Kuda Mukova takes on role of CEO at RIIS, Africa’s largest innovation-focused advisory firm
The Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS), Africa’s largest innovation-focused advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Kuda Mukova has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer.
During its 16 years of operation, RIIS has attracted a diverse range of clients and strategic partnerships from key economic sectors including mining and natural resources, energy and space. As of 2024, RIIS was also appointed the interim host for the Programme Management Office for the pan-African programme, Digital Earth Africa.
Davis Cook, who led the firm as CEO for more than a decade, and now moves into the role of Chairman at RIIS says, “RIIS is well positioned to further expand its already strong network of partners and clients that are focused on growing African innovation ecosystems, building sustainable business and leveraging the incredible innovative opportunity that is emerging in the continent. To take RIIS on this new journey requires an experienced, innovative thinker who understands Africa’s diverse markets, challenges, risks and needs. We are confident that Kuda is the person who can lead RIIS into its next chapter.”
Prior to joining RIIS, Kuda was Head of impact & Sustainability at Norsad Capital, a leading, African-focused impact investor for mid-market growth companies in Africa. Before this, he was a Partner at IQbusiness, one of the largest South African management and technology consulting firms, attracting top talent and ambitious clients, both locally and globally. Here Kuda managed one of the Business Units and led key client engagements and new product development.
A Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience, Kuda earned his stripes at two of the Big Four consulting companies, where he worked for just under a decade. Throughout his career, Kuda has been dedicated to helping organizations drive their purpose while maximizing their positive impact. His experience spans strategy, innovation, sustainability and finance, working across private sector, public enterprises as well as developmental organisations and within the SADC region.
Kuda says, “My management approach is founded on two abiding principles. The first is to grow the pool of African leaders. Despite the incredible growth that this continent has seen, there remain immense opportunities that are yet to be fully tapped. But to be able to recognise and respond to these opportunities requires strong and insightful leaders. I believe that our collective responsibility is to nurture and guide this talent.
“The second principle is to build sustainable businesses, and that is best achieved by adopting a partnership approach, underpinned by excellent service delivery. I believe that our clients are our partners; we walk their journey with them, and their success is our success.”
Kuda believes that his principles align strongly with the ethos at RIIS. “I’m pleased to be taking the helm of a company such as RIIS. Along with our clients, we are achieving great things. Keep watching this space.”
About RIIS
RIIS is an African-focused advisory firm that has helped shape innovation ecosystem, redefine industries, and create socio-economic and commercial value. Established in 2008, we work at the edge of technology frontiers to build competitive companies, dynamic sectors, and healthy industrial ecosystems. RIIS specializes in climate change, industrial transformation, and sector development, including the space sector. The company’s work with individual firms includes long-term strategic planning, business analysis, technology road-mapping, organisational change, and specialised technology development.
