Institutionalising Africa’s Most Resilient Asset Class 

OVERVIEW

As part of the 17th Annual API Summit, we are proud to host the API Multifamily Forum on Day 2 of Africa’s premier real estate event. This dedicated sub-forum focuses exclusively on the rapid evolution of the residential rental sector - transitioning from fragmented holdings into a sophisticated, institutional-grade asset class.

In direct partnership with the South African Multifamily Residential Rental Association (SAMRRA), this forum brings together the continent’s leading fund managers, developers, and institutional investors to define the future of high-density, professionally managed housing. This sub-forum will highlight key insights and provide insights to an African and global audience.

WHY FOCUS ON MULTIFAMILY?

While other property sectors have faced volatility, the Multifamily Residential sector has proven its status as a defensive powerhouse. With urbanisation rates climbing and a growing "missing middle" seeking quality, secure tenure, the demand for purpose-built student and worker housing has never been higher.

"The multifamily sector is no longer a niche play, it is the cornerstone of a balanced, resilient real estate portfolio in Africa."

KEY DISCUSSION PILLARS

The 2026 Forum will dive deep into the mechanics of scaling rental portfolios, featuring insights from SAMRRA CEO Palesa Mkhize and industry giants:

• The Institutional Shift: How SAMRRA members (managing over R40 billion in assets) are professionalising the landlord-tenant relationship.
• Capital Flows: Understanding the entry of major banks into the multifamily space.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Leveraging the MSCI and CAHF White Papers and the Rode Report to benchmark performance and yield.
• Policy & Incentives: A look at how government subsidies and urban tax incentives are unlocking new development pipelines.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• Institutional Investors & Pension Funds looking for long-term, inflation-linked returns.

• Developers transitioning from "build-to-sell" to "build-to-rent" models.

• Property Managers & Tech Providers offering scalable solutions for large-scale residential estates.

• Public Sector Officials focused on urban densification and social housing solutions.

JOIN US AT THE CTICC

This year, the API Summit moves to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) to provide a world-class stage for deal-making.

• 525+ Delegates from 30+ countries.
• Curated Networking: Access to the API Summit Cocktail Party and the Champions Dinner.
• Recognition: Celebrate the year's best residential projects at the 10th Annual API Awards