The African legal community lost a giant last week, when Rob Legh, chairman of Bowmans, passed away.

The many tributes to this brilliant lawyer and visionary leader are testament to the importance of humanity in law. They paint a picture of a leader who made the effort to get to know clients and colleagues alike; to make them feel seen and heard. They speak of his empathy, kindness and moral fortitude; his “smile that reached his eyes” and his ability not to take himself too seriously.

Rob was an extraordinary lawyer because he embraced his humanity. And it is this that really matters at a time when technology is disrupting legal services at an unprecedented rate. While technology is already replacing some of the work done by lawyers, the characteristics embodied by Rob will secure the future of the profession. It will be those lawyers who use technology to free themselves to focus on those aspects that cannot be replaced by machines – including embracing their humanity to better their legal practice – who will thrive in future.

From all of us at Afriwise, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Rob’s family, friends and colleagues.