Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business 2021 SURVEY #1 Lina Githuka MANAGING DIRECTOR KENYA WINE AGENCIES LIMITED (KWAL)

MAY - JUNE, 2021 KENYA 1,000/= TANZANIA 20,000/= UGANDA 25,000/=

MEDICINE: THE INS AND OUTS OF KENYA’S COVID-19 VACCINE ROLLOUT PLAN MOTOR: AAAM AND AFREXIMBANK SIGN AN MOU TO DRIVE AUTOMOTIVE INVESTMENT IN AFRICA POLITICS: WHY THE AFRICAN UNION’S DECISION ON A TOP POST IS BEING SEEN AS A LITMUS TEST BUSINESS: OKONJO-IWEALA IN THE WTO TOP JOB: BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING IS A WIN FOR ALL WOMEN

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

MAY - JUNE 2021 Vol. 16, No 157 Selection criteria for Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business NEWS FEATURE MOTOR The selection panel poured through hundreds of literature and websites looking Opera launches its newly dedicated chat service Mazda CX-9 - The CX-9 is an for the individuals with the full package: first in was humility and empathy, then communication strategies, followed by charisma, passion, personality and culture fit. 4 built into the Opera Mini browser in Kenya 82 attractive offering from Mazda. 124

NOMINEES Eunie Khimulu Nyakundi - MOTOR 8 Lina Githuka - Managing Director Ecosystem Marketing Leader 80 percent of GCC consumers are North, East and West Africa IBM willing to live more sustainably, says 120 2021 Lexus RX - One of the Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) new Boston Consulting Group report Eunie Khimulu is a mentor to the biggest changes to 2021 RX is 12 Edith Chumba - Head of Consumer, youth informally and formally over the Despite the high willingness of an increasing the significant enhancements that Private and Business Banking last 4 years under the Kenya Ministry number of consumers to live more sustainably, the challenge is to translate contribute to driving comfort Standard Chartered Bank of Kenya of ICT Presidential Digital Talent Programme for youth mentorship. these climate concerns into action. 66 84 128 2021 Toyota Hilux - The 16 Prof Margaret Kobia Ph.D.,MGH Hilux maintains its renowned - CS Public Service and Gender Lucia Musau - President and CEO of the African Elite Group off-road performance, load- 20 Caroline Ndungu - Director- NEWS FEATURE COMMENTARY carrying capability, stability Absa Bank Kenya Plc Marketing With her experience, and leading a team and body control. of enthusiasts, Lucia believes that great 86 Backlash against Johnson & and Corporate Relations 104 Why the African Union’s decision leadership comes with being decisive Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine is on a top post is being seen as and using influence rather than mak- SOCIETY 22 Racey (Caroline) Muchilwa - Head ing decisions herself. This has positioned real and risky – here’s how to a litmus test of Sub-Saharan Africa for Novartis her ahead of the curve at all times. make its rollout a success 48 132 Remembering Sibongile Khumalo, 26 Risper Genga Ohaga - Group CFO 106 Ethiopia’s next poll could South Africa’s divine diva East African Breweries Limited (EABL) SPECIAL FEATURE be more competitive. But 54 Wandia Gichuru - MD 68 Maria Mbeneka - Partner Kimani big challenges remain 30 Caroline Mukiira - Regional Vivo Activewear Kabucho Mbeneka and Co. Advocates 88 Can employers require workers Manager IBM East Africa to take the Covid-19 vaccine? 108 Against the odds: Four LAST WORD 56 Olga Arara-Kimani - Global 70 Dorothy Ooko - Head of 6 questions answered women share how they 32 Bonnie Okumu - Director of Head, CABM AME & Internal Communications and Public Legal Services and Company forged careers in science Communications at SCB Affairs, Africa at Google Okonjo-Iweala in the WTO top Secretary KCB Bank Group 90 job: Breaking the glass ceiling OPINION 60 Dr Patricia Murugami - Founder 74 Zuhura Odhiambo - CEO NRSA 34 Agnes Gathaiya - Country & CEO Breakthrough Leadership is a win for all women 112 Nairobi’s airports – windows Director East Africa at Google Transformation (BLT) 76 Mary Kinyua - Human The importance of remembering on Kenya’s colonial past Resources Director Oserian 94 38 Mwende Musunga - CEO 64 Dr. Muthoni Ntonjira - General Kenyan artist Rosemary Karuga and top-down planning Laborex Kenya Limited Manager, Philips East Africa Development Company 114 5 ways the Biden administration 40 Summaya Hassan - Summaya SECTOR REVIEW may help stem the loss of Hassan MD Takaful CEO OF THE MONTH MOST international students IMPACTING BUSINESS Hip hop and Pan Africanism: from 44 Annastacia Kimtai - Retail 96 Kenya has been trying to peace: A Kenyan case study Blitz the Ambassador to Beyoncé Director KCB Bank Nganga Njiinu - Group CEO regulate the charcoal sector: TransCentury Plc Why it’s not working BEYOND BUSINESS We’ve seen important collaborations 46 Catherine Karimi - CEO- On ascending to the helm in 2016, he between hip hop artists across Africa and APA Life Assurance took up the delicate role of stabilising the 98 The ins and outs of Kenya’s in the diaspora that go back to the early business and turning around TC, a growth Covid-19 vaccine rollout plan 116 US anti-abortion “gag rule” hits 1990s. But we see an increase after 2010. phase characteristic of every sustainable 52 Emily Waita Macharia - Africa Public women hard: What we found 138 Affairs Director at Coca-Cola Africa business. 78 102 AAAM and Afreximbank deal to drive Automotive Investment in Africa in Kenya and Madagascar

2 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 3 ANNIVESARY EDITION Publisher’s Note

Just like is the practice in the recruiting consultancy sector which is reactively Selection criteria for Top 25 evolving with the times, when it came to the Chief Executive Officer, or equivalent in job title as presidents, country manager, coun- Most Powerful Women in try director or a regional lead, we did not consider a long-term track record to be an PUBLISHER: C-Suite Impacting Business important predictor of success, much less Dr. Hanningtone Gaya the sole factor. The selection panel poured [email protected] through hundreds of literature and websites 0722 742287 The selection panel poured through hundreds of literature and looking for the individuals with the full EDITOR: websites looking for the individuals with the full package: first in was package: first in was humility and empathy, Martin O’Neil humility and empathy, then communication strategies, followed by then communication strategies, followed by CONTRIBUTORS: charisma, passion, personality and culture fit, all important and high- charisma, passion, personality and culture Cathy Mputhia fit, all important and high-ranking desir- Mike Eldon ranking desirable traits normally needed to back up a proven career able traits normally needed to back up a Scott Bellows and human relations track record. Lennox Yieke proven career and human relations track Anzetse Were record. When requested to submit write Jeff Aludo ups to back their nominations, candidates PUBLISHED BY: who proved inaccessible or too important The Knowledge Warehouse to engage, easily exited the list. 020 26504 937 Public declaration of values such as 0722 742 287 love and career balance in favour of the DESIGN & LAYOUT: children, integrity at work and ethics in Fontana Creations business, simple philanthropic interest at MIS & ADMINISTRATION: local levels that do not earn one public- Marilene Mercy ity, all weighted positively in favour of 0722 420 493 the respected nominees. Lastly, respect of BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT timelines, the unsung hero of traits of a top MANAGER: manager, reigned supreme. Two CEOs, after Martin O’Neil being nudged for three weeks, submitted 0721 989 263 the required information, one week after ADVERTISING: the magazine had closed for press. Really? Dr. Hanningtone Gaya While on this, Russell Reynolds, who [email protected] n most companies, the board of direc- Since the advent of the Master’s degree partnered with Hogan Assessments to get 0722 742287 tors and the founders are at the top of in Business Administration (MBA) most Great leaders strongly “Inside the Mind of the Chief Executive DISTRIBUTED BY: the corporate hierarchy followed by the senior executives have been taught to pull Officer,” discovered that most CEOs have a Nation Marketing & Publishing 7 C-level executives namely the CEO, together a portfolio of the technical, finan- believe in building strong unique psychological profile. I quote below, A Division of Nation Media Group COO, CFO, CMO, and so on. cial and operational skills accumulated networks and know word for word, although in summary, a P.O. Box 49010-00100 Nairobi I Tel: 020 3288588 / 8574 C-level, also called the C-suite, is an over their years of experience to be able the best way to do so is few characteristics that they found best- adjective used to describe high-ranking to cope with the increased responsibility in-class CEOs need to possess and work to CONTENT: executive titles within an organization. The thrust to them on their ascension to the forging mutually-beneficial maintain. Produced under common licence from The Conversation letter C, in this context, stands for chief. C-Suite. relationships. CEOs are not BusinessMonthly C-level executives work at the highest level Our main criteria in the selection and always extroverted but they Courage, Passion and Intensity www.theknowledgewarehouseke.com within their respective specialized divisions ranking of the Top 25 Most Powerful An excellent CEO is drawn to change and and are not normally engaged in day-to-day Woman in the C-Suite most impacting can easily read people’s effective action like a moth to a flame. management tasks and activities. business, searched for candidates whose emotions and (ought) to Best-in-class leaders are always looking A vice president (VP) is a senior-level career path has been deliberately curved to generally warm, easy to towards the future, setting ambitious goals executive in an organization who reports ensure they stood out among other candi- and often rely on their intuition. CEOs to the president or the CEO, depending on dates with similar experiences, despite the approach, trustworthy and take initiative, are quicker to capitalize on DR HANNINGTONE GAYA the choice of terminology preference. They respective starting point in life and with as uplifting, again, bracketed opportunities and are more likely to take usually function as the second in command little wind assistance as has been practical- emphasis mine. high level risks than other executive coun- CEO - The Knowledge Warehouse Kenya within the organization. ly possible. terparts. Their intensity and passion ©THEKNOWLEDGEWAREHOUSE 2021

4 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 5 ANNIVESARY EDITION Publisher’s Note

the interest of our esteemed readers, we delve a bit on the C-Suite terminology. Usually, after the CEO, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the substantive number two to the CEO, not the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) although reporting to the CEO. Often more hands-on than the CEO, the COO looks after day-today activities while providing feedback to the CEO. The COO is often referred to as a senior vice president in most MNC especially those in pharmaceuticals, banking, ICT and FMCG sectors. In an organization or company where a CEO is already in charge, the president is the second in command. The COO, responsible for day-to-day for growth and development achieve this is by remaining humble operations, has vice presidents for Although (should) makes them charismatic and modest. Let your work speak for different divisions of the company CEOs are and persuasive people, bracketed itself and be mindful of natural con- reporting to him or her. The COO the decision emphasis, mine. fidence being perceived as arrogance ensures the company has effective makers, or pretention. A great leader is not operational and financial proce- Resilience and Drive self-involved but instead should be dures in place and is also known as best-in- Leaders know that taking risks and consistently working to develop the Director of Operations, Operations practice CEOs making large-scale changes can next great leader(s). Director, or Chief Operations Officer. know that lead to exponential growth or can The CFO only oversees the finan- employees fail dramatically. A key difference Excellent Communication Skills cial operations of a company and who feel between good CEOs and great CEOs Finally, the climb to the top is never reports to the CEO. valued and is the ability to bounce back and reached without excellent commu- The CEOs of many leading com- integral to the push forward. A great CEO is open nication skills. Although CEOs are panies employ a ‘Strategic Assistant’ company’s to learning from their mistakes and the decision makers, best-in-practice as a right-hand. They are the CEO’s will work to turn unanticipated situ- CEOs know that employees who feel eyes, ears and problem-solver across success are ations into positive results. valued and integral to the company’s the business. They can also be ele- incredibly success are incredibly productive. vated as Chief of Staff’ or ‘Executive productive. High Emotional Intelligence The best leaders are also the best Assistants’ although all these are CEOs of successful corporations listeners so offer mentorship and different level jobs, depending on the know a key part of success is support whenever possible. Practice size of the company. attributed to collaboration. Great empathy and promote internal, MD is the head of management leaders strongly believe in building cross-functional collaboration. (either shares the same importance strong networks and know the best If you’re looking to move up of CEO / COO or is superior to way to do so is forging mutual- be celebrated in this publication them). A CEO has to guide the ly-beneficial relationships. CEOs are on different platforms, it’s time to employees, and the executive offi- not always extroverted but they can self-assess. Which of these personal- cers whereas Managing Directors are easily read people’s emotions and ity traits and characteristics do you held responsible for any action of the (ought) to generally warm, easy to already have and which one can you, company. He is also accountable to approach, trustworthy and uplifting, with great humility, yearn and learn? the shareholders and board. again, bracketed emphasis mine. We also acknowledge all the Enjoy the read and kindly share seven levels of the C-Suite and with the team your feedbacks and Humility reiterate the equal important role how best you feel we should be going A good CEO should convey a per- each contributes in an organization, about these celebrations, recogni- sonable demeanour, and one way to including the Legal counsel and in tions and nominations.

6 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 7 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

I joined KWAL at a time the business was going through #1 transformation and change, having been Lina Githuka privatised after years of being a state- MANAGING DIRECTOR KENYA WINE owned enterprise AGENCIES LIMITED (KWAL) (SOE). Our mandate as a new leadership team historic moment for us! Ground breaking of was to re-engineer KWAL’s new factory in Tatu City. Proud to be business processes part of this exciting journey.... and systems, These words uttered by Lina Githuka enhance capability Aduring the ceremony Lenten, that marked the ground development and breaking of KWAL’s Ksh 4 Billion ultra-modern manufacturing facility at the firm’s new premises in Tatu embed new ways City Industrial Park Ruiru. The new Green factory of working with the with enhanced capacity will enable KWAL to contin- team to improve ue localising manufacture of its imported portfolio as performance and well as supply the regional EAC market. turnaround the During the, celebration of the UN International business. Women’s Day Lina stated, ’We celebrate KWAL women who represent 35% of our total workforce. Our ambition is to achieve 50% inclusion by 2025. has worked in local, regional and global She went on to become the first I choose to enable KWAL women to discover their roles, earning valuable wealth of expe- local and the first female to take over wings!’ rience in working in different cultural the role as Head of Marketing for East This describes her passion for developing individ- setups. & Central Africa within the area lead- uals and teams by creating an enabling environment After graduating from the University ership team and part of the regional that allows them to realise their full potential. As a of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Arts Degree marketing leadership team for Eastern leader who has broken many firsts, Lina Githuka in Economics and Sociology, Lina would Europe, Africa and Middle East. has chosen to create an enabling environment for the join Unilever Kenya, then East Africa After 16 years of a fulfilling employees to grow and thrive. Industries, as a Management Trainee. It is career with BAT, Lina joined Kenya At the Women’s Day celebrations, KWAL also at Unilever that she discovered her pas- Wine Agencies (KWAL) in 2016 as a announced trailblazing enhancements to its Parental sion for building and managing brands Commercial consultant, later becoming Leave Policy entrenching leave for surrogate and and creating value for consumers. the Commercial Director. She says, ‘I adoptive parents as well as special considerations for Ten years later, Lina was working joined at a time the business was going still birth, miscarriage and pre-term delivery. Lina in London at British American Tobacco through transformation and change, pledged to continue to celebrate women’s achieve- (BAT) PLC Global Head office as a Senior having been privatised after years of ments in the workplace and inspire them to be the International Brand Manager manag- being a state-owned enterprise (SOE). best versions of themselves, for they can, to quote ing Global Brands! After London, Lina Our mandate as a new leadership team verbatim from her own words. joined BAT South Africa as a Consumer was to re-engineer business process- Lina Githuka describes herself as a seasoned busi- Director and later in BAT Uganda as the es and systems, enhance capability ness leader with over 25 years of earned knowledge, Commercial Lead for Uganda, Rwanda development and embed new ways of skills and experience in portfolio management, brand and Burundi. working with the team to improve per- marketing, trade marketing, strategy development, Returning home after 6 years of work- formance and turnaround the busi- business development and people development. She ing away, Lina took over a number of ness. The improvements in Commercial senior commercial roles within BAT East resulted in the renovation of all key & Central Africa Area. brands and a step change in

8 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 9 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

our Route to Consumer model significantly shareholders have on the business outlook improving brand availability and accessi- Lina contends that the journey to the as well as in the Kenyan economy.’ bility in the market. These changes coupled top has had its challenges. ‘I have On the personal front, Lina attributes with improved operational efficiencies had to unlearn, learn and re-learn at personal leadership development as key in production and supply chain have to her success. Lina has attended numer- resulted in phenomenal business growth every stage of my growth as a leader. ous executive programmes in London with volumes doubling and EBIT growing Hard work may sound old school, and regionally, the most recent one being more than tenfold within a 5-year period,’ but the wisdom from the saying hard a Senior Leadership Programme at the she adds. work pays is still in vogue. University of Stellenbosch Business School. During this time, Kibao Vodka, one of She has also had great mentors who have KWAL’s flagship brand, was recognised contributed significantly to her growth. globally as one of the Top 100 fastest Lina contends that the journey to the growing spirit brands (IWSR, 2019) after top has had its challenges. ‘I have had to a successful repositioning and relaunch. unlearn, learn and re-learn at every stage Today the brand continues to perform very of my growth as a leader. Hard work may well in the market. sound old school, but the wisdom from the Lina Githuka was then appointed saying hard work pays is still in vogue. I as the Managing Director of KWAL in therefore encourage mentees to put in the 2018, becoming the first female Managing work, take calculated risks, learn from Director in the organisation. On reflec- mistakes, and seize opportunities that come tion, she says, ‘my tenure so far has been their way,’ Lina states. immensely rewarding as the business Outside of work, Lina mentors final has continued to grow remarkably off a year university students through the sound strategy with a growth trajectory. Greenhorn Mentorship Programme (GMP) For instance, despite the social and eco- and young ladies through the Global Give nomic challenges presented by the glob- Back Circle (GGBC). al Covid-19 pandemic, KWAL recently Lina concludes that she is a proud broke ground for the construction of a new alumnus of Precious Blood Riruta; a school Greenfield factory in Tatu city. she owes a lot of who she is today, through For the organisation to take such a bold the values that were imparted in strength- and courageous step with a development ening her Catholic faith. She finds time of this magnitude at such a time as this; to graciously to sit on the PB Alumni is a true testament in the confidence the Committee where they run mentoring programmes to support the girls. 10 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 11 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

driven by her quest for excellence and exceptional people’s skills, that she has since trans- Edith’s banking formed to customer centric experience. She has since been joined at SCB by the amiable style is underpinned #2 and equally able Anne Alele Handa, anoth- on her passion for er pleasant, exceptional and always cordial service excellence career banker. Both ladies understand who a Edith Chumba bank customer is to the bottom line and will and has anchored take decisive action and bear the brunt of most of the business HEAD OF CONSUMER, PRIVATE AND their actions, rather than to procrastinate and decisions on customer BUSINESS BANKING STANDARD inconvenience a customer irreparably as most CHARTERED BANK OF KENYA bankers do. Edith and Anne are in a league of feedback. The bank their own in the banking industry in Kenya. is committed to Thanks to this rare breed of serious building a service women that make the majority of the C-Suite, ead of Consumer, Private and at SCB, the Consumer Banking business culture that is focused Business Banking Standard has shown resilience despite the challenging on addressing client Chartered Bank of Kenya business environment that has been ampli- needs. Extremely intelligent though fied by the Covid-19 pandemic. During this Hhumble. Focused though humane. No non- unprecedented period, she also focused on the sense though in a polite way. Customer- safety of staff and clients visiting the bank by centric to a faulty. That is Edith Chumba, a ensuring all health protocols on Covid-19 are seasoned consumer banker with extensive observed. C-Suite experience that spans over 25 To mitigate the adverse effects of Covid- years. 19, Edith led SCB in contributing towards the Currently the Head of Consumer, support for over 6,000 clients with the credit Private and Business Banking at Standard relief programme. Chartered Bank (SCB) of Kenya, a role that covers the Uganda and Tanzania markets, Edith has been with SCB for the last 6 years. She previously worked at Barclays Bank of Kenya (now ABSA) for 20 years within Retail Banking, where she held various senior positions. While at Barclays Bank, Edith cut her teeth as one of the most sought-after senior bank managers whose exit from the bank drew disappointments from high-level customers most of who opted to move with her. A professional to boot, she advised them to retain their accounts at Barclays Bank, a true testament of Edith’s integrity and impeccable character, as a career banker. At SCB, Edith’s focus is to ignite the ambition of the teams she leads across the E.A. cluster, to deliver purposeful banking services and products to clients. She has ably and with singular purpose championed the digitization agenda to drive financial inclusion across the Personal, Affluent and Business Banking segments. Throughout her career, Edith has been

12 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 13 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Edith’s banking style is under- ers and therefore the bank has invested pinned on her passion for service excellence in various learning programs to help staff and has anchored most of the business build new skills required today and in the decisions on customer feedback. The bank future. is committed to building a service culture Under her leadership, SCB has won that is focused on addressing client needs. numerous awards including: This is demonstrated in the strong client  For the third year running, we value propositions across all the three seg- were recognised as the best tier 1 bank ments that SCB serves. for digital experience and the best bank ‘We look out for relevant partners overall in the Kenya Bankers Association to help us deliver not only financial ser- customer satisfaction survey. vices, but also non-financial services. For  Globally, Standard Chartered was instance, Consumer Banking signed a part- recognised at the 2020 Global Finance nership agreement with AMREF last year Awards as the Best Digital Consumer to help clients with emergency evacuation Bank. services. The initiative has helped many of  More recently, our Fixed Income our clients to cope with the Covid-19 pan- mobile platform won the Outstanding demic,’ posits Edith. Customer Experience for Financial She adds, ‘Another example is the part- Inclusion award from The Digital Banker. nership with Lenovo to create access for  The Bank was awarded and rec- school-going children to purchase com- ognised as the Most Recommended Retail puters at discounted prices. This was a Bank in Kenya and Africa from the Bank major success and clients were able to com- Quality Consumer Survey on Retail Banks fortably adapt to a home learning model in 2020 by The Asian Banker. The survey for their children, during the nationwide enabled bank customers to rate and com- lock-downs.’ ment on their banking experiences and Standard Chartered Head of Wealth Management To date, Edith’s banking leadership Davis and Shirtliff Group Chairman Alec Davis (left) involved 4,000 consumers from Africa and Standard Chartered Bank Kenya CEO Kariuki Kenya and East Africa Paul Njoki (left), takes the growth approach is to focus on areas where Ngari sign a partnership that will usher in Kenya’s bank’s Head of Retail Banking Kenya Edith Chumba (specifically Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria and SCB can have high impact on the lives of first sustainable finance package aimed at supporting through the T bills and Bonds trading process during South Africa). its client base. individual clients’ transition to cleaner technologies, the launch. She is a Business Manager by profes- From a forward-looking perspective, harness and scale more climate friendly business sion and holds a Bachelor of Commerce practices. Looking on is Standard Chartered’s Head of Edith believes that digitization is a critical Left: From Left, Standard Chartered Bank Chief (B.Com) degree from the University of Sustainable Finance Africa Christopher Kirigua (left), Operating Officer Peter Gitau, Chief Executive Officer area that will revolutionize the lives of Davis & Shirtliff Group CEO David Gatende (centre) Nairobi (UoN) and a Master’s in Business (CEO) Kariuki Ngari and Head of Retail Edith Chumba Kenyans. She avers that Covid-19 pandem- and Standard Chartered’s Head of Retail Banking Administration (MBA) in Management launching the SCB and Liverpool FC Visa debit ic is reshaping how banks and non-bank Edith Chumba. from University of Sunderland, UK. She co-brand card. players are delivering. is a member of the Chartered Institute The African continent has witnessed an of Marketing (CIM), UK and holds their increase in the use of digital payment plat- savings and wealth creation is important higher diploma certificate. forms as governments disseminate stimulus for the future generation, hence the com- Outside work, Edith is married with funds to mitigate the economic impact of Edith’s banking style is mitment to start the journey now through two children and she is passionate about the Covid-19 pandemic. This means not underpinned on her passion SC wealth solutions,’’ Edith opines. charity work and enjoys singing. Her just safer, cashless payments to facilitate In all these, SCB is proud to provide career success was founded on a strong social distancing, but in the longer-term, it for service excellence Kenyans with access to investment oppor- family background. Her mother was a also means a shift towards financial inclu- and has anchored most tunities in big global companies including primary school teacher who largely con- sion that could help get the economy back of the business decisions Amazon, Google, and Tesla. tributed towards her discipline and com- on track. Edith is a big supporter of trans- mitment to getting things done. Having SCB has invested heavily in building a on customer feedback. formational leadership development. She studied in a Catholic boarding school at a robust digital platform that enables clients The bank is committed Retail clients, thus enabling us to scale up ‘The motivation is to support the believes in promoting different thinking young age, Edith developed a strong sense to open accounts, transact conveniently and to building a service client acquisition at a much lower cost. As younger generation to create, build and styles within the team to identify talent. of independence and hard work that is most importantly access investment and a result, 60 per cent of all service requests protect their wealth. This is an innovation She leads a diverse team, and fully lever- reflected in her leadership character. She insurance solutions. culture that is focused on previously done at the branch level are that differs from the traditional banking ages equity and inclusion to focus the team is enthusiastic about driving a culture of ‘We have embedded over 70 client addressing client needs. now being fulfilled on the SC Mobile App,’ model that was only focused on cash on solving client problems. The team has problem solving in her personal and work services on the SC Mobile application for she adds. transactions and lending. The culture of huge potential to develop into future lead- life.

