JOHANNESBURG - When the democratic government of South Africa came up with plans to ensure the previously marginalised received housing as a basic need, businessman Rali Mampeule, recognised a gap that needed to be filled to ensure no one gets left behind.
While government focused on the poor with no income and very low wages and salaries, Mampeule targeted those with the means to build houses for themselves but still require bulk infrastructure. It’s this idea that resulted in him founding the South African Housing and Infrastructure Fund (SAHIF), which he leads as Chief Executive Officer.
Mampeule’s work and contribution has been felt across Africa and different industries. He’s now ventured into connecting Africa through MetroFibre Networx, extending high-speed internet to over half a million households. In addition, his Mampeule Foundation has provided over 90 bursaries to those in need.
He’s now been recognised with the Special African Philanthropist Icon Award at the African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year Awards 2026. Mampeule has been recognised for his sustained contribution to housing, education and community upliftment. The awards ceremony will be held in Accra, Ghana, in February next year.
Today SAHIF provides serviced sites for South Africans, enabling them to build houses for themselves at their own pace. So far, 68 000 housing stands have been delivered across the country through SAHIF. The Fund has also spread its wings to the African continent through a new brand called African Housing and Infrastructure Fund (AHIF) where it provides land for development of homes in different countries. AHIF’s strategy also includes cutting-edge off-grid energy solutions for a holistic experience.
For Mampeule, what’s more important is to better the people’s lives on the continent, and he believes if those with ideas and the capability can work together, this could be achieved.
Mampeule says African governments need to acknowledge that corruption and lack of skills in the state are holding development back.
Mampeule graduated with the Advanced Management Development Program (AMDP) in Real Estate from Harvard University in the US and he also holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree from the University of South Africa.