In recent years, Africa has witnessed a remarkable shift in corporate leadership , with an increasing number of women stepping into the role of CEO.
They are not only breaking glass ceilings but also redefining the narrative of leadership in a region where gender disparities have long been prevalent.
In this article, WoA delves into the inspiring journeys of these women, highlighting the impact they are making in their industries.
1. Mpumi Zikalala – Kumba Iron Ore
Kumba Iron Ore Ltd is a leading iron ore mining company in South Africa and the largest producer in Africa, operating primarily the Sishen and Kolomela mines.
It is a subsidiary of Anglo American plc, with a strong focus on high-grade iron ore production, benefiting significantly from Chinese demand.
CEO Mpumi Zikalala, appointed in January 2022, is notable for being the first female CEO of Kumba.
She has extensive leadership experience within Anglo American and previously managed De Beers’ operations.
2. Mpumi Madisa – Bidvest Group
Bidvest Group, founded in 1988 and headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a diversified services and trading company with over 250 businesses and approximately 132,870 employees globally.
It operates in sectors such as business services and trading and distribution, focusing on a B2B model.
Mpumi Madisa, the current CEO since October 2020, holds a Master’s in Finance and Investment.
She has a robust background in various executive roles within Bidvest and is also involved with the UN Global Compact SA.
3. Bertina Engelbrecht – Clicks Group
Clicks Group Ltd is a leading retail-led healthcare group in South Africa, operating over 840 retail stores and 620 in-store pharmacies.
The company, listed on the JSE since 1996, encompasses well-known brands like Clicks, GNC, Claire’s, and The Body Shop.
Bertina Engelbrecht, appointed CEO in January 2022, is the first Black woman to lead a listed retail group in South Africa.
She has extensive experience in HR and corporate affairs, having joined Clicks in 2006.
4. Dr. Nombasa Tsengwa – Exxaro Resources
Exxaro Resources is a prominent South African diversified mining company, primarily known for its coal production and growing interests in renewable energy.
Established in 2006, Exxaro aims to transition towards a low-carbon economy while maximizing the value of its coal assets.
Nombasa Tsengwa has been the CEO since August 2022, succeeding Mxolisi Mgojo.
With a Ph.D. and extensive experience in both mining and environmental sectors, she focuses on sustainable growth and innovation within the company.
5. Albertinah Kekana – Royal Bafokeng Holdings
Royal Bafokeng Holdings (RBH) is the primary investment vehicle for the Royal Bafokeng Nation, a community in South Africa known for its mineral-rich land.
Established in 2006, RBH manages diverse assets across sectors such as mining, financial services, and infrastructure to generate income for community development.
Albertinah Kekana, the CEO since 2012, is a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience in investment management and corporate strategy.
She has successfully led RBH’s portfolio diversification and emphasizes strategic partnerships to enhance value for the Bafokeng community.
6. Jane Karuku – East African Breweries (EABL)
East African Breweries PLC (EABL) is a leading beverage company in East Africa, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.
Founded in 1922, it produces a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including iconic brands like Tusker and Guinness.
EABL operates in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan, with Diageo PLC as its largest shareholder.
Jane Karuku, appointed CEO in January 2021, has over 25 years of experience in the FMCG sector.
She previously led Kenya Breweries Limited and has held significant roles in various organizations, including AGRA and Telkom Kenya.
7. Ntombi Felicia Msiza – Raubex Group
Raubex Group Ltd, established in 1974, is a prominent South African infrastructure development and construction materials supplier, specializing in road construction, earthworks, and aggregates.
The company operates across southern Africa and Western Australia, employing over 7,000 people.
Felicia Msiza, appointed CEO in August 2022, previously served as the Governance, Risk, and Compliance executive director.
8. Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe – Fidelity Bank
Fidelity Bank Plc, established in 1987 and headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, is a prominent commercial bank known for its stability and extensive customer base of over 7.2 million.
It operates through 250 branches and has garnered recognition for its innovative banking solutions and consistent profitability.
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe has served as the Managing Director and CEO since January 1, 2021.
With over 30 years in banking, she has held various leadership roles and is noted for driving significant growth and transformation within the bank.
Under her leadership, Fidelity Bank has received multiple awards, including Banker of the Year 2022.
9. Zanele Matlala – Merafe Resources
Merafe Resources Ltd (RZT) is a South African mining company primarily involved in the production of ferrochrome, a key ingredient in stainless steel.
The company operates through a joint venture with Glencore and has a significant presence in the local mining sector.
Zanele Matlala, the CEO since October 2010, holds a BCom and BCompt (Hons) and is a Chartered Accountant.
She has extensive experience in finance and management within the mining industry.
10. Patricia Obo-Nai – Vodafone Ghana
Vodafone Ghana is a leading telecommunications company in Ghana, providing mobile and fixed-line services.
It was established as a subsidiary of the Vodafone Group and has played a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity in the country.
Patricia Obo-Nai, appointed CEO on April 1, 2019, is the first Ghanaian to hold this position.
With over 22 years of experience in telecommunications, she previously served as Chief Technology Officer and Director of Fixed Business at Vodafone Ghana.
Obo-Nai is recognized for her leadership and contributions to the industry, earning accolades such as one of Africa’s Most Influential Female Leaders in 2021.
