The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is a leading financial institution dedicated to infrastructure development and economic growth across South Africa and the broader Southern African region. Central to this mission is the expertise and leadership provided by its Board of Directors, which brings together seasoned professionals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that the Bank fulfills its mandate of fostering sustainable development.
In this article, we take a closer look at some of the key figures who are driving the DBSA’s vision forward.
Ebrahim Rasool – Chairman of the DBSA
Ebrahim Rasool has been at the helm of the DBSA since November 2022 as an Independent Non-Executive Director. With a rich background in government, diplomacy, and social services, Rasool is well-equipped to lead the Bank. His previous roles as Premier of the Western Cape and South African Ambassador to the United States have endowed him with leadership and management skills essential for guiding the Bank through complex regulatory environments.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts and Higher Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Town, and honorary doctorates from Roosevelt University in Chicago and Chatham University in Pittsburgh.
Boitumelo Mosako – Chief Executive Officer
Boitumelo Mosako made history in April 2023 by becoming the first woman to serve as CEO of the DBSA. With a background in finance, including previous roles as Chief Financial Officer at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), Mosako brings over 12 years of experience in financial services. Her expertise in governance, risk management, and financial strategy is instrumental in steering the Bank toward its long-term objectives.
A Chartered Accountant by training, Mosako holds several prestigious qualifications, including an Advanced Management Programme Certificate from Harvard Business School.
Zodwa Mbele – Chief Financial Officer
Zodwa Mbele joined the DBSA as CFO in October 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in financial leadership. Her career has seen her hold key positions within the DBSA, including Acting CFO and Group Executive: Transacting. Mbele’s strategic and financial management skills are supported by her Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification, along with additional certifications in International Treasury Management and executive programs from institutions like Harvard Business School.
Kenneth Brown – Non-Executive Director
Kenneth Brown joined the DBSA as a Non-Executive Director in 2022, bringing with him significant expertise from his career in both the public and private sectors. His experience at the National Treasury of South Africa, where he served as Chief Procurement Officer, and in leadership roles at Standard Bank, positions him as a critical figure in the Bank’s mission to promote sustainable development.
Martie Janse van Rensburg – Deputy Chair & Independent Non-Executive Director
With a tenure beginning in 2016, Martie Janse van Rensburg plays a key role in overseeing governance at the DBSA. Her experience as the former CEO of the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority adds valuable strategic planning and project finance expertise to the board. A Chartered Accountant, van Rensburg holds qualifications in finance and governance from the University of the Free State and Stanford University Business School.
Edgar Pieterse – Independent Non-Executive Director
Prof. Edgar Pieterse joined the DBSA in October 2023, adding academic and policy expertise to the Bank’s Board. As the Director of the African Centre for Cities, Pieterse is a thought leader in urban development and sustainable human settlements. His insights into poverty alleviation and infrastructure development will help guide the Bank’s initiatives to improve the lives of millions across the region.