When Ramasela Ganda took the helm as Group CEO of Zeda Limited in January 2020, she set out to redefine African mobility. Over the past four years, she has strengthened Zelda’s position and led the company into a new era of creative, sustainable, and customer-centric solutions.
Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Ganda earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Vista University, an honours degree and a Certificate in Theory of Accounting from the University of Pretoria – all in her home country.
Her career began in tech, where she co-founded an e-commerce startup while digital business in Africa was still emerging. However, her sharp financial acumen led her into leadership roles at major corporations, including Vodacom, Telkom, and Barloworld Equipment, where she served as CFO. By 2020, she was appointed Group CEO of Zeda Limited, positioning her at the forefront of one of Africa’s largest mobility brands.
With a legacy of over 57 years, Zeda Limited, headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, has evolved into a leading mobility solution provider across sub-Saharan Africa. The company was founded (initially) as Avis Rent a Car in 1967 and has grown far beyond traditional car rentals. Today, Zeda operates under a long-term license agreement with the Avis Budget Group, managing the globally recognised Avis and Budget brands in 10 African countries.
The company’s expansion includes Avis Fleet, Africa’s largest fleet management company, overseeing more than 200,000 vehicles and offering tailored leasing and fleet optimisation solutions; and Avis Car Sales, a structured channel for selling high-quality used rental and leasing vehicles.
Building sustainability for a greener future
As CEO, Ramasela Ganda has spearheaded several initiatives to reduce the company’s environmental footprint. She has set up eco-friendly operations aligned with global sustainability standards, invested in renewable energy, and promoted sustainable manufacturing processes.
This sustainability drive has boosted Zeda’s reputation as an environmentally responsible company and positioned it as a forward-thinking player in Africa’s mobility industry.
Her strategic initiatives have yielded impressive financial results. By the end of 2023, Zeda reported a 12% increase in revenue, reaching R9,145 million ($496.8 million). The corporate segment grew by 28%, while the inbound segment made a remarkable 108% recovery. This financial strength has allowed Zeda to expand its footprint across multiple African countries, solidifying its dominance in the industry.
Outside the boardroom, Ramasela Ganda is a staunch advocate for women’s empowerment in the tech and business sectors. She actively invests in the next generation of female leaders through mentorship programs and scholarship initiatives. This way, she can ensure that the doors she has walked through remain open for others to follow.
