Biography

Overview

Gutema Kumera Gemechu is a Senior Technology Law Consultant at Makkobilli Law Firm LLP, bringing a wealth of experience in technology, telecommunications, and corporate law. He specializes in providing strategic legal advice and support related to technology and investment in Ethiopia.

Mr. Gutema has a distinguished background in the telecommunications sector, having served for over eight years as a Legal Specialist and Legal Contracts Advisor at Ethio Telecom, the nation's leading telecom provider. During his tenure, he was instrumental in drafting and negotiating a wide array of complex international and local contracts. He provided critical legal support on high value national telecom expansion projects, advising on matters ranging from regulatory compliance and tax issues to construction and procurement.

His expertise extends to the legislative and policy sphere, where he has played a significant role in reviewing and shaping key national legal frameworks. Mr. Gutema contributed to the review of the Draft Ethiopian Communication Proclamation, the Draft Federal Public Procurement Proclamation No. 1333/2024, and the Draft VAT Proclamation No. 1341/2024, among others.

In addition to his corporate and legislative work, Mr. Gutema is a seasoned negotiator, having engaged with international telecom operators, software and system vendors, and various service providers across the globe. He also has valuable experience as a private investment consultant, successfully guiding foreign investors through the process of establishing companies in Ethiopia. This work included preparing essential corporate documents and providing comprehensive legal support on company incorporation.

Prior to his specialization, Mr. Gutema gained foundational experience as a Legal Clerk at the Federal First Instance Court and as a Legal Aid Service Provider at the Jigjiga University School of Law Legal Aid Center.

Mr. Gutema holds an LL.M. in International Law from Ethiopian Civil Service University, which he obtained with Very Great Distinction, and an LL.B. from Jijiga University School of Law, where he graduated with Great Distinction.

Languages

Fluent in English, Amharic, and Afaan Oromoo

Education

LL.M in International Law (Very Great Distinction), Ethiopian Civil Service University, Ethiopia (2021)

LL.B Degree in Law (Great Distinction), From Jijiga University School of Law (2016)

Selected Experience

Advised on high value national telecom expansion projects, providing strategic legal counsel on contracts, regulatory compliance, and tax matters.

Drafted and negotiated a wide range of complex international and local agreements with global telecom operators, software and system vendors, and technology service providers.

Played a key role in reviewing significant national legislation, including the Draft Communication Proclamation and other regulatory frameworks impacting the technology sector.

Provided legal support on international and local tender documents for major technology and telecommunications procurement.

Represented clients in the resolution of technology and contract-related disputes through negotiation, alternative dispute resolution, and litigation.

Guided international investors in the technology sector through the process of company formation and establishment in Ethiopia.

Advised on legal aspects of e-commerce, cybersecurity, and international roaming and interconnection agreements.

Areas of Interests/Practice

Technology & Telecommunications Law

Corporate & Commercial Law

International Contracts & Negotiation

Foreign Direct Investment

Legislative & Regulatory Affairs

Construction Law

Dispute Resolution