On 27 May 2016, the Banking Association South Africa (BASA) signed an agreement to join UNEP FI as a supporting partner becoming the first Banking Industry Association in Africa and third globally, to achieve a Supporting Institution Status.

This partnership comes in celebration of 15 years of collaboration between UNEP FI and BASA, a collaboration dating back to 2002 during the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) which took place in Johannesburg.

BASA has been active in promoting sustainable finance in South Africa, and in 2015, implemented “Principles for Managing Environmental & Social Risks”. These Principles recognise the role that financial institutions can play in the protection, promotion and fulfillment of social, economic and environmental rights in South Africa.

A key area of emphasis under the partnership is expected to be UNEP FI’s new Positive Impact Initiative, which is focused on up-scaling the availability of finance for the pursuit of environmental, social and development goals through the development of impact-based business and financing solutions.

About the Banking Association South Africa

The Banking Association South Africa is the mandated representative of the banking sector. The role of The Banking Association is to facilitate the enablement of a conducive banking environment through robust engagement with government and relevant stakeholders. A critical role of The Banking Association is to work with its members to enable this role within the context of the transformation challenges prevailing in South Africa.

For more on the Banking Association South Africa visit – www.banking.org.za

Please click here for the press release