Mary-Ann Musangi elected Vice Chairperson of Kenya Association of Manufacturers
Mary‑Ann takes the role at a pivotal moment for Kenya’s manufacturing sector as the association pushes for policies to boost local production and competitiveness.
KENYA – Mary‑Ann Musangi, managing director of HACO Industries Kenya, has been appointed Vice Chairperson of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) for a two‑year term.
In her new capacity, she will help lead KAM’s lobbying on industrial policy, taxation and trade matters and support member engagement with government and development partners.
Musangi leads HACO Industries Kenya and has chaired KAM’s Women in Manufacturing programme, which focuses on increasing women’s participation, mentorship and leadership across the sector.
Her stated priorities in leadership roles have included sustainability, innovation, and strengthening market access for manufacturers, areas likely to shape her agenda as vice chair.
KAM leadership changes
The vice‑chair appointment accompanies the election of Hitesh Mediratta as KAM chair, with both set to replace outgoing chair Jane Karuku, who will remain on the KAM board as an ex‑officio member.
Meanwhile, during Jane’s tenure, KAM stepped up its engagement with the government on tax reforms, manufacturing competitiveness, trade facilitation and industrial policy, while also promoting initiatives designed to boost the sector’s contribution to Kenya’s economic growth.
Mediratta stated, “While global uncertainties continue to shape trade, supply chains and global investment shifts, they also present an opportunity for Kenya and Africa to strengthen regional value chains, increase local value addition and unlock the full potential of manufacturing as a driver of economic growth and industrialisation.”
“My priority will be to build on KAM’s strong legacy of advocacy by creating a level playing field that enhances the competitiveness of Kenyan manufacturers both locally and globally. We shall continue to champion equitable value chains where all manufacturers have an opportunity to compete, grow and thrive.”
Mediratta has led PG Bison Kenya for more than 20 years and has previously served as KAM Vice Chairperson, Board Director and Chair of the Timber and Furniture Sector. He has also been Vice Chair of the association’s Trade and Tax Board Committee.
The new leadership team takes office as manufacturers face rising costs and calls for policies to protect and expand domestic manufacturing.
Musangi’s elevation is notable for the profile it gives to women leaders in Kenya’s industrial sector and for the continuity of KAM’s Women in Manufacturing initiatives, which aim to boost female leadership, skills development, and access to opportunities across the value chain.
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