican chartered banker of the Chartered Banker Institute (UK), Hélder has established himself as a leading expert in his field.

He is a Ph.D. Candidate with an MBA from Bangor Business School (UK) and extensive experience in the public and private sectors. Hélder is well-equipped to handle complex financial operations and navigate regulatory frameworks. He is a member of the Mozambique Bar Association and the International Bar Association, assigned to the Banking Law Committee, and has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Corporate Governance, Risk, and Compliance from the International Compliance Association (ICA-UK).

Hélder’s experience includes senior banking supervision roles at the Bank of Mozambique, where he specialized in micro-prudential, macro-prudential, Conduct/Consumer protection, money laundering, and payment systems. He also served as a member of the Exco at MyBucks Mozambique for the Risk area, where he headed the Risk, Compliance, Legal, Credit, and Credit Recovery Departments, and served as acting CEO. He also serves as a Non-Executive Board Member at Phoenix Insurance Company Mozambique, SA.

Managing Partner

Osvaldo Nido

Seasoned managing partner with over a decade of legal expertise, Osvaldo Nido is a driving force in the legal landscape of Mozambique. Holding a degree in Law from Eduardo Mondlane University, he has seamlessly integrated academic prowess with practical acumen. As the Managing Partner of ONRB Advogados, Lda, Osvaldo has demonstrated leadership excellence, steering the firm through complex legal terrains.

His commitment to continuous learning is reflected in specialized certifications,
including expertise gained in Seoul, Korea do Sul, focusing on “Institutional Development, Climate Change Resilient Water Resources Management” and “Climate Change and Water Quality Crisis” through K Water. Further, certifications from Daejeon, Korea do Sul, encompass “Water Conflicts and Governance Building,” “Hydroinformatics,” and “Seawater Desalination Technology” – all pivotal aspects of modern water management.

Osvaldo’s academic pursuit extends to a Master’s in Project Management from the Instituto Superior de Ciências e Tecnologia de Moçambique (Expected 2023), emphasizing his commitment to multidisciplinary skills. His specialization in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters showcases a dedication to sustainability and global standards.

Associate Consultants

Celso Lopes

Celso Lopes is a highly qualified lawyer and one of Mozambique’s leading experts in Maritime Law and International Business, with 24 years of experience in the field. He holds a strong academic background, with a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM) and a Master’s in Maritime Law and International Business from the Center for Maritime and Environmental Studies (CEMA) in the Canary Islands, Spain.

Throughout his 24-year career, Dr. Celso has played key leadership roles in various critical national initiatives. He served as the Deputy National Director of Maritime and Fisheries Policies from 2016 to 2021, where he led and coordinated significant projects, including the development of the Maritime Policy and Strategy and the Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP). His contributions were vital in the revision of the Maritime Law and the creation of the Legal Regime for the Use of National Maritime Space (RJUEM).

In addition to his regulatory work, Dr. Celso was also an active member of the multisectoral technical team responsible for revising the law that established the Maritime Courts and their implementation. He was part of the technical team that developed the Blue Economy Development Strategy, a crucial project for the economic and environmental future of Mozambique.

Dr. Celso has a strong academic inclination, having taught Maritime Law at the Higher School of Nautical Sciences from 2009 to 2015. He is currently involved in co-authoring a collection of Mozambique’s maritime legislation, which will serve as an important reference in the field.

Unaite Jaime

A dedicated feminist, human rights activist, and international consultant specializing in gender justice.

Her work addresses unequal gender relations across public and private spheres, including the corporate world. She hold an Honors degree in Law from Eduardo Mondlane University, a Master’s degree in Development Studies, and a Postgraduate degree in Human Rights.

Over the past 20 years, She have made significant contributions as a program manager, consultant, and researcher for prominent national and international organizations. Her experience includes working with Global Affairs Canada, UNICEF, SDC, IBIS, OXFAM UK/NOVIB and Canada, UNFPA, USAID, as well as national organizations such as Forum Mulher, MUVA, NAFEZA, and NWETY. This diverse background has enriched her understanding of gender issues and honed her ability to employ various approaches and perspectives to address them effectively.

Teofilo Chau

is a highly experienced senior legal consultant, boasting over 32 years of solid expertise with honors degree from Eduardo Mondlane University. Early in his career, Teófilo worked in diverse sectors, focusing particularly on agriculture, construction, and mining, within some of Mozambique’s most renowned companies, including Agricom, CETA, and Vale.

In 2002, he embarked on a six-year journey with Moçambique Celular, SARL (TmCel), where he held key roles as Head of the Human Resources Department, Senior Legal Advisor, and Company Secretary. Afterward, Teófilo joined Vodacom Moçambique as a Taxation Specialist and Senior Legal Advisor, handling legal and regulatory matters.

