The Southern Africa Trust aims to support projects in Southern Africa that focus on trade and development, industrialisation, food, agriculture and natural resources, migration and social protection, and climate change. They strive to be a reputable and reliable fund manager, building the capacity of civil society organisations and serving as a knowledge broker within the region.
The grant program targets a wide range of areas such as trade and development, industrialisation, food, agriculture and natural resources, migration and social protection, and climate change. It focuses on strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations, acting as a knowledge broker, and supports a variety of grantees including national network associations, regional networks, apex organisations, social movements, civil society organisations, and media houses with a regional impact. Unsolicited proposals are considered if they align with the Trust's mission and objectives, suggesting a broad yet focussed approach to grantmaking in Southern Africa.