Investment firm Centum Investment Company has announced the appointment of Donald Kaberuka as its new Board Chairman, marking a significant leadership shift for one of East Africa’s most influential investment groups.
The appointment places one of Africa’s most respected financial leaders at the helm of Centum’s strategic direction, signaling a renewed push for growth, governance, and regional expansion.
Kaberuka is widely known for his tenure as President of the African Development Bank, where he served from 2005 to 2015 and oversaw major infrastructure financing, economic reforms, and development programs across the continent.
His experience in global finance, public policy, and large-scale investment management is expected to play a critical role in shaping Centum’s next phase, particularly as the company navigates evolving market conditions and capital allocation strategies.
Centum, which has investments spanning real estate, private equity, energy, and financial services, has in recent years been restructuring parts of its portfolio while seeking new opportunities in high-growth sectors across Africa.
The company’s leadership indicated that Kaberuka’s appointment reflects a deliberate effort to strengthen corporate governance and position the firm for long-term value creation.
His deep networks across international financial institutions, governments, and private sector players are also expected to open new avenues for partnerships and capital mobilization.
Kaberuka’s arrival comes at a time when investment firms in the region are under increasing pressure to deliver returns while managing risk in a challenging economic environment marked by currency volatility, rising interest rates, and shifting investor sentiment.
Analysts view the move as a strategic bet by Centum to leverage Kaberuka’s credibility and track record to enhance investor confidence and drive disciplined growth.
Beyond his AfDB role, Kaberuka has held various high-level advisory and board positions globally, further reinforcing his reputation as a seasoned strategist with a strong grasp of both African and international markets.
For Centum, the leadership transition is more than symbolic—it represents a pivot toward a more globally aligned governance structure and a sharper focus on execution.
With Kaberuka now chairing the board, attention will turn to how the company translates this leadership change into tangible performance and expansion in the coming years.