In 2015, he began advising the Government on business environment reforms through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Two years later, he transitioned to the private sector, working with the Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA), where he led the Reform Promotion and Coordination Unit (UPCR).

Currently, Teófilo provides consulting services specializing in Telecommunications Regulation.

Young and Brilliant Legal Team

Our commitment to inclusion and training the next generation is reflected in our team of young, brilliant lawyers overseen by our experienced partners.

• Saquina Momade
• Adriano Alexandre
• Milton Cabral
• Martina Rodrigues Bila

Key Focus Areas

Investment and Finance

– Legal advice on investment structures and financial transactions.
– Due diligence for investment opportunities.
– Drafting and negotiating financing agreements.
– Compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements.

International Certification and Standards Representation

– Assessment of business operations for compliance with international standards.
– Representation in dealings with international certification bodies.
– Dispute resolution related to certifications.
– Development of compliance strategies for continuous adherence.

Technology Law Services

– Intellectual property protection, including patent and trademark registration.
– Contracts for technology development, licensing, and transfer.
– Data protection and cybersecurity compliance.
– Legal support for e-commerce and digital transactions.

Innovation and Start-up Support

– Business formation and entity structuring.
– Intellectual property strategy and protection.
– Drafting and negotiating funding agreements.
– Regulatory compliance for startups in various industries.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Consulting

– ESG risk assessments and integration into business strategies.
– Development and implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR)programs.
– Compliance with environmental and social regulations.
– Reporting and disclosure on ESG performance.

Social Impact Legal Services

– Legal structuring for social enterprises and impact-driven initiatives.
– Compliance with regulations governing social impact organizations.
– Contracts and agreements for partnerships with NGOs and other stakeholders.
– Representation in legal matters related to positive social impact.

Blue Economy

– Specialized legal support for businesses involved in the Blue Economy sector.
– Compliance with regulations governing marine and aquatic industries.
– Assistance with contracts and agreements related to maritime activities.

Human Rights and Gender

– Legal advocacy and representation in human rights cases.
– Support for gender equality initiatives and policies.
Legal assistance in cases of gender-based violence and discrimination.
– Advising organizations on integrating human rights and gender considerations into their operations.

Collaborative Approach

At ONRB Advogados, Lda, we believe in a collaborative approach to legal solutions. Our clients are partners in our journey, and we work hand-in-hand to achieve their goals. We are not just legal advisors; we are strategic allies in the pursuit of success.

Innovation Hub

Our commitment to innovation is embedded in our DNA. We operate as an innovation hub within the legal domain, continuously exploring new methodologies and technologies to deliver cutting-edge solutions to our clients.

Global Network

With a global perspective, we leverage our extensive network to provide our clients with insights into international trends, ensuring that their strategies are adaptable and resilient in a rapidly changing world.

We are proud to partner with Centurion Law Group (CLG), a trailblazing legal firm renowned for its innovative and flexible approach to meeting the diverse needs of its clients.

With a global presence and a team of dynamic professionals, CLG is committed to providing comprehensive support across a broad spectrum of professional services.

SOUTH AFRICA .

Suite 43 Katherine and West(6th Floor),
114 West Street, Sandton, Johannesburg,
2196 | +27 11 245 5900

CONGO – BRAZZAVILLE .

Immeuble la Place2ème étage
Lotissement Roc de Tchikobo
Pointe-Noire +242 05 061 3280

SOUTH SUDAN .

Tecno Center, Nr. Mobil Round
About, Opp. Promise Hospital,
Juba Town, Juba, South Sudan

MAURITIUS .

Ground Floor, Tower A, One Exchange
Square, Wall Street, Ebene 72201,
Mauritius
+230 5 723 1800

EQUATORIAL GUINEA .

Carretera de Aeropuerto Km.4, Centurion
Office, Malabo, Equatorial Guinea
+1 647 308 6325
+230 5 723 1800

NIGERIA .

168 Awolowo Road
Ikoyi, Lagos +234 913 524 90

GERMANY .

Opernplatz 14, 60313 Frankfurt
am Main +49 69 1532944 42

GHANA .

74 Church Crescent (Behind Cal Bank)
Labone, Accra +233 302 798 860

CAMEROON .

2nd Floor, Immueble Pallas (Be
sides MTN Head Office) Rue
Drouot, Akwa – Douala P.O. Box
1319 | +23723343770

NAMIBIA .

13 Mandela Ave Unit 2, Klien
Windhoek. Windhoek Namibia

Get in Touch with Us

Contact Us

Contact us for any type of request.
We want to hear from you.

Telephone :
  • +258 84 954 9396
Email :
  • info@ocrb-adv.com
Address :
  • Avenida Olof Palm, no 200, 2o Andar, Maputo, Moçambique