14 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 15 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

ore than in her current position as Cabinet Upon her appointment as the Chair to the Public Secretary, Prof. Margaret Kobia has dis- Service Commission (PSC) in 2013, Prof. Kobia tinguished herself as a leader in corporate embarked on a transformation of the operational sys- reforms and institutional transformation, tems of the commission. She instituted and implemented Mmost of which have impacted business in Kenya, a functional reform to enable PSC operate as a human #3 through the establishment of good corporate gover- resource (HR) regulator, appellant and oversight in the nance practices that now permeate state owned enter- public service. She led a process of business process prises and spilling over to the private sector, thanks to re-engineering and restructured business operations, the establishment of the Kenya School of Government. increasing operational efficiency and effectiveness. Prof Margaret Upon her appointment as Director/CEO of the Prof. Kobia’s tenure saw the completion of the then Kenya Institute of Administration in 2005, she PSC transition from mainstream Civil Service to an Kobia embarked on a modernization program of the institu- Independent Constitutional Commission. It is during her tion. During her tenure, she provided institutional lead- tenure that human resource policies and guidelines were ership in public service excellence when the institution developed and launched. Ph.D.,MGH was ranked in the excellent performance category for In 2016, she spearheaded the review of the Public four years in the external evaluation of performance Service Commission Act 2012 to the more compre- CABINET SECRETARY (CS) contracting. hensive PSC Act 2017 that conforms to the expanded PUBLIC SERVICE AND GENDER Prof. Kobia engaged staff in futuristic vision devel- functional and operational scope of mandate in the opment for the Kenya School of Government that trans- Constitution. lated the vision to a transformation strategy owned by Many Kenyans recall her performance at the Judicial staff. She stands out for combining strategy implemen- Service Commission as she chaired the selection panel for tation and leveraging institutional networks with public the recruitment of the Chief Justice and President of the sector organizations to increase enrolments in training Supreme Court of Kenya (CJ), the Deputy Chief Justice programs and total turnover. Total revenue nearly tri- (DCJ), one judge of the Supreme Court in a process that pled from Ksh 215 million in 2005 to approximately met the highest levels of transparency and public scruti- Ksh 600 Million by 2011. ny. The recruitment process was hailed for strengthening With improved internal revenue, the institute was the Supreme Court of Kenya and won public confidence reclassified as a self-financing State Corporation from for the court. one that was dependent on the government for its Other notable contributions through board member- budget. The institution ploughed back revenues into ships where Prof. Kobia has been invited to serve and capital development investments, enabling expansion continue to provide guidance on transformation of cor- and modernization of its training facilities and relat- porate of corporate governance and academic programs ed infrastructure. These included putting up a new include: St. Paul’s University where she serves as the administration block at a cost of Ksh 400 Million, a Chancellor since 2018, AMREF International University new conference centre at Ksh 400 Million, the Habel where she serves as Council Chair, UN Committee of Nyamu Centre for Lectures and Staff Offices at Ksh 400 Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) where she is a Million, and Margaret Kobia Executive Hostel Complex Committee member. at Ksh 800 Million. In 2017, she was nominated by the United Nations To date, the former Kenya Institute of Administration Secretary-General and appointed by ECOSOC to serve (KIA) has been transformed and is the Nairobi campus on CEPA for a four-year term. The appointment to CEPA of Kenya School of Government, and serves as an out- was in recognition of her wide experience and contri- standing reference in public sector transformation in bution to practice and scholarship in the field of public the country. administration in Kenya and globally. In 2011, she led negotiations between Kenya School Prof. Kobia is Vice President of the Commonwealth of Government, and the University of Nairobi leading Association of Public Administrative and Management to the signing of an MOU to jointly offer the Master of (CAPAM). Public Administration (MPA) degree program domi- Before these appointments, Prof. Kobia served on the ciled at Kenya School of Government. Judicial Service Commission (JSC) as Vice Chair between The Kenya School of Government, thanks to Prof. 2013-2018 and Kenya Accountants and Secretaries Kobia’s vision, now serves as a modern leading nation- National Examinations Board (KASNEB) where she al Management Development Institute (MDI) serving served as Chair between 2015-2018. It is during this many countries in the East African region. time that KASNEB revised the curriculum

16 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 17 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

and examination system for accoun- Gordon Draper Award for strong lead- journal is a resource for researchers and tants and oversaw the construction of a new ership and outstanding contributions to practitioners in public administration institutionally owned KASNEB Towers Widely referred improving public administration in the on the continent. worth Ksh 1.2 Billion. Commonwealth. To date, Prof. Kobia supervis- Prof. Kobia also serves on the Kenya to as “the guru of  2011: Awarded for dedication and con- es and mentors PhD scholars from College of Accountancy (KCA) University public service”, tributions to Management in the Public various Kenyan universities in her Council as a member. she provides Service by the International Who is Who area of specialty of Management and Prof. Margaret Kobia is a full Professor policy direction of Professional and Business women of Entrepreneurship. of Management and Entrepreneurship. and leadership American Biographical Institute. Prof. Kobia has a set of beliefs that She was appointed to Cabinet in January to the Ministry’s  2012: Research Grant on Initiatives to are evident in her work ethic. The fol- 2018 to serve in the Ministry of Public mandate that Support the Growth of MSMEs in Kenya lowing are some of the principles that Service, Youth and Gender. Widely referred includes public Project: Research Investment Climate and manifest themselves in her work: to as “the guru of public service”, she Business Environment (ICBE) Funded by  Setting goals and having SMART provides policy direction and leadership service reforms, Trust Africa. targets for every project she embarks to the Ministry’s mandate that includes transformation  2014: Africa’s Most Influential on. She is adept at keeping timelines public service reforms, transformation and and service Women in Business and Government and accomplishing the goals she sets service delivery; and gender equality and delivery; and – Regional and Country Winner Award out to achieve. women empowerment programming. The gender equality in the Services Category for Kenya and  She advices her teams to choose two Youth mandate has since been hived from and women East African Region. June 2014 by CEO to three clear and impactful targets. It is the docket. empowerment Communications. enough to concentrate on a few targets Prof. Kobia is a Fellow of the Kenya programming.  2019: Distinguished Alumni Award that one does well in. Institute of Management and of the Institute from the University of Illinois, Urbana-  As a leader she says her role is to set of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya. Champaign. a vision and build a team that is alive She is the Executive Secretary of the Prof. Kobia is a Ph.D. holder from the to the vision and motivated to make the Kenya Association of Public Administrators University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign vision a part of their tasks and accom- and Managers (KAPAM) and Member of US, from where she graduated in plish them. numerous professional bodies including 2003. Her studies in Human Resource  As a leader her role is to bring out The Kenya Business and Professional Education and Management were spon- the best in each of the players and facil- Women Club, Africa Association for Public sored by the United Methodist Church of itate them to achieve their excellence. Administration (AAPAM), Commonwealth US. She had previously attained a bache- Each player should stay focused on the Association for Public Administration lor’s degree in 1981 and a master’s degree, shared vision and ensure they play their (CAPAM) and the Academy of Human all in Education in 1991 from Nairobi and role in the realization of that vision. Resource Development (AHRD). Kenyatta Universities respectively.  A leader should never be threatened Prof. Kobia has served as senior lectur- An accomplished researcher and by the excellence of her team but should er and researcher in management, entrepre- author, Prof. Kobia has written a myriad always ensure she attracts the best and neurship and research methodology at the of academic and journal articles many facilitates them to realize their best Strathmore University, where she taught of which have been published in peer outputs. undergraduate and graduate students reviewed journals. Her topics of interest  A leader ensures that her team between 2003 and 2005. range from Public Service Transformation, is empowered and gains the requisite Prof. Kobia also served as a manage- Human Resource Management to Youth skills as they accomplish their respec- ment training consultant at the Institute and Women Empowerment. Some of tive tasks. This approach ensures sus- of Leadership and Management, Strategic the organizations she has researched tainability and scalability of whatever Leadership Centre, Nairobi and Institute and written academic and profession- program they are working on. It equips of Personnel Management, Nairobi. The al papers for include: Parliamentary workers with skills that they can use in quality of her graduates from the university Service Commission, Conference of similar programs in future assignments. distinguished themselves in their areas of African Ministers and Public Service  Public service is a calling. One can expertise in the world of work. First Class Order of the Commander of transformation in Kenya. (CAMPS), UNDP, Conference of African only excel as a leader in public service if Prof. Kobia has received several State the Burning Spear (CBS) for exemplary Prof. Kobia’s work has also received Association for Public Administrators their leadership is value based. Leaders Honours in recognition for her contribution public service and contribution towards international professional recognition from and Management (AAPAM), World Bank, must embrace fundamental ethical val- to public service: In 2007, she was awarded national development. In 2016, she was her peers. Among her international fetes UNESCO, DfID among others. ues such as transparency, accountabili- the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) bestowed with Order of the Moran of the include: In 2011, she was appointed Editor of ty, respect and hard work. In public ser- for distinguished public service in national Golden Heart (MGH) for outstanding and  2010: Winner of the Commonwealth African Journal of Public Administration vice these are ingrained and practiced development. In 2009, she was awarded consistent contribution to public service Association of Public Administration; and Management (AJPAM). The refereed as cultures and traditions.

18 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 19 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Prior to joining Absa Bank Kenya- in the lower end market, Caroline’s tenure Within a very short span of time, formerly Barclays Bank, Caroline was saw the rolling out of Tusker Draught to Caroline has led her team to successfully #4 the marketing director at EABL and drive accessibility in the lower mainstream initiated the ABSA brand into Kenyan Serengeti Breweries before then where by providing a price point versus serve market resulting in seventy-two (72) per she managed a portfolio of beer, spirits benefit on top of leading the regional agen- cent awareness. The company brand with- Caroline and adult non-alcoholic drinks providing da on Tusker core market of Eastern Africa in the market has also been elevated marketing and innovation direction and and driving synergies on development to the highest household utility level in Ndungu strategy. work and budgets. a very short span of time. Her leader- Before this, Caroline was the regional As Marketing and Corporate Relations ship has also seen the launch of Women DIRECTOR-ABSA BANK KENYA PLC manager with Diageo, where she is credit- Director, at Barclays Bank of Kenya (now in Business Proposition programme to MARKETING AND CORPORATE ed with the implementation of the Tusker rebranded as ABSA Bank Kenya, Caroline enhance women within senior leadership RELATIONS Strategy to deliver the brand vision of has utilised her immense communica- positions within the market and the coun- becoming Africa’s number one beer brand tions/citizenship/marketing strategies to try at large. by value and volume. enhance the brand image. She has since The successful and impactful tran- aroline is a marketing and finance She is viewed as a top-notch brand 2014 ensured business growth, translated sitioning of the Barclays brand to Absa professional with over 15 years of management guru, specializing in business requirements into strategy, and whilst maintaining stakeholder/current extensive work experience gained strengthening brand equity by delivering directed all marketing operations. client engagement and growing the cus- in multi-national organizations memorable advertising in support of the At ABSA Bank Kenya, Caroline defines tomer base is one of her major achieve- acrossC a diverse range of sectors and geographies. She has extensive experience in developing and delivering marketing and Prior to joining Absa business plans and in evaluating and defin- ing opportunities in a competitive envi- Bank Kenya-formerly ronment, consequently developing value Barclays Bank, Caroline generating strategies to all stakeholders. was the marketing director Ms Ndungu is a dynamic leader adept in managing accounts, collaborating with at EABL and Serengeti stakeholders, negotiating with vendors, Breweries before then and assuring service excellence. She is an where she managed expert in business development, portfolio management, budgeting and auditing, and a portfolio of beer, document management. In her work, she spirits and adult non- is an influential communicator with ability alcoholic drinks providing to enhance customer experience, liaise with various departments, and coordinate oper- marketing and innovation ations to accelerate profitability. direction and strategy. Her management style involves deploy- ing strengths-based leadership style for self and others while preferring to be an acti- vator that catalysis ideas into action with key brand benefit and in executing a annual plans, outlines content in align- ments. Caroline has also supported the contagious and engaging energy. Caroline world class reality program that builds on ment with business needs, exceeds custom- bank’s top management team to showcase builds bridges between people and groups brand credentials while driving consump- er expectations and prepares reports for Kenya as a golfing tourism destination and helping others find meaning and see tion, including the delivery of timeless senior management. She acquires funding, through the sustained sponsorship of the bigger picture, while giving them a experiential activities and promotions. assures staff engagement, and oversees Barclays Bank, now rebranded as ABSA. sense of comfort and stability in the face of As a leader in business development, compliance and regulations. Caroline has attended the IESE uncertainty. Caroline is also credited with accelerating Key achievements at ABSA Bank Business School for the Advanced Caroline’s key areas of expertise include growth in the premium and mainstream Kenya includes the introduction propo- Management Programme in 2007-2008 business development, audit and finances, segments by delivering a quality prop- sition Zidisha bonus account resulting in and the Strathmore University College portfolio management, budget and profit/ osition with Tusker Malt Lager through major cost savings of KES 8b within 12 and Business School where she qualified loss, customer service, project and pro- great packaging and engineering product months. She also secured over 3 million as a CPA-K, graduating in 1997. She gram management, account management, quality. new customers through the use of Timiza holds a BA degree in Economics from the training and development and brand man- In terms of offering value for money mobile application. University of Nairobi (1990 – 1993). agement. 20 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 21 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

2021 as the first African woman to win the Leading Women Awards 2020, one thing came to her mind, “I may be the first, but certainly not the last woman.” Racey Muchilwa, President and Head of Novartis SSA, won the category of exemplary leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, an award that recognizes women from businesses globally who are leading with passion and impact during this Covid-19 pandemic. Undoubtedly, the unprecedented novel Covid-19 resulted in termed coined by the U.S. Army War College - VUCA: volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity environment. Typically, such a chaotic and turbulent landscape marred with rapid changes calls for a ‘business unusual’ response. This, Racey has been providing in droves. From the onset, Racey embraced clear, transparent and consistent employee communication to assure and safeguard employee lives and livelihoods. Often, this called for vulnerability and at times, unsettling honesty about the uncertainty and in cases where she did not have ready answers.

Racey Muchilwa, President and Head of Novartis SSA, won the category of exemplary leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, an #5 award that recognizes women from businesses globally who are leading Racey (Caroline) Muchilwa with passion and impact during this Covid-19 pandemic. HEAD OF SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA FOR NOVARTIS

Employee engagement was scaled up to include reg- ith great uncertainty embedded pounded these fears. Leadership theorists ular SSA-wide town halls, cluster specific meetings and in the health and humanitarian and management gurus opine that a VUCA in-country forums, which Racey attended without fail. She crisis in 2020, as a result of environment demands a distinct leadership emphatically drummed in the same message, reassuring the adverse effects of Covid- style during these times. For starters, Racey, her 500 plus employees spread across sub-Sahara Africa 19W pandemic, adopting a ‘people-centric’ together with her team, used various tactics made up of 46 countries, that their livelihood, health and approach was paramount both for Caroline such as road mapping, which is essential for safety came first. And this, she meant. Muchilwa, mostly referred to by those who agility, change management and collective “I authorized additional medical insurance premiums know her as Racey and Novartis sub-Saha- learning better manage the situation. She to cover Covid-19 related ailments not only for employees ran Africa (SSA). quipped then, ‘We are all experiencing the but for their families. Mental wellness programs were This was particularly crucial because challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and enhanced to ensure we all had an avenue to speak up Racey was simultaneously handling a sig- grappling with the great uncertainty. No while a wide array of counsellors is availed in-person or nificant business transformation that was one in my team has experienced something telephonically,” says Racey. testing a novel business idea of integrating like this before and we were all learning, “Our employees could also access a myriad of e-learn- three major divisions to fall under one designing response plans and developing ings on mental wellness as they adjusted to the new leadership. Usually, business transforma- coping mechanisms along the way.” normal, while working from home. As part of the wellness tion creates anxiety among employees in “Empathic and authentic leadership is programs, our employees can also access the Novartis an organization due to fear of losing jobs. the baseline in such a scenario,” Racey adds. wellness app for meditation, various workouts and exer- The Covid-19 pandemic certainly com- So, when she was announced in February cises to help achieve optimal performance.”

22 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 23 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business MZITO Novartis SSA has introduced to the AU member states. The portfolio Work-from-Home (WfH) almost like comprises 15 medicines sold at zero prof- intentional serendipity before the Covid-19 its. pandemic hit, becoming extremely handy The AMSP portal is an online market- BUNDLES during the lockdowns across different place that also enables the supply of Covid- countries. While work from home present- 19-related critical medical equipment in ed new challenges, where people struggle Africa. This collaboration aims to help with blurred lines on work and family, it alleviate supply and logistical constraints SAHAU STRESS ZA also allows greater work-life integration. by ensuring efficient and rapid access to According to McKinsey’s September the Pandemic Portfolio medicines to 55 2020 Diversity and Inclusion insights, African governments. TOP-UP! though the progress towards gender equi- “Patients are at the heart of everything ty has been marginal, Covid-19 has hit we do in SSA. This region is home to the women harder. In response, Racey said that world’s underserved population and we GB SMS women deserved equality in the workplace must think innovatively and leverage tech- 10 Min150 to all networks 300 as a bare minimum. But more importantly, nology to reach them, ensuring access to women deserve equity. high-quality medicines,” says Racey. “We must have tailored problem solv- Racey started her career as a medi- ing because one size does fit all women.” cal representative and has over 20 year No Expiry Bundle That is why Novartis SSA joined hands of experience in pharmaceutical industry, with the United Nation Foundation’s FMCG business and social media, 17 of project that empowers women and girls which of them in middle and senior man- through universal access to sexual and agement positions. reproductive health and rights. As part of Those who work with her attests to the commitment, they pledged to reach her ability to achieve results compliantly, 40,000 employees and community mem- by ensuring the right tone from the top bers, including 20,000 women with health as she drives a company culture that pro- education on reproductive health and motes accountability, ownership, curiosity, family planning in five countries in SSA fairness, openness, diversity and inclusion. through their Social Business Program by Among Racey’s hallmarks is enabling 2023. access to the company medicines to the This is in addition to training 100 patients as she believes in enabling the female employees in leadership skills who patients to own their patient journey and will empower other women in the work- one of the ways is through the strengthen- place and the community, including small ing of the healthcare systems by the work and medium businesses (MSMEs). that she does, and making it a fulfilling Lastly, to futureproof young girls, experience for the patients by removing Novartis SSA committed to ensuring barriers that would make it otherwise. 10,000 school girls have access to sani- Among Racey’s hallmarks is Can she play a part by shaping the tary towels coupled with mentorship and enabling access to the company environment to enable and drive this? Yes, leadership training so that they remain in medicines to the patients as she she can... can we? Racey poses. school. believes in enabling the patients Racey is one of the few female com- Circling back to the impact of Covid-19 mercial leaders in the company and is best pandemic on healthcare systems, which has to own their patient journey and described by three words: inspirational exerted immense pressure across the board, one of the ways is through the people leader. She loves describing herself Racey says leveraging the power of part- strengthening of the healthcare as a child and a daughter of God in the nerships would be essential, especially for systems by the work that she market place. A mother, wife and sister. SSA. To mitigate medicines supply chain does, and making it a fulfilling Racey Muchilwa holds a B.Sc. challenges, Novartis is in collaboration experience for the patients by Biochemistry and Zoology from Egerton with the African Union (AU) through the removing barriers that would make University and a Master’s in Business FOR Africa Medical Supplies Platform (AMSP) it otherwise. Administration (International Business to facilitate the supply of medicines from Management) from University of Nairobi the Novartis Pandemic Response Portfolio (UoN) all in Kenya. 1000BOB 24 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 25 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

isper is the Group CFO of share price hold, despite the anticipated multiple countries. She joined EABL EABL since February 2020, decline in profit, demonstrating the from Barclays Africa Group (now Absa the first African woman to faith EABL investors have in the com- Group) where she spent 12 years in hold this position in the histo- pany doing the right thing. Concerted senior roles, starting as the Regional Rry of EABL. In this role, she is a mem- efforts after the year end saw positive Director for Audit based in Nairobi, ber of the Board, charged with driving half year results and EABL’s share before moving to Johannesburg as the the finance and strategy functions of registered the second highest growth in Managing Director for Internal Audit. the company and its subsidiaries with the securities exchange, having grown She joined Barclays in the wake of the operations in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, 13.1% on a year-to-date basis. This is 2008 global financial crisis as part of South Sudan and Rwanda. testament to the market’s confidence in the Global Internal Audit team run out The timing of her transition into the company’s future performance and of London and was the first African this role coincided with the onset of the the resilience in weathering the crisis. Director based outside South Africa. Covid-19 pandemic, making her even Looking back at this period, Risper Reporting into the head offices in Dubai more instrumental in the running of credits this to the company’s focus on and London, her role was to build this company together with the com- making the right decisions in the long capacity and deliver a high-perform- pany’s Managing Director. During the term for its employees, shareholders ing team that would partner with the last year, her focus has been on steering and community. Specifically, despite the organization to build a future-proof the company’s performance through impact of Covid-19, the company set risk culture. She excelled in this role the pandemic and ensuring that EABL aside US$5m to support retail outlets and was so exceptional that she was is poised to emerge stronger after the crisis. This has been a time to operate with agility, quick prioritization and Risper is a seasoned professional with over 20 years’ decision-making as well as collabora- experience spanning multiple countries. She joined tion both internally and externally. EABL from Barclays Africa Group (now Absa Despite the initial impact on the business in 2020, her work with the Group) where she spent 12 years in senior roles, Board and management has seen starting as the Regional Director for Audit based EABL report a solid performance for in Nairobi, before moving to Johannesburg as the the first half ended 31 December 2020, demonstrating the resilience of the com- Managing Director for Internal Audit. pany’s brands, people and strategy. Risper is credited with partnering with the respective subsidiaries to adapt across East Africa in managing the nominated as the winner of the most the strategy in light of Covid-19; and impact of the pandemic on their busi- outstanding audit professional in the delivering a strong balance sheet which nesses by providing critical equipment whole of Barclays globally. She set has enabled the business to respond and resources to ensure that health herself apart by building a strong to the changing environment through protocols would be in place once the team, and being a proactive leader who the crisis. outlets reopened. worked with the management team With a financial year ending 30th Uniquely, from January 2021, to pre-empt and address issues before June, EABL was the first company to EABL is now the only listed company they became reportable. Her former report results impacted by Covid-19 where the top two roles, Group MD and boss, Adan Mohamed, later appointed #6 and Risper, working with the Board, Group CFO are both Kenyan females, Cabinet Secretary, described her as one was faced with the first dilemma of setting a standard for a world in which who was so diplomatic that when she issuing a profit warning as results were Kenyan woman are shattering the glass gave you bad news, you felt inclined to Risper Genga Ohaga impacted by the market closure. In ceiling. Working with the Group MD, apologize to her instead for not doing line with EABL values, it was always Jane Karuku, Risper sees a unique the right thing. GROUP CHIEF FINANCE OFFICER (CFO) EAST AFRICAN BREWERIES LIMITED (EABL) clear that the right thing to do was to opportunity to deliver even stronger After 3 years, she left a highly ener- inform shareholders and the public at results in an enabling and inclusive gized and performing team to relocate large of the impact of the pandemic on culture. to the head office in Johannesburg the business performance as required Risper is a seasoned professional where she was responsible for the audit by regulation. This bold action saw the with over 20 years’ experience spanning of the Bank’s 10 subsidiaries in

26 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 27 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Africa excluding South Africa. Within affirming culture. She has a firm belief that a few weeks, her new boss noted her poten- people deliver for you once they know that tial and expanded her portfolio to include you care about them and will unblock any coverage of the South African retail busi- obstacles in their way to guarantee suc- ness, the largest component of the bank’s cess. This is something she has replicated business. At this stage, she also joined the across different organizations, countries global faculty responsible for audit training and cultures, with outstanding results both for all audit staff globally. In this expanded in terms of performance and in developing role, she distinguished herself as a leader people into leaders. She believes in leaving whose excellence transcended cultures and every role and every person she works with geographical boundaries. In the three years better than she found them. Her compas- she held this role, she further expanded sionate and affirming leadership invokes a her role to include the bank’s Wealth, high standard of delivery in everyone she Investment Management and Insurance works with. She takes pride in the number business, extending her experience further. of people who were part of her teams that While doing this, she strengthened the have gone onto take on even bigger chal- team, built strong leaders and then handed lenges across the world. the baton over to them in order to pursue Risper believes in making deep and the next stage of her career. meaningful impact, investing herself in In early 2015, with the aim of eventual- projects that have most impact on indi- ly returning to Kenya and moving from risk viduals and society. She runs mentorship management into general management, she groups coaching young leaders, something changed gears, moving into core finance she implemented in South Africa as well with an initial brief stint on secondment in as in Zambia and in Kenya. She also has a Mozambique where she spent seven months heart for the less fortunate, adopting and before being seconded to Barclays Bank supporting projects that cater to orphaned Zambia as Finance Director, a role she held children. Kafua drop-in Centre in Lusaka for four years. In this role, she distinguished is one that remains close to her heart even herself as a delivery-focused leader who after leaving Zambia. steered the business as Finance Director, Risper is known for her Moving back to Kenya, the choice through a very turbulent economic period, strong values and high of EABL as an employer, away from the delivering strong results through the period world of banking where she spent the larg- and improving the bank’s risk management integrity as well as her est part of her career, was premised on the processes and controls. BBZ, one of the drive for excellence. alignment of the organization’s values with top 3 banks in the country registered sus- These characteristics are her personal values. EABL’s ambition to tained growth through this period and also be the best performing, most trusted and remained one of the key businesses in the rooted in her upbringing, respected consumer products company in Group’s portfolio. reinforced by her Africa is something that resonates to her Risper is known for her strong values schooling at Precious personally and allows her to lead authen- and high integrity as well as her drive for tically and with impact. excellence. These characteristics are rooted Blood Riruta, and Risper holds a Bachelor of Commerce in her upbringing, reinforced by her school- cemented in her training Degree (Accounting Option) from the ing at Precious Blood Riruta, and cemented at KPMG where she University of Nairobi, is a Certified Public in her training at KPMG where she started Accountant of Kenya (CPAK) and a her career and spent 9 years honing her started her career and Certified Internal Auditor (US). She has skills and building the foundation for the spent 9 years honing her also attended a Director Development work she does today. She credits KPMG skills and building the Programme with the London Business with building her into the professional she School. She is a three-time recipient of the is and inculcating strong values and work foundation for the work top 40 under 40 award. She is a member of ethic right at the beginning of her career. she does today. the Board of EABL and Kenya Breweries As a leader, Risper has distinguished Limited. She has also served on the Board herself as one who believes in the power of of Barclays Bank Zambia. the team and works to create a positive and

28 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 29 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

in how firms can leverage technology to scale enterprise transformational pro- enable their business strategy gain market grams. share, cut down on costs, develop new In 2019, Caroline was appointed to revenue streams and improve profitability. lead the IBM TradeLens Blockchain busi- At Progressive Insurance, she was also ness for the Middle East and Africa cov- instrumental in shaping the implementa- ering 70 countries. In the role, Caroline tion of several ground-breaking products. worked with government authorities and #7 Caroline was part of the team that imple- enterprises to digitize trade across the mented and deployed Snapshot, the first region. TradeLens is a digital platform telematics product developed by an insur- that helps facilitate the smooth movement ance firm in North America. The product of goods across borders and thus enables Caroline aided Progressive Insurance in collecting more efficient global trade. data on customer, driving behaviour and The offering empowers importers, Mukiira thus personalizing insurance rates based exporters, clearing and forwarding agents, on actual driving, pioneering usage-based government authorities, and all the stake- REGIONAL MANAGER insurance. This allowed customers to pay holders across the trade value chain to IBM EAST AFRICA premiums based on how much they drove securely exchange trade data on a real- instead of just traditional fixed factors. time basis and provides businesses and Caroline moved on in 2008 to pursue a authorities gain visibility on the status two-year master’s program in management and movement of a container from one and economics at the prestigious Columbia logistical point to another; departure to University in New York City. A top post final destination of a container. graduate student, Caroline was headhunt- In July 2020, Caroline Mukiira was ed to join Accenture LLP upon graduat- appointed as the first-ever female General ing. Accenture LLP is one of the world’s Manager for IBM in East Africa. As the largest management consulting firms. At Regional General Manager for IBM East Accenture, based out of both Manhattan Africa, Caroline is responsible for IBM in New York City and Munich in Germany, sales, marketing, services, and global deliv- Caroline provided advisory services and led In 2014, Caroline relocated from ery operations across eight countries. In large-scale transformational programs for New York to Nairobi, having been this role, Caroline works with the public Fortune 500 companies within the financial headhunted to join IBM Middle sector, private sector, and non-profit sector services industry across North America and East and Africa as the head of across East Africa to transform corpora- Europe. Financial Services for IBM East tions into cognitive enterprises (CE). In 2013, Caroline was appointed as Africa across eight countries, a Caroline is passionate about trans- the global head of operations and strategy role she held for two years before forming the world through technology. for Accenture’s Insurance Vertical, whereby becoming the head of IBM East She believes that in this new era of Cloud, she was instrumental in shaping the firm’s Quantum Computing, Data, and AI, nearly five-year strategy to become a 2.5 Billion Africa Global Business Services, every enterprise is, or is in the process of (USD) Industry. which is the IBM’s consulting becoming, a technology company. aroline Mukiira began her career in the migrated to the United States to pursue a Computer In 2014, Caroline relocated from New division that provides both strategy In her role at IBM, she is excited to 90s during the Internet Boom. She joined Science degree at Bowling Green State University in York to Nairobi, having been headhunted and technology implementation help organizations harness technology to Nairobi Net Online at the age of 18, right Ohio. In 2001 the only black female in a cohort of 25 to join IBM Middle East and Africa as the services across all industries. re-invent, develop new business models after graduating from Kenya High School computer science students, Caroline, graduated with head of Financial Services for IBM East and digitally transform their operations to whileC pursuing a part-time diploma in manage- a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Africa across eight countries, a role she achieve growth. ment information systems at the Kenya School Upon graduating, Caroline joined Progressive held for two years before becoming the Africa countries, bringing together geog- Caroline has been recognized as the Professional Studies. Insurance, a firm that prides itself in being a tech- head of IBM East Africa Global Business raphies, service lines, consulting talent, Top 25 Women in Digital, Top 30 Women At NairobiNet, she was responsible for large nology firm that sells insurance giving Caroline Services, which is the IBM’s consulting industries, and market functions to provide in Technology, and one of the few women corporate accounts selling internet connectivity, her an experience across several roles during a sev- division that provides both strategy and exceptional service to IBM clients within blazing the trail in the C-Suite. email accounts, and web hosting services. While en-year tenure, including as a software developer, IT technology implementation services across East Africa. Caroline is an avid believer of God and at NairobiNet, Caroline discovered her passion architect, and program manager. In these roles, she all industries. In this role, Caroline was Her client experience focused on dis- is conscious that her journey would not for technology and understood technology’s role worked closely with product managers to transform accountable for the day-to-day operations, ruptive technologies; Mobile, Cloud, AI, have been possible without the almighty in improving society’s social-economic conditions. their ideas into products and deploy them in the strategy execution, and overall P & L of BlockChain, Cognitive, Automation, God and the support of her family, men- After a two-year stint at NairobiNet Online, she marketplace, giving Caroline first-hand experience IBM’s consulting practice across eight East Analytics, Internet of Things, and large- tors, advocates, and friends.

