Elvira Dyangani Ose takes the helm as artistic director of Zeitz MOCAA for its 10th anniversary

Elvira Dyangani Ose has been named the new director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Mocaa) in Cape Town, following the death of the institution’s previous director, Koyo Kouoh, earlier this year. The announcement was made on August 12, 2026, marking the culmination of a lengthy search for a successor capable of continuing Kouoh’s influential legacy. Ose, an internationally renowned curator and museum director, brings a wealth of experience from major cultural institutions across Europe, Africa, and the United States. Koyo Kouoh, who hailed from Senegal and Switzerland, passed away in May 2025, just months after being chosen as the artistic director of the 61st Venice Biennale, a historic milestone as she would have been the first African woman to lead the prestigious event. Her passing left a void at Mocaa, which had already begun seeking a new leader. The search focused on finding someone with both deep connections to the continent and a global network, qualities that Ose clearly possesses. Ose’s appointment was confirmed by the museum’s board, which expressed enthusiasm over her leadership. “Following an extensive local and international search, the board is delighted to welcome Elvira Dyangani Ose to Zeitz Mocaa,” stated David Green OBE, a co-founder and co-chair of the institution. He emphasized that Ose’s selection reflected Mocaa’s identity as an organization deeply rooted in Africa yet globally connected. Under her guidance, the museum will continue to develop its curatorial vision and navigate its next phase, building upon Kouoh’s foundational contributions. Sue Williamson, a prominent South African artist, writer, and cultural historian, praised the decision. Having known Ose for some time, she described the appointment as a “good choice” and extended her congratulations. Williamson was present at the unveiling event, where she noted that the question of whether Ose was the right fit for the role was straightforward, yes. However, she acknowledged that time would ultimately determine the success of the appointment. The event itself drew a mix of attendees including artists, gallerists, curators, and other stakeholders associated with Mocaa. While the presence of arts journalists was sparse, the atmosphere remained celebratory. Journalist Unathi Kondile, who covered the event, observed that the dwindling number of art journalists in South Africa was becoming increasingly apparent. She noted that if more journalists had attended, it might indicate a broader issue within the field. Jo-Ann Strauss, an art collector and former board member of a major media group, shared similar concerns about the state of journalism. She lamented the lack of quality reporters and questioned where they were. Despite these challenges, Strauss expressed excitement about Ose’s appointment, recognizing her potential to shape the future of Mocaa. Ose’s professional journey includes key positions at leading cultural institutions such as Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona, The Showroom London, and the Tate Modern in London. She has also held curatorial roles at Creative Time in New York and currently serves as the artistic director of the second Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, scheduled for 2026–2027. Her career exemplifies a unique blend of a pan-African perspective and international expertise, making her a fitting candidate for Mocaa’s leadership.