Succession planning and wealth structuring for African families

In Forbes Africa, Partner, Julie Howard highlights the growing importance of succession planning as significant first-generation wealth approaches transfer to the next generation.

She notes that early discussions around ownership, management and the future role of family members are essential to ensuring a smooth transition. Clear governance structures, shareholder agreements and family constitutions can help manage expectations, reduce the risk of disputes and provide a framework for family involvement in the business. For families with assets across multiple jurisdictions, cross-border advice is particularly important.

Julie also reflects on the impact of the UK’s residency-based tax regime, noting that careful planning remains crucial for internationally mobile families. While the rules introduce new complexities, including inheritance tax considerations for long-term residents leaving the UK, the four-year regime can offer opportunities for individuals moving to the UK to undertake certain transactions before they become subject to UK tax. She adds that Cape Town and its surrounding areas are attracting increasing interest from individuals leaving the UK, particularly from South Africa.

Discussing wealth structuring, Julie observes that many African families continue to hold investments through tax-neutral jurisdictions as a hedge against currency and political risks. However, this does not necessarily affect the day-to-day operation of businesses, which typically remain managed locally. She also identifies a continuing trend towards externalising family wealth, alongside ongoing investment into Africa itself.

The full article was published by Forbes Africa in September 2026.