
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is a vital institution in the region, playing a crucial role in promoting economic growth and development. Its main objective is to support the economic development of the Southern African region.
The DBSA was established in 1993 as a public development finance institution. It is headquartered in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The DBSA's primary function is to provide financial support to projects and programs that contribute to the economic development of the region. This includes infrastructure development, social development, and private sector development.
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Introduction
The Development Bank of Southern Africa is a unique institution that plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and development in the region. The bank was established in 1993, making it a relatively young organization with a rich history.
Its main objective is to mobilize financial resources to support economic development in Southern Africa. The bank achieves this by providing financing to various sectors such as infrastructure, industry, and agriculture.
The bank's operations are guided by a strong governance structure, with a board of directors that oversees its activities. This structure ensures that the bank remains accountable and transparent in its dealings.
The bank has a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from large-scale infrastructure development to small-scale enterprise financing. Its focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises is particularly noteworthy, as it helps to promote economic growth and job creation in the region.
Latest Developments
In recent news, the Development Bank of Southern Africa has made a significant investment in the Africa50 Infrastructure Acceleration Fund. This fund is focused on investing in infrastructure assets to accelerate Africa's green industrial revolution.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa and Axian agreed to invest in this fund, marking a major development in the country's efforts to transition to a greener economy.
On January 16, 2025, the partnership between the Development Bank of Southern Africa and Axian was announced, signaling a significant step forward for the region's infrastructure development.
Concerns and Controversies

The Development Bank of Southern Africa has been accused of misleading the public about its commitment to promoting sustainable socio-economic development.
The bank's website and publications claim it's dedicated to improving the quality of life for people in the Southern African development community.
However, the FF Plus believes the bank is actually involved in the looting of tax money, which is hindering vital projects that could grow the South African economy and infrastructure.
Government actions and methods are to blame for the lack of development capital available for these projects.
The FF Plus thinks the bank cannot be trusted to take action itself, and therefore, it's essential to investigate the matter further.
The party has requested that Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Higher Education look into the irregularities.
A unique perspective: South African Reserve Bank
Return and Navigation
The Development Bank of Southern Africa is looking to expand its lending portfolio, primarily in infrastructure, with the help of a MIGA guarantee of up to $361 million.
This expansion will allow DBSA to support economic growth and development in South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community.
DBSA is a wholly-owned financial institution of the government of South Africa and implements best practice with regard to environmental and social risk management.
The bank applies the MIGA Performance Standards to regional projects and has a comprehensive Environmental and Social Management System in place.
DBSA's proposed expansion is consistent with the World Bank's FY14-17 Country Partnership Strategy and South Africa's National Development Plan, which prioritizes private investment and job creation.
Resolving infrastructure bottlenecks will have a positive impact on exports, jobs, and tax revenue for South Africa and the SADC region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the shareholders of development bank of Southern Africa?
The Development Bank of Southern Africa is wholly owned by the government of the Republic of South Africa. Its sole shareholder is the South African government.
Who funds DBSA?
The DBSA is funded by the government of South Africa, its sole shareholder. This ownership structure ensures the bank's operations are guided by the country's development priorities.
Sources
- https://www.cbinsights.com/company/development-bank-of-southern-africa
- https://www.miga.org/project/development-bank-southern-africa
- https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/516/234642.html
- https://www.saflii.org/za/legis/num_act/dbosaa1997328/
- https://www.vfplus.org.za/latest-news/development-bank-of-southern-africa-dbsa-looting-sa-tax-money/
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