30 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 31 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business #8 Bonnie Okumu DIRECTOR OF LEGAL SERVICES AND COMPANY SECRETARY KCB BANK GROUP

ince joining the organization in 2014 reorganization and establishment of KCB Bank as Head, Legal Services, Bonnie has Kenya (a banking subsidiary) and KCB Group Bonnie Okumu’s legal career risen through the ranks, earning a Plc (non-operating holding company) an intricate spans over a period of 16 promotion to Director in July 2018 legal process. years. Before joining KCB, Sand joining the executive committee in January Bonnie Okumu’s legal career spans over a 2021. In this role, Bonnie is charged with period of 16 years. Before joining KCB, she was she was the Chief Legal and ensuring overall corporate governance compli- the Chief Legal and Regulatory Affairs Officer and Regulatory Affairs Officer ance by the organization and further, delivering Company Secretary at Telkom Kenya (then brand- and Company Secretary at innovative legal and business solutions based ed as Orange). Prior to this, she was the General Telkom Kenya (then branded upon sound and resourceful legal strategies. Counsel and Company Secretary at Unilever Kenya as Orange). She oversees the commercial advisory, contract where she oversaw the legal and company sec- negotiation and preparation, securities perfec- retarial functions for 9 operating companies in tion, legal risk and compliance and litigation 7 countries in East and Southern Africa. Until management units of the Bank. she joined Unilever, she was the Regional Legal Bonnie is a proficient legal practitioner Manager for Nestle where she set up the legal with wide experience in corporate governance, department and led a team of lawyers in providing legal advisory, commercial law and dispute legal and tax advisory services to 14 operating resolution in both the context of private legal entities in 20 countries in the Equatorial African practice and in the corporate environment. She Region. is recognized for her dependability, integrity, Earlier in her career, Bonnie started as an accuracy, tenacity and adaptability within the associate at Hamilton, Harrison & Mathews where context of the corporate environment. she represented clients including banks, insurance Ms Okumu bears a unique combination companies and consumer goods companies. She of knowledge in international business with holds an LL. B degree from the University of transactional experience in at least 20 countries Nairobi, is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya in Africa. She has provided advice on legal and as well as a Certified Secretary (CS). tax related queries, undertaken the negotiation Bonnie is a champion and strong proponent and preparation of complex contracts, under- of the development of female leaders within any taken the establishment, and restructuring organization providing on the job coaching and of legal entities in various jurisdictions and mentoring to encourage more women to take up successfully managed, personally and through take up leadership roles. external counsel, the closure of significant One former colleague at Telkom Kenya avers commercial disputes. She has experience in cor- that Bonnie demonstrated mastery in her field of porate governance having served as company expertise; displayed a rare ability to deal effectively secretary and advisor to several boards. with various stakeholders; displayed an equanimi- To date at KCB Group, she has been ty under pressure and exceptional diligence, com- involved in major transactions including the pete with generous bouts of personality ingenuity 2019 acquisition by KCB Group of National and softly applied firmness when needed. Bank of Kenya, being the first ever acqui- Yet another colleague describes her vividly, as sition of a listed company by another listed if it was yesterday, as down to earth, result orient- company in the country, and the recently ed and seasoned Legal professional who is also announced acquisition from Atlas Mara of fun and engaging to work with. She adds, ‘Her Banque Populaire du Rwanda PLC (BPR) in high quality work coupled with her winning smile Rwanda and BancABC in Tanzania. makes is rare to find of a professional in her line Earlier in 2015, she oversaw the corporate of work.’

32 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 33 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Agnes left Deloitte and #9 joined SAP in 2011, first as Public Sector Director but the role quickly Agnes changed to Director responsible for all of Gathaiya SAPs Large Enterprise business in the region. COUNTRY DIRECTOR The company was scaling EA AT GOOGLE up its investments in the region and the role entailed recruiting and training up a team to cover the different industries and territories that were on focus.

he has more than 24 By the time Agnes was through together Skills for Africa. I take pride Agnes then briefly joined Chase years of experience as a with Deloitte, she was an Associate in watching the careers of the first Bank (now SBM) for just over a year transformational business Director and Deloitte was one of the cohort of 100 graduates. The program as General Manager in charge of the leader in organisational devel- most sought-after consultancy firms then was rolled out to other countries. public sector, before moving on to Sopment, focused on developing competi- in its business line by both the pri- Working at SAP was gratifying but Safaricom as Head of Enterprise Sales tive, operational and business development vate and public sector firms, including required significant travel and this for the Small and Medium Enterprises strategies to drive and sustain sales. donor funded organisations. was the first point where my work in July 2016. Agnes says this of the Meet Agnes Gathaiya, the Country Agnes left Deloitte and joined and life as a single mother to a young Safaricom tour of duty, ‘The best Director, East Africa at Google. Agnes’ SAP in 2011, first as Public Sector child clashed. The travel was relentless part of this job was the time I spent professional journey at Google started at take to Director but the role quickly changed and I was not spending enough time in all parts of the country meeting Loreto Convent Valley Road, a journey that water. Her to Director responsible for all of SAPs at home.’ with SMEs and finding out what was would first take her across the Atlantic hard-working ethics Large Enterprise business in the Mid 2014 saw Agnes resign from important to them and then translat- Ocean to then Bryn Mawr College (US). and late-night shifts training region. The company was scaling up SAP and sit at home for 6 months ing this to products that added value Here, she read books and journals between would soon see her easily adapting to a Working at Deloitte was God sent as it its investments in the region and the to nurture her young child, in order to them. My team truly believed in 1993 and 1997, graduating with a Bachelor routine of waking up as early as 4 am to exposed Agnes to work on assignments in role entailed recruiting and training up to give the child a sense of secu- transforming small businesses and I of Science (BSc) degree in Economics. tend to her dairy cows, as she brought the some of the best firms in the country, giving a team to cover the different industries rity and love that was very much guess that is why we were successful. Born into a family of 4 children, Agnes rest of the farm to life, for yet, another day. her invaluable and diverse work experi- and territories that were on focus. needed at that time. She says, ‘My It was gratifying work to change lives quickly learned the values of hard work, Brought up a disciplined girl, Agnes ence and corporate environments. On these Agnes adds, ‘In the first year, we career decisions from then on took so visibly.’ integrity, focus and consistency in all her immediately returned to Kenya after com- assignments, Agnes worked with many achieved sales growth of 250 per cent this into account and so I only worked In February 2018, Agnes joined undertakings, from, of course, a very hard pleting her degree studies in the US. While organizations driving transformations that and from there, SAP continued to for organisations where the furthest I Pesalink - Integrated Payment Services working civil and structural engineering job hunting, she was fortunate to stumble helped them deliver on their mandates scale up and gain increasing market was expected to travel for work was Limited as CEO after being headhunt- father and a family-maker in a mother, on Deloitte, a blue-chip accountancy, taxa- while meeting the corporate strategic objec- share by the year. We also looked at Kisumu or Mombasa. The roles, how- ed to lead the newly launched banking who also doubled as a mid-wife, and often tion, auditing and financial services advi- tives. She also learnt hands on turn around the market and realised that the cost ever, remained challenging and pushed service. According to Agnes, the remit worked late on night shifts, only to retire sory firm where Agnes served good time strategies for firms that were under distress of certification of SAP practitioners me to grow both as a leader and as a was to commercialize and monetise early and take to farming, as a fish would for 13 years. or receivership management. was not very accessible and so I pooled person.’ the investment that the banks had

34 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 35 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

made in the instant payment switch. During the 3 years as CEO, ‘were able to create trust among all the stakeholders including the regulator, the banks and our customers. My team made it easy for me to get up every morning as they were driven and motivated to see the platform become a household name and provide affordable, real time payments. The idea was novel and had barely been implemented around the world and so, there was no rule book,’ states Agnes with a cheeky smile. In her present job, Ms Gathaiya states, ‘Today at Google, we have a mission to organise the world’s information to make it accessible to everyone. Indeed, since I arrived here in the thick of the Covid-19 From L to R: Agnes Gathaiya Google Country Director; Amb (Dr.) Amina Mohamed Cabinet Secretary for Sports Culture pandemic in August 2020, we have and Heritage; Charles Murito Google Government Affairs and Public Policy Director and Martha Galavu of Shujaa Stories. worked on ensuring that we leverage our tools to ensure that we contrib- creating value that transforms their Her main concern during her ute towards the economic recovery businesses and lives. Ms Gathaiya career is finding herself quite often of the region and indeed Africa. believes in building great teams and as the only woman in the room or Working with businesses to help keeping them motivated. She also one of a very few. From her second them pivot. This is something all believes in keeping the customer in job, Ms Gathaiya has worked mostly businesses have been told they must mind in everything that her team is in the tech space and she has always do...go digital or die. Google gives involved in. thought that there should be more them the ‘how’ to successfully do this women at the table. Mentoring and and we have over 300,000 business- coaching is therefore very important es across Africa that we are working to her. with to digitise and provide online Towards this end, she co-founded presence.’ Hernovation which looks at growing Google has also invested sig- women tech managers into organisa- nificantly in the most vulnerable tion leaders. This they do by ensur- groups including recently launching ing the mentees are equipped with a women and children fund. These the soft skills required including Tap into fast, easy and safe and other initiatives take up a part mentorship, public speaking, how of Ms Gathaiya’s time. to develop strategy, how to read and Most of the time, however, she analyze company accounts among spends leading a team that helps cor- other important skill set. contactless payments porates to be more visible, acquire Ms Gathaiya is part of a small customers and manage existing ones group of women who set up a talk using Google’s many advertising shop called African Women in Apply for your contactless Absa card today. platforms. From her second job, Ms Gathaiya has worked Fintech and Payments that currently Ms Gathaiya opines that she has mostly in the tech space and she has always boasts of a membership of over 200 That’s Africanacity. That’s Absa. worked in many different sectors but thought that there should be more women at women. the theme that connects them all is Agnes Gathaiya holds a Global the table. Mentoring and coaching is therefore that she is a commercial leader help- Executive MBA in Business www.absabank.co.ke ing companies align their internal very important to her. Administration jointly offered by resources to serve their customers by USIU-A and Columbia University. Daily and transaction limits along with terms and conditions apply. Terms and conditions apply. Absa Bank Kenya PLC is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya. 36 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 37 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

ecently appointed as Lancet an environment is that you get to pick the best practices positive vibe and energy in the organization it really Group of companies Chief #10 Mwende Musunga from the diverse cross section of people.” was lovely to behold. I think this came from knowing Executive Officer from 21 Passionate about quality practices, Mwende oversaw and seeing all the safety measures in place and regular June, 2021, occupying the CEO LABOREX KENYA LIMITED the transformation of the Laborex’s fleet of vehicles in communication, “she adds with a chuckle. cornerR office in one of the most Kenya and Uganda to temperature-controlled vans in How did Mwende cope during the uncertain times strategic pharmaceutical firms in the accordance with the Good Distribution Practices (GDP). caused by Covid-19? “In order to cope with the stress region, Laborex Kenya, is Mwende By doing this, Laborex Kenya is leading the way in the and anxiety of operating a business during uncertain Musunga. pharmaceutical industry. “A lot of consumers of med- times, I went to my default setting, my love of gardening, Ms Musunga is one of the most We as suppliers, icines take for granted the behind-the-scenes activities I enhanced my green thumb, I learnt how to graft, prop- skilled and experienced CEOs in cannot drop the that go on to ensure that they have their medicines and agate flowers and plants and birdwatching and every so the pharmaceutical industry and has because of this, it is imperative for Laborex Kenya to often, I would interest my boys in a bird watching fan been at the helm of Laborex Kenya ball, after the follow well laid out international best practices to ensure fact. I was not always successful in raising their interest since October 2016, having risen manufacturers the patient takes safe and efficacious medicines. but I keep trying,” she says, with a smile. through the ranks from 2008 when of the medicines According to Mwende, ‘We as suppliers, cannot drop she joined as a Sales and Marketing have ensured the ball, after the manufacturers of the medicines have Manager to deputy CEO in 2014. As quality by the ensured quality by the time, they release the drugs to CEO of Laborex Kenya and its sub- time, they release Laborex’. sidiaries in Uganda and Tanzania, the drugs to ‘We must play our part exceptionally well; it’s Mwende has been responsible for Laborex. our obligation to ensure quality even when no one is the three East African countries with looking,” adds Mwende. In this vein, Laborex Uganda an estimated annual turnover of over subsidiary moved into a brand-new GDP compliant US $40 million. warehouse in 2019. Laborex Kenya became the Recently, responsible companies such as Laborex first pharmaceutical distributor to stepped up to the plate and ensured that during times of receive the ISO 9001:2000 certifica- crisis occasioned by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, tion in Kenya, before transitioning they remained open to ensure continued service to the to ISO 9001:2008 in 2011 and ISO country. “When the Covid-19 pandemic was officially 9001:2015 certification in 2017. It announced by WHO, followed quickly with a national is owned by Eurapharma, a French curfew, two things came to mind. First, how will I make company that is a manufacturer and sure the hospitals and pharmacies get their medicines? distributor of pharmaceutical prod- Second, how will I ensure the safety of my colleagues ucts in Africa and French Overseas and team, while we serve others, our fellow countrymen? Territories through its 27 plus sub- Like many other leaders,’ says Mwende. sidiaries across Africa. Eurapharma She adds, ‘I had sleepless nights but with single is the healthcare arm of the CFAO minded focus, my team came up with a plan to secure group. The CFAO group was recent- medical supplies to the pharmacies and hospitals. As As CEO at Laborex Kenya, one of her roles is to ly acquired by Toyota Tshuso a group, we developed clear directions with regards to maintain and source new business opportunities and Corporation and is a key player staff; there were to be no redundancies or salary cuts as she exits, one of her greatest satisfaction is having in mobility, healthcare, consumer for staff members. This left me unencumbered to look ventured and steered the organisation into the medical foods, infrastructure and energy. Its at other cost reduction measures to keep the company devices space and in the distribution of FMCG goods. distribution network comprises 153 afloat and to keep our staff safe while we continued to For instance, in 2019, Laborex Kenya signed a distrib- subsidiaries and is the largest on the work.’’ utorship agreement with Medtronic, a key player in the African continent. Mwende and her team zeroed in on some areas of sector. “This has been a great success and led to the In Kenya, this means that com- reducing waste, changed some ways of doing things and introduction of other new business opportunities which panies such as Laborex Kenya, DT adopted new methods of working, including improved sadly I will not get to see the execution but I can leave Dobie, Loxea, CFAO Kenya, Toyota processes through Kaizen. knowing I have left my team with a good pipeline of new Kenya and even the makers of Mwende finds it interesting that many companies in business opportunities,” she concludes. Baraka fertilizers are part of the the pharma industry had to terminate their employees Mwende Musunga is on course to finalising her same group. Quite a number of cul- and were running negative balance sheets. Laborex Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at the pres- tures and business all mixed into one Kenya under her was not badly affected and even begun tigious Strathmore Business School (SBS). She holds pot, Japanese, French, and various to register positive results mid-pandemic. “During this a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree from Kenyatta African cultures. “The beauty of such time, even though we were afraid, there was such a University in Biochemistry.

38 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 39 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

mutually insure each other; Takaful as the underwriter, is the agent of the #11 participants, in which role it handles Sumayya recently the technical underwriting, investment launched Takaful’s Summaya of the funds, management of claims and digital transformation handles the administrative aspects. Funds remaining in the risk fund plan to broaden and Hassan after paying claims and providing deepen digitalisation MD TAKAFUL reserves are paid back to eligible par- for the benefit of the ticipants as ‘surplus’. As Sumayya says, customers. This led to ne of the most visible Muslim “We don’t own the risk fund hence have the launch of Takaful women in the C-Suite, Sumayya no incentive not to pay”. Mkononi during the is a lawyer who combines com- Sumayya recently launched 10-year anniversary mercial legal experience with Takaful’s digital transformation plan to celebrations of Takaful Oexecutive experience in various sec- broaden and deepen digitalisation for tors including oil and gas and recently, the benefit of the customers. This led to in January 2021. Takaful Islamic insurance. the launch of Takaful Mkononi during She is a former CEO of the National the 10-year anniversary celebrations of Oil Corporation of Kenya and has been Takaful in January 2021. an advisor in the areas of oil and gas, Takaful Mkononi is an app which the wider community benefits from Nation Media Group, Safari Doctors and trade law, ethical leadership and corpo- puts the convenience of purchasing cov- Takaful’s existence. This isn’t just about Islamic Relief Kenya. rate governance. She is also a respected ers and fixing claims in the participant’s occasional CSR but under the Jamii She has initiated various programmes trainer with the centre of corporate gov- hand. “We want to serve the client Takaful, she has reworked the business for the economic empowerment of youth ernance in Kenya. where they are, not only where we are”. model to provide that a percentage of and women and is now, as the Patron of Sumayya Hassan is the CEO of The app provides yet another interface every cover purchased goes to the vul- the Muslim Deaf Association of Kenya Takaful Insurance of Africa, the first for the client to reach us in addition to nerable in the society. (MDAK), also focusing on empower- and only fully fledged Takaful operator our countrywide branches, website, bro- As part of the 10-year celebrations, ment of the deaf and hearing impaired. in East and Central Africa, which offers kers, agents and sales representatives. Takaful recently launched Mnara, an In addition to economic empowerment shari’ah compliant risk management Takaful is keen to provide solutions online knowledge sharing platform. MDAK is keen to expand the educational and participatory insurance products rather than products. Whilst offering Mnara means a tower or lighthouse in opportunities for the deaf and is current- built on ethical principles. a wide range of products for both cor- Kiswahili. A lighthouse serves the pur- ly exploring setting up both online and As CEO of Takaful, Sumayya is porate and personal coverage includ- pose of illuminating the path for ships at physical educational facilities. focusing on deepening insurance pene- ing medical, motor vehicle, workmen’s sea; similarly, Mnara has been designed Sumayya is the hostess of ‘Aspire’ a tration of Takaful across different sec- compensation, fire and burglary, pro- to help provide mentorship, advice and TV show on leadership and personal tors and demographics. This is no mean fessional indemnity, domestic, cyber- guidance towards success. Takaful has development. a task in an environment where insur- security among others, Takaful focuses reached out to mentors from diverse Sumayya Hassan has studied in ance is regarded either as a grudge on what pain can they alleviate for fields to ensure Mnara will provide a leading universities both locally and purchase, to be bought only if required the participants through their covers. rich offering to the mentees. in the UK including the University of by law, or a luxury purchase for the few For example, the Dada Takaful ladies Sumayya is an Eisenhower Fellow Nairobi, Lancaster University, University who can afford it and with a penetration motor vehicle cover, in addition to tak- and has received several local and inter- of Bristol, University of Oxford. From currently of only 3%. ing care of the car, also replaces the national awards including the Top 40 these institutions, she has chalked up a Part of Sumayya’s objective is to Dada’s handbag and its contents plus Under 40, Lifetime Achievement, Best number of degrees and diplomas, includ- create wide awareness of what Takaful child’s car seat; the commercial motor CEO in Kenya and Outstanding Women ing Bachelor of Laws, Master of Laws, is and how it differs from normal insur- vehicle cover pays the mortgage instal- Leadership Awards. Diploma in Law, Advanced Management ance. The starting point is to educate ments while the car is being repaired; Ms. Hassan is a keynote speaker and Diploma and Commercial Law. In the the consumers that Takaful provides the index-based livestock product for trainer at national and international fora UK, she participated in the African an alternative transparent, ethical, risk pastoralists in arid areas pays them, on transformational leadership, ethics in Students Association. management solution. The model, which during severe drought, to enable them business and corporate governance. She is highly endorsed in Strategic is Shari’ah compliant, is based on the buy alternative feed for their animals Sumayya sits on several boards list- Planning, Negotiation, Research. Her principles of solidarity, cooperation and hence mitigating against the risk of loss ed and private companies as well as interest include Eisenhower Fellowships, mutual assistance. of animals. the not-for-profit sector including Pearls Islamic Finance - Takaful & Pensions, The ‘participants’ as they are called, Sumayya is also keen to ensure of Hope Foundation which she chairs, and empowering Women Executives.

40 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 41 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

izz, (short for Elizabeth) is with other regulatory bodies both at a the author of one of the best- national and international space. selling books in 2020 titled Third, Lizz acted as the public face of YOUTHCAN; an anthology the authority and spokesperson on devel- #12 Lof powerful, inspiring, and challeng- opments, plans and any incidents on both ing stories from youths breaking local and international forums; including barriers across Africa. responding to media inquiries and exter- Lizz Ntonjira Lizz is a strategic communica- nal stakeholders. tions and public affairs expert with In a strategic communication duty, GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS extensive experience gained within Lizz developed and launched new ini- DIRECTOR AT AMREF a number of roles in the public, pri- tiatives through support of World Bank vate and international development to host an Annual Business Journalists sectors spanning over 14 years. Her forum as well as spearheaded an annual areas of expertise include but are not corporate social responsibility (CSR) essay limited to strategic communications, writing competition initiative. brand development, project man- Lizz Ntonjira’s pursuit for higher edu- agement, crisis management, policy cation started at the Goethe Institute of facilitation, regulatory frameworks, Nairobi, where she read German, obtain- youth advocacy, media management ing a Diploma in 2005. She then proceed- and outreach through electronic, ed to the Catholic University of Eastern print and social media, marketing, Africa at Karen to read Law, graduating stakeholder engagements, govern- with an LL. B degree in 2008. ment and public relations. Lizz Ntonjira’s pursuit for higher education started She became Fellow in Public As the Global Communications Management in 2015 from the Virginia Director at Amref, a position she at the Goethe Institute of Nairobi, where she read Commonwealth University, before attend- has held since January 2019, Lizz German, obtaining a Diploma in 2005. She then ing the prestigious Strathmore Business holds a senior leadership role with proceeded to the Catholic University of Eastern School between 2015 and 2018, graduat- the primary responsibility of leading with a Master’s degree in Public Policy ing and mentoring a capable com- Africa at Karen to read Law, graduating with an and Management. munications team responsible for LL. B degree in 2008. Lizz then enrolled at the Chartered program communications, institu- Institute of Public Relations in 2017, tional messaging and strategic guid- obtaining the much-acclaimed Advanced ance for Africa, Europe and North consequence to IBM and the business and unfair market conduct among others. Professional Diploma in Public Relations America communication teams. The units in 25 sub-Saharan African countries Further, it regulates anti-competitive busi- in 2018. role develops and implements plans in Central, East and West Africa as well ness practices and advocates for effective As a personal social responsibility and for successfully and continuously as acted in a consulting capacity, provid- markets that deliver superior value to in giving back to the society, Ms Ntonjira engaging colleagues worldwide with ing communication advice and counsel to customers, producers and investors. founded The Lizz Ntonjira Network, a a shared vision aligned to the insti- executive line management. Here, Lizz specific roles included: First, platform that provides innovative, engag- tutions corporate strategy and serves Lizz was also tasked with developing the development and implementation of a ing, interactive and tailored training and as a trusted partner to the group and communication plans and strategies, col- communication policy, strategy and plan coaching for the youth. It was established senior leadership teams dealing with laborated on messaging architecture that for both internal and external stakehold- in August 2019 with an objective of men- strategic issues as they emerge, to helped IBM’s mission, and helped arm the ers. The aforementioned documents facili- toring and training the youth for a reward- position Amref as a premier organi- sales and business partner organizations tated the extensive publicity the Authority ing professional and personal development sation for the advancement of health with messages and success stories that had been consistently gaining since she journey. program interventions. promoted IBM’s leadership in sub-Saha- took up the role. She coordinated distri- Additionally, it provides collaborative Before joining Amref, Ntonjira ran Africa. bution of various news releases and media development, mentoring and coaching ses- was Communication Manager in Lizz tour of duty in the past includ- inquiries; oversaw planning for news con- sions that make available business and charge of Central, East and West ed serving at the Competition Authority ferences which resulted to the positive career advisory for young people; starting Africa at IBM from November 2016. of Kenya, a body established on August coverage of the Authority in the media. from early career steps, which include Located in Nairobi, Lizz lead exter- 1st, 2011 and charged with safeguarding Second, Lizz facilitated coop- youth development before later moving to nal communication activities sup- the competition process, ensuring that erative agreements and the signing of providing business and personal branding porting business issues of major consumers are protected from misleading Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to best leverage industry opportunities.

