Big updates for the Eastern Cape's automotive sector!
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
The Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC) has announced a decisive governance intervention aimed at restoring institutional stability, reinforcing internal controls, and protecting the province’s vital automotive sector.
Formally presented at a press briefing on Monday, July 13, 2026, this strategic intervention introduces key leadership updates to steer the agency through its next chapter.
Meet the New Leadership Team
Ms Lulama Mbobo-Vava (Acting CEO):Â Appointed to steer the agency during this transitional phase and keep organisational targets firmly on track.
Mr Pepi Mninawe Silinga (Board Chairperson):Â The former Chief Executive Officer of Transnet National Ports Authority and the Coega Development Corporation, bringing over three decades of experience leading major public entities, infrastructure programmes, and economic development institutions.
Mr David Dennis Coffey (Board Member):Â A highly accomplished executive with over 35 years of leadership experience in manufacturing, automotive, engineering, and industry development across South Africa and the continent. He has held Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director and General Manager positions in leading automotive and manufacturing organisations, including the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM), PG Group/Shatterprufe, Bel-Essex Engineering and Dorbyl Automotive Technologies. Â
Mr Mikel Materi Mabasa (Board Member):Â An established executive leader with deep expertise driving organisational performance, stakeholder alignment, and industry transformation across highly regulated sectors. As an executive leader, Mr Mabasa served as Chief Executive Officer of naamsa | The Automotive Business Council, South Africa's premier automotive industry association representing more than 95% of the country's vehicle manufacturing sector.
Restoring Trust & Driving Economic Growth
As a critical driver of regional economic development, the AIDC-EC remains fully committed to its core mandate of supporting the automotive industry. The incoming leadership team will focus their efforts on strengthening internal governance frameworks, ensuring absolute transparency, and fostering sustainable industry growth.
Here is to a strong, stable, and prosperous future for Eastern Cape automotive manufacturing!
