AXIAN has committed an undisclosed amount to the African Development Partners III (ADP III) investment fund managed by Development Partners International (DPI).

Hassane Muhieddine, CEO AXIAN Financial Services, said: “This investment platform will allow us leverage on relationships and open-up opportunities in strategic co-investment or buy-outs at fund exits where synergies with our core operations are available.”

“We also see the possibilities for future collaboration with the fund managers on external transactions that promote innovation and require pooling of expertise,” he said.

ADP III follows in the steps of its predecessors by focusing on market-leading companies working with managers to develop best-in-class environmental, social and governance practices.

DPI has invested in 23 companies across 29 African countries, building on its investment expertise and network that has yielded a strong performance track record.

With over $1.6bn in assets under management, DPI invests in businesses, across the continent, positioned to benefit from the fast-growing emerging middle class.

DPI is both a commercial fund manager and a signatory of the UN Principles for Responsible Investment.

It, therefore puts emphasis on promoting ESG standards and through its investments, seeks to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals while providing commercial benefits to its investors.

Social engagement coupled with financial, technological and energy inclusion are core tenets to AXIAN’s principles of responsible investment.

“We see private equity as a conduit to address some issues relating to inclusion and social responsibility at the local level. We believe that the development of profitable and sustainable businesses in Africa cannot be dissociated from a responsible and inclusive approach to investing, added Muhieddine.