About Professor Wiseman Nkuhlu

Professor Lumkile Wiseman Nkuhlu is a trailblazing leader, renowned for his groundbreaking achievements in education, corporate governance and economic development. As South Africa’s first black Chartered Accountant, he broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of African professionals in the finance and business sectors.

Currently, Professor Nkuhlu serves as the Chairman of KPMG South Africa, where his leadership continues to shape corporate governance and accountability. His long-standing commitment to education is reflected in his 15-year tenure as Chancellor of the University of Pretoria, a role he held until June 2022. Before this, he was the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Transkei from 1987 to 1991, driving forward educational transformation during a pivotal time in South Africa.

Professor Nkuhlu has also made significant contributions to development finance, serving as Chairman of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) for five years. His expertise in finance is further highlighted by his involvement with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), where he is a member of the Advisory Board and a former two-term President from April 1998 to April 2000. His passion for the development of Black accountants is evident through his role as Patron of the Nkuhlu School of Accounting at the University of Fort Hare.

One of Professor Nkuhlu’s most notable contributions to African development was his role as Economic Advisor to President Thabo Mbeki and his leadership as Chief Executive of the Secretariat of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) from 2000 to 2005. During this time, he played a key role in formulating the NEPAD policy framework, promoting its vision both across Africa and internationally, and advocating for African development issues and corporate governance at global conferences.

His commitment to excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including Honorary Doctorates from the Universities of the Free State, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Pretoria, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Witwatersrand, and the University of Fort Hare. He has also been honoured by the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce, the Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa, and the Black Management Forum for his contributions to business and the advancement of Black professionals. In 2004, the University of Cape Town awarded him the President of Convocation Medal for outstanding community service.

Professor Nkuhlu’s lifelong dedication to leadership, education and African development continues to inspire.

Through the Wiseman Nkuhlu Trust, his legacy of purposeful leadership is nurtured, empowering the next generation of leaders to carry forward his vision of integrity, accountability, and impactful change.