Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) proudly emerged as winner across 3 distinguished categories at the 2025 API Awards, affirming its leadership and impact in African real estate. These accolades include Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year, the Women in Real Estate Award, and Best Transaction of the Year for the Bankenveld District City Project

Why these wins matter 

Each nomination reflects our strategic commitment to delivering innovative, client-centric solutions that meet the evolving needs of property developers, owners, and investors in real estate in South Africa and the broader African continent. These categories align closely with our core pillars, being market leadership, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) integration, and inclusive development.

Being recognised in these categories reaffirms Nedbank CIB's role as a key driver of real estate excellence in Africa. It highlights our ability to operate across jurisdictions, structure complex transactions, and support long-term, sustainable growth in property in Africa. Whether through pioneering financial models, empowering women in leadership, or enabling transformative urban projects, these wins speak to the depth and diversity of our impact.

The API Awards

Held during the 9th Annual African Property Investment Summit on 18 and 19 September, the API Awards promote innovation, quality, and confidence in the real estate industry. Judged by a panel of industry experts and thought leaders, these awards have become a critical benchmark for success across African property developers, consultants, suppliers, and property owners, and serve as a prestigious peer-to-peer recognition platform that celebrates excellence in the African real estate sector.

For Nedbank CIB, winning at the API Awards is a powerful endorsement of our leadership, impact, and commitment to shaping the future of real estate in South Africa and beyond. 

Nedbank CIB's nominations and strategic goals

Winning Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year affirms our position as the largest commercial property financier in South Africa, with a 36% market share and a robust presence across Africa. Our ability to structure deals across the capital stack, combined with in-house valuation, legal, and execution teams, sets us apart in delivering seamless, scalable solutions to property developers and investors.

Driving industry excellence through innovation 

The API Awards are more than accolades. They are a catalyst for progress. By recognising innovation and impact, they encourage the industry to raise the bar. For Nedbank CIB, these awards validate our role in driving transformation and excellence in property Africa.

Our leadership in ESG and innovation is reflected in tools like the Climate Risk Tool, geo-coding thousands of properties to assess climate vulnerability, and the EDGE Expert Value-added Services, helping clients achieve green building certification. These initiatives support smarter, more sustainable property investment decisions and reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship.

A vision for inclusive urban growth 

The Bankenveld District City Project, winner of Best Transaction of the Year, exemplifies our long-term vision for inclusive urban development. Located near the Marlboro Gautrain station, Bankenveld bridges the gap between affordability and access to economic hubs like Sandton. Integrated housing, logistics, retail, schools, and commercial spaces create a live-work-play environment, fostering socioeconomic upliftment.

Our role as a long-term equity partner through Nedbank Property Partners is rare in the banking sector, and emphasises our commitment to sustainable development and community impact.

Shaping the future of African real estate 

Africa's property sector is evolving rapidly, with key trends pointing towards mixed-use developments, ESG integration, and digital innovation. 

Nedbank CIB is at the forefront of these shifts, helping property owners and developers navigate complexity and unlock new opportunities. Our flexible funding models, deep sector expertise, and innovative tools empower clients to realise their vision while managing risk and driving long-term value.

Recognition in the Women in Real Estate Award category highlights our commitment to inclusive leadership. Vanessa Murray, Divisional Executive for Property Finance at Nedbank CIB, has led with purpose and impact over the past year. Her achievements in strategic transformation, ESG advocacy, and mentorship highlight the vital role women play in shaping the future of African real estate.

Recognition that reflects purpose and impact 

Being recognised at the API Awards is more than a celebration. It is a reflection of our purpose, our people, and our partnerships. At Nedbank CIB, we remain committed to leading with integrity, innovation, and impact in every property investment we support.