42 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 43 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

On safe environment #13 for work, Mrs Kimtai advises all women to Annastacia Kimtai speak up to be heard, RETAIL DIRECTOR KCB BANK KENYA with raised voices and be emotionally

eet Annastacia Kimtai: The champion for intelligent. She financial inclusion, who runs the biggest encourages women banking retail chain in Kenya. to support and Annastacia Kimtai is an astute career empower one Mbanker with over 23 years’ experience in banking, 10 of those being in senior management roles in strategic another, in addition leadership and business development. She previously to inculcating moral held roles including Regional Business Manager and Branch Manager courage and integrity Mrs Kimtai has risen through the ranks, becoming at the workplace at Retail Director, KCB in 2011. KCB is Kenya’s largest all times. and most profitable Bank in East Africa with over 25 million customers and 200 branches. She has a proven history of successful work with cross functional teams to deliver exceptional results in the revenue growth of the Women Proposition and Annastacia is also a board member of KCB growing retail business market share and improving so far, they have managed to open over 170,000 new Foundation which manages the 2jiajiri programme, bottom line by optimizing operational processes while accounts and issued loans worth over Kshs.15.3 bil- a Kshs. 50 Billion flagship youth empowerment mitigating business risks. Annastacia is also proficient lion to help the women scale up their businesses. aimed at tackling youth unemployment by creating in building, training, mentoring, coaching, and develop- The Bank is supporting women led micro, small jobs through skills development and vocational ing careers of highly engaged retail teams. and medium enterprises (MSMEs), by giving them scholarships in the informal sector trades and ICT. She has gained immense experience and com- tailor made services like long term loans and over- The term 2jiajiri is coined from the Swahili word petence across various disciplines such as business drafts, asset finance and insurance premium financing, meaning ‘let us employ ourselves’. growth, leadership and talent development, business mortgages, local purchase orders (LPOs) and invoice Annastacia is responsible for a team of over 3000 risk and compliance, change management, channel discounting, bank guarantees and credit cards. employees and believes in strong leaders doing things optimization, card business, mobile banking and agen- She is constantly championing the empowerment and being accountable for results, effectiveness, reli- cy banking, among others. of women through trainings and thus far, over 3,000 ability, and competence. As the custodian of KCB’s retail banking franchise women have been trained and armed with appropri- Annastacia holds a master’s degree in Business in Kenya, Annastacia has seen significant growth in ate level of business skills. She is driving the bank to Administration and Strategic Management, Master the network’s profit before tax from Kshs 4.4 billion in grow into the go to bank for women in business by of Arts degree in Rural Economics and Co-operation 2011 to Kshs 17.1 billion in 2019 which was a 290% equipping all staff within the entire branch network and a Bachelor of Arts degree. She is a Certified jump. This pushed up retail banking’s contribution to to specialize in relationship management and credit Executive Coach from the Academy of Executive KCB Group profitability from 33 % to 52% during this methodology to ensure that the bank offers the best Coaching (AOEC). She also holds a Certificate in period. customer service and customer experience as well as Senior Executive Program for Africa (SEPA) from During the same period, the retail customers depos- to underscore financial inclusivity to the women-led Harvard University. Annastacia is also a board mem- its have grown from KShs.84 billion in 2011 to businesses. ber of KCB Foundation, the social investment arm of KShs.231 billion, with the retail loan book growing Notably, Annastacia runs the Inua Jamii senior cit- KCB Group. from Kshs. 55 billion to Kshs 182 billion. izens’ scheme, which is a tax-financed pension-tested Humble to a fault, Mrs Kimtai spends time In her tenure at the Bank, Annastacia has cham- social pension offering universal pension coverage for between her official duties and responsibilities men- pioned financial inclusion for customers at the bottom all citizens of Kenya once they attain 70 years of age. toring and counselling her colleagues at work, on of the pyramid by developing products and services to The Kenyan government has been disbursing funds matters that go beyond the normal call of duty. serve this niche. She is currently leading the Women’s through KCB Bank since 2015. For instance, in 2020, She is also a loving wife and mother and sets time Proposition at KCB where the bank is enabling the over Kshs.11.2 billion cash transfers were disbursed aside to enjoy her time with her family and friends, in progress of Women in Business. She has supported through the bank. addition to nurturing her spiritual life.

44 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 45 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Business, a role she played for almost 2 workplace but also in the family circle she Leadership Programme with Strathmore years prior to being appointed as Acting comes from. She supports various charities Business School (SBS) through which Managing Director. Her key achievements and Christian mission work. she also undertook a short course on were development of individual life sales Catherine is a valued member of her ‘Expanding Business Horizon and channels for the company and doubling church management committee at Kahawa Managing Diversity’ at Nanyang Business #14 of the life assurance business. At the Sukari Baptist Church, seats on the Life School, Singapore in 2017. Kenyan Alliance, Catherine was exposed to Insurance Council under the Association Besides the principled family values Catherine Karimi General Insurance management and more of Kenya Insurers (AKI) and is an advi- Catherine was brought up with, she also so in implementation of motor assessment sory board member at Nanyang Business attributes her success journey to one ‘aha’ CEO-APA LIFE ASSURANCE and customer service centres. She got a School, Nanyang Technological University, moment she had at the end of her second glimpse on the standardization of branch Singapore. year in high school. She says, ‘I wasn’t he story of Catherine Karimi is one of some- service levels and brand appearance. In addition to her degree stud- happy with my science grades and espe- body born and brought up in rural Kenya. Catherine joined APA Life Insurance ies in Education, Catherine has studied cially mathematics. At that moment of She attended local schools both in Primary early 2017 as the first woman CEO in the Actuarial Science (2000-2008), undergone meditating, I realised the blockage was all and Secondary, walked into one of the coun- APA/Apollo group. Since then, Catherine’s the Chartered Insurance professional stud- in my head, and therefore I could equally Ttry’s top institutions of higher learning, Kenyatta focus has been on growth of the company ies (2012-2014) and Senior Management conquer what others are able to. I listed University to pursue a degree in Education and market share and growing the bottom line. walked out with a first-class honours’ science degree She also plays a key role in strengthening majoring in mathematics and chemistry. performance culture in the company as Catherine then ventured into an insurance well as building relationship with all the career, purely driven by her passion to work with group’s stakeholders. numbers though trained as a Mathematics and Catherine opines that her journey so Chemistry teacher and having had a very short stint far in APA has been exciting as well as as a teacher. She joined as a supervisor and actuari- positively challenging, with key exciting al trainee in Jubilee insurance, where she went on to outcomes like turning around the business work for 16 years mainly in life insurance division. to profitability, development of some of the During this period, Catherine, she was exposed game changing insurance products in the end to end on operations and management of market and the much-acclaimed business life insurance in almost all areas of the business, digitization process. including customer service, underwriting both for She attributes her growth in the insur- retail and corporate businesses, sales, claims man- ance industry not only to her diligence but agement, reinsurance, actuarial and product pricing also to colleagues and leaders who have and development. mentored and challenged her to greater Catherine also got exposure in IT systems heights through her journey to the top as implementation where she became the business lead one of the very few most impactful women for implementation of a new life insurance manage- CEOs in this cut-throat and very technical ment system that was a big success. While at it, she industry. supported roll-out and servicing of life insurance Catherine list of her many firsts business for the other East African countries of includes the recent award as CEO of the my plans and actions that I would take Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi. Year in the Think Business Insurance during the holidays and vowed to imple- While at Jubilee, Catherine was always involved awards 2020, the first time the award was On the personal front, ment them and reverse the trend of poor in numerous projects besides her main roles, there- won by a woman and First Board Advisory Catherine believes in results by improving on my grades and by exposing her to all the aspects of running a busy member at Nanyang Business School from developing people not only especially mathematics. I could not believe insurance company, thereby increasing her capacity emerging market Alumni. at how fast the results came as I moved to take on bigger roles and providing her with an Earlier on, Catherine was the first in the workplace but also my mathematics grade from a D to an A opportunity to hone her skills and learn how to family member to join and complete uni- in the family circle she grade at the beginning of the third year. cope with heavy pressure that comes with increased versity education, best student in KCSE comes from. She supports This transformation taught me one big responsibilities. in the secondary school she attended, best lesson: that anything is possible with pos- Catherine resigned from Jubilee Insurance girl in KCPE, among the best students various charities and itive attitude, decision making, planning, Company in Oct 2014, to join the Kenyan Alliance at Kenyatta University, 4th year of study, Christian mission work. and implementation. These are principles Insurance as Chief Operating Officer for Life winning the Dean’s list award as a result. I have applied in every other steps of my On the personal front, Catherine believes professional career, and in personal and in developing people not only in the family life.

46 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 47 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business #15 Lucia Musau MBA, MPRSK, MCIPR PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE AFRICAN ELITE GROUP

In a nutshell Lucia and her team are dedicated to helping luxury brands and companies engage millennial consumers and manage media relations, including leveraging traditional and social media to optimize communications reach and impact.

ucia’s dejavu moment came when the firm she founded in 2010 was named “Best Boutique allowed African Elite Group to grow the ser- PR Agency in Kenya - 2020” by EMEA vice portfolio to serve different sectors such as With her experience, and (Europe Middle East Africa) Business Awards. luxury, hospitality, fintech, agriculture, retail, leading a team of enthusiasts, LLucia Musau has extensive experience in public non-governmental organizations among others relations and marketing, having carried out assign- in areas of strategic communications, brand Lucia believes that great ments for some of the world’s Fortune 500 corpora- and communication planning, media training, leadership comes with being tions, NGOs, SME’s spanning across different fields and crisis management among other PR spe- and markets across Africa. cialty services. decisive and using influence At the helm of African Elite Group as majority With her experience, and leading a team of rather than making decisions shareholder and CEO, Lucia Musau is known for her enthusiasts, Lucia believes that great leadership herself. This has positioned her hands-on management style as she steers her team comes with being decisive and using influence to greater heights and providing customer delight. rather than making decisions herself. This has ahead of the curve at all times. She is also an advocate of gender equality in positioned her ahead of the curve at all times. the business arena and a great example of what is Her zest to go from strength to strength is of the global pandemic. While Lucia and her possible. unparalleled in this very difficult sector that is team were combating the crisis internally, on It has not always been a bed of roses during the dominated by global brands who have become the other side they needed to enable their clients start-up years of growing her PR and marketing monopolists over time. to improvise, adapt and overcome. agency. Nevertheless, Lucia quickly became a trusted On a personal level, ‘’Handling change, A key aspect of Lucia was adaptability! advisor, giving guidance first to local, then regional multitasking, keeping up with a busy office How are we adapting to this new world ruled and now global brands, most of which she has aided schedule has become second nature and as a by a pandemic? How are we transforming in achieving increased visibility and better market mum and wife managing that full-time CEO ourselves? How are we forging ahead? These penetration. position as well as holding down busy social are the hard questions Lucia and her team The results so far achieved have not remained agendas is motivated by making a difference in have had to contend with in order to keep their unnoticed. Global luxury and hospitality Fortune people’s lives”, she states. clients afloat, amid an unrelenting scourge that 100 brands are now trouping in droves to Africa Then came 2020’s shock and awe. Forging is the Covid-19 pandemic. Elite Group for support in their growth agendas in ahead amidst the Covid-19 pandemic crisis is 2020 was not for the faint-hearted. However, the regional markets that she knows so well. And something else. And as the saying goes: when it presented unforeseen opportunities and in soon thereafter Africa wide. the going gets tough the tough get going. Lucia fact, it is exactly then that Lucia Musau accel- Lucia’s knowledge and commendable experi- supported her clients in successfully pressing erated her growth agenda for the group. As the ence in public relations and marketing have also ahead without wavering during the new realities CEO, she asserts that it’s all about dealing

48 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 49 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

with situations that are completely out of the playbook by being innovative and putting into high gear some hitherto unknown growth and recovery contingency strategies. With her agility and passion for making an impact and leaving her mark, Lucia went above and beyond to access new opportunities. As a result, she added a technology services portfolio to the group services. A new chapter is now being written in the history of the company with the digital transformation. Towards this end, African Elite Group Tech was set-up in 2020. And within that one, challenging year, she acquired a team of great people with ICT, project management, and change management skills to form the digital transformation team that delivers Cloud ERP implementation services and Robotic Process Automation. And it is no surprise, to those that know Lucia well, that first successes have been achieved in both technology areas with a team of young Kenyan ICT professionals. With her new African Elite Group Tech age events, including post event evaluation business line, Lucia is determined to also With her agility and passion for and reporting, manage corporate commu- address the gender balance challenge in the making an impact and leaving her nications, including developing publica- ICT sector. More than ever before, Lucia mark, Lucia went above and beyond tion and advertising materials, support the trusts her own gut more and more and consumer marketing function with effective continues to build alliances that enable her to access new opportunities. As luxury brand PR planning and execution. to collectively influence people around her a result, she added a technology The firm also identifies, reviews and in the most positive way. services portfolio to the group recommend strategic sponsorships and She alone makes the call, trusting her services. partnership opportunities to support cli- intuition, as the ultimate act of trusting ents’ sustainability commitments and drive herself and that is what leadership is about, corporate visibility and reputation. Most she says. importantly, the firm develops, nurtures In a nutshell Lucia and her team are and leverages strategic relationships as the dedicated to helping luxury brands and guarantee for future sustainability of the companies engage millennial consumers diverse revenue streams. and manage media relations, including Lucia Musau holds an MBA from USIU leveraging traditional and social media - Chandaria Business School, a BBA - to optimize communications reach and First Class Honours degree from Kenya impact. The firm also develops go-to-mar- Methodist University and a Certificate in ket strategies in alignment with product Design Thinking for Innovation from the and brand targets of the clients. University of Virginia Darden School of Also on the menu is the design, imple- Business. Besides that, she is a Member of mentation and execution of digital and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations experiential marketing campaigns, includ- - UK as well as the Public Relations Society ing tracking the execution of advertising of Kenya-PRSK. creatives to ensure efficient work flow of the She loves traveling, reading, fashion, marketing work plan to execute campaigns fine dining and wining, and to unwind, she in a timely manner. loves spending quality time with her family Africa Elite Group also plan and man- and friends.

50 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 51 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

mily was recently appointed the Africa Public Affairs Director for Coca-Cola Africa, where she will be overseeing the public pol- Eicy affairs across the continent. She is an experienced government affairs, strategic communications and sustainability pro- #16 fessional having worked in diverse roles across Africa and Europe over the last 15 years. Emily Waita In the post pandemic world and with business and society facing numerous Macharia challenges and opportunities, today’s public affairs professional must act as an influential ‘corporate conscience’, as well as AFRICA PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR AT COCA-COLA AFRICA providing strategic direction and counsel  Emily also led the project that mobi-  Emily has also been part of the team that touches all aspects of the organization lized various corporations to promote that has been driving the economic and the external environment it operates Kenya as a preferred investment destina- empowerment of women across East and in and where organizations have to nego- tion under the ‘why the future is Kenya’ Central Africa under the 5by20 initiative tiate unprecedented levels of complexity, campaign during an election year. This where the Coca-Cola Company set out to ambiguity, immediacy, and connectivity. would be the first time the private sector empower 5 million women by the end Emily has a broad understanding of has led an initiative to position the coun- of 2020 across the world, in Kenya over the political, social and business oper- try as an investment destination, hence, 800,000 women have benefitted. ating environments within the continent the project “why the future is Kenya” was Emily has worked for 4 blue chip having spent most of her career managing born. The idea was to convene a group of multinational corporations helping affairs in Eastern and Southern Africa, private sector companies both local and them build partnerships, respect and Horn of Africa, Indian Ocean Islands and international – led by Coca-Cola, who visibility through robust relationships, Francophone Africa. would tell their success story in Kenya, advocacy and sustainability initiatives Aside from her career interests, she has why they are committed to invest in the in complex working environments. a personal interest in women in leadership long term and why Kenya is ready to be She has experience working across and entrepreneurship initiatives. Outside the hub for sub-Saharan Africa. The value diverse sectors including Not-for-Profit of work she enjoys youth mentorship, of the coverage of the campaign was over Organizations, an Environmental Lobby, travel, health and fitness. 3 million $ in both local and international Telecommunications, Tobacco, Food and Riding on her strong advocacy and media, and over a million YouTube views Beverage industries. communication skills, Emily is not just a for the documentary in less than 6 months. She holds an Economics degree from typical career woman working hard for her She led similar campaigns in Ethiopia and the University of Nairobi as well as post own sake. She is passionate about initia- Zimbabwe. graduate long-term training in business tives that have significant impact on society. leadership and strategy with accreditation One of her most important skill set from Strathmore Business School (SBS) is the ability to rally behind causes that Emily has worked for 4 and the Gordon Institute of Business transform the society. blue chip multinational Science (GIBS). Some of these examples include: Emily is a board member at the East  Driving the plastic bottle recycling corporations helping them African Business Council and a governing agenda in Kenya – Emily mobilized indus- build partnerships, respect council member at the Kenya Private try players across the value chain to create and visibility through Sector Alliance (KEPSA) where she chairs a platform that led to both policy reform the environment sector board. and the start of a formal PET bottle recy- robust relationships, She was listed as a “Top 40 under cling initiative in Kenya. In just 2 years advocacy and 40” Woman on Business Daily in 2018 recycling rates have increased from under sustainability initiatives a roll of honour recognizing outstanding 10% to 45%. She hopes that she will use women who demonstrate ingenuity, fresh- this experience to mobilize more partners in complex working ness, performance and excellence in their across borders to drive the same agenda environments. professional fields, careers and other areas across the continent. of interests.

52 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 53 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

he co-founder and CEO of Vivo is no reason why a much larger share of Woman, Wandia Gichuru, came what is available is not locally designed #17 into entrepreneurship relatively and manufactured. “It just makes sense. late in life, having spent nearly 20 We are a country of almost 50 million Wandia Gichuru years working in the international people that get up and get dressed every development space with institutions that day. Why should we have completely out- MD VIVO ACTIVEWEAR includeT the World Bank, UNDP where sourced all our dressing to others? We she was a policy adviser and the British have all the skills and capacity we need Government Department for International to build incredible local fashion brands,’’ Development (DfiD) where she worked adds Wandia. as a governance adviser after getting a ‘When you design and manufacture Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from locally you can tailor your products specif- Western University (1986-1988) and a ically to the market you serve, and you can Master’s degree in Business Administration respond much quicker to any changes in (MBA) from the University of Cape Town demand or style. Plus, it is really import- Graduate School of Business in 1996. ant to understand that manufacturing She caught the entrepreneurship burg clothing locally employs more than 15 in 2011 when she took the plunge to “try times as many people, and contributes something different”, with her close friend more in taxes than when we import all Anne Marie Burugu. Though widely trav- our clothing. The impact this has on our elled and exposed to Western fashion, two economy is huge,” Wandia opines. set out to fill what they perceived as a void Wandia states that she was inspired in the availability of stylish yet comfortable when she visited shopping malls in clothing for Kenyan women of all body Mauritius and Egypt, and saw that over shapes and sizes. Hence, the birth of Vivo half the stores were local brands, and they Woman in May 2011. were selling just as much as the interna- In just ten years of operation, Vivo tional brands next stall to them. The same is now widely considered to be Kenya’s with the Republic of South Africa. leading ladies fashion brand, with 100% What ultimately drives Wandia is a vision of seeing According to Ms Gichuru, the local of their products designed and manufac- “Africa Dress Herself”. And whilst she acknowledges fashion space is a relatively small but tured locally, and supported by a growing that imported clothing will continue to play a fast-growing industry. As Kenyans are tak- network of (currently 15) stores across the significant role in the markets, she feels there is no ing more pride in the “Buy Kenya, Build country, including in far flung areas like Kenya” effort, local designers are quickly Eldoret in the heart of the Rift Valley, in the reason why a much larger share of what is available is responding to this interest by offering sleepy coastal town of Mombasa and in the not locally designed and manufactured. unique and increasingly more affordable hinterland in Nakuru. products. Luckily, the buzz in the social Wandia credits this success in such a media has provided an easy route to mar- short time of existence to hard work, qual- and all-size inclusive clothing that are also May. “Looking back over the last ten years, ket, and has made it possible for brands of ity materials, exotic and unique designs, designed appropriately to seat in snugly and seeing how far we have come, is hum- all sizes to showcase their designs online. complemented by a committed team of with all body shapes and sizes. With Vivo bling. Business isn’t easy, but you’ve got To help grow the awareness and over 170 employees. Through constant wear, every woman experiences a sense of to stick in there through the good and bad accessibility of local fashion brands, Vivo feedback, Wandia and her team deliberate- belonging. times. Celebrate the wins and learn from launched a dedicated fashion e-commerce ly and constantly stay in touch with their Luckily for Vivo, the market seems to the mistakes. One thing I know for sure marketplace, Shop Zetu, in December customers, adopting to timely improving have bought into this objective and design is that we wouldn’t be anywhere without 2019, and the platform proudly hosts an the offering. thinking. our customers, and we are grateful for ever-expanding range of local fashion, Vivo’s purpose is to inspire every Due to its brand recognition, Vivo was their support and loyalty throughout this beauty and accessory brands. “We really woman to look and feel different, spe- voted Kenyan Fashion Brand of the Year journey,” says Wandia. want to be part of growing this space, cial and great. According to Wandia, how 2016 and 2017, and won the Top Retail What ultimately drives Wandia is a showing Kenyans and the world what women look and how women feel are Award in the KPMG Top 100 Medium vision of seeing “Africa Dress Herself”. incredible brands, we are building and closely connected, and so Vivo seeks to Sized Business Awards in 2018. And whilst she acknowledges that import- making it really easy for everyone to contribute to women’s confidence, self-love 2021 is a particularly special one for ed clothing will continue to play a signif- have access to them,” concludes Wandia and appreciation by availing accessible Vivo as it marks ten years of operation in icant role in the markets, she feels there Gichuru.

54 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 55 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

isted as one of Africa’s most power- The shift in our external strategy is mirrored in ful women by Forbes magazine, a our internal communications efforts, as during change-maker and visionary, Olga’s core uncertain times employees will rightfully look responsibility covers the delivery of an for guidance, re-assurance and information from Lintegrated internal communications strategy to senior leadership on ongoing developments. build a stronger employer brand, aligned with Ensuring that employees receive valuable the Group-wide campaigns. She is also charged information while mitigating against panic and with the utilization of new technologies to deliver misconception across the wider corporation is better and more targeted content with great- absolutely essential. Leaders that practice fre- er audience segmentation, both internally and quent and transparent communications with externally. Her remit includes the execution of employees, through words of encouragement and the strategic agenda for Corporate Affairs and reassurance, are able to instil faith and provide Brand and Marketing, supporting the businesses comfort under unclear conditions. in achieving ambitious growth targets across the At Standard Chartered, we’ve adopted a Africa and Middle East region. communications strategy that facilitates robust #18 As global head, Olga is leading and trans- two-way engagement between employees and the forming the function through differentiated wider team, during a time where a staggering 90 thought leadership events, client communica- percent of our personnel were working remotely. Olga Arara- tion and digital engagement. She has also been We’ve been able to share important messages tasked with embedding SCB’s refreshed strate- through digital channels and mobile applications, Kimani gic priorities through internal engagement pro- such as WhatsApp and SMS, while organising grammes, sustainability agenda, external media internal sessions that congregate the wider cor- GLOBAL HEAD, CABM AME & INTERNAL and community engagement. poration through accessible platforms, such as COMMUNICATIONS AT STANDARD With over 24 years work experience mainly Blue Jeans, where we hosted a regional Town hall CHARTERED BANK (SCB) in top blue-chip banking, telecommunications with over 3,000 participants across Africa and and IT companies, Olga has a demonstrable the Middle East. track record of success in providing leadership We’ve also prioritised the creation and dis- in both strategic business development, sales, semination of content that’s of interest, while marketing and project management at a regional conforming to physical barriers imposed by the and global level through developing, coordinat- Covid-19 pandemic, to ensure our employees are ing and identifying opportunities for business. continuously engaged with Standard Chartered’s She has recently been involved in the successful ongoing activities. In turn, the Bank was able to rollout of the first Digital Bank for Standard connect thousands of employees through content Chartered Bank and is now focused on digita- that drives our key messaging, further inciting lization of the client engagement journey and confidence in our wider strategy. customer analytics. Olga is an electrical and electronics engi- How have financial institutions altered neer by profession and holds a First-Class their communications strategies during Master’s degree in Business Administration the Covid-19 pandemic? (MBA) in Engineering Business Management After years of having served as a senior com- from Manchester Business School, UK. She is munications practitioner, I’ve learned that the passionate about technology and its impact on most important attribute of any effective com- improving the lives of the underprivileged. municator is being able to look at yourself, your A leading strategic communicator, Olga people and brands through the lens of your most Arara-Kimani tells her story in Q and A form. important stakeholders. When we do that, we can ask ourselves: what do I need to be doing to In times of uncertainty, instil trust, to inspire, to energise, or to re-assure? communication is arguably the most Communications is essential in achieving these important factor of keeping employees’ goals– more so during times of uncertainty. anxiety at bay and safeguarding Amid Covid-19, communicators needed to mental wellbeing. What are the intimately understand how perceptions and methods to achieving this robust line of expectations of their organisations and brands communication with staff? will change – accelerated by fear, anxiety,

56 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 57 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

changing priorities, and all the uncer- entrepreneurship? tainty that comes with physical distancing and a future that for many is on hold or In order to support female entrepreneurs, ill-defined. we must look at tackling both elements Through our own experience at to incite real change, from empowering Standard Chartered and by watching how females to believe in their ideas through a other organisations have navigated the positive network, to providing them with pandemic, we believe the current crisis is the financial capabilities to grow a sustain- heralding a new era of communications. able business. Collectively, we need to have an even more At Standard Chartered, we decided relentless focus on the alignment between to tackle these inequalities head on with the needs and interests of our clients, and our Women in Tech Programme (WiT). our own interests. Running across five markets in Africa and the Middle East, WiT provides women-led What is Standard Chartered’s start-ups with a platform to grow their stance on communicating to business and support their aspirations. different stakeholders amid the Since its initial launch in Kenya in 2017, crisis? we have seen continuous growth of female At Standard Chartered, we’ve adapted to entrepreneurs coming through the accel- the ‘new normal’ by inviting clients, many Africa is the only region erator programme, with the Bank provid- of whom are deeply concerned about their globally where more ing over $500,000 to various programme finances and their ability to manage them cohorts in markets including Nigeria, through the pandemic, to take advantage women choose to become Pakistan, Bahrain and the UAE. To date, of our wide array of digital services and entrepreneurs than men. from cohort one, 4 out of 5 of the compa- have marketed these as an efficient method However, despite this nies have received investor funding rang- for consumers to conduct their day-to-day ing from $50,000 – 150,000, and their banking needs. At the same time, we’re startling statistic, nowhere businesses have grown revenue and sales continuing to share regular updates on the near enough is being done in double digits. In addition to growing status of our operations across our various to support these females their businesses, some of the companies markets, including our call centre hours, have been able to form strategic partner- branch closures and our timely transition who are determined ships with multinationals like MasterCard back to the office. to establish successful and Uber. During the pandemic, we have watched companies. We recognise that there is a grow- the digital adoption rate for mobile fixed ing tech ecosystem across the continent income products increase dramatically and that many start-ups are embrac- since we introduced wealth management ing the benefits of technology. WiT is a solutions on our digital bank platforms this by the Bank’s economists and investment African continent and its efforts to are often found to be underrepresented in funding – including bank loans, angel unique programme in that it not only year. In Africa alone, the average growth specialists since April 2020 to keep clients bolster a key facet of the African the technology sector, and women-founded investment, venture capital and private addresses two of the key problems fac- rate was 43 percent in April. The diversifi- abreast of market developments and invest- economy, how has the pandemic start-ups have been noted to receive limit- equity—despite there being more female ing female entrepreneurs, but also tackles cation of digital product offerings in investment strategies without the need to meet impacted female entrepreneurship? ed venture capital compared to their male entrepreneurs in sub-Saharan Africa than the digital-gap many female-led entrepre- ments has given clients the option to choose face to face. counterparts, with women receiving only men. neurs experience. It’s not surprising that where to invest based on market volatility Similarly, we’ve shifted our focus to Africa is the only region globally where 2.2 percent of all venture capital funding Yet, the issue that we have witnessed most female entrepreneurs we encounter during the Covid-19 situation. However, deliver our suite of external engagement more women choose to become entrepre- globally. This is astounding when research with female entrepreneurs is two-fold: not through the programme want or are using customers still care for an experienced pro- activities through digital platforms. Across neurs than men. However, despite this has shown that if female-led businesses enough financial support is available, and technology to grow their business. fessional who will translate and explain the our various markets in the Africa and startling statistic, nowhere near enough is are supported, be it through mentoring or women often lack access to networks and Over time, Olga has been a recipient strategies proposed by the systems, while Middle East (AME) region, we’ve hosted being done to support these females who financial support, they outperform their mentorship. Time and time again, studies of a number of awards, the most notable offering support in the decision-making virtual roundtables and panel discussions are determined to establish successful com- male counterparts, achieving higher reve- have shown that having access to a strong being: process. that engage our full range of clientele and panies. The Covid-19 pandemic has only nues and offering a 35 percent return on network is a critical element in the long- Top 40 under 40 Women in Kenya 2011 Without the luxury of face-to-face facilitate interactions between our industry exacerbated the issue. investment. term success of female-led businesses. Forbes Top 20 Youngest Power Women meetings, Standard Chartered has con- experts and consumer base. In sub-Saharan Africa, around 56 per- The African Development Bank esti- in Africa 2012 ducted 30 webinars reaching over 17,500 cent of female entrepreneurs cite either mates a $42 billion funding gap for women What are banks such as Standard Olga lists- Remodelling old cars and wealth management clients in AME during Pivoting to Standard Chartered’s unprofitability or lack of finance as a entrepreneurs across Africa. This gap Chartered doing to address this farming Mallard ducks among her hob- Covid-19. The webinars were conducted longstanding presence on the reason for closing their businesses. Women exists at various levels of entrepreneurial impact and progress female bies.

