Imagine a South Africa where every rand invested not only yields financial returns but also transforms lives. A country where young entrepreneurs rise from adversity, schools produce future leaders, and local communities thrive through meaningful employment. This is the power of impact investments—and South Africa needs them now more than ever.
With South Africa facing one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world, sitting at 61% as of Q2 2024 according to Stats SA, the urgency for solutions is growing. In a country where economic disparity and lack of access to education threaten future growth, impact investments provide an essential lifeline.
At Decusatio, we recognise that investments must go beyond profits—they must foster real social change. Impact investments are a crucial pathway towards a better, more equitable future for South Africa. As businesses, NGOs, and governments join forces, we see the transformational power of these investments across sectors, including youth development, education, and entrepreneurship.
The Role of Impact Investments in South Africa:
Impact investments offer a dynamic solution to some of South Africa’s most pressing challenges. These investments focus on projects that deliver measurable social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. Whether it’s uplifting small businesses or fostering skills development among youth, the objective is clear: tackle the root causes of poverty and inequality while driving sustainable growth.
According to the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), global impact investment has grown to $1.164 trillion in assets under management as of 2023, with South Africa contributing significantly through both local and international investors. This trend reflects a rising recognition of the long-term value of sustainable, socially responsible investments.
Mr Price Foundation: A Case Study in Impact:
One recent example that highlights the importance of impact investments is the work being done by the Mr Price Foundation. Over the last year, this foundation has made significant strides in addressing youth unemployment, small business growth, and education in marginalised communities.
In 2024 alone, the Mr Price Foundation created 6,500 retail jobs for unemployed youth, developed 154 entrepreneurs, and supported 25,000 primary school learners in KwaZulu-Natal. Their flagship programme, JumpStart, upskilled over 7,000 unemployed youth, with an incredible 90% securing employment at Mr Price Group, Spar, and other major employers. This represents over 32,000 lives changed, considering the broader impact on families.
Similarly, the UpLift programme has given rise to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that generated R1.3 million in revenue in 2024 alone. This initiative empowered township entrepreneurs in agriculture and waste management, fostering self-reliance and job creation in some of the country’s most economically challenged areas.
The Need for Education Reform:
Education remains one of South Africa’s greatest challenges, with many young people struggling to access quality learning. According to the World Economic Forum, South Africa ranks 75th out of 77 countries for educational outcomes, particularly in numeracy and literacy, with 78% of Grade 4 learners unable to read for meaning, according to the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS).
The Mr Price Foundation’s EduRise programme, for instance, has taken steps to address these issues by supporting 40 schools and over 25,000 learners in KwaZulu-Natal. Their focus on Foundation Phase literacy and numeracy is a critical intervention, aiming to equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in the workforce.
Why Impact Investment Matters:
At Decusatio, we firmly believe that impact investments are more than just a trend—they’re an imperative. Our projects across healthcare, infrastructure, and education are designed to deliver sustainable results that benefit both investors and society. When you invest in these projects, you’re investing in South Africa’s future.
According to the Global Impact Investing Network, businesses that engage in impact investing tend to see 30% more stable long-term returns compared to traditional investments. The social impact is clear: job creation, skills development, and community upliftment are just the beginning.
Our mission:
Now is the time for businesses and investors to focus on impact. South Africa’s future depends on it. At Decusatio, we offer a wide range of projects designed to make a difference, from healthcare innovations to education programmes and SME support.
We invite you to explore how your investments can create meaningful change. Contact us or click through our website to learn more about Decusatio’s impact investment projects and discover how you can be part of building a more equitable South Africa.