Komatsu Africa Holdings (KAfH) today announced leadership changes that will take effect on 1 April 2025.

After a long and illustrious career in Komatsu, President and Managing Director Mike Blom has been appointed as Chairman of the company. Blom joined Komatsu in 1981 and has served as Managing Director of Komatsu since 2008. In 2020, he was appointed as President and Managing Director of KAfH and as a Global Executive Officer of Komatsu Limited, Japan.

Succeeding him as Managing Director of Komatsu Africa Holdings (Pty) Ltd, is Wicus Burger. Wicus was previously the Managing Director of Komatsu Namibia and has been working for Komatsu North America for the past 5 years. He has gained valuable knowledge and experience during this time and will add great value to the business in Southern Africa.

Yusuke Shimazaki has been appointed Deputy Managing Director of Komatsu Africa Holdings, effective 1 April 2025. He will play a key role in the transition of the senior leadership roles. Shimazaki has been with KAfH for 3 years in the role of Director, Corporate Strategy and Business Development, and has extensive experience in Komatsu’s mining division in various countries. He looks forward to continuing to work with our customers and supporting our efforts to bring value to our customers in our region.

Reflecting on the transition, Blom said: “Leading Komatsu Africa Holdings has been an incredible journey. I am proud of what we have achieved together and confident that Wicus and Yusuke will steer the company toward further growth and success. The transition process will not have any impact on our customers and our leadership teams will continue to meet the needs of our customers and our business”

“Fostering trust and achieving our common purpose will continue to be at the core of our organization as we build on the strong foundations in place. I look forward to working with our teams, customers, and communities in Southern Africa to make a lasting, positive contribution,” said Burger.

These changes are in line with Komatsu’s plans to continue to grow and develop to provide customers with solutions for an ever-changing environment and create value together.