Vodacom strengthens foundation’s leadership structure

The Vodacom Foundation has introduced a new seven-member board, led by Dr Vera Songwe, to enhance its impact across the continent by 2030. This consolidation unites the eight foundations within the group's global reach under a single leadership. Vodacom's foundation brings together professionals with expertise in diverse areas such as economic development, public policy, technology, sustainability, governance, and social impact.

These members will guide the foundation's transition to scalable, digitally-driven initiatives in health, education, and digital skills.

The JSE-listed company emphasizes that the new leadership and unified structure will utilize Vodacom's technology, connectivity, and strategic alliances to tackle some of Africa's most pressing developmental issues. Dr Vera Songwe, the new chairperson, expressed her commitment to the ambitious goal of impacting 50 million lives by 2030.

Accompanying her on the board are Vodacom Group CEO and foundation founder Shameel Joosub; Graça Machel, founder of the Graça Machel Trust; Ayman Essam, Vodacom Group's chief officer for external affairs; Anna Isaac, chief officer for legal, risk, and compliance; Gerhard van Niekerk, executive from Vodacom Mauritius; and Mashudu Ndou, a sustainability and social-impact executive who will serve as the foundation's executive head.

Mr Joosub highlighted the importance of the strengthened leadership and regional strategy, stating that it will enable the foundation to scale successful programs, deepen partnerships, and leverage technology to create lasting impacts for millions of Africans. The foundation plans to bolster its strategic alliances with governments, co-funders, technical partners, and implementation organizations to expand the reach and sustainability of its programs.

This new leadership structure reflects the foundation's evolution from focusing on individual countries to a more coordinated, regional approach.