Demonstrating Purpose-Driven Growth and Responsible Leadership

At First Mutual Holdings Limited (FMHL), environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance is not a peripheral obligation — it is central to how we deliver value to our stakeholders and sustain long-term business resilience. In 2024, FMHL advanced its ESG agenda by embedding sustainability into core operations, enhancing transparency through globally aligned reporting frameworks, and deepening our social impact across Southern Africa. From emissions reduction and inclusive financial solutions to ethical governance and award-winning social programmes, our achievements reflect a Group committed to creating shared value in every market we serve.

Environmental Stewardship

  • Energy Management: Reduced electricity consumption by 5% (1,818,462 kWh in 2024 vs 1,907,723 kWh in 2023), and continued solar generation with 170,804 kWh produced in 2024.
  • Climate Action: Scope 1 emissions from diesel use dropped to 6,288 kg CO₂e (from 8,486 kg in 2023), with Scope 2 emissions also slightly down.
  • Sustainable Real Estate: Conducted Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for new property developments and invested in energy-efficient infrastructure.
  • Water Stewardship: Increased water usage due to service expansion, with a 10% rise in water consumption, supported by borehole use to offset municipal supply constraints.

Social Impact

  • Employment & Inclusion: Grew workforce by 13% to 711 employees, with 51% female representation.
  • Employee Development: Average training hours per employee increased by 70%, reaching 34 hours in 2024.
  • Zero Workplace Injuries: Maintained a strong occupational health & safety record with zero recordable injuries in 2024.
  • Community Investment: Celebrated 10 years of the First Mutual Foundation, supporting vulnerable students from primary to tertiary education. Expanded scholarships to five national universities.
  • Healthcare Access: Expanded network of clinics, pharmacies and mobile health services, and launched low-cost medical insurance products to reach underserved populations

Governance Excellence

  • IFRS ISSB Adoption: Initiated adoption of IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (S1 & S2), conducted gap analysis, and began integration of climate risk disclosures into governance and strategy.
  • Ethical Conduct: Strengthened business ethics, anti-corruption practices, and board-level ESG oversight.
  • Board Diversity & Leadership: Diverse, experienced board with strong actuarial, legal, financial, and governance expertise guiding sustainability and performance strategies.
  • Awards & Recognition:

    • Winner – National Annual ESG and Responsible Business Achievement Awards 2024.
    • Multiple subsidiaries recognized as insurance and health superbrands by national associations.

Latest Report

For a comprehensive overview of FMHL’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, please refer to our most recent annual report.

  • First Mutual Holdings Limited releases its 2024 Annual Report