Maia Capital Partners, through its Maia Debt Impact Fund I, has extended mezzanine financing to Student Living Asset Management (SLAM), a South African private equity firm specializing in student accommodation. The funding is intended to support SLAM’s acquisition of a 51% controlling stake in Academia, a premium 1,026-bed student residence located in Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s leading university towns.
This transaction marks a significant milestone in addressing the country’s growing demand for quality student housing, a sector that continues to face a critical supply gap.
Tshandu Ramusetheli, CEO of Maia Capital Partners, commented:
We are delighted to partner with SLAM on this landmark transaction, which reflects our commitment to addressing the pressing shortfall of student accommodation in South Africa. This investment aligns with our mission to deliver measurable social impact while generating sustainable financial returns.
SLAM’s investment strategy focuses on acquiring and managing large-scale, well-located student housing assets with strong operational performance and long-term demand fundamentals. The acquisition of Academia aligns with this approach, offering a proven track record of occupancy and operational excellence.
Ndumiso Davidson, CEO and Co-founder of SLAM, stated:
SLAM invests in assets of scale in defensive locations with a strong operating track record and demonstrable long term student demand. Academia exemplifies the profile of assets we seek to provide our investors. We are joining forces with the existing leadership team. There will be no disruption, no staff overhaul, and no operational restructuring. We’re here to build on a strong foundation, not to fix an operation that’s already working exceptionally well and has been the residence of choice in Stellenbosch for the last 25 years.
This partnership between Maia Capital and SLAM underscores a shared vision for inclusive growth, sustainable infrastructure development, and the empowerment of South Africa’s youth through improved access to safe, reliable, and dignified student accommodation.