58 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 59 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

he future is not female. I for the Women in Leadership Learning am working towards mak- Series program (WILLS) and the entire ing the future more human Strathmore Women in Leadership and humane, where each docket. This docket grew to offer person“T can become their next best self” regional programs across East Africa said Dr Patricia Murugami controver- impacting over thousands of leaders. sially in a recent media interview in a She then pursued her Doctorate at #19 calm and composed manner. International School of Management, Little did she know, as she walked Paris where she gained a global learn- out of the gates of University of Nairobi, ing experience from multiple locations Lower Kabete campus to graduate over focusing on transformational leader- Dr Patricia two decades ago, that her career trajec- ship and governance. Soon after she tory would turn out as it has. also certified as an executive coach Murugami Patricia began her career with an and is a much sought-after conference unlikely combination of skills - mar- speaker across the local, regional and FOUNDER & CEO BREAKTHROUGH LEADERSHIP TRANSFORMATION keting and auditing, as an auditor at global spheres. KPMG Peat Marwick. She later joined Deloitte Management Consultants, East Africa as a strategy and business process Earlier on in her career, she got consultant. to a point where she needed a Soon after, she was headhunted to breakthrough as she had found join Bamburi Cement as a regional it difficult to find her purpose. business controller and continuity man- In the midst of starting her agement champion. During her time at entrepreneurship venture, she Bamburi, she got married and together with her husband Murugami, they are discovered she was not alone in bringing up their children while mentor- trying to find purpose and this ing many young people. She is a Roman would lead to the registration Catholic and professes the faith to keep of Breakthrough Leadership her grounded. Transformation (BLT) as a limited She then took another big gamble liability company. to disrupt her career and follow her purpose of creating many managers with significance when she joined Strathmore Earlier on in her career, she got to a Business School (SBS) as Director of point where she needed a breakthrough Executive Education. She was responsi- as she had found it difficult to find ble for innovation and business develop- her purpose. In the midst of starting ment which entailed designing executive her entrepreneurship venture, she dis- education content in the area of lead- covered she was not alone in trying ership, management, entrepreneurship to find purpose and this would lead and board governance. She was then to the registration of Breakthrough promoted to Vice-Dean Executive Talent Leadership Transformation (BLT) as a Development where she spearheaded the limited liability company. It is said that engagement of practitioners in industry you become more courageous by taking to become adjunct faculty and guest bold decisions. speakers as well as building global stra- In 2019, she took a much big- tegic alliances with schools such as ger leap of faith and left SBS to Cranfield School of Management and run Breakthrough Leadership Lagos Business School. Transformation (BLT) full-time. She As she continued to work, she pur- firmly believed that it was time for sued her MBA having completed her her to create and catalyze more lead- CPA-K earlier. During her time at SBS, ers locally and globally. As Founder she was the founding academic director and Chief Executive Officer of BLT

60 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 61 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Group, while leading a youthful and boards on board excellence, legacy and progressive team, she has influenced and future ready boards. In addition, she is a reshaped leadership across over 15 coun- Dr Murugami has a deep corporate leadership strategy catalyst who tries in Africa with the innovative corporate purpose and calling to endeavors to use her coaching and facili- breakthrough leadership and mentorship catalyze the growth of tation skills to enable her clients connect circles. their personal strategy to the organiza- Patricia also launched a range of people, teams and boards tional strategy and become more driven open learning solutions which include by enabling them to rise and effective. the Breakthrough Mastery Circle (BMC) and elevate and become In terms of her public work, over the for women who lead intentionally and last three years, she has hosted the annual with purposeful impact and the newly their next best selves. In global conference called: Your Next Best launched Breakthrough Board Readiness order to do this, she has Self Conference. More recently, as part and Excellence Circle (BBREC) to enable served on various boards of her mentorship agenda, she began a leaders become board-ready and serve with 28-day challenge on social media for lead- excellence at board level. across the education, ers to have a positive mind shift before Dr Murugami also raises the leadership manufacturing, ICT, social IWD 2021. She has gone further to begin a impact of her clients through intensive enterprise and advisory telegram channel for Woman of Substance coaching programs for high performance which gained over 1,000 members in the and inner transformation. As inclusive sectors. first week. This is because she knows leadership is a critical cause for her, she has learning should never end and we each enabled many women and other minorities can mentor and be mentored to grow and in Africa to serve as executive and board go further. directors. Her work has reached over Looking back, she now sees the value 70,500 people and counting. of having multiple and varied management In the year 2020, being a skills and encourages her mentees and tough and unprecedented reverse mentors to develop a broad and year, she overcame the odds, deep set of skills. When developing lead- disrupted herself, gained ers, she urges them to be fully present and more entrepreneurial and Global Network – focus on becoming future ready despite the crisis management skills BAWiIIL whose perpetual change that is affecting all of us. as she launched three aim is to create Her leadership work has been hon- new Breakthrough a community of Her dream and oured with various awards such as Top Leadership products: women lead- aspirations are to do 40 under 40 in 2010, Jacob’s Well Most The first is her ers who aim to her part to enable Impactful 12 Women in the region in 2015 weekly leadership make a sustain- many others re- and the National Diversity and Inclusion podcast Your Next able multi-gen- create a more human Business Executive Champion Award in Best Self with Dr. erational dif- & humane world 2019. Patricia Murugami ference through where each leader’s Her dream and aspirations are to do which has a global their leadership her part to enable many others re-create reach and is influenc- work in executive potential is harnessed a more human & humane world where ing leaders across many and non-executive for the common, each leader’s potential is harnessed for spheres. roles. These mem- higher good. This will the common, higher good. This will enable She then launched her bers believe in the rise enable brands to have brands to have a lasting impact and people first book: Rise. The four-way as you lift mission. a lasting impact and to thrive due to a clear connection between manifesto for life and legacy, in Dr Murugami has a people to thrive due their personal purpose and business pur- December 2020 as her part of the deep purpose and calling to to a clear connection pose. The impact of her work continues to purposeful work to lift many people to catalyze the growth of people, between their be seen as she tirelessly innovates to serve become their next best selves. The four-way teams and boards by enabling them the people of Africa and beyond. One of manifesto focusses on raising your heart, to rise and elevate and become their next personal purpose and her quotes that she lives by is: head and hand for a higher purpose. best selves. In order to do this, she has business purpose. “Let us all plant trees under whose Lastly, in response to a call from clients, served on various boards across the educa- shade we may never sit. Let us continue she launched the Breakthrough African tion, manufacturing, ICT, social enterprise growing and lifting others as we rise.” Women in Intentional Impactful Leaders and advisory sectors. She is an advisor to

62 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 63 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

In her role as General Manager at Philips East Africa, Dr. Muthoni, as she prefers to be called, manages sales and commercial partnerships with customers in Kenya, creates and implements the national sales #20 and distribution strategy as well as the sales plan, including sales fore- casts and annual operations plan. In Dr. Muthoni this capacity, she provides leadership to the Kenya team and represents Philips East Africa externally in the Ntonjira region. Dr. Muthoni is a self-motivated GENERAL MANAGER, PHILIPS EAST AFRICA and passionate health care enthusi- ast with years of experience as a con- hilips is one of the leading health tech- sultant anaesthesiologist and senior accredited Pre-Hospital Trauma Life from her mentors who have along Agnes Khamisi, nology companies globally focused on health care manager with a keen Support course director. the way contributed immensely to Clinical developing and manufacturing innova- interest in the development of health Dr. Muthoni is very passionate her growth as an individual and as a Applications Specialist Africa at tive healthcare solutions whose purpose care systems, both pre-hospital and about universal access to health care career woman, teaching her sacrifice, Philips (L) and Dr. Pis to improve people’s health and well-being in-hospital settings. particularly in underserved commu- commitment and hard work. She Muthoni Ntonjira, through meaningful innovation. Dr. Muthoni began her jour- nities and continues to volunteer ser- believes that as a leader, there’s more Country Manager, Philips aims to improve 2.5 billion lives per ney as a medical practitioner after vices as an anaesthesiologist to those satisfaction in succeeding as a team Philips (R) year by 2030, including 400 million in under- completing her Bachelor’s degree in need through various voluntary than as individuals. demonstrate how the new Philips served communities globally. in Medicine and Surgery from the programs. She has served the Kenya A practicing Roman Catholic, E30 ventilator We meet the equipment user turned supplier, University of Nairobi (UoN) in 2007, Society of Anaesthesiologists (KSA) Dr. Muthoni is a strong advocate for works during the Dr. Muthoni Ntonjira, a distinguished and polite working briefly as a general practi- as an executive committee member, women in global health leadership official launch at woman, who has read real books, yet remains tioner in Ngong’ Subcounty Hospital, vice-treasurer and treasurer. She is a and believes that women bring a the Philips office. humble and courteous. before returning to the University of member of the Critical Care Society maternal, very different and time Photo Courtesy/ The Star Dr. Muthoni, a proud and loving mother Nairobi for her Residency Program of Kenya (CCSK). proven perspectives to issues in glob- of two, aged 8 and 2, is a consultant anaesthe- in Anaesthesiology which she com- In the words of Maya Angelou, al health as a virtue of their outlook sist, who holds a Master’s degree in Medicine pleted in 2012. “A leader sees greatness in other in life. Dr. Muthoni adds, ‘Women in Anaesthesiology, a Bachelor’s degree in Dr. Muthoni’s tour of duty has people. She can’t be much of a leader are more transformational and they Medicine and Surgery and an on-going MBA taken her to several public and pri- if all she sees is herself.” Dr. Muthoni nurture their teams by singular men- in Healthcare Management from the prestigious vate health facilities as an anaes- draws her inspiration as a leader torship that ultimately brings out Strathmore University. thesiologist and critical care spe- exponential growth of every team Muthoni was appointed General Manager cialist, before taking a stab at the member. Philips East Africa on March 3, 2020, an easy Kenya Red Cross Society as the Dr. Muthoni began her journey Dr. Muthoni posits that a lot of transition for someone who has spent most of Medical Director. In this role, Dr. as a medical practitioner after health issues affect women and they her working life using the high technology and Muthoni was in charge of developing completing her Bachelor’s would be best placed to be able to patient friendly Philips medical equipment. and implementing medical proto- degree in Medicine and address them as the issues are first She is now responsible for the overall Philips cols under which the emergency Surgery from the University personal before anything other con- East Africa operations and the business growth medical services functions, includ- siderations. ‘Moreover, since society agenda in Kenya. ing providing concurrent medical of Nairobi (UoN) in 2007, places an enormous responsibility on Globally, Philips in full is Koninklijke Philips direction. She played a key role working briefly as a general women, as individuals and at a fam- N.V., a Dutch multinational conglomerate cor- in trauma training as an American practitioner in Ngong’ ily level, women essentially will hone poration that was founded in Eindhoven on College of Surgeons (ACS) accredit- Subcounty Hospital, before their leadership skills from a very 15 May 1891 by Gerard Philips and Frederick ed Advanced Trauma Life Support returning to the University early point in life,’ Dr. Muthoni adds. Philips. It is headquartered in Amsterdam, (ATLS) instructor and is a course of Nairobi for her Residency Dr. Muthoni Ntonjira possesses Netherlands. The most known subsidiary is co-director. Additionally, she trains Program in Anaesthesiology strong entrepreneurship skills and a Philips Electronics. prehospital trauma life support which she completed in 2012. focused team player. She is fluent in (PHTLS) as a National Emergency English and Kiswahili and speaks a Medical Technicians’ (NAEMT-USA) little bit of German and French.

64 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 65 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

unie consciously invest her ener- developed and distributed nine editions of gy, positivity and curiosity for an “The Resolution” magazine that consolidat- in-depth understanding of her busi- ed the firm’s communication and branding ness to deliver value to all whom strategies. sheE engages. Her professional journey has #21 Eunie served as Account Director at earned her leadership experience in tech- Ogilvy & Mather between 2004 and 2007 nology, insurance, marketing and business Eunie Khimulu Nyakundi where her major role was client creative development over the last nineteen years. needs assessment, that involved strategic In her present station, Eunie is respon- ECOSYSTEM MARKETING LEADER NORTH, EAST AND WEST AFRICA IBM thinking, working with the creative and sible for the IBM ecosystem marketing media departments, budget control and strategy and execution in 35 countries formulation of major agency recommen- across Africa to deliver on the business out- dations. She was also responsible for the comes driven by data, yet agile and client management and development of team centric. Her role also involves collaborating members who handled major account port- with different business units and other dis- folio that included who is who in global ciplines on the creation and optimization brands. Notable among these were Coca- of the customer journey through route-to- Cola East & Central Africa Division (Sprite Eunie is a mentor to the youth informally and formally over the last market design and execution to meet mar- & Fanta), MultiChoice Kenya, Nestlé Foods 4 years under the Kenya Ministry of ICT Presidential Digital Talent ket capacity, enabling the local teams and (Brands Nestlé Drinking Chocolate and Programme for youth mentorship. She leverages her combined skills of partner ecosystem in demand generation. MILO), British American Tobacco (Brands: people, customer experience, and processes management to support Before Joining IBM, Eunie served Rothmans, Royals and Viceroy, The Magadi businesses and societies thrive as part of their corporate governance. in the C-Suite at Resolution Insurance Soda Company, Kenya Commercial Bank head of marketing. Here, she was respon- (KCB)and Econet Wireless Kenya. sible for developing and executing Eunie completed her master’s degree at management to support businesses and Society of Kenya for seven years, serving Marketing, Public Relations and Business the young age of 21 years and has accumu- societies thrive as part of their corporate at the Bible Society of Kenya for four years Development Strategies that enabled the lated 19 years professional experience cross governance. Her ethical behaviour and and currently in her second year serving company achieve its revenue targets across industry including tech, financial services, business principles, with the goal of creat- on the Board of Hellen Keller International East Africa and have high brand equity marketing and advertising in management ing long-term value and sustainability for in Kenya. in the insurance industry. Eunie was part and executive leadership roles. all stakeholders is eminent in her Board Her response to a recent question on of the senior management team involved This August marks her 5th year at the experience transforming the Marketing what she is intentional on in her career in corporate strategy development and Hybrid Cloud & AI Technology leading was, “I consciously invest my energy, posi- monitoring. provider for businesses and she remains tivity and curiosity for an in-depth under- She established the marketing function extremely passionate on being a Tech standing of my business to deliver value to that enabled the insurance firm to create Marketer. Within two years of being in the all whom I engage”. and sustain its brand awareness, recog- company she received IBM Smart Marketer She holds a Master of Science nition, acceptance and preference within Awards in the Middle East & Africa Summit in Management of Organizational a short span of time. Sales grew ten-folds for displaying subject matter expertise as Development and a Bachelor of Science while the firm retained positive relation- well as delivery on business outcomes. in International Business Administration ships and developed new business with Her passion to share her learnings both from the United States International all their customers and business partners. has led to her being invited as a key University (USIU) – Africa. To date, many clients chose Resolution, note speaker at regional innovation, dig- She was honoured in 2014 to receive thanks to the brand building blocks Eunice ital, advertising, marketing and research the Rising Star Award for the Banking and created. forums. Diversity and inclusion are core Financial Services sector. Positive brand positioning of Resolution to her and she has shared her experience Eunie strives to continuously engage Health as a medical insurance provider and as a motivational speaker at global brands within her environment to make an impact. seamless rebrand and re-positioning to inclusion forums. She loves to operate fast paced, embraces Resolution Insurance as a general business Eunie is a mentor to the youth informal- diversity and change as a positive chal- insurer through consistent brand engage- ly and formally over the last 4 years under lenge. She believes she needs to enjoy what ments and member reward programmes the Kenya Ministry of ICT Presidential she invests (not spends) her time on. “If she initiated gained not only customer Digital Talent Programme for youth men- I’m not happy with what I do, it means I’m confidence but foreign investor confidence, torship. not a happy person in life”. Her husband earning a ‘Marketing Initiative of the Year She leverages her combined skills of Adam and her are blessed with two sons, Insurance Awards’. Eunie also launched, people, customer experience, and processes Sekai and Sean aged ten and six.

66 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 67 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

She is the current Chairperson of the County First Maria enjoys voluntary work to Ladies Association of Kenya, an organization which draws its membership from the Governors spouses. give back to the community and The organization champions various initiatives around #22 a Life member of the Kenya Red health, women and youth enterprise and empowerment. Cross Society, where she serves as a The most popular of the Association’s initiatives are the Maria Mbeneka Menstrual Health Management (MHeM) in partnership member of its Election Grievances with Red Cross Society and the Empower Cancer Clinics projects, which has seen the successful launch and imple- PARTNER KIMANI KABUCHO MBENEKA AND Committee. She is a mother, wife, daughter and lover of life. mentation of seven cancer clinics across the country. CO. ADVOCATES Maria holds a Bachelor of Social Legislation (BSL) and a Bachelor of Laws Degrees from Dr. Babasaheb sion. She is the Chair and director of Ghetto Radio, a Ambedkar Marathwada University, Maharashtra-India aria Mbeneka is a name Partner with youth empowered urban media House started in 2007 and the mandatory post graduate Diploma in Law from the firm Kimani Kabucho Mbeneka to give voice to the urban youth. Today, Ghetto Radio is the Kenya School of Law. She is a trained Mediator and and Company (KKM) Advocates and recognized as the official sheng station in Kenya with a holds a certificate from the Mediators Training Institute boasts of over eighteen years in pri- massive audience that includes the youth and those who (MTI). Maria is a Certified FIDIC practitioner (Finance, Mvate practice, with extensive experience in Family have the interest of the youth at heart, including parents Development Construction) expert. Law, Conveyancing, Intellectual Property Law and with a passion for all matters affecting the youth. Maria enjoys voluntary work to give back to the Litigation. As the spouse to the Governor of Laikipia County community and a Life member of the Kenya Red Cross In her capacity as an Advocate, she was appoint- Hon. Nderitu Muriithi, Maria took to the role of First Society, where she serves as a member of its Election ed as a member of the Industrial Property Tribunal, Lady in 2017 effortlessly. She champions several ini- Grievances Committee. She is a mother, wife, daughter a court of first instance in matters industrial designs, tiatives within the county such as maternal health with and lover of life. patents and other matters, in 2010 where she served a hugely successful campaign dubbed the “Hongera She is passionate about public service, leadership diligently until 2013. Mama” initiative which provides an incentive to mothers and mentorship. You will find her enjoying organic In 2016, Maria was elected as Vice President of to deliver their babies at the primary health facilities in farming as a favourite past time or playing golf in the East Africa Law Society (EALS) a position she a bid to reduce maternal and infant mortality. The ini- some of the country’s very scenic golf ranges. As a served until 2018 and headed the Public Interest/ tiative promotes the universal health care (UHC) model hobby, Maria enjoys football and supports local teams Strategic Litigation Committee which filed cases at through the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), in Laikipia and is Patron of the Emerging Law Firms the East African Court in Arusha. incorporates traditional birth attendants as champions (ELF) FC. Maria was elected a council member at the Law of hospital deliveries and ensures mothers and children Maria applies the Motto “Carpe Diem” which is Society of Kenya (LSK) in 2018, serving as the access pre- and post-natal care at their primary health Latin for Seize the Day and says that this is what drives Treasurer and General Member Representative for facilities. her to achieve and reach for more. the period of 2018-2020. While serving at the LSK, Maria convened the ICT/IP Committee which took on Public Interest Litigation such as the NIIMS Petition, the Housing Levy Petition of 2018, con- sultative and public participation forums on Data Protection among other initiatives. Her passion around technology has seen her champion the use and adoption of technology in the legal profession. You can catch Maria on the Dijiti Podcast, a digital rights podcast which she produces and features in with her colleague Mercy Mutemi. Maria vied for the position of LSK President in February 2020 and came in second in a hotly con- tested election. She is currently serving as a Council member of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) representing East Africa and Seychelles and is a member of the Co-operatives Tribunal. Maria Mbeneka is a multi-faceted individual with several interests away from the legal profes-

68 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 69 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

orothy Ooko is a leading Africa communications executive. For over a decade, she has led regional communications strategies for the world’s most recognised brands. With experience spanning Dtechnology and innovation, Dorothy brings vast expertise and business acumen to align communications with strategic business objectives. Dorothy is currently Head of Communications and Public Affairs for Africa at Google. Prior to that, she served as Communications Manager for Nokia with assignments covering East, Central, and Southern Africa. While at Nokia, she successfully led engagement with the Kenyan government that culminated in the 2008 VAT waiver on mobile phones. Prior to joining the world of business, Dorothy spent over 15 years in academia teaching French at Kenyatta University and was an Assistant Professor at the United States International University-Africa (USIU-A). Today, Dorothy is channelling her passion for teaching towards training professionals. As a qualified Search Inside Yourself (SIY) facilitator, she empowers individuals to #23 apply the principle of mindfulness in their lives; enabling them to grow in emotional intelligence, enhanced performance, and leadership. She currently teaches this popular Dorothy Ooko program to colleagues at Google. A good communicator who speaks 6 languages, HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC Dorothy delved on a number of issues in a bid to answer AFFAIRS, AFRICA AT GOOGLE specific questions put to her. On leadership style: Naturally I am a relationship builder, who holds a team together and makes it more than a group of individuals. I discover and promote strengths in others to create a strong organisation and an influencer by helping my team reach a broader audience and do an amazing job selling ideas. When you do this, they are apt to speak up and persuade others to join them. I also naturally default to being an executor. I love to implement solutions and will work until I have reached a goal and a strategic thinker, mostly focusing my time and energy on what could be and make decisions and stretch towards the future and making things happen. My role demands that l implement solutions and reach goals set for me by the organisation. I am evaluated not only by how well I meet each of these goals but how I motivate and inspire my team. On values most important to her as a leader: Lifting my people by being an excellent manager and developing them so they can take over from me; by inspiring them with a vision of what can be accomplished and inspiring them to bring that vision to life; helping solve for Google by collaborating with other teams, across geographies, sharing information and resources. Secondly it is important for me to drive amazing work by acting like an owner and championing new ideas. As a communication lead, I believe it

70 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 71 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

is very important to speak can- ucts to build their company, their clinic, or didly, even when it’s uncomfortable. their non-profit organizations. Others just I assume responsibility for mis- need help finding an address. But every steps in my team and share credit If you believe one of them is giving us their trust. It is our for successes and always ensure I act passionately responsibility to do right by them. in Google’s and Africa’s best inter- about something Second, respecting the Opportunity: est. At Google people managers are do it: I truly Working at Google comes with tremen- tasked to deliver the impossible: my believed that dous responsibility – not only to do the role is to guide my team to deliver mobile phones right thing, but to accomplish things that high-quality services that anticipate were the first matter. The decisions we make have the user needs thereby transforming potential to affect billions of people and lives and increasing the breadth and way Africans each decision big and small defines what depth of Google’s positive impact on were coming Google is. the world. That is our mandate and to the Internet Third, respecting each other: We have in sub-Saharan Africa, our mission is in droves the potential to help billions. But we are to ensure that our products are help- and it was no good to anyone if we can’t first be good ful to Africans and our platforms important that to each other. help Africans get online and empow- governments And the low side? Mocality issue in er them to build and grow business- removed VAT Kenya. We had always been seen as the es. We ensure that our messaging company that helps people and we lost is aligned with our mission. Finally, to make them our innocence in Africa with this incident. one of our values at Google is to affordable. Dealing with this crisis was tough but also thrive in complexity. This means that a great place for learning. As Larry Page, as a leader l am flexible and focus on how we can go the extra mile and our founder, says “We are going to make the future by creating new opportu- anticipate what they need to make mistakes, and that’s okay! Sometimes mis- nities, and adapting to changing cir- At Google, we have a word their work easier and therefore be takes lead to the next best solution. The cumstances. My role is to show the “Googley”; it means you’re a helpful. How do we make it easier important thing is that we own up to way, creating strategy, organisational for them? And how are we different them and prove our integrity to ourselves, structure, and forward-looking goals part of the Google family, and in how we present our products? co-workers and our users.” that enable my team to navigate therefore you must consider I led the team that lobbied for the Dorothy serves on the board of uncertainty. yourself an owner, rather than removal of VAT on mobile phones in AkiraChix, an association for women in At Google, we have a word Kenya. Here are some insights on technology, is chair of the Board of Voltaire “Googley”; it means you’re a part an observer. If you see something my experience during this period mobile phones were the first way Africans empower them to build and grow busi- Lifestyle Services Ltd (GAIA Africa) and is of the Google family, and therefore that’s broken, try to fix it and the leadership skills I employed were coming to the Internet in droves nesses. Once we were launching a product a Non-Executive Director of the Alliance you must consider yourself an owner, to make this a success. and it was important that governments and I didn’t feel it was responding to our Française Nairobi. rather than an observer. If you see There are many lessons learnt removed VAT to make them affordable. Africa mission. I pushed back to the engi- She holds an MBA from the United something that’s broken, try to fix on that experience: First, reach out There was no policy person for Africa and neering team with reasons why it didn’t States International University-Africa, an it. If you have a great idea, try to to others who have gone ahead of others felt I shouldn’t push for it. seem to be empowering Africans to build MA in French from Kenyatta University make it happen. If you see someone you: I reached out to Louis Otieno, When you need the support of others and grow businesses. We went back to the and DEUG from Universite de Rennes, who needs a helping hand, lend it. who was heading Microsoft then and in the industry: But what happens if they drawing board and changed certain parts France. Being Googley is really important had successfully helped zero-rate are slow to coming to the table? You forge of the product so that it was truly helpful. Upon the visit of COVID-19 pandemic, to me and means that nothing is too computers in Kenya. He was most ahead. Don’t listen to the naysayers: and This is what excites me about working at Dorothy started No Head Podcast about menial for anyone. helpful. People really want to help they are many; those who believe you Google, that we can challenge others and living life in the present moment and nav- The maxim I believe in: Our when you have a great cause. don’t have what it takes or who think be heard and if we have data points, we igating life. founders, Larry Page and Sergey Second, reach out to the leaders: you’re not doing it the way they think is will be heard. Mission, Transparency, Voice She speaks English, French, Spanish, Brin wrote the 10 things we know I reached out to the progressive PS the way. (ability to express yourself as a Googler) Dholuo, Swahili and has a working knowl- to be true. The 10th keeps me going then in charge of ICT, Prof. Bitange On highlights of my leadership: On and Respect - these are key tenets of our edge of Portuguese. as a leader: Great just isn’t good Ndemo, who was monumental in the flipside what has been the lowest culture and are the pieces that we live by Whenever she can squeeze in some enough. We see being great at some- supporting the proposal. point. Leading a team of brilliant and as a company. time to herself, Dorothy can be found thing as a starting point, not an Third, rally the media and edu- amazing people and creating our mission On respect. Respect has three tenets: whipping up something in the kitchen, endpoint and that makes standards cate them about your project. for sub-Saharan Africa and ensuring that First, respecting the User: Users are peo- traveling, working out, dancing salsa or really high. When l look at my stake- If you believe passionately about our products are helpful to Africans and ple. They are family members, friends, and with her nose deeply buried in a good holders, I am always thinking about something do it: I truly believed that our platforms help Africans get online and neighbours. Some are relying on our prod- book.

