Statement from our CEO

We are working in developing markets at a time of rapid change. Across Africa and Asia, the gap between countries is widening, the climate crisis is intensifying, and global aid flows are under sustained strain. Geopolitical and economic shifts are adding uncertainty and redefining risk. During times like these, our judgement and standards matter more than ever. With disciplined risk management, strong responsible investing standards, and a long-term perspective, we are well positioned to lead. Our aim is clear: to help shape markets that are more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive, ready for today’s challenges, and in anticipation of tomorrow’s.

In this context, responsible investing isn’t just a policy – it’s essential to how we operate. It guides how we manage risk, uphold human rights, protect people and the environment, and build the trust that allows us to invest at scale. We believe development finance should follow a ‘do no significant harm’ approach to people and the planet. In that spirit, we take a disciplined approach to safeguarding communities and the environment in our investments. Where adverse impacts occur, we work to put the right mitigation measures in place, because credible development impact depends on it.

Our updated Policy on Responsible Investing reflects the evolution of our standards, strategy, and operating environment, and aligns with international norms and standards. It sharpens our focus on what matters most: material risks, meaningful outcomes, and long-term value creation. It also reinforces the disciplines that underpin our credibility – strong governance, business integrity, transparent decision making and robust oversight – while improving alignment with peers across our investment geographies.

We’re launching a responsible investing policy that is focused and practical, aligned with the ambitious future direction set out in our strategy. We approach this work with humility, discipline, and optimism. Our vision for responsible investing is clear: to continue to respect people and the planet wherever we invest; strengthen integrity and governance; manage risk with transparency and rigour; support investees to build sustainable, resilient businesses; and use our influence to raise standards across the markets where we invest.

This is how we will deliver impact at scale. This is how we will build trust. And this is how we will help shape more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient markets across Africa and Asia.

Leslie Maasdorp

Chief Executive Officer