Cikü Mugambi Joins DOB Equity to Boost East African Investments

Cikü Mugambi, former CEO of digital logistics giant Kobo360, has been appointed as the Investment Director of DOB Equity, a Netherlands-based private equity firm dedicated to promoting scalable and impactful businesses across East Africa. The announcement, made on Monday, highlights the company’s strategy to leverage Mugambi’s extensive experience in investment and operations throughout the continent.

With over 15 years of investment expertise under her belt, Mugambi has built a reputation for deploying capital into high-impact enterprises. Her journey began at KPMG, where she played a key role in equity investments targeting technology startups and venture capital funds across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Before her new role, Mugambi served as the CEO of Kobo360, often referred to as the “Uber of trucks.” During her tenure, she spearheaded commercial growth, operational efficiency, and sustainability initiatives. However, her leadership at Kobo360 was cut short due to operational and financial challenges, prompting her resignation after just one year. The company had previously attracted $79 million from investors, including Goldman Sachs affiliate Juven, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and TLcom Capital.

What Mugambi Brings to DOB Equity

Mugambi’s appointment is expected to strengthen DOB Equity’s mission of supporting businesses that drive economic growth and deliver lasting social impact. As an evergreen fund, DOB Equity reinvests all proceeds to ensure long-term growth for its portfolio companies. Mugambi’s role will focus on identifying and supporting local entrepreneurs developing scalable solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing challenges.

With her extensive background in investment strategy, portfolio management, and operational leadership, Mugambi is well-positioned to help DOB Equity achieve its goals. She holds an MBA from Strathmore Business School and IESE Business School, a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science from the University of Nairobi, and is also a Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K).

The firm expressed enthusiasm for her appointment on LinkedIn, stating, “DOB Equity is delighted to welcome Cikü Mugambi as our new Investment Director.” Her role will include working closely with entrepreneurs to mitigate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks while maximising value and social impact for companies and their communities.

Relocating to Nairobi for Greater Impact

Mugambi’s move from Lagos to Nairobi signifies DOB Equity’s strengthened commitment to the East African investment landscape. The firm’s approach aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on profitable, socially responsible investments.

By joining DOB Equity, Mugambi is set to enhance the firm’s efforts to build a more inclusive and sustainable investment ecosystem in East Africa, with a particular emphasis on supporting innovative businesses that tackle societal challenges.