Sustainability
PAPE is careful to practice sound environmental, social and corporate governance to ensure that not only people, but the environment as well is sustained for future generations.
PFM’s Commitment to Impact and Inclusion
PFM aligns its investment philosophy with the principles of impact investing- building sustainable value creation into the heart of its portfolio companies while supporting their corporate responsibility agendas. Beyond financial performance, PFM prioritises measurable social and environmental impact.
​
The PAPE Group, under which PFM operates, has a strong track record of promoting female leadership and entrepreneurship. Women hold senior executive positions across several portfolio companies, including Angelo Kater, Entersekt, DDS Group, and Singular Systems. The Group has also invested in female-founded and -led SMEs such as Tru Crisp and Oryx Salt.
​
Within the Laser Group, GAC Laser launched a logistics training initiative in 2021 to empower women in the sector. Eight female learners participated in accredited 12-month programs in Supply Chain Management and Business Administration, gaining both classroom and practical experience across warehousing operations.
CLIMATE ACTION
& CLEAN ENERGY
PFM plays an active role in driving the transition to a decarbonised economy through investments in clean energy and climate technologies. Its principals, Zuko Kubukeli and Guy Baxter, were among the founders of Evolution One Fund- Africa’s first clean-technology fund, which raised USD 94 million and invested in 12 pioneering projects, including wind and solar farms and waste mitigation ventures.
​
Building on this legacy, PFM and its affiliates have continued to back innovative energy solutions such as GoSolr, a leading residential rooftop solar company, and are pursuing opportunities in lithium-ion battery, electric vehicle, and solar panel manufacturing. PFM has also expanded the reach of its existing portfolio companies, DDS and Motivity, into the residential energy systems sector.
​
Looking ahead, climate action is a core pillar of PAPE Fund 4. By applying a climate lens aligned with TCFD guidelines, PFM enhances transparency, strengthens risk management, and identifies sustainable growth opportunities - creating lasting value for investors and contributing to a resilient, low-carbon future.
CLIMATE ACTION
& CLEAN ENERGY
In PAPE Fund 4, at least 75% of all money invested will be into businesses that have a clear and measurable strategy in relation to impact themes, gender-focused entrepreneurship, leadership, and employment. With PAPE Fund 4, PFM seeks to make a meaningful contribution to changing the narrative around gender inequalities and economic empowerment. PAPE Fund 4 will focus on investing in businesses that meet at least one of the following criteria :
​
•Is majority women-owned, with at least some of this ownership going beyond that enabled through PAPE Fund 4’s investment; and/ or
•Is majority women-led, in terms of its senior management team; and/ or
•Delivers specific solutions that have a direct and meaningful impact on bettering the lives of women in Africa as consumers or as entrepreneurs.