72 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 73 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

Zuhura the found and set up New #24 Revenue Solutions Africa (NRSA) Having spent close in 2015 where she serves as CEO. Under this organisation, Zuhura has to fifteen years Zuhura been able to leverage her knowledge in the corporate and experience in business strategy, marketing, communication and digi- space and having Odhiambo tal transformation to advice especially gained a wealth MSMES on how to enhance their CEO NEW REVENUE SOLUTIONS of experience, efficiencies and effectiveness to grow AFRICA (NRSA) and sustain revenue, through the use Zuhura decided of data. to transition to s a young girl growing up in the village, Her focus is to see businesses entrepreneurship Zuhura’s dream was to become a con- develop winning strategies, generate scientious leader who would positively multiple income streams and nurture by teaming up with impact society. Her desire has always strong brands while ensuring affir- a business partner Abeen to improve the livelihoods and dignity of the mative action is institutionalised and to set up Cocoa by majority of people especially those at the bottom operationalised in the policies of orga- of the pyramid. nizations. In this regard, Zuhura spear- Design, an events During an interview with this publication, headed the launch of the 30% Club in management entity. Zuhura recalled her mother constantly reminding East Africa. As a Regional Lead and her that, “For you to be a leader, you need to be Coordinator of the 30% Club, Zuhura disciplined, passionate, a good listener and com- facilitated the signing in of the Nairobi the woman leaders for tomorrow, who Corporate Directors (WCD), passionate; one who continually puts the interests Securities Exchange (NSE) to run a will need to work with the man for Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK), of others before self.” According to Zuhura, these global campaign led by Chairs and good gender equality. She has ensured Public Relations Society of Kenya words became her clarion call and point of refer- CEOs taking action to increase gender that the boy child is not left behind (PRSK) and the Chartered Institute of ence through her leadership journey that spans diversity at board and senior manage- either and she does this through Next Marketing (CIM). over 15 years in business, corporate, ministry and ment levels by at least 30%. Gen Fathers which is a young man’s Zuhura was instrumental in see- social spheres. According to her, the leadership mentoring organisation with a Mantra ing the first Women Economic Forum Zuhura is a professional leader skilled in busi- journey has not been easy. Some of of “give us your boy and we shall give being hosted by development part- ness management, organization development, stra- the profound lessons that she gleaned you back a refined man” where she ners, government, private companies, tegic communication, media analysis and social along the way is that for a woman to serves as a Board member. informal sectors, civil society orga- marketing. Her work experience spans top tier be successful, she has to be resilient, Zuhura remains a big force in nizations (CSOs) and women leaders media houses as Nation Media Group and Capital continually innovative, agile, an effec- the Creatives Industry where she which discussed the role of women FM, where she held a number of senior manage- tive communicator and emotionally serves as a Chair of Board of EMAK in reshaping the Kenyan economy in ment positions. intelligent. These attributes need to Events Managers Association of Kenya February 2021. As a Commercial Director, Zuhura was in be firmly anchored on faith in the (EMAK) to bring professionalism in She was involved in coaching and charge of teams handling key accounts on media almighty, in God. She further adds the Industry. mentoring start-ups to develop award advertising for radio, digital and on-ground for that women leaders have to be purpose Zuhura holds an MBA degree winning business cases and plans both direct and agency clients. Other key responsi- driven, confident and ready to seek in Marketing from Kenya Methodist during incubation with Ibiz Africa a bilities involved overseeing territorial management mentors and learn from them. Zuhura University and a Bachelor of Arts Standard Chartered Bank Initiative of clients aimed at increasing client base. This posits that she has learnt that even (BA) degree from Limkokwing in 2019. made her appreciate the importance of teamwork though the journey as a woman leader University, Malaysia. She has under- Zuhura participated in the for- and shared leadership in organisations. might be challenging, what matters taken the Senior Management mation of the first Female Governor’s Having spent close to fifteen years in the most is God, support from family, Leadership Program and Developing Network in Kenya to enable better corporate space and having gained a wealth of friends, mentors, and other leaders in Leadership Competencies courses at County service delivery in the 5-year experience, Zuhura decided to transition to entre- the field. the Strathmore Business School (SBS). time frame in 2018 and initiated preneurship by teaming up with a business partner During her free time, Zuhura She is also an alumni of Female Future partnerships and was involved in to set up Cocoa by Design, an events management mentors young leaders from various Force programme (FFFP) from the having the first Indian Film Festival entity. Cocoa by Design transacted businesses not institutions like Kenyatta, KCA and Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE). Kenya from the Indian Film Festival only in Kenya but also Uganda, Tanzania and Strathmore Universities, among oth- Ms Odhiambo is a member of Worldwide which was also the first in South Africa. ers. She is passionate about propelling the following associations: Women Africa in 2018.

74 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 75 ANNIVESARY EDITION Top 25 Most Powerful Women in C-Suite Impacting Business

ary introduces herself as a mother of two to amplify the voice of both farmers and lovely toddlers who strongly believes in workers, committed to ethical practices in influencing the world one person at a the world. #25 time and describes herself as a bubble With over 16 years of corporate prac- Mconstructive of energy. tice under her belt, Mary is undertaking Mary Kinyua is serving as the Director in charge her PhD at the University of Nairobi. She Mary Kinyua of Human Resources (HR) and Administration at holds an MSc degree in Human Resources, Oserian Development Company where she is charged a Business Administration degree and HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR OSERIAN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY with the leadership of the organization’s large staff a diploma in Law. She has Leadership complement, compliance, risk management, quality Diplomas from Nanyang Business School, management systems and corporate services for the Singapore and the Strathmore Business business. She also serves as the internal coach for her School (SBS). Mary was recently certified business. as an executive leadership coach. She A 2019 top 40 under 40 female leader and the is a member of the Institute of Human 1st Runner up for the HR Director of the Year 2019, Resource Managers (IHRM), International Mary has been widely recognized for her transforma- Coaches Federation (ICF) and an alumnus tive leadership in HR management and Corporate of the Centre for Corporate Governance. Governance. She is not only passionate about people Passionate about sustainability and but believes that good corporate governance is the protecting the Earth, Mary spoke at the foundation of any business and strives to integrate G7 Youth forum in France at the invite of this in her day-to-day interaction. the French President Macron where her A fiery brand, Mary has championed, the conver- message on the need for the European sation on living wage in the industries she has worked Community to work with the farmers and in, been actively involved in diversity and inclusion in markets in the South, to make trade fair work places and opines that diversity is only enough for all was well received. if there is deliberate inclusion. Mary also sits on the Advisory Council A turnaround Manager, Mary has steered organi- of the COP 26 Presidency, where the zations to great heights through change management members are working to ensure that the and business processes re-engineering that continue to supply chains are rid of carbon emission to astound many. Mary believes strongly that there is no achieve net Zero. In the forum, Mary has singular resource more important, better or superior actively championed for incentives across than the other. Where a particular resource is assigned the business supply chains that ensure higher weighted metrics than the others, the resultant those who make more efforts to produce mismatch will always cause a crack in the establish- and trade sustainably are well rewarded ment. In this regard, Mary strives to create balanced for a safer World for all. institutions through her most talented deliberations Focused on changing one person at a in the Boards she sits on and through timely interven- time, Mary spends her time finding sus- tions with organizational leadership. tainable solutions to business and social Mary sits on corporate, non-profit and advisory problems. Her contribution to the Boards boards both locally, regionally and internationally and she sits on has enabled her change the is currently the chair of board of Fairtrade Africa. She institutions she serves in how they view Passionate about sustainability and is the immediate past chair of Fairtrade International businesses in relations to the planet and protecting the Earth, Mary spoke at the G7 – Germany. the people. Youth forum in France at the invite of the In the Fairtrade leadership, Mary has championed During her free time, Mary loves host- a living wage and income for both workers and pro- ing and entertaining at home. Mary is also French President Macron where her message ducers, under her stewardship in 2018, the fairtrade an avid reader and is currently reading on the need for the European Community to floor wage was introduced to ensure employees are Kamala Harris’s ‘The Truths We Hold. work with the farmers and markets in the paid at above world poverty rate, while she acknowl- An American Journey.’ Mary finds quality edges that this is not enough, she believes it serves time to mentor young women in her pro- South, to make trade fair for all was well as a good starting point in encouraging good prac- fession as a way to make a difference in received. tices. Last year while serving at the FI Chair, Mary the profession and in her transformational led a delegation to meet the Pope Francis in Italy leadership.

76 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 77 ANNIVESARY EDITION CEO OF THE MONTH MOST IMPACTING BUSINESS

that enhance infrastructure efficiency and On Pan-Africanism, Njiinu believes postulates. sustainability across the region, among African businesses must take the lead in ‘By manufacturing what we need and Nganga Njiinu others. solving African challenges. In his opin- export to other markets we not only create GROUP CEO - TRANSCENTURY PLC When Njiinu joined TC, the company ion, ‘Africa has the necessary expertise and sustain quality jobs but provide a sus- was transitioning into a distinct corporate with a well-educated population and with tainable ecosystem that ensures real social entity, after a phase of rapid growth and globally earned experience and exposure. economic development and impact. The acquisitions. On ascending to the helm in Africa must build the right infrastructure ecosystem will generate and support local ince joining TransCentury (TC) 2016, he took up the delicate role of sta- and must promote manufacturing which input suppliers, financiers, channel part- PLC in 2008, Njiinu has held var- bilising the business and turning around both allow us to drive our own agenda as ners including wholesalers, retailers, after ious roles in corporate finance, TC, a growth phase characteristic of every Africans in terms of long term, sustainable sales services while exports of the products portfolio management, business sustainable business. In the 4 years, he has and inclusive economic growth.’ Njiinu will further boost economic growth and Sdevelopment as well as originating and led the team through a robust turnaround earn the much-needed foreign exchange to developing opportunities in the infrastruc- plan that identified 4 key areas of focus. stabilise our currency,’ Njiinu adds. ture space. First is reprofiling obligations to provide The development of infrastructure on Prior to the posting at TC, Njiinu runway for capital reallocation to produc- the other hand ensures access of goods and worked for Coldwell Banker Residential tion. Second, intense focusing on delivering labour and improves efficiency, reducing Brokerage in the USA for 7 years, where he robust commercial opportunities to boost cost of products to the population and was involved in strategy, financial planning earnings and support fundraising. Third, this has a direct impact on the quality of and analysis as well as evaluation and inte- fundraising for growth and enhanced exe- life as well as lowering the cost of inputs gration of acquisitions. cution capability to increase efficiency and for our exports, hence making our pricing Njiinu has an MBA in Finance and Fourth, boosting income generation. competitive. Investment Management from the Njiinu’s turn-around plan has led to According to Njiinu, one of the biggest University of Dallas in Irving, Texas and reduction of debt by USD55m and a challenges that Africa faces is adequate a Bachelor of Science in International restructuring of USD 52m of debt. In and quality infrastructure development Business from United States International addition, TC has gone through a group- in critical areas and more so, acquiring University-Africa. He is a CFA charter wide organisational redesign that included the right and sustainable funding for the holder. strengthening of the corporate governance development, that is long term and afford- Njiinu took the helm of TC in 2016 structures and streamlining the business able. Njiinu believes permanent capital tasked with giving guidance and providing systems and controls in line with the TC especially from local institutional inves- transformational leadership and change group strategic direction. tors is the best long term and sustainable management that would turn around the The business has also taken a deliber- solution. fortunes of the investment group back to ate focus on stakeholder management that In his methodological and well-rea- profitability and growth. includes, financial partners, employees, soned mind, Njiinu posits that providing a TC is an indigenous investment group investee companies among others, result- long-term local capital source that under- with a focus on investing in infrastructure ing in increased alignment within and stands local business operating environ- projects, products, and services. TC prides without the business and in accordance ment and can support businesses through itself as one of the pioneer investments with the best global benchmarks that challenging times while giving comfort companies in the region that took the Njiinu has managed to infuse into TC since In 2017, Njiinu led the team to non-local capital. ‘Local institutional challenge of solving the capital availability taking over as the CEO. in unveiling TC’s four-year investors can originate, develop and sub- challenge by pooling together local capital In 2017, Njiinu led the team in unveil- stantially de-risk opportunities to get glob- to address local challenges. ing TC’s four-year strategic plan, ‘Ahidi,’ strategic plan, ‘Ahidi,’ a Swahili al attention that then, can also provide an Since its formation, TC has managed to a Swahili word meaning ‘promise’. This word meaning ‘promise’. This exit route for foreign investors seeking to phenomenally grow value while addressing strategic plan has provided a clear direc- strategic plan has provided a clear exit the local scene,’ Njiinu explains. pertinent infrastructural deficiencies in the tion for TC in the last couple of years and direction for TC in the last couple As an example, Njiinu explains that country and region. Twenty-four (24) years is currently under review for a revamp and of years and is currently under TC is structured in such a manner as a on, TC has investments across East, Central to take into consideration the current envi- review for a revamp and to take permanent capital investment company and Southern Africa which include East ronment impacted by the adverse effects into consideration the current with a management team that has deep African Cables, a leading manufacturer of of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective environment impacted by the operational and investment experience electrical cables, Tanelec, a leading man- is the consolidation of the gains so far in infrastructure development that not ufacturer and distributor of transformers registered and charting a path forward in adverse effects of the Covid-19 only provide funding but also give stra- and switchgears based in Arusha, Tanzania, the future to cope with the new normal pandemic. tegic support to investee companies. In Avery East Africa, which provides solutions business environment. his opinion, working together creates

78 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 79 ANNIVESARY EDITION CEO OF THE MONTH MOST IMPACTING BUSINESS

understanding of the business operations and governance. TC has built a track record characterised by resilience and the Occidental Insurance Company Limited Local ability to turnaround businesses even under institutional challenging and volatile environment and investors can this is an offering that is a big plus for com- originate, panies that join the TC platform. develop and substantially Among the achievements of TC Njiinu de-risk is most proud of is the unmatched platform that TC has created with strong brands and opportunities track record of delivering iconic infrastruc- to get global ture projects in the region that include con- attention that struction of power plants especially in the ABOUT US PRODUCTS WE OFFER then, can also geothermal space, building of well pads and associated infrastructures for leading oil provide an Occidental Insurance Company Limited was incorporated 1. Motor Private Policy exit route for and gas energy and petroleum companies, foreign investors and the development of greenfield gold since 1987. 2. Motor Commercial Policy mines in the DRC, among others. seeking to exit 3. Fire and Related Perils Policy In addition, the transformation of TC the local scene. into a business structured to withstand and from 11 Million in 1987 to over 2.8 Billion as at 4. Domestic Package Policy survive turbulent times, the opportunities December 2020 and its asset base to over 4 Billion. 5. Personal Accident Policy that TC businesses have created including breaking barriers and investing in frontier 6. Work Injury Beneﬁts Act (WIBA) markets such as DRC, offering local per- amongst others. Advert7. Marine Insurance Policy sonnel the opportunity to demonstrate and develop skill in very specialised fields of 8. Burglary Insurance Policy Travel Insurance engineering, value addition through manu- Including Covid-19' 9 . Engineering Insurance Policies facturing and the ability to evolve with the times and provide locally harnessed solu- curtailment, Emergency assistance and Covid-19. 10. Travel Insurance Policy tions are key achievements by the Group. Over the years, the TC team has developed a deep understanding of the local landscape and nuances which plays a key WHAT GUIDES US role in managing risks, leading to efficient execution of projects and overall value Vision creation. To be the most reliable protector of wealth and health in the East African Region. The journey of TC has been characterised by many firsts built on a founda- Mission tion of daring, entrepreneurial spirit, it is this story that TC continue to proactively the required partnership and synergy in not only investing in manufacturing tell as Group focuses on its vision of Our Core Values between providers of capital and operators plants but scaling up the businesses to the Africans impacting African lives through Customer Focus that gives the businesses the opportunity space most of them occupy to date. ‘This Transformative Infrastructure. Our Contacts Innovation nt acts: to quickly scale up, diversify and inno- is no coincidence, but the deliberate and To unwind, Njiinu is an avid follower vate, making them the iconic brands that strategic leadership offered to the investee of motorsport and enjoys farming. Besides Head Oﬃce they are today. In this way, TC offers this companies by TC management that has his passions, he believes that the current Co Crescent Business Center 7th & 5th Floor solution by pooling together longer-term allowed the business to scale up, diversify generation must leave behind a legacy of Parklands Road, Parklands. funding that is patient enough to see invest- and innovate,’ adds Njiinu, beaming with creators and builders of well-grounded and Integrity Empowerment P.O. Box 39459 - 00623 Nairobi, Kenya ments come to fruition. a wide smile. sustainable businesses, and see these busi- ParklandsTel: 0709 Road 896 - P arklands000 Another area of passion for Njiinu is TC not only offers capital but strategic nesses through all the necessary phases of P.O.Email: Box 39459 [email protected] - 00623 Nairobi, Kenya manufacturing. TC has been in the forefront leadership that includes a team with deep a normal good business cycle. Tel:W 0709ebsite: 896 www000 .occidental-ins.com [email protected]

Website: www.occidental-ins.com BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 80 Occidental Insurance Company Limited is Regulated by Insurance Regulatory Authority of Kenya 81 ICT News Feature

every day and feel very personal about,” collaboration with local artists to make Today, its more than 80 million users said Charles Hamel, Product Lead for online conversations more engaging. This enjoy the integration of services such as Hype. “With the integration of Hype in unique offer from Hype stands out from Facebook messenger, Telegram, WhatsApp, Opera Mini, we are not only rethinking other chat services and provides Kenyans Instagram and Twitter. what a chat service should be like in 2021, the ability to express themselves more Share internet content in a snap but also changing the very definition of accurately when using chat apps. The way people communicate is con- what a mobile browser should be.” This announcement follows similar stantly evolving. Today, new generations Hype launched first in Kenya as a pilot browser innovation from Opera, which are relying on new formats like memes market, where users are able to easily set was the first to integrate messenger ser- and stickers to express themselves, often up their Hype account and start chatting vices as part of their PC browser, in 2019. relating to pop culture references and with secure end-to-end encryption. This internet content they find. To make this launch is a facet of Opera’s emphasis on easier and fun, Hype brings WebSnap, a investing and growing its digital ecosys- Launched in 2006, Opera feature previously known from the Opera tem in Africa, with the goal of bringing desktop browser, that allows users to take more people online; since 2018, Opera Mini is a small, fast and snapshots from the web. has grown its user base in Africa by 40 powerful browser. It comes Once a websnap is captured, users can per cent. with unique features such edit it by adding colours, text, and emojis, “Hype was developed first and fore- making it fun and entertaining before most with African consumers in mind. as Data Compression, sharing with others. Today, 40 per cent of the Kenyan popu- Offline File Sharing, and WebSnap also allows users to smoothly lation has access to smartphones, with built-in Ad-blocker. share the link of the original website from younger generations dominating as 75 per which they took their snaps. This comes cent of their 47 million inhabitants are in handy as users no longer need to copy under 30 years old,” said Hamel. “With links from websites and switch between such early adopter demographics at play, apps to share the content they want. there is massive potential for the growth of Opera Mini is a leading mobile browser Hype in Kenya. On top of that, we are also Launched in 2006, Opera Mini is partnering with the leading telecommuni- a small, fast and powerful browser. It Opera launches its newly dedicated cation carriers in the country, offering free comes with unique features such as Data daily browsing to all Opera Mini users. We Compression, Offline File Sharing, and chat service built into the Opera believe the combination of these factors built-in Ad-blocker. Opera Mini also will lead to the rapid adoption of Hype in enables access to free ebooks through the Mini browser in Kenya the country.” Worldreader speed dial, and the music First major browser developer to col- catalogue of the Kenyan music-streaming laborate with Kenyan artists, Hype is the service, Mdundo, allowing users to stream Hype launched first in Kenya as a pilot market, where users are able first African inspired chat service built or download music through the Opera to easily set up their Hype account and start chatting with secure into a mobile browser. It offers its users a Mini browser. end-to-end encryption. series of stickers created by Kenyan artists Today, Opera Mini is used by more Brian Omolo and Lulu Kitololo to create than 100 million MAUs who chose it original sticker packs for Hype that reflect over the pre-installed browsers on Android everyday expressions unique to Kenyans. mobile devices. Opera Mini has a 4.4- pera launches its newly dedicated chat truly African inspired sticker packs for Hype Opera “We are extremely happy to celebrate star rating on Google Play and has been service built into the Opera Mini browser Mini with Hype provides Kenyans with a fun and African culture with Hype and we are very reviewed by more than six million people in Kenya engaging browsing experience that no other mobile excited with the end result and the col- worldwide. Launched in 2006, Opera Mini is a browser can offer today on Android devices. laboration we had with Brian and Lulu.” Osmall, fast and powerful browser. It comes with With the introduction of Hype in the Opera Mini said Hamel. “These unique stickers with About Opera unique features such as Data Compression, Offline browser, Opera is rethinking the concept of mobile original designs are something we are very Opera is a global web innovator. Opera’s File Sharing, and built-in Ad-blocker. browsers providing its users with a personalized, proud of at Opera as we become the first browsers, news products and fintech solu- Opera has introduced Hype in Kenya, its newly engaging browsing experience that enables seam- major browser to integrate real African art tions are the trusted choice of more than dedicated chat service built into the Opera Mini less surfing, sharing and communication – without and pop culture into our products.” 380 million people worldwide. Opera browser, making Kenyans the first adopters of compromising speed or driving increased data con- Current messaging services were cre- is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and Hype in the world. Opera becomes the first browser sumption. ated almost a decade ago, and none of listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange developer to collaborate with local artists to design “Chat services and browsers are apps people use these has ever focused on having such a (OPRA).

82 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 83 RESEARCH News Feature

the plastic and metal waste they use. and better promotion of the benefits of access to luxurious amenities, entertain- 80 percent of GCC consumers are Therefore, understanding the perceived sustainability.” ment, and shopping are of concern to barriers for consumers to take action is When it comes to a more sustainable travellers with 32% pointing out the lack important to advance the green agenda. lifestyle consumers do not always perceive of amenities as an issue. willing to live more sustainably, says “Public concerns around climate and higher prices as being adequately reflected sustainability do bode well for the future,” in greater quality or better experiences, About Boston Consulting Group new Boston Consulting said Cristiano Rizzi, Managing Director but rather some eco-friendly products and Partner, BCG Middle East. “Many could lack quality and downgrade life- Boston Consulting Group (www.BCG. Group report people believe that environmentally sus- styles. com) partners with leaders in business tainable lifestyles will play a bigger role Other barriers to sustainable lifestyles and society to tackle their most important Despite the high willingness of an increasing in the future, and an encouraging number include insufficient information, limited challenges and capture their greatest number of consumers to live more sustainably, of people wish to make– or are making – access to opportunities, limited range of opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in progress with eco-friendly behaviour and varieties and social pressure to maintain business strategy when it was founded the challenge is to translate these climate purchases.” current lifestyles. in 1963. Today, we help clients with concerns into action. “Several challenges remain, and Although Governments have done total transformation—inspiring complex

eventy One per cent of the region’s consumers are largely aware of Despite the high climate change and how the issue negatively affects the environment. willingness of an SVisionary leadership a catalyst in pub- increasing number lic’s appetite for sustainability; 44% believe of consumers to live climate change is currently impacting their more sustainably, lives; Increased awareness would change the challenge is to behaviour. translate these climate Public awareness concerning the concerns into action. mounting challenges stemming from global For example, many warming is reassuringly high throughout the region as the government, organizations, GCC states only and civil society continue to play their part recycle, reuse, and in embracing environmental sustainability recover approximately initiatives. Despite significant efforts by all 10% of the plastic and those involved consumers still face obsta- metal waste they use. cles preventing them from translating their concerns into action via eco-friendly practices, according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) (www.BCG.com). The report, titled ‘Are Consumers in the today, there are growing calls for more much to encourage recycling, 43% of con- change, enabling organizations to grow, Gulf States Ready to Go Green?’, stresses climate change is recycling and renewable energy informa- sumers are deterred by lack of convenient- building competitive advantage, and that while 80 percent of GCC consum- having a significant tion, as well as guidance on how to ly accessible recycling bins. Consequently, driving bottom-line impact. ers have reaffirmed their preparedness to influence on personal live more sustainably and reduce energy further investment in infrastructure, regu- To succeed, organizations must blend incorporate more sustainable actions into lives, and around two-thirds consumption. At the same time, people lations, and information on how to recycle digital and human capabilities. Our their daily lives, green infrastructure, finan- anticipate it will impact future gen- also want to see more investment geared correctly will be needed if the pace of diverse, global teams bring deep industry cial incentives, and a greater selection of erations. towards sustainable infrastructure – par- change is to increase. and functional expertise and a range of affordable eco-friendly goods and services “Climate change concerns across the ticularly in recycling, renewable energy, The public’s reluctance to embrace perspectives to spark change. BCG delivers would assist in accelerating change. GCC have increased due to greater access to goods and services then more people will public transportation, and eco-tourism.” electric vehicles is based around high pur- solutions through leading-edge manage- As per the report’s findings, 71% of the information and successful government and choose to pursue sustainable lifestyles.” “Because interest in sustainable goods chase prices, operating costs, and a lack of ment consulting along with technology region’s consumers are largely aware of cli- corporate-backed initiatives,” said Simon Despite the high willingness of an and services is increasing companies charging infrastructure - 50% cite electric and design, corporate and digital ven- mate change and how the issue negatively Birkebaek a Partner at BCG Middle East. increasing number of consumers to live would experience potential growth oppor- vehicles as being too expensive and 40% tures—and business purpose. We work in affects the environment. 55% of consumers “If public and private sectors were to do more sustainably, the challenge is to trans- tunities if they adapted their go-to-market expressed the opinion that operating costs a uniquely collaborative model across the with knowledge of the implications also even more to facilitate awareness initia- late these climate concerns into action. For strategies to more effectively cater to cus- are too high. In terms of eco-friendly firm and throughout all levels of the client perceive it to have a negative impact on the tives, green infrastructure investments, and example, many GCC states only recycle, tomers changing demands, specifically bet- touristic destinations, the perceived higher organization, generating results that allow global environment, 44% already believe a wider choice of affordable eco-friendly reuse, and recover approximately 10% of ter options, more accessible price points, costs, long travel distances, and lack of our clients to thrive.

