Keynote CEO Panel Discussion: The State of Pension Funds in Africa – The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
- Nexus and Nexus
- Sep 20
- 4 min read
The African pension landscape is at a crossroads. On one hand, pension funds across the continent have made remarkable strides in governance, innovation and member-centric reforms.
The African pension landscape is at a crossroads. On one hand, pension funds across the continent have made remarkable strides in governance, innovation, and member-centric reforms. On the other, challenges such as inadequate coverage, governance gaps, and regulatory hurdles continue to limit their full potential. To cap it all, urgent threats including demographic shifts, sustainability concerns, and global market volatility present pressing questions for the future.
To address these realities head-on, the Pan African Summit on Pension Fund Governance & Awards 2025, set aboard the luxurious MSC Cruise this December, will feature a Keynote CEO Panel Discussion titled “The State of Pension Funds in Africa – The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”
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There are only 32 Cabins left for the Pan African Summit on Pension Funds Governance and Awards 2025
This high-level dialogue brings together an exceptional line-up of CEOs and industry leaders who will share frank insights into the successes, challenges, and critical issues shaping pensions in Africa.
The Moderator: Jerry Moriarty
The panel will be moderated by Jerry Moriarty, Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Association of Pension Funds. With years of experience representing and guiding Ireland’s pension industry, Jerry brings a global perspective that will help frame African developments within broader international trends. His role as moderator ensures that the conversation remains insightful, balanced, and forward-looking.
The Panelists: Industry Titans
The session will feature distinguished voices from across the continent:
Oguche Agudah, Chief Executive Officer of the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria, will provide perspective from Africa’s largest economy, highlighting regulatory progress and the drive to expand coverage in Nigeria.
Michael Ndichu, Chief Executive Officer and Trust Secretary of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Kenya, brings experience from managing one of East Africa’s largest public funds, focusing on governance and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Leslie Ndawana, Principal Officer & CEO of the National Fund for Municipal Workers (NFMW), South Africa, will shed light on challenges and innovations within one of Africa’s most complex pension markets.
Sundeep Raichura, Group CEO of Zamara Group, Kenya, a renowned thought leader in pensions, will share insights into private sector innovation, member engagement, and the urgent need to close Africa’s pension coverage gap
Prosper Tafadzwa Matiashe, Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (FIA) and President of the Actuarial Society of Zimbabwe, is the latest addition to this esteemed panel. Prosper is widely respected for his actuarial expertise and leadership in Zimbabwe’s pension industry, where he has been instrumental in advancing governance reforms and actuarial standards.
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The Themes: Good, Bad, and Ugly
The discussion will be structured around three themes:
The Good: Highlighting successes such as improved governance, investment diversification, and growing awareness of retirement planning among African workers.
The Bad: Examining persistent challenges like low coverage rates, administrative inefficiencies, and trust deficits that continue to affect members’ confidence.
The Ugly: Addressing urgent threats such as demographic pressures, underfunding, currency volatility, and the risk of systemic crises if reforms are delayed.
This frank and open conversation promises to provide delegates with actionable insights, a clearer understanding of regional variations, and strategies to position pension funds as drivers of financial security and economic growth.
Announcement: Welcoming Prosper Tafadzwa Matiashe
We are delighted to announce the participation of Prosper Tafadzwa Matiashe on this flagship panel. As an FIA Fellow and President of the Actuarial Society of Zimbabwe, Prosper brings both technical depth and regional leadership to the discussion. His inclusion strengthens the panel’s balance, ensuring the voices of Southern Africa are well represented.
Why This Panel Matters
The future of pensions in Africa is not just a technical issue—it is central to social stability, financial inclusion, and sustainable development. The decisions and reforms discussed by this panel will shape how millions of Africans prepare for retirement and how pension funds contribute to national economies.
This is one session not to be missed at the Pan African Summit on Pension Fund Governance & Awards 2025, taking place 1–5 December aboard the MSC Cruise, sailing from Durban to Pomene Island, Mozambique.
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Early bird registration for Pan African Summit on Pension Funds Governance & Awards has expired, but delegates can activate a discount through group bookings. Cabin availability is limited. Booking early guarantees access to premium rooms, drink packages, and priority boarding perks.
Register and pay in October and bring your spouse, all on us for free!! Courtesy of House of Procurement (HOP) to attend the Pan African Summit on Pension Funds Governance & Awards (fondly known as the Pension Funds Cruise)
👉 Register now at: www.nexusandnexus.com/register
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