Helios Investment Partners

Helios Investment Partners is a prominent private equity firm dedicated exclusively to Africa, managing funds totaling $3.6 billion. With offices in London, Paris, Lagos, and Nairobi, the firm invests in a wide array of sectors, including telecommunications, media, financial services, power, utilities, travel, leisure, distribution, fast-moving consumer goods, logistics, and agro-allied industries. Helios focuses on growth, buyout, turnaround, and distressed investments, primarily in Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, with a broader presence across the continent.

Established in 2004 by Tope Lawani and Babatunde Soyoye, Helios has built a strong track record of creating start-ups, providing growth capital, and developing African market leaders. The firm's unique combination of deep knowledge of the African operating environment, commitment to the continent, and proven capability to manage complexity has positioned it as a partner of choice. Helios has been recognized for its impact, including receiving the 2023 GPCA Social Impact Award and being listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Helios believes that its greatest contribution to regional development comes from building profitable, value-creating, and socially responsible private enterprises. The firm has become the largest emerging markets-focused private equity firm globally to receive B Corp certification, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification underscores Helios's dedication to balancing profit with purpose, ensuring that its investments not only deliver strong financial returns but also contribute positively to the communities and environments in which they operate.