84 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 85 INTERNATIONAL News Feature

Backlash against Johnson & Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine is real and risky – here’s how to make its rollout a success

If states don’t plan carefully for how the vaccines are distributed, the result could be a nightmare of frustrated patients and wasted vaccine.

speaking, focusing on a single type of are clones of foetal tissue from abortions in the 1980s. 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Let people know which vaccine also simplifies the administration TINGLONG DAI If states don’t plan carefully for how the vaccines Prevention survey, when offered the 1.vaccine they will be getting process and prevents handling errors. Associate Professor of Operations Management & are distributed, the result could be a nightmare of frus- choice between a two-dose Covid-19 vac- when they book the appointment. Business Analytics, Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, trated patients and wasted vaccine. cine, either Pfizer or Moderna, and a one- That can avoid people rejecting vaccines The Johnson & Johnson Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing Our mission is to share knowledge and inform deci- dose vaccine, Johnson & Johnson’s, near- at the distribution site, which leads to 3.vaccine is suitable for small- sions. As experts specializing in health care operations, ly 60% of the respondents preferred the wasted appointment time slots and poten- scale and mobile vaccination sites data analytics, and supply chain management, we have two-dose vaccine and only 7% preferred tially wasted vaccine doses. When only in rural areas and underserved CHRISTOPHER S. TANG been analyzing Covid-19 vaccine rollout policies. While the one-dose vaccine. Among those who the two mRNA vaccines were available, communities, as well as individuals. Distinguished Professor and Edward W. Carter Chair in our research shows there is great promise for the one- preferred two-dose vaccines, 72% said many states did not reveal the vaccine However, health officials can help avoid Business Administration, University of California, Los dose vaccine, we believe biases against the Johnson & they were willing to wait a month for it brand when offering appointments, and some backlash if they ensure people are Johnson vaccine cannot be ignored in planning and rather than get the one-dose vaccine now. the public largely perceives the two as offered the option to travel a reasonable Angeles distribution decisions. Such biases can have real conse- interchangeable products. distance to larger vaccination sites that quences. In the European Union, 80% offer the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. HO-YIN MAK The problem with comparing efficacy numbers of the Covid-19 vaccine doses made by Have each vaccination site Letting people make informed decision Associate Professor in Management Science, University The primary factor complicating acceptance of the AstraZeneca – which also has lower 2.focus on one type of vaccine, can avoid public mistrust. of Oxford Johnson & Johnson vaccine is in the top-line number: reported efficacy and isn’t authorized either the Johnson & Johnson vaccine It has an efficacy level of 66%, while the other two U.S.- in the U.S. – were sitting on the shelves. or the Pfizer or Moderna two-dose Instead of avoiding comparing authorized vaccines, made by Pfizer and Moderna, have Many people, including some clinicians, vaccines to avoid confusion for 4.the three vaccines, public ore than 50 million Americans have efficacy levels of at least 90%. reportedly believe it to be inferior to the recipients. health experts should be more received at least one dose of either the Trying to compare those numbers is tricky, though. Pfizer vaccine. Separating vaccine offerings can respect transparent in educating the public Pfizer or Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. So Experts are quick to point out that the clinical trials people’s legitimate preferences and avoid about the effectiveness of the far, Americans have been largely brand-ag- were conducted at different times – Pfizer and Moderna Four strategies for a successful last-minute cancellations. Operationally Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Mnostic, but that’s about to change as a new vaccine conducted their trials before several other mutated vari- rollout For example, the single-dose vaccine is rolls out. ants had been reported, whereas Johnson & Johnson’s A one-dose vaccine would be ideal for believed to be 100% effective in preventing The Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been hailed as trials were conducted after that. Consequently, Johnson hard-to-reach rural areas and under- The Johnson & Johnson hospitalizations and deaths from Covid- a game changer. It requires only a single dose rather & Johnson has clinical trial data to show its vaccine can served communities. Meatpacking com- 19. than two doses spaced weeks apart, and it does not work effectively against variants first reported in the panies have reached out to officials in vaccine is a strong boost to The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a need freezer storage, making it a natural fit for hard- U.K., South Africa and Brazil. North Carolina, for example, and the the Covid-19 vaccination strong boost to the Covid-19 vaccination to-reach rural areas and underserved communities In terms of preventing severe disease, hospital- state plans to target agricultural work- effort in the U.S. However, effort in the U.S. with limited access to health care and storage facilities. ization, and death, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is ers. But distributing only the Johnson & However, it may well lead to frustra- But while many people are excited about the pros- comparable to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. With Johnson vaccine now could compound it may well lead to tion and waste if vaccine planners don’t pects of only one shot, the new vaccine is also getting continued shortage of vaccine supply, individuals and the already deep-seated vaccine hesitan- frustration and waste if prepare for potential biases against this backlash. Part of that is coming from lack of clarity vaccinators should take any one of the three vaccines cy in some regions. vaccine planners don’t new vaccine. about the vaccines’ efficacy numbers, and part of it whenever they are available so that they can get suffi- Policymakers must acknowledge The focus should be to leverage the is more nuanced. On March 2, the U.S. Conference of cient protection sooner. these fears and develop a plan. Here are prepare for potential biases three vaccines to achieve herd immunity Catholic Bishops urged Catholics to avoid the Johnson Yet, the sheer difference in the top-line numbers four strategies for creating as smooth a against this new vaccine. rapidly so that the U.S. can finally leave & Johnson vaccine because it uses lab-grown cells that makes it difficult to look away. According to a February rollout as possible. the prolonged pandemic behind.

86 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 87 HEALTH Special Feature

ANA SANTOS RUTSCHMAN similar to the one described above. Under Assistant Professor of Law, Saint Louis Can employers require the Americans with Disabilities Act, if an employee has a disability and cannot safely University workers to take the receive a vaccine, that employee qualifies for an exemption and the employer has to Covid-19 vaccine? 6 provide reasonable accommodations. But ditor’s note: The Equal the act also establishes that employers do Employment Opportunity not have to provide an accommodation Commission, the federal agen- questions answered that would result in undue hardship. cy in charge of enforcing laws The technical question here was prohibitingE discrimination in the work- Given the broad set of rights that the law gives employers whether employers could impose Covid-19 place, on Dec. 16 said that employers in order to promote health and safety, in some cases it is vaccination because the Americans with can require employees to get vacci- possible for an organization to go even further and terminate Disabilities Act severely limits the ability nated before entering the workplace. of employers to require medical examina- Now that two Covid-19 vaccines have employment if a worker refuses vaccination and there is no tions. In its Dec. 16 guidance, the EEOC received emergency use authorization reasonable way to provide an accommodation. clearly stated that Covid-19 vaccines do in the U.S., some people are concerned not fall in the “medical examination” cat- they could be fired if they don’t want egory. to take the vaccine. We asked legal Therefore, requiring employee vaccina- scholar Ana Santos Rutschman, who tion does not violate federal disability law. teaches a course on vaccine law at Saint Louis University, to explain the What if the employer cannot decision and the rights employees and 5.provide an accommodation? employers have. If an employee qualifies for either a religious or disability-related exemption but Can employers require the employer is unable to provide an 1.employees to get a accommodation because of undue hard- vaccine? ship, then the employer has the right to The general rule is yes – with some exclude the employee from going to the exceptions.Under U.S. law, private workplace. employers have the ability to define Given the broad set of rights that the general working conditions, including law gives employers in order to promote the adoption of health and safety with- health and safety, in some cases it is possi- in the workspace. Requiring employees ble for an organization to go even further to get vaccinated against diseases that and terminate employment if a worker could compromise health and safety refuses vaccination and there is no reason- in the workplace is viewed as part of use authorization has been granted The EEOC treated emergency use vac- cerely held religious belief incompatible would result in “undue hardship.” Typical able way to provide an accommodation. that ability. to a new vaccine. For this reason, cines as part of the sets of measures with vaccination, the employer cannot cases of undue hardship include situa- For example, if there is no reasonable some legal scholars questioned wheth- that employers are able to mandate in require that employee to be vaccinated. tions in which the accommodation would accommodation that an employer can Does the rule apply to er existing laws applied to temporarily order to accomplish this goal. The EEOC has traditionally interpreted compromise the health and safety of other provide a barista that would allow her to 2.Covid-19 vaccines? authorized vaccines. Therefore, the general rule applies the concept of “religious belief” very broad- employees or in which implementing the continue make lattes at the coffee shop Earlier in the pandemic, there were That question was addressed when and employers should be able to ly. Vaccine refusal cannot, however, be a accommodation is too costly or logistically where she works, the employer may be some doubts about whether the gen- the Equal Employment Opportunity require that employees get vaccinated personal or politically motivated belief. burdensome. In case of a dispute over able to terminate her employment. eral rule would apply to Covid-19 Commission issued guidelines that said against Covid-19, within certain limits. If an employee qualifies for a religious what constitutes an undue hardship for the However, the EEOC guidelines explic- vaccines because the first vaccines employers have the right to impose a These limits – including the exceptions exemption, the employer must then try employer, a court would typically be asked itly say that the inability to reasonably that became available in the U.S. have mandatory Covid-19 vaccination pol- below – are the same as the general to reasonably accommodate the employ- to resolve it based on the cost of offering accommodate an employee does not auto- not been fully approved by the Food icy. exemptions applicable to any employee. An example of an accommodation the accommodation, as well as how diffi- matically give the employer the right to and Drug Administration. They have From a legal perspective, this view er-mandated vaccination. would be for the employer to have the cult it is for the employer to implement it. fire her. Finding out whether the coffee received an emergency use authoriza- is based on the fact that the law allows employee switch from in-person to remote shop could indeed terminate its unvacci- tion, which is temporary permission employers to impose requirements to Are there religious work while Covid-19 poses risks to public How about disability-related nated barista would depend on a variety to commercialize the vaccines because make sure that employees don’t pose 3.exemptions? health. 4.exemptions? of factors, including state law, union agree- of the public health crisis the U.S. is threats to the “health or safety of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act estab- However, the employer does not have The balance of rights between an employ- ments and any other potentially applicable facing. This is the first-time emergency other individuals in the workplace.” lished that if an employee has a sin- to grant an accommodation if doing so ee with a disability and her employer is requirements at the federal level.

88 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 89 BUSINESS Special Feature

Okonjo-Iweala in the WTO Will it have any impact on women in Nigeria? top job: Breaking the glass I believe it will. It’s a kind of impetus, a kind of encouragement for women here in Nigeria. I know a lot of people, a lot of ceiling is a win for all women women who are there putting in the effort in every aspect of life here, either in academia, as captains of industry or in poli- Data shows that the number of women in positions of power, the tics, but presently the number the country number of women as captains of industry, compared to that of has is very poor and not encouraging. men is appallingly low. By 2030 the world is expected to have at Nigeria ranks among the least countries in terms of women in parliament. At least achieved some gender equality as set out in the targets of present, Nigeria has just 3.63% female the Sustainable Development Goals. representation in parliament. This is a far Her appointment means we cry from what is needed – the 35% through should not relent in our fight affirmative action. When you begin to against gender inequality. We talk about projects, programmes, that will MONICA ORISADARE gender equality as set out in the targets of should still put in more effort affect women, we are not there yet. Assistant Professor of Economics, Obafemi the Sustainable Development Goals. Most Her appointment means we should not times women feel it’s a difficult feat to in order to win the fight and relent in our fight against gender inequal- Awolowo University achieve. There are lots of women struggling be able to get what we want. ity. We should still put in more effort in r Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has to be heard. And despite their efforts they order to win the fight and be able to get become the first woman and the may feel, well, maybe it can’t be, given what we want. first African to be chosen as direc- the patriarchal nature of the world we tor general of the World Trade live in. But what this appointment shows How do you feel about the DOrganisation. The Conversation Africa’s is that governments, organisations and appointment – as a female academic, Wale Fatade asks Dr Monica Orisadare, society still believe in women and that they a gender scholar, and development an assistant professor of economics and can still be there at the top to manage economist? director of the Centre for Gender and affairs. What does it say to me? I see focus and Social Policy Studies at Obafemi Awolowo This achievement is not just a many years of hard work. University, Ile Ife, Nigeria about Okonjo- day’s work. It’s a kind of invest- For me as a development economist Iweala’s achievement and what it means. ment that she has nurtured for a and as an academic, I see her as a kind of long time. role model – which she is. In fact, she is a What does her career rise represent mentor to all women struggling to become for Nigerian women? achievers. She’s strong in her focus. She Actually, this is a great achievement. Not never gave up, despite the opposition. only from the Nigerian woman’s perspec- I think there are some qualities that tive but the African woman’s perspective as she possesses that I learnt from and also well as women all over the world. Breaking respect. Coming from that background, I this glass ceiling is an achievement for all know that she must have struggled. She women. It means there is still hope, despite must have worked in situations in which what we have on the ground. there were always more men than women. Data shows that the number of women I can tell you categorically that that’s what in positions of power, the number of women it is like in many work places around the as captains of industry, compared to that of world and in my department here in the men is appallingly low. By 2030 the world university. We have about 30 academic is expected to have at least achieved some staff out of which only four are female.

90 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 91 BUSINESS Special Feature The taste of

Okonjo-Iweala’s sun-soaked appointment means we should not relent in our fight against Seville gender inequality. We should still put in more effort in order to win the fight and be able to get what we want.

It’s like that in most of the departments. Are there tangible benefits Nigeria She also started the Treasury Single So, if we are getting few women coming on will derive from her appointment? Account and the Integrated Payroll and board, it means putting in more effort and Yes, I believe there are. Personnel Information System, which not resting on our oars. By pushing a little I will start from the many policies and meant that many ‘ghost workers’ were bit harder we will get to the point where we reforms she helped put in place as a finance phased out. Ghost workers are people will stand out – as she has done now. minister in Nigeria. She fought corruption. whose names are on the payroll but are not She stood out among so many others, For example, spearheading the negotiations known to work in the particular organisa- even among the men. She is a force to be with the Paris Club which led to the wiping tion. Yet they are paid salaries regularly. By reckoned with and she is somebody worthy out of US$30 billion of Nigeria’s debt, and 2019 nearly N200 billion had been saved. of emulation. For me she stands out as a the outright cancellation of US$18 billion. She also initiated a process under which person, she is a source of strength, some- She helped build an electronic financial every state had to publish their accounts. body I look up to and I want to learn from. management platform, the Government She’s mentioned that she’ll be focused Integrated Financial Management and on achieving inclusive growth in raising the How do you explain her rise? What Information System, with the support of standard of living for all. And I believe her could have been responsible? the World Bank and the IMF to the Federal perspective, the way she sees things, could The first is her background. Family back- Government of Nigeria. be different given her dual citizenship. She’s ground, educational background and her not only going to serve the interests of the experiences. She had good education, which developed world, but also those of low-in- gives her an edge. And then her experiences She fought corruption. For come countries. at the World Bank and also as a finance I see her facilitating the kind of positive minister in Nigeria and later a foreign example, spearheading policies that she has been known for in minister, sitting on boards of so many big the negotiations with the other positions she held. I also want to have organisations. The opportunities she had Paris Club which led to the this broad view, that it is not for Nigeria to experience both worlds of the developed alone, but for low-income countries, which and developing countries which I believe wiping out of $30 billion covers the whole of Africa, parts of Asia formed her outlook. of Nigeria’s debt, and the and other low income regions like Latin I think those are factors – the rich outright cancellation of America. I see her supporting policies that country and the poor country outlook. This will drive up their economy and also bene- could have been a major factor in getting $18 billion. fits all – both the low income and high-in- her to where she is now. come countries.

92 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 93 ART Special Feature

Karuga’s artistic expression is very It was through an artist-in-residency almost hear the chirping of the birds on personal with a unique technique position at Paa Ya Paa that Karuga’s work the thorn tree… Karuga links past and that is inspired by Byzantine began to be more widely seen. Despite her present women artists, like Mutu, in mosaics. Her medium of choice reported failing eyesight and hearing, she East Africa today. She does so through includes coloured paper scraps that had embarked on the start of her profes- adopting contemporary mediums and sional artistic career. forms like collage. She expanded what create elevated torn and cut paper was possible in the field. collages, mostly figurative portraits Layers of colour and landscapes, of rural Kenyan Karuga’s artistic expression is very person- International breakthrough environments. al with a unique technique that is inspired In the 1990s Karuga was commissioned by Byzantine mosaics. Her medium of to illustrate an edition of Nigerian writer choice includes coloured paper scraps – Amos Tutuola’s ground-breaking novel from newspapers, glossy magazines and The Palm-Wine Drunkard. This helped ANNE MWITI packaging materials – that create elevated her work to travel and her international Lecturer, Kenyatta University torn and cut paper collages, mostly figu- breakthrough came in the US in 1992 rative portraits and landscapes, of rural with a group exhibition at the Studio vast chapter of the still mostly Kenyan environments. Her innovative col- Museum in Harlem, New York called untold story of women’s art in lages harness extraordinary details and Contemporary African Artists: Changing Kenya starts with Rosemary alluring simplicity. Tradition. Namuli Karuga. Karuga passed Artist, writer and curator Mbuthia It was not until the late The show featured 75 artworks from Aaway on 9 February 2021 at the age of Maina, who wrote on Karuga in the nine top artists of African origin, such as 93. She was one of the pioneers who made book Thelathini: 30 Faces, 30 Facets of 1980s that one of her El Anatsui, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ablade major contributions to contemporary art Contemporary Art in Kenya, describes daughters visited from Glover and Tapfuma Gutsa. Karuga was on the continent and is recognised as one Karuga’s style: London and encouraged the only female artist on the show. of the finest East African artists of her I will never forget Karuga’s description In 2006, she received a lifetime generation. of how a lion comes alive in her collages. her to pursue her art achievement award from the African Karuga is known for her collage works First, she makes a forest from the colours practice. The Kenyan art Voice newspaper, becoming the first East depicting pastoral and domestic African that she has cut up for that day. Then, from scene in the early 1980s African woman to do so. This is an scenes, commonly villagers and farmers The importance of among the trees and the thicket, a lion accolade presented to Africans for their and animals. They would go on to be shown slowly emerges and she follows it with glue lacked gallery presence, achievements and contributions to Irish internationally, but she only began to pro- remembering Kenyan and cut-up paper until it is as real a lion with Gallery Watatu and society. Karuga had been visiting family duce commercial art in her 60s, once she as one would encounter in a photograph Paa Ya Paa Arts Centre there and it became medically unsafe for had retired from teaching. or a movie. her to travel. And so, she would live out She was even less known than other artist Rosemary Karuga Suddenly the viewer begins to see lay- being the only two active her final years in Ireland. pioneering women artists of Kenyan origin ers of content upon a rainbow of colours galleries in the capital city In 2017 she was given her due at such as Magdalene Odundo, the celebrated with inlaid text in varying fonts and Nairobi. home when she was featured as the first ceramicist and academic – and a former Catholic primary school noticed her talent for more than 30 years after graduating. hues … Imagining all this, the viewer can artist of the month in a new programme student of Karuga’s – and Wangechi Mutu, and later recommended her to study at the She married in 1953, had three children, at the National Museums of Kenya. the award-winning Kenyan-American artist still new School of Fine Art at Makerere taught in a local school, became a sub- Her work today forms part of their working across painting, sculpture, film University in Uganda. Karuga would, by sistence farmer and had grandchildren. collection as well as the collections of and performance. all accounts, be the influential school’s first Growing up and being married in a patri- the Kenya National Archives, Murumbi But Karuga deserves equal recognition. female student. archal society, women were expected to Trust’s African Heritage, the Watatu Many artists in Kenya know of her, though Illustration of three women sitting adhere to societal constructs that dictated Foundation, Red Hill Art Gallery and few have met her in person. Yet art practic- against a rural backdrop, constructed from that her place was more in the kitchen than many private collections. es evolved around her work and scholarly torn words and colours from magazines, all in the art world. Today, a talented young woman artworks have been inspired and influenced by brightly dressed. It was not until the late 1980s that ist in Kenya has better opportunities to her practice. Between 1950 and 1952 she studied one of her daughters visited from London pursue her career. There is a significant design, painting and sculpture at Makerere. and encouraged her to pursue her art increase of artists’ collective spaces and Early life After graduating, she moved back to Kenya practice. The Kenyan art scene in the early studios in Nairobi – though the few exist- Karuga was born on 19 June 1928, in to become a full-time teacher until she 1980s lacked gallery presence, with Gallery ing galleries cannot accommodate the Meru in the east of Kenya, to a Ugandan retired in 1987 as she approached the age Watatu and Paa Ya Paa Arts Centre being fast-growing numbers of artists emerging father and a Kenyan mother. Her artistic of 60. the only two active galleries in the capital and building on the paths laid by artists journey began when an Irish nun at a Karuga did not engage in art making city Nairobi. like Rosemary Karuga.

94 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 95 ENVIRONMENT Sector Review

In addition, the authorities at the local Kenya has been trying to level aren’t adequately resourced to take over the functions that used to depend on regulate the charcoal sector: national agencies. The lack of financial and human resources makes it difficult for counties to enforce rules, support exten- Why it’s not working sion services and promote better practices among charcoal producers.

Demand for charcoal and firewood in Kenya is set to increase, while its Opportunities and options tree cover continues to dwindle. Decision-makers at national and county The Forest Charcoal Rules 2009 cover the level must urgently improve governance of the sector. production and distribution of wood fuel. They require commercial producers to register as members of a Charcoal Producer PHOSISO SOLA icies with the hope of bringing the sector Association and to acquire a harvesting into the formal economy and reducing its permit and a production licence from the Scientist, World Agroforestry (ICRAF) environmental impacts. This was after ram- Kenya Forestry Services. Transporters are PAOLO OMAR CERUTTI pant destruction of forests and a realisation required to have movement permits and that what is not known cannot be regulated. traders are expected to keep records of the Senior Scientist, Centre for International In 2018 the government imposed yet sources of their charcoal. Forestry Research another ban on logging and timber harvest- These associations are well positioned ing, which is due to end this year. This ulti- to play a key role in connecting producers, n Kenya, charcoal has met more than mately prohibited production or transpor- traders and brokers. One of the first steps 70% of the domestic energy demand for tation of charcoal in the country. This was government could take would be to give cooking and heating over decades, and followed by charcoal bans in some counties. them the technical, legal and organisa- is a major source of livelihood for hun- In addition, inter-county transportation of tional support to be functional and fully Idreds of thousands of people in rural areas. charcoal was outlawed, though production operational. Charcoal is produced by burning wood for local use remained legal. Still, charcoal The associations should be given under limited supply of oxygen, a process found its way to cities where demand is ris- knowledge and skills in sustainable tree known as carbonisation. This carbon rich ing and there are no appropriate alternative harvesting and woodland management product is produced in kilns. Most kilns options. and use of improved and efficient kilns. used in Kenya – and Africa in general – are Thus, the production and consumption Producers also need support in very inefficient. Almost 10 tonnes of wood of charcoal has continued. With limited improving their financial literacy and mar- are used to produce a tonne of charcoal, enforcement capacity and compliance, it keting skills to increase profit margins. which is a 10% recovery rate. More modern is clear wood fuel governance needs to be Regulating charcoal charcoal producers and traders, there are They also need clear incentives to comply and improved techniques and kilns – of fundamentally rethought. In Kenya, a variety of agencies oversee as many as 16 organisations tasked with with the rules. That is, producing and sell- various quality and cost – are being devel- In our recent study we analysed the Kenya – as well charcoal and firewood resources. Their job monitoring wood fuel use in both counties. ing charcoal legally should be facilitated oped and promoted with recovery rates of governance of Kenya’s wood fuel sector to as other countries is to control, support and guide wood fuel This leads to duplication, confusion and illegal operations sanctioned. more than 30%. identify the bottlenecks, and highlight the in sub-Saharan production and use. They span the environ- and even gaps. This is complicated by Kenya – as well as other countries in Most of this production takes place critical aspects that need to be addressed ment, forestry, agriculture and energy sec- the periodic charcoal bans which make sub-Saharan Africa – should also strive for in forest rich rural areas. The charcoal is to make it work for people and the envi- Africa – should tors at both national and subnational levels. it illegal to commercially produce and well-defined institutional mechanisms and then transported to urban centres where ronment. also strive for well- Unfortunately, mandates overlap and transport charcoal, but perfectly legal to coordination across sectors and especially it is sold to wholesalers, who then sell to Our main findings were that there defined institutional the activities of the various departments sell and use it. at county levels as a first step towards bet- retailers and vendors, who in turn sell to was limited coordination and cooperation and bodies are only loosely coordinated. Another major bottleneck is capacity ter wood fuel governance. Most important consumers in smaller quantities. between various parties charged with man- mechanisms and A case in point is wood fuel production constraints at county level. Since their for- of all is the need to deal with illegal deal- Pricing of charcoal is very location aging the sector. And the counties have lim- coordination across in Baringo and Kitui counties. Baringo is mation in 2013, county governments have ings in large scale production and trade in dependent. But it can cost up to US$23 per ited capacity to deliver on all the devolved sectors and especially located in arid and semiarid lands of the made commendable attempts to develop the sector. bag in Nairobi and most cities. Vendors sell functions and responsibilities. Rift Valley region. Kitui lies 160km east specific charcoal strategies and imple- Finally, one of the top priorities for in much smaller quantities – as small as Demand for charcoal and firewood in at county levels as a of the capital Nairobi and was one of the ment them with the support of the Kenya wood fuel governance should be to support 2kg packets. Kenya is set to increase, while its tree cover first step towards better major suppliers of charcoal to big cities Forestry Service and agencies. But this has county governments to develop, resource Get your news from people who know continues to dwindle. Decision-makers at wood fuel governance. until the ban in 2018. been hampered by delays in the transition and implement their own strategies and what they’re talking about. Over the past national and county level must urgently According to the survey respondents, of responsibilities from the national gov- bylaws for wood fuel production, trade 20 years, Kenya developed laws and pol- improve governance of the sector. who included regulators, service providers, ernment to the local government. and use.

96 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 97 MEDICINE Sector Review

Vaccine rollout will be done in three phases. The first involves 1.25 million people and runs between now and June 2021. Phase two will run between July 2021 and June 2022, targeting the most vulnerable, including the elderly and those above 18 years with comorbidities. It targets 9.76 million people. Phase three focuses on other vulnerable groups of people of 18 years and above in congregations, hospitality and the tourism industry. The phase will run between July 2022 and June 2023. It targets 4.9 million people. All the phases are based on vaccine availability, storage requirements and administration sites that can reach prioritised populations. In phase one, as much as possible will be done through hospitals.

