Dr Tenza to Lead South Africa’s Innovation Drive in New DSTI Role

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has announced the secondment of Dr Kenny Tenza from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)  to the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) . Tenza has taken on the role of Acting Deputy Director-General for Technology Innovation, effective 1 July 2025. This secondment will last for 12 months.

The Minister highlighted Tenza’s qualifications, referring to him as an accomplished academic and a highly decorated scientist. He emphasised Tenza’s extensive knowledge of the technology innovation field and noted that he has held prominent positions in leading scientific organisations both in the country and worldwide.

In his current position as the Business Development and Commercialisation Executive at the CSIR’s Advanced Chemistry and Life Sciences Division, he oversees the commercialisation of proprietary intellectual property in the agriculture, food, chemicals, and health industries.

Nzimande said that Tenza is making a significant contribution to the re-industrialisation of South Africa through innovations in science.

“Dr Tenza also possesses a unique blend of executive leadership skills, which includes strategic leadership, culture change management, strategy development and implementation, financial sustainability, capability development, performance, operations, and governance.”

–Blade Nzimande, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, South Africa. 

The Minister believes that Tenza’s experience and expertise will be essential in driving the department’s efforts to reposition their technology innovation instruments and programmes.

“I also wish to urge the staff in the department and from our entities to support Dr Tenza in his new role.”

–Blade Nzimande, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, South Africa.