How We Engage

Working with AABSA

AABSA structures each engagement around the institutional question a government needs to answer, with clear terms of reference, defined deliverables and confidentiality from the outset.

Engagement types

Flexible formats for different needs

Rapid Advisory Review

A focused review of a specific law, draft agreement, licensing decision or institutional question, delivered as a concise advisory note with recommendations.

Indicative duration: 2–6 weeks

Governance Assessment

A structured diagnostic of the legal, regulatory and institutional framework, with findings, a risk map and reform priorities.

Indicative duration: 6–12 weeks

Negotiation Preparedness Support

Preparation of the government team before and during a significant negotiation: legal position, mandate, organization, strategy and document management.

Aligned with the negotiation timetable

Reform & Implementation Support

Support for legal, regulatory or institutional reform from design through adoption, implementation and monitoring.

Phased, multi-month engagements

Retained Strategic Advisory

Ongoing access to senior advice for a ministry, regulator or presidency on critical-minerals governance questions as they arise.

Monthly or annual retainer

Executive Programs

Executive briefings, institutional workshops and government team preparation tailored to a specific institution or initiative.

Single sessions or programs

Process

From first conversation to handover

Step 1Initial conversationA confidential discussion of the institutional issue and its context

Step 2Scoping noteObjectives, key questions, deliverables and counterparts

Step 3Proposal & terms of referenceTeam, workplan, timeline and fees

Step 4DeliveryRegular reporting to designated government counterparts

Step 5HandoverFinal deliverables, senior briefing and implementation guidance

Contracting

How engagements can be structured

Direct engagement by governments and public institutions
Assignments financed by development partners and multilateral institutions
Specialist role within consortia led by advisory, legal or engineering firms
Framework or call-off arrangements for recurring needs

Commitments

What clients can expect

A conflict check before every engagement
Confidentiality agreements on request
Clear deliverables, timelines and reporting lines
Senior involvement throughout the engagement
Work in English and French

Tell us about the question your institution needs to answer.

Discuss an Advisory Engagement Independence & Policies