Fatma Songoro

Head of Technology, Fintech & Digital Commerce

Email: fatmasongoro@victoryattorneys.co.tz 

Fatma is a highly versatile tech and cybersecurity lawyer, driven by a fervour for staying on the cutting edge of both legal and technology. She has unparalleled expertise in areasto areas such as data protection, consumer protection, information privacy, Artificial Intelligence, intellectual property, technology law, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance.  Fatma guides and supports clients in navigating the complex landscapes of emerging technologies, ICT, fintech, e-commerce, hi-tech, and start-ups. Her work spans a wide spectrum, encompassing technology transactions such as cloud computing, compliance, due diligence, impact assessments, and the development of Data Protection and Privacy Policies in strict adherence to relevant laws and guidelines.

Fatma further excels in insurance, Islamic finance, investment, and insolvency. She  boastsboast a clientele heavily invested in manufacturing, tourism, finance,  pharmaceuticals, gaming, and logistics. She provides strategic guidance on investment projects, demonstrating a deep understanding of the intricacies of thewith local legal environment. In the realm of insurance, Fatma leverages her extensive experience to adeptly handle insurance claims and cases. Fatma’s specialization in insolvency and restructuring encompasses a broad spectrum, from bankruptcy proceedings and debt restructuring to liquidation, creditor-debtor negotiations, and the management of distressed investments. Fatma’s multifaceted expertise positions her as a valuable asset in navigating the complexities of finance, law, and business.

Beyond her legal practice, Fatma is a dedicated researcher delving into policies and governance structures on technology and start-up. Her research efforts are notably concentrated on digital rights, child online protection, ethical use of Artificial Intelligence, internet governance, consumer protection, and the regulatory framework of data protection and privacy. She has worked with several international organisations such as world bank and not-for-profit entities to research and offer training on policies.

  • Assisted several major clients on IP related commercial transactions within different industries and supported global brands such as Mercedes Benz on IP Protections.
  • Drafted a model bill on Personal Data protection for Tanzania for various stakeholders.
  • Consulted on an Islamic finance transaction for a facility aimed at financing a mega project in the country worthy more USD 1 Billion.
  • Assisted on liquidation and restructuring of the first insurance company that undertook voluntary winding in Tanzania. Specifically handled insurance claims, asset management and reinsurer matters.
  • Assisted various fintech companies in gaming industry such as Euro Game Technology on compliance, tax, disputes, contract negation and drafting.
  • Acted as a Lead researcher on a study of child Online Protection in Tanzania and drafted policy papers and policy brief on legislating Child Online Protection.
  • Conducted privacy gap analysis and guided several clients such as TWAWEZA on compliance with Personal Data protection legal framework.
  • Provided strategic counsel to numerous prominent organizations on matters pertaining to cloud services platform agreements, focusing on critical aspects of data protection, data security, and advice on seamless data transfers.
  • Spearheaded negotiations for intricate commercial agreements, particularly those concerning payments and diverse financial products and services. Ensured clients' interests were safeguarded while navigating the complexities of these transactions.
  • Proficiently drafted and negotiated a variety of technology-related agreements, including development, licensing, services, and distribution agreements. Tailored each agreement to meet the unique needs of different clients, ensuring clarity and legal robustness.
  • Bachelor’s degree in law (LL.B Hons.)
  • Master’s degree (LL.M) in Corporate and Commercial law
  • Vice Chairperson of the Insolvency Law Committee of the East Africa Law Society.
  • Director at the Tanzania Privacy Profession Association
  • Member of World Intellectual Property Organization(WIPO) ADR Young member.
  • Member of Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) and East Africa Law Society (EALS)
  • Member of Tanzania Women Lawyers Association (TAWLA)
  • Member of Tanzania International Arbitration Centre. (TIAC)
  • Member of Internet Society Tanzania Chapter (ISOC-Tz) and Tanzania Internet Defenders Working Group.
  • Member of ALHUDA Center for Islamic Banking and Economics (ALHUDA CIBE)