EPPF Chief Executive and Principal Officer, Shafeeq Abrahams, delivered a keynote address at the KZN Investment Forum, where he explored the role of long-term pension capital in supporting South Africa's economic development while safeguarding members' retirement outcomes.

Speaking under the theme, Leveraging Pension Capital for Investment in Bankable Projects to Grow Members' Portfolios While Supporting South Africa's National Development, Abrahams highlighted the importance of responsible stewardship and reaffirmed that the Fund's primary responsibility remains protecting and growing the retirement savings entrusted to it by its members.

"Behind every investment portfolio are millions of South Africans who have entrusted us with the savings of a lifetime. Those savings are not simply assets under management. They are promises under management," he said.

Abrahams emphasised that retirement funds are long-term custodians of capital and that every investment decision must be guided by sound governance, commercial discipline and the best interests of members. While pension funds are not responsible for addressing the country's development challenges, he noted that commercially viable investments can simultaneously strengthen retirement outcomes and contribute to South Africa's long-term economic growth.

During his address, he highlighted that South Africa has both a significant pool of long-term retirement savings and substantial infrastructure investment needs. Unlocking this opportunity, he said, requires a stronger pipeline of investment-ready projects supported by clear policy, credible governance and appropriate risk allocation.

"Pension funds cannot invest in aspirations; they invest in opportunities," he said, emphasising that institutional investors seek projects that demonstrate sound commercial fundamentals and sustainable long-term value.

Abrahams also outlined EPPF's responsible investment approach, which integrates environmental, social and governance considerations into investment decision-making. Guided by the Fund's Sustainability Policy, this approach supports the delivery of sustainable, risk-adjusted returns while contributing to a more inclusive, resilient and regenerative economy.

Reflecting on the significance of the host province, Abrahams noted that approximately one in ten EPPF members resides in KwaZulu-Natal, making the province's long-term economic success directly relevant to the Fund and its members. He highlighted the importance of investments in infrastructure, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, energy and other productive sectors that strengthen communities while generating appropriate returns.

He concluded by encouraging stronger collaboration between government, development finance institutions, the private sector and institutional investors to develop bankable projects capable of attracting long-term capital.

"The capital exists. The investment need exists. Our collective responsibility is to build the bridge between the two," he concluded.

The KZN Investment Forum brought together leaders from government, business and the investment community to explore opportunities for sustainable investment, infrastructure development and inclusive economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal and across South Africa.