Sanlam Umbrella Fund appoints Dr Nthabiseng Moleko as Sponsor-Appointed Trustee

The Sanlam Umbrella Fund has appointed respected development economist and business leader Dr Nthabiseng Moleko as Sponsor-Appointed Trustee.

Dr Moleko's appointment reflects the Fund's ongoing commitment to strong governance, diverse perspectives and the expertise required to navigate an increasingly complex retirement funding environment.

Dr Moleko is a Development Economist and Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch Business School with extensive experience in economics, development finance and econometrics. She has served as Chairperson of the National Empowerment Fund since 2021 and was reappointed to the role in 2025, having previously chaired the Fund's Investment Committee. She also serves as Chairperson of the Presidential B-BBEE Advisory Council and on the Strategic Advisory Committee of the Development Bank of Southern Africa's Infrastructure Fund. Her research and published work have focused on development finance, pension reform and inclusive economic growth.

Dr Moleko succeeds Mkuseli Mbomvu, who served on the board from March 2020 to 2026.

Nzwa Shoniwa, Managing Executive: Sanlam Umbrella Solutions, said Dr Moleko's appointment would further strengthen the Board's depth of expertise at a time when retirement funds are playing an increasingly important role in helping South Africans achieve better retirement outcomes.

"Strong governance is fundamental to protecting members' interests and ensuring retirement funds deliver on their long-term promises. Dr Moleko brings a wealth of experience in governance, development finance and public policy, as well as a deep understanding of the economic realities facing South Africans. We are delighted to welcome her to the Board and look forward to the contribution she will make,” he said.

Dr Moleko said she was honoured to join the Board of one of South Africa's leading umbrella funds.

"Retirement funds have a critical role to play in securing financial futures for millions of South Africans. I look forward to working with my fellow trustees to support sound governance, responsible stewardship and outcomes that serve the best interests of members."

The Sanlam Umbrella Fund thanked Mr Mbomvu for his contribution and commitment during his tenure as Sponsor-Appointed Trustee and welcomed his support in ensuring a seamless transition.

Serving more than 345 000 members across over 4 700 participating employers and overseeing assets of approximately R153 billion, the Sanlam Umbrella Fund is a market-leading, fully integrated retirement solution designed to deliver superior outcomes for employers and members alike. Through its innovative product design, robust default strategies, and industry-leading member engagement tools, the Fund empowers members to make better financial decisions throughout their journey to retirement. Backed by Sanlam’s trusted brand and deep actuarial, investment, and advisory capabilities, the Umbrella Fund combines strong governance, flexibility, and personalised support, making it the partner of choice for organisations seeking to enhance employee benefits and secure long-term financial wellbeing.