Old Mutual Buys South Africa’s Top University Network

Alithia Nantege, Africa One News |Business, Education

Monday, October 13, 2025 at 10:08:00 AM UTC

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Old Mutual Private Equity (OMPE) has acquired Honoris United Universities, South Africa’s largest private higher education network, in a landmark deal that signals a major shift in the country’s education landscape. The acquisition, finalized in September 2025, marks OMPE’s sixth fund investment and reflects the firm’s growing interest in scalable, high-impact sectors across the continent. Honoris was previously owned by Actis Investments, a global investor in sustainable infrastructure and private equity, and the transition to OMPE ownership is expected to bring renewed focus on expanding access to quality education.

Honoris United Universities operates a diverse portfolio of institutions across Africa, with a strong presence in South Africa through brands such as Mancosa, Regent Business School, Red & Yellow, Fedisa, and the Animation School. The network spans 16 institutions in 26 cities across five countries, including Nigeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Mauritius, and serves over 100,000 students through both in-person and online learning platforms. Its model emphasizes career-focused education, digital innovation, and cross-border collaboration, making it a standout player in Africa’s private education sector.

OMPE’s investment underscores the rising demand for flexible, skills-based learning in South Africa, where traditional universities often struggle to meet the evolving needs of students and employers. Chumani Kula, Co-Head of OMPE, described Honoris as a strategic asset that aligns with the firm’s mission to support businesses that deliver measurable social impact. The acquisition is expected to accelerate Honoris’s growth trajectory, enabling it to reach more students and deepen its footprint in underserved markets.

This deal also reflects broader trends in African private equity, where education is increasingly seen as a resilient and transformative sector. With OMPE’s backing, Honoris is poised to enhance its academic offerings, invest in technology, and expand its reach across the continent. As South Africa continues to grapple with challenges in public education, the rise of well-funded private networks like Honoris offers a compelling alternative for students seeking accessible, high-quality learning experiences.

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