Sanlam Private Equity’s first Fund II investment accelerates healthcare innovation in Southern Africa
Sanlam Private Equity (SPE) has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Medhold Group, one of Southern Africa’s largest distributors of world-class medical devices and hospital equipment. The landmark deal marks SPE’s first investment in SPE Mid-Market Fund II and positions Medhold to expand access to life-saving technologies, strengthen hospital infrastructure and enhance patient care across the region.
Driving healthcare modernization
As South Africa faces rising demand for modernised healthcare facilities, SPE’s investment will accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics and AI diagnostics.
Brandon Subrayan, Principal at SPE and co-lead on the transaction, says the investment reflects Sanlam Investments’ commitment to purposeful private equity, “Beyond the clear benefit of providing life-saving equipment, Medhold is a significant driver of specialised employment and skills transfer. This investment will support the creation of high-value jobs for clinical engineers, technicians, and product specialists – roles essential to operating sophisticated medical equipment.”
Medhold’s proven track record
Founded in 1988, Medhold has built a formidable reputation for connecting healthcare professionals with pioneering solutions. The company is the regional distribution partner for globally recognised brands including Intuitive Surgical, creators of the Da Vinci robotic surgical system, and GE Healthcare Technologies, leaders in anesthesia and patient monitoring systems.
Its operations span orthopaedics, theatre and ICU, maternal infant care, and clinical imaging, with services ranging from product supply and installation to clinical training and after-sales support.
Subrayan says: “This deal brings us closer to democratising advanced healthcare. By strengthening Medhold’s operational and financial capacity, we can expand the reach of cutting-edge technologies into more communities, preserving and enhancing Medhold’s legacy of shared value.”
Building South Africa, deal by deal
The investment underscores SPE’s philosophy of backing resilient businesses that create sustainable value while strengthening South Africa’s social and economic fabric. With SPE’s support, Medhold will continue investing in employee development, learnerships through the YES4YOUTH programme, and donations of medical equipment to public healthcare facilities.
Paul Moeketsi, Managing Partner at SPE, says, “Private equity investors are uniquely placed to drive real economic change. Transactions such as this help formalise, professionalise, and scale mid-market companies - the backbone of the South African economy. Stronger governance, inclusive employment, and innovation in sectors like healthcare are the outcomes we aim to deliver.”
A powerful partnership
The partnership combines Sanlam’s financial strength and strategic expertise with Medhold’s deep industry knowledge and distribution network. Together, they will expand product offerings, strengthen service capabilities, and advance Medhold’s mission of delivering trusted medical technologies across Southern Africa.
