In the ever-evolving world of legal practice, Emmanuel Manda has emerged as a formidable force, particularly in the realm of tax law. His career, marked by a series of strategic decisions and a relentless pursuit of excellence, has positioned him as a key player at Musa Dudhia & Co. Emmanuel’s ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and provide innovative solutions has not only earned him recognition but also made a significant impact on Zambia’s business ecosystem. His story is one of growth, resilience, and a deep commitment to both his profession and his community.
From Intern to Partner: A Journey of Growth and Excellence
Emmanuel’s journey to becoming a partner at Musa Dudhia & Co. is a testament to their dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. “My journey to partnership at Musa Dudhia & Co. began over a decade ago, during my time as an intern with the firm,” he recalls. Drawn to the dynamic and high-performing environment, Emmanuel found a platform that allowed him to grow and excel in the legal profession. After completing his internship, he transitioned to an associate role, immersing himself in diverse practice areas, including corporate and commercial law, mergers and acquisitions, mining, TMT, and tax law.
A pivotal moment in his career was his secondment to Anjarwalla & Khanna LLP’s tax team in Kenya. “This exposure significantly shaped my approach to advising clients and navigating complex tax landscapes,” he explains. Over the years, Emmanuel’s focus on tax law evolved as he recognized its growing importance in Zambia’s business ecosystem and its global implications. Through consistent learning and collaboration with colleagues, he established himself as a trusted advisor in this field. His recognition as a Notable Practitioner in General Corporate Tax by the ITR World Tax EMEA Guide in 2025 is a testament to this journey.
“Becoming a Partner at Musa Dudhia & Co. is not just a professional milestone; it is a reflection of the mentorship, teamwork, and opportunities that this firm fosters,” Emmanuel asserts. It also represents a responsibility to inspire and support the next generation of legal professionals in Zambia.
The Intrigue of Tax Law: A Dynamic and Multifaceted Field
Tax law has always intrigued Emmanuel because of its dynamic and multifaceted nature. “Early in my career, I realized that taxation is at the heart of nearly every corporate decision, from mergers and acquisitions to cross-border transactions,” he says. His secondment at Anjarwalla & Khanna in Kenya played a pivotal role in deepening his understanding of cross-border taxation, giving him a front-row seat to how tax regulations influence regional and international business decisions.
Zambia’s evolving tax landscape and the increasing integration of African economies further motivated Emmanuel to specialize in this area. “I saw an opportunity to provide clients with innovative, strategic solutions that not only ensure compliance but also optimize their operations,” he explains. Today, he is committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of tax law while contributing to the broader economic development of Zambia and the region.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life: A Delicate Dance
Balancing professional and personal life is about intentional time management and prioritization for Emmanuel. “My practice requires full focus and dedication, but I also make it a point to engage in activities that recharge me,” he shares. Exploring new restaurants and cuisines, boxing, swimming, and cycling are some of the ways he maintains physical and mental well-being. Travel also provides a valuable outlet for relaxation and inspiration.
“Through my exposure through travel, I can apply a lot of lessons to my professional life,” Emmanuel notes. To further promote his wellness, he has been practicing intermittent fasting (16:8) for the past five years, breaking his fast at noon and commencing it at 8:00 PM.
A typical day for Emmanuel starts early. “I check my emails at 5:00 AM just before sunrise, following which I map out my day and note the various deliverables to clients,” he says. After a one-hour boxing session with his trainer, he heads to the office to review regulatory updates and strategize with his team. The day progresses with reviewing work prepared by his team and overseeing ongoing transactions, ensuring they align with both the client’s objectives and regulatory requirements. Client meetings are also a regular part of his day. “Once I am done for the day, I rush home to enjoy a nice, cooked meal to unwind and restore balance,” he shares.
Staying Ahead: Strategies for Keeping Up with Evolving Tax Laws
Staying ahead in the ever-changing field of tax law requires consistent effort. Emmanuel dedicates time to reviewing updates from regulatory bodies like the Zambia Revenue Authority and attending workshops, seminars, and industry events. “Collaborating with firms and leveraging insights from our extensive ALN network also ensures I stay informed about regional and global trends,” he explains. This combination of continuous education and collaboration helps him provide clients with innovative and up-to-date legal advice.
Professional Achievements: Recognitions and Transformative Deals
One of Emmanuel’s proudest achievements was being ranked as a Notable Practitioner in General Corporate Tax by the ITR World Tax EMEA Guide for 2025. “This recognition reflects years of dedication to mastering tax law and delivering value to clients,” he says. Another highlight of his career has been leading transformative deals in Zambia’s mining and energy sectors, as well as novel corporate and commercial transactions. “My team and I provided innovative commercial solutions that facilitated successful outcomes for all stakeholders,” he explains.
Overcoming Challenges: Learning and Leadership
One challenge Emmanuel faced in his formative years was learning how to provide commercial advice to clients in a practical and business-ready manner. “Overcoming this challenge required me to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between the law and the practical commercial needs of clients,” he explains.
Transitioning into a leadership role also posed challenges, particularly in balancing technical expertise with team mentorship. “I overcame this by focusing on emotional intelligence, continuous learning, and fostering a culture of collaboration within the firm,” Emmanuel says.
Leading the Future: Evolution and Vision in Tax Law
Tax law is poised to evolve significantly, driven by globalization, technological advancements, and an increasing focus on sustainability. “Digital taxation and environmental tax policies are areas likely to gain prominence,” Emmanuel predicts. He hopes to contribute to shaping these developments in Zambia by advising clients on compliance while advocating for tax policies that foster innovation and economic growth.
Leadership today demands adaptability, emotional intelligence, and vision. “A great leader must be forward-thinking, able to anticipate trends and guide their team through change,” Emmanuel explains. Transparency and integrity are also critical, as they foster trust and collaboration. Embracing technology and fostering inclusivity are essential for driving innovation. “A successful leader creates an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, enabling the team to deliver exceptional results,” he asserts.
Advice for Aspiring Tax Lawyers
For aspiring tax lawyers, Emmanuel emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in corporate and commercial law. “Tax law intersects with multiple disciplines,” he explains. Continuous learning is critical—staying informed about global and local trends and developing an analytical and commercial mindset are essential.
“Practitioners must understand that the law is not an end in itself but a means to an end,” Emmanuel asserts. Networking and seeking mentorship are equally important. “The legal profession thrives on collaboration, and guidance from experienced practitioners can accelerate growth,” he advises. Grit and resilience are also crucial for navigating challenges and standing out in a competitive industry.
Conclusion
Emmanuel Manda’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, strategic vision, and a commitment to continuous learning. His work at Musa Dudhia & Co. not only sets a high standard for legal practice but also paves the way for future generations of legal professionals in Zambia and beyond. As Emmanuel continues to lead with integrity and innovation, his influence will undoubtedly shape the future of the legal industry in Africa.
