After a one-month tenure, Cikü Mugambi has joined DOB Equity, a Dutch investment firm focusing on East Africa, as an Investment Director, according to her LinkedIn profile.
This move follows her departure from Kobo360, a logistics startup where she served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
DOB Equity, in a LinkedIn announcement, conveyed their enthusiasm, stating, “DOB Equity is delighted to welcome Cikü Mugambi as our new Investment Director. Cikü brings 15 years of investment and operational experience across Africa, with a strong track record of deploying capital into high-impact businesses.”
Ms Mugambi’s return to the investment sector comes after two years at Kobo360.
She initially joined as Chief Operations Officer (COO) before being promoted to CEO in August 2023, succeeding co-founder Obi Ozor.
Her resignation occurred after a period marked by financial strain and leadership changes.
Kobo360, which had raised approximately $79 million from investors including Juven, a Goldman Sachs affiliate, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and TLcom Capital, faced significant operational challenges.
Under Ms Mugambi’s leadership, the company provided trucking services to major clients like Dangote, Unilever, and Flour Mills.
Following her departure, co-founder Obi Ozor has returned to lead Kobo360, which is reportedly grappling with ₦10 billion ($650,762.04) in bank debt.
The company aims to secure fresh financing to resume operations by the second quarter of 2025 and plans to recall laid-off employees by 2026, if all goes according to plan.
At DOB Equity, Mugambi will focus on supporting local founders developing scalable solutions to Africa’s challenges.
Her experience in investment strategy and operational leadership is expected to enhance DOB Equity’s mission of backing businesses that drive economic growth and developmental impact.