Supply chain management Phase one will rely on existing infrastructure. There’s a plan to increase capacity for negative temperature storage vaccines in phase two and beyond. A detailed mapping of vaccine storage facilities, or regional depots, and vaccination The ins and outs of Kenya’s sites across the country has been done. Human resources management and Covid-19 vaccine rollout plan training The plan is to use existing healthcare workers in public and private facilities with no new Vaccine rollout will be done in three phases. The first involves 1.25 million people recruitments. There’s planned training – virtual and runs between now and June 2021. Phase two will run between July 2021 and face to face – on Covid-19 vaccines and side and June 2022, targeting the most vulnerable, including the elderly and those effects targeted at staff in hospitals in the first above 18 years with comorbidities. It targets 9.76 million people. phase and expanded to other staff in subsequent phases. Training guides based on generic World Health Organisation (WHO) training modules CATHERINE KYOBUTUNGI Access facility – COVAX. Kenya is set to of Kenya’s elaborate vaccine rollout plan Planning and coordination already exist. Executive Director, African Population and receive 24 million doses through the facility. that’s to be implemented by various bod- This will be done under the Ministry of Covid-19 vaccines Health Research Center The country’s strategy is a compre- ies including the National Immunisation Health with support from the National Acceptance and uptake hensive one that goes up to June 2023, Interagency Coordinating Committee, the Covid-19 Vaccine Deployment and already approved by A communication strategy is being developed ith the arrival of vaccines in by which time it expects to have received Kenya National Immunisation Technical Vaccination Steering Committee, National stringent regulatory and will be implemented before rollout. the country, Kenya is set to about 49 million doses, covering 30% of the Advisory Group and the National Vaccine Covid-19 Deployment and Vaccination Task authorities elsewhere begin its Covid-19 vaccination population. The current vaccination plan Safety Advisory Committee. Force and similar bodies at county level. Safety monitoring roll-out. Catherine Kyobutungi, only covers 30% of the population as this The vaccination strategy covers nine will be expedited for Following the deployment of vaccines, there’ll be ExecutiveW Director of the African Population is what the government has been able to areas: Funding approval in Kenya safety monitoring and programmes to identify and Health Research Center, provides some secure. Once more doses and funds become There’ll be a mix for both the vaccine and within seven days any adverse events. These programmes build insights into the country’s Covid-19 vaccine available, they will expand the target. Regulatory preparedness the rollout. Gavi – a global vaccine organ- on existing systems and processes for reporting strategy and the inclusion of private com- Healthcare workers in 47 counties are Covid-19 vaccines already approved by isation – through the COVAX facility will of a manufacturing adverse effects of vaccines in the country. panies in vaccination programmes. among those who will get the jab first. stringent regulatory authorities elsewhere cover 20% of the population and domestic company, or their Frontline workers, including security per- will be expedited for approval in Kenya funds will cover 10%. agent, submitting an Monitoring and evaluation system What’s the rollout plan? sonnel and teachers, are also on the priority within seven days of a manufacturing com- This will be introduced before the rollout begins. The first vaccines to arrive were sent list. pany, or their agent, submitting an appli- Target populations and vaccination application. It will be developed to take into account new through the Covid-19 Vaccines Global This is just one, albeit crucial, part cation. strategies COVID-19 vaccine approvals as they happen.

98 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 99

MEDICINE Sector Review A TRUSTED

It is therefore common for rou- BRAND tine vaccination to be done in private facilities on behalf of, and with support from, the government. For example, the rollout of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Kenya is currently being done in AIR AND GROUND public and private facilities. Maisha AMBULANCE PLAN What are the advantages of allowing this? Maisha, the flagship medical evacuation product In areas where the coverage of public from AMREF Flying Doctors, is the region’s first and facilities is low, private facilities may only professional direct air and ground ambulance be the only option. subscription. Also, the Covid-19 vaccination Maisha (meaning, life, in Kiswahili language) offers program will be unprecedented in different levels of cover - targeting individuals, families, scale and so government needs all small groups and corporates - determined by the area the help it can get. The government of coverage. What vaccines have been deaths by 2020. Indeed, successful The CS for Health, will need to be creative in estab- procured? implementation and reaching the Senator Mutahi lishing easily accessible vaccination BENEFITS INCLUDE: At the time of developing the plan, goals of this plan, and necessary Kagwe receives a points so people do not have to go batch of 1.2 million Access to our 24hr Medical Helpline anytime from only three vaccines had been autho- improvements in vaccine coverage doses of AstraZeneca out their way to get a shot. In addi- WHO WE ARE rised for use by the WHO. These are rates, require the best possible inter- tion, once the vaccine becomes wide- anywhere for medical advice. Covid-19 vaccines on AMREF Flying Doctors is the only provider of Air and the Pfizer BioNTech, Moderna, and action between public and private behalf of the Kenyan ly available, government may rely Unlimited evacuation flights per year for medical government at JKIA, Ground ambulance services in Eastern Africa: the Oxford/AstraZeneca. Since then, (for profit and not-for-profit) health- on the cold chain and supply chain emergencies. other vaccines have been authorised care sectors. Nairobi on March infrastructure of private facilities to • with over 60 years of experience 3,2021. Photo | MoH Unlimited ground ambulance transfers within by stringent regulatory authorities The private sector has an ensure that vaccines reach every cor- • that is internationally accredited and has twice won Kenya. elsewhere. This means that their important role in Kenya’s health ner of the country as fast as possible. the prestigious ITIJ Air Ambulance Provider of the Year approval for use in Kenya will even- services. For instance, a 2010 study Award Direct contact with AMREF Flying Doctors and the tually be expedited. showed that 50% of outpatient visits What are the drawbacks and medical professionals - no third party. Kenya’s first rollout, of about and 70% of inpatient services were challenges? • operates a fleet of fully owned and dedicated aircraft one million doses, will be of the in public health facilities. This means A balance needs to be struck with a 24/7 Operations & Emergency Control Centre LEVEL REGION(S) COVERED RATES KES AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine. private facilities contribute signifi- between access and equity. The goal • evacuating close to 1000 patients every year cantly to healthcare provision. of the Covid-19 vaccination program Maisha Bronze Kenya 2,500 What’s the role of private should be to vaccinate as many (Air and Ground Evacuation) companies? people as possible, and as fast as OUR SERVICES Maisha Silver Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar 4,900 It will be a while before private com- possible. The private sector can con- • AIR AMBULANCE SERVICES from remote airstrips, as well as international patient repatriation to Europe, panies can import enough vaccines tribute to this goal by improving Maisha Gold Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, 5,500 independent of the government. This physical access while ensuring finan- Asia, the Middle East, the Far East, and beyond. Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi is because the global supply is still cial access. The government has to using Advanced Life Support Maisha Platinum Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, 11,000 limited. This means that it’s difficult negotiate with the private sector • GROUND TRANSPORT ground ambulances to transport patients between Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, to find enough uncommitted doses to based on clearly defined roles and hospitals or from the hospital to the airport. South Sudan & Ethiopia buy, for instance, outside the COVAX expectations, especially around the facility. This may change as more cost of the shot. These have to be • EMERGENCY LIFE SUPPORT SKILLS TRAINING vaccines are approved and manufac- communicated to the general public COURSES offered by highly specialized medical turing bottlenecks are resolved. Involving private healthcare providers in so that people seek services knowing personnel. Involving private healthcare national vaccination programs is not unusual. what to expect. providers in national vaccination It would be a shame for people Private facilities have been recognised as • MEDICAL ESCORT provided by experienced doctors programs is not unusual. Private to fail to access the vaccine in public and nurses to accompany patients on commercial OVER OVER facilities have been recognised as critical to the attainment of the goals of the facilities because of distance and airlines worldwide. critical to the attainment of the goals Global Vaccine Action Plan, a framework to inconvenience, and fail to access the 280 600 of the Global Vaccine Action Plan, prevent millions of deaths by 2020. same in private facilities because of • MEDICAL STANDBY services using ground ambulance, COVID-19 PATIENT PERSONNEL TRAINED ON a framework to prevent millions of cost. helicopter or fixed wing aircraft for special events. TRANSFERS SINCE MAY 2020 COVID-19 PREPAREDNESS

100 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 A company owned by Amref Health Africa +254 BUSINESS20 699 2000 MONTHLY | [email protected] 2021 101 ANNIVESARYMOTOR EDITION Sector Review

Under the terms of the MoU, Afreximbank and AAAM will work together to foster the emergence of regional value chains with a focus on value- added manufacturing created through partnerships between global OEM, suppliers, and local partners.

The MoU also provides for them to support, in conjunction with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the development of coherent national, regional and continental automotive policies, and strategies. With an integrated market under the AfCFTA, abundant and cheap labour, natural resource wealth, and a growing middle class, African countries are increasingly turning their attention to support the emergence of their automotive industries. Therefore, the collaboration between Afreximbank and AAAM will be an opportunity to empower the aspirations of African countries towards re-focusing their economies on industrialization and export manufacturing and fostering the emergence of regional value chains. he African Export-Import Bank trade under the African Continental Free Trade “The signing of the MoU with Afreximbank (Afreximbank) and the African 2015 Area (AfCFTA)”. is an exciting milestone for the development of AAAM and Afreximbank Association of Automotive Under the terms of the MoU, Afreximbank the automotive industry in Africa. At the 2020 Manufacturers (AAAM) have entered _The year Africa and AAAM will work together to foster the digital Africa Auto Forum, the lack of affordable sign an MoU to intoT a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Association of Automotive emergence of regional value chains with a financing available for the automotive sector for the financing and promotion of the automo- Manufacturers (AAAM) was focus on value-added manufacturing created was identified as one of the key inhibiters for tive industry in Africa. formed. It works specifically through partnerships between global Original the growth and development of the automotive drive Automotive to promote and facilitate Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of the growth of the African Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), suppliers, industry in Africa and having Afreximbank on Afreximbank and Mike Whitfield, President of automotive industry. AAAM and local partners. The two organizations plan board is a game changer and a hugely positive Investment in Africa AAAM and Managing Director of Nissan Africa, has been working with to undertake comprehensive studies to map development,” commented David Coffey, CEO signed the MoU in early February, formalizing key African governments potential regional automotive value chains on of AAAM. the basis for a partnership aimed at boosting to create the right policy the continent in regional economic clusters, in “It is wonderful to have a partner that is as Under the terms of the MoU, Afreximbank and environment for the sector AAAM will work together to foster the emergence regional automotive value chains and financing to flourish. order to enable the manufacture of automotive committed as the AAAM to driving the develop- for the automotive industry while supporting components for supply to hub assemblers. ment and growth of our sector on the continent; of regional value chains with a focus on value- the development of enabling policies, technical To support the emergence of the African this collaboration will ensure genuine progress added manufacturing created through partnerships assistance, and capacity building initiatives. automotive industry, they will collaborate to for our industry in Africa,” added Mr. Coffey. between global Original Equipment Manufacturers Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of provide financing to industry players along the Other areas covered by the MoU include (OEM), suppliers, and local partners. Afreximbank said that “the strategic partnership whole automotive value chain. The potential working with the African Union and the African with AAAM will facilitate the implementation of interventions include lines of credit, direct Organization for Standardization to harmonize the Bank’s Automotive programme which aims financing, project financing, supply chain automotive standards across the continent and to catalyze the development of the automotive financing, guarantees, and equity financing, developing an automotive focused training pro- industry in Africa as the continent commences amongst others. gram for both the public and private sector.

102 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 103 POLITICS Commentary

A number of reforms were employees and coordination of com- commission must have strategies for approved and significant progress mission activities. effective engagement with member has been made in implementing The report also pointed to inad- states, encouraging them to pay their Why the African Union’s these, in particular administrative equate supervision and coordination AU membership fees on time. Most reforms. But there is still a signif- as well as weak staff recruitment of the progress on financial autono- decision on a top post is icant amount of work to be done and performance management sys- my has been on generating its own to overcome the dysfunctionalities tems. Considerable progress has resources for the AU’s operational identified in the Kagame-led review. been made in fixing these, but gaps management. The financing of peace being seen as a litmus test The new commission will need remain. operations remains unresolved. The political dexterity, competence and One major gap relates to the main stumbling block here is agree- experience to manage the complex- creation of a safe working environment between the AU and the United ities of the reform processes. This ment for women. The commission Nations. is because reform is an ongoing has been bedevilled by accusations To resolve this impasse, process. So, the new commission will have to continually work to ensure that the primary objectives of the reform are met.

The deputy post The deputy chairperson is the commission’s chief operating officer. They are responsible for the financial and administrative management of the commission. The deputy chairperson must therefore have a combination of substantive technical knowledge and political acumen. Extensive knowledge and experience in organisational manage- The current AU’s reform journey began in July 2016 when the assembly appointed Rwandan ment, financial administration and a demonstrable understanding of president Paul Kagame to do a study on its institutional reform. The assessment by the panel the need for gender equality are also A number of reforms were approved and significant led by Kagame was unequivocal; the union was not fit for purpose. important. progress has been made in implementing these, in particular Nsanzabaganwa, the first woman administrative reforms. But there is still a significant amount of LINDA DARKWA The election of the six commis- Our mission is to share knowledge to be elected to the position, is the work to be done to overcome the dysfunctionalities identified in sioners signalled two things about and inform decisions. The appoint- current deputy governor of the Bank the Kagame-led review. Senior Research Fellow, Legon Centre the union. The first is how serious ment piqued interest because of the of Rwanda. for International Affairs and Diplomacy, the AU is about putting in place a commitment by African leaders to She will need to deepen her University of Ghana strong team to drive institutional push for gender equality and parity. knowledge and understanding of of sex and gender-based discrimi- Nsanzabaganwa must develop a deep reforms. The second is how strong The fact that a woman was chosen multilateral organisations. She must nation. It falls on Nsanzabaganwa understanding and knowledge of the he recently concluded 34th its commitment is to implementing was viewed as a positive development. develop a vast network both conti- to drive changes that will create a United Nations’ financial and bud- summit of the African Union gender parity. The deputy chair is responsible nentally and internationally that she safe environment for women and to geting systems. This will be critical (AU) had a particularly signif- As part of the appointment pro- for the implementation and manage- can draw on for consensus building ensure that the commission lives up to ensuring that Africa is allotted its icant job to do: it elected six cess the AU also decided on the chair ment of reform at the organisation. and influence, especially in further- to its gender policies. due share of resources to maintain commissionersT to the AU’s secretariat, and deputy chair positions. The This is a massive and ongoing proj- ance of the reform agenda. peace and security. which is a vital cog in the organisation. incumbent chair, H.E. Moussa Faki ect. The current AU’s reform journey Nsanzabaganwa will continue Financial autonomy Finally, as the chief operating The AU Commission works with var- Mahamat, was the only candidate began in July 2016 when the assem- the ongoing work of addressing the The quest for financial autonomy officer, Nsanzabaganwa will have to ious organs of the union to promote for the position and was re-elected. bly appointed Rwandan president challenges identified in the report on in managing the union’s affairs has work very closely with member states and advance its objectives. It reports to The deputy position – an import- Paul Kagame to do a study on its the proposed recommendations for gained traction on the continent. The and the commission staff. the executive council, which develops ant role because it is effectively the institutional reform. The assessment institutional reform. These include AU has made significant strides on policy and oversees implementation of commission’s chief operating officer by the panel led by Kagame was the challenges of low leadership by this front, minimising its overdepen- This story was updated to reflect the the decisions of the Assembly of Heads – went to Rwanda’s Dr Monique unequivocal; the union was not fit for commissioners, accountability, inad- dence on external partners. recent appointments made by the African Union. of State and Government. Nsanzabaganwa. purpose. equate supervision of commission But to sustain the gains, the

104 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 105 ELECTIONS Commentary

Electoral Board until security is improved, Ethiopia’s next poll could be more A new law on civil society has made it possible for nongovernmental and election polls are established by the organisations, professional associations, and consortiums to engage in provisional regional government. the advancement of human rights and democracy. Also, the Covid-19 pandemic remains competitive. But big challenges remain a threat against several aspects of the election process. This includes voter and Ethiopia’s party system is extremely former opposition politician and political candidate registration, voter education, volatile. Political parties are weak prisoner, was appointed by the House of organisation of polling stations and con- Peoples’ Representatives in late 2018 to stituencies, election campaigns and voting. and fragmented. And the elections lead the board. will take place amid the upheaval Fourth, the Federal Supreme Court and Postponed ballot and fallout in Tigray, one of the country’s 10 the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission The 2021 elections were originally set to federal regions. are now led by prominent profession- be carried out on 29 August, 2020. But als. Both worked for the advancement of they were pushed back by the House of human rights and social justice for many Peoples’ Representatives because of the GIRMACHEW ALEMU years. Covid-19 pandemic. This led to an exten- And a new law on civil society has sion of the mandate of the federal govern- Associate Professor of Law, Addis Ababa made it possible for nongovernmental ment that run out on 5 October, 2020. University organisations, professional associations, Both processes faced criticism from and consortiums to engage in the advance- opposition politicians and political parties. thiopia is set to hold general elec- ment of human rights and democracy. The Tigray Peoples’ Liberation Front, the tions for members of the federal These include civic and voter education, political party which governed the regional parliament and regional councils capacity building for political parties, state of Tigray for 30 years, opposed the on June 5, 2021. It will be the sixth human rights institutions, and courts. extension. Moreover, the front refused to suchE elections, and another chance for Nevertheless, there are still serious recognise the federal government beyond Ethiopia to transit to democracy. challenges. 5 October, 2020. For many centuries, Ethiopia was ruled The front conducted its own region- by a long line of absolute monarchs. The Challenges al election on 20 September, 2020 and last emperor was overthrown by a popular Parties continue to exist that don’t have declared itself the winner. This was in revolution in 1974. However, the revolution strong links with voters and constitu- violation of the Federal Constitution and was hijacked by a military junta that ruled encies. In addition, most of the political against the mandate of the National the country until its overthrow in 1991. parties that make up the party system are Electoral Board. This action led to the There was hope that Ethiopia would regional and continue to be focused on escalation of political differences between embrace democracy for the first time when ethnicity to mobilise supporters. the front and the federal government. the Ethiopian Peoples’ Revolutionary The problem with this is that ethnic The Tigray Peoples’ Liberation Front Democratic Front, a coalition of four ethnic political parties use extreme ethnic pro- had been on a collision path with the political parties, took power in 1991 and paganda to win the support of the ethnic federal government from the first day of introduced multiparty elections. This was groups they claim to represent. They are its fall from a federal to regional power not to be. The front conducted five sham transition springs from several important Advances on the basis of standards such as proof also unlikely to seek political compro- in 2018. general elections and ruled the country developments. In the last two years, the There are many reasons for the optimism. of endorsement from voters and constit- mises. In addition, the fact that the Tigray with an iron fist for 28 years. government has taken political and leg- Firstly, several exiled opposition politicians uencies. Another challenge is the first-past-the- Peoples’ Liberation Front is an armed From 2016 up to 2018, the coalition islative reforms that may contribute to a and political parties are allowed to operate Alongside this, political parties that post election rule. The rule makes repre- ethnic political group arguably made it faced a popular uprising against increased more competitive election. For example, the inside the country. have previously been marginalised in sentation of diverse interests and views in inherently susceptible to resort to violence human rights violations and massive cor- electoral board which oversees the polling Secondly, a new electoral law has set the regional states of Afar, Benishangul the federal and regional legislative organs as a way of resolving political differences. ruption. It also faced an internal power has been re-established as an independent out new rules for political party registra- Gumuz, Harari, Gambela, and Somali difficult. Likewise, some leaders of oppo- struggle between reformists who sought institution. tion. These have had the effect of pushing are now part of the national political sition parties are in prison, limiting the Conclusion the opening of the political space and those Despite the upbeat expectations, the out a large number of weak and frag- discourse. diversity of views and interests that should The upcoming 6th general elections are who wanted to maintain the status quo. June elections face serious challenges. mented political parties from the party Thirdly, the National Electoral Board be represented in the general elections. yet another historic chance for Ethiopia to The political crisis climaxed in the exit Ethiopia’s party system is extremely vol- system. Previously, there were more than of Ethiopia is now accountable to the The lack of security in some constitu- hold free and fair elections. Through demo- of prime minister Hailemariam Desalegn atile. Political parties are weak and frag- 130 political parties many of which were House of Peoples’ Representatives, the encies poses an additional challenge to the cratic competition, Ethiopia can avert con- and entry of prime minister Abiy Ahmed mented. And the elections will take place weak and volatile. The majority were not federal legislative house. And, in a signif- general elections. In the regional state of flict, strengthen its democratic institutions, in 2018. amid the upheaval in Tigray, one of the active in elections or any political move- icant compromise between the ruling and Tigray, the election for the regional coun- and begin the transition to democracy. The The new optimism of a democratic country’s 10 federal regions. ment. The new law requires re-registration opposition political parties, a prominent cil has been postponed by the National elections are a matter of survival.

106 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 107 SCIENCE Commentary

it is more direct. Many parents would say, “Let your female scientists in Nigeria have not been able to attain Against the odds: Four women share brother go to school first because we do not have money.” the peak. By the time they are ready to progress in their Culturally, in most societies, girls are regarded as careers, there are no special integration programmes to inferior to boys. Somehow this belief has permeated all assist them. how they forged careers in science aspects of life in Nigeria and discrimination continues. Perceptions will take time to change. Education The starting point for removing discrimination about the role of the girl child in nation building is key. Less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women and UNESCO data shows that only against girls is education, which is not affordable for We can initiate this by having groups that interact with about 30% of all female students choose science, technology, engineering and mathematics many households because of poverty. Early marriages secondary schools through parent and teacher associa- (STEM) fields at a tertiary level. Four African women scientists share their experiences in and unwanted pregnancies hinder girls’ education. tion platforms. Such engagements should feature female forging STEM careers. But when girls are educated, there is a multiplier scientists as speakers. Female scientists who are starting effect: there is an improvement in literacy, family income, their careers must be involved too, for mentoring and to family health, credentials for employment and occupa- “pass the baton”. tional aspirations. Effective interventions do exist. Universities like One of the ways Nigeria could make a positive change Oxford and Cambridge have recognised the peculiari- NATASHA JOSEPH have always said, “You are not inferior (intellectually) is by enforcing the 2004 Universal Basic Education Act. ties and pressures on female scientists. They have pro- compared to any male.” I’m also married to a man who It mandates every government in Nigeria to provide grammes that include providing reintegration grants of Freelance Commissioning Editor spurs me on and helps to make the journey easier. The compulsory and free basic education for every child from up to £10,000 to hire a postdoctoral student for female most effective intervention, I think, is to let women step primary school to junior secondary school. If enforced, academics returning after maternity care. This type of OGECHI EKEANYANWU on the stage and show what they are capable of. it would make it possible for girls to acquire basic edu- targeted approach to bridging the gap between female Commissioning Editor: Nigeria cation. and male scientists is non-existent in Nigeria. Professor Ekanem Ikpi Braide, Nigeria There are other policies, including the Strategy for My personal principle is: “If there is one reason why a WALE FATADE STEM appeals to me because it pervades all aspects of Acceleration of Girls’ Education. These policies exist but particular concept will work, then pursue that one reason life. Most problems in nation building can be solved by are not fully enforced as fees are still being charged in and leave out the 50 reasons why it won’t work.” Commissioning Editor: Nigeria applying STEM. The problem–solving attitude required many schools. I have my great grandmother, grandparents and par- of scientists makes life very exciting. ents to thank for this. They made me realise that I can ess than 30% of researchers worldwide are women Personally, I have not experienced any bias (in my Professor Aina Adeogun, Nigeria do whatever I set my heart on doing. We need to reorient and UNESCO data shows that only about 30% of career) but I have seen many women experience bias. The key ingredients to career progression are opportuni- parents’ perceptions on how to give all children equal all female students choose science, technology, In most instances, particularly among elites, it is subtle ty, availability and focus. For Nigerian women scientists, opportunities to flourish from the early stages. engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at a and not direct. No one would say “I cannot employ you appreciable time is lost to childbearing and family care. This can-do approach to life will ensure that we posi- Ltertiary level. Four African women scientists share their because you are a woman” or “I cannot promote you Because of the expectation that women are the partners tion our intuitive and highly resourceful girl children to experiences in forging STEM careers. because you are a woman” – though the reason is actual- to sacrifice for the family, a lot of otherwise excellent become trailblazers in STEM. ly gender. Among parents, particularly in the rural areas, Dr Dayo Akande, Nigeria I can’t forget my experience as a secondary school student: after qualifying for a science competition at state level in 1989, I was asked to stay back and let my male schoolmate go, because there was only sponsorship for I can do whatever I set my one person to attend the presentation. He was the only Culturally, in heart on doing. We need to one recognised when they returned. I felt bad, as if it was most societies, reorient parents’ perceptions a crime to be a girl. girls are on how to give all children There is also the bias of being seen as not capable. regarded as Not being given an equal chance to show what you are equal opportunities to flourish inferior to boys. from the early stages. capable of. I was once dropped for a scholarship because Somehow I was pregnant – a decision made not by the funders but This can-do approach to life by a committee chaired by a female professor. this belief has will ensure that we position our Such biases have consequences for the STEM sector. permeated all intuitive and highly resourceful It stands the chance of losing the best hands. And women aspects of life girl children to become will get discouraged from participating fully in the sector, in Nigeria and trailblazers in STEM. being recognised and meeting their potential. discrimination The entire populace must be made aware of the need continues. to allow women to compete and show their capabilities in STEM. Everyone is responsible: parents, teachers, policy makers and women too. My parents, for instance,

108 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 109 SCIENCE Commentary

I’ve encountered bias in my career. It has ranged from overt sexual harassment, to bullying and verbal abuse, to more subtle things like my work being overlooked. It has happened to me and others I know, including my students. It reflects overt but also systemic bias that is so pervasive and ingrained that people don’t even realise they are biased. Women simply aren’t taken as seriously as men in society. This dynamic is magnified in STEM fields, where women are often underrepresented. Recognition is our reward for aiming high

Professor Rebecca Ackermann, Triple winner at the Asian Banker Transaction Many people think that if South Africa well known that diversity produces better I’ve always been interested in figuring out science. Awards, Middle East and Africa 2020. we each do our small part how things work, and really that’s at the Diversity brings more backgrounds, to promote diversity in core of what scientists do. Notice something experiences, worldviews and angles to conscience, including gender interesting. Try to explain it. I’ve always sidering a problem, which shapes which been careful to do science on my own terms, questions are asked and how evidence is diversity, we will move though. That includes healthy work hours interpreted. This removes the bias that towards equity and justice. and an equal focus on family and friends, so comes from homogeneity of thought, giving In my view this slow, as not to burn out. Academia is not a sprint, us more scientific certainty that we’re get- it’s a marathon. ting the correct answer. gradual approach has been I’ve encountered bias in my career. It Many people think that if we each largely unsuccessful. STEM has ranged from overt sexual harassment, do our small part to promote diversity in fields need to be pushed to bullying and verbal abuse, to more sub- science, including gender diversity, we will tle things like my work being overlooked. move towards equity and justice. In my towards justice. It has happened to me and others I know, view this slow, gradual approach has been including my students. largely unsuccessful. STEM fields need to It reflects overt but also systemic bias be pushed towards justice. This includes, that is so pervasive and ingrained that among other things, educating ourselves people don’t even realise they are biased. on the importance of diversity in science, Women simply aren’t taken as seriously as doing bias training, advocating for employ- men in society. This dynamic is magnified ment equity and making it happen, creating in STEM fields, where women are often inclusive spaces and practices. I see pre- underrepresented. dominantly women and people of colour Bias pushes women out of STEM fields, in the transformation space, which tells me which is a detriment to science. All science that not everyone is putting in the work to absabank.co.ke is shaped by the people doing it, and it is move us in the right direction.

Terms and conditions apply. Absa Bank Kenya PLC is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya. 110 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 111 CULTURE Opinion

Eyes on the cost For eight years in the 1940s and Several proposals were put for- The affordability of airport expansion Nairobi’s airports – windows on Kenya’s 1950s, colonial officials in London and ward. These included variations on and modernisation was an ongoing head- Nairobi discussed whether to retain and how Kenya, Britain and airport users ache. It was also a shifting target. During colonial past and top-down planning develop Eastleigh for post-War civil could share the expenses. Multiple eight years spent on airport planning, dif- aviation, or to create a new and bigger studies produced different estimates of ferent airport specifications and costings airport elsewhere. land values. And there were competing were geared to nine successive varieties After a technical engineering study of the Embakasi site, and piles of how colonial economic and political con- Britain wanted a more modern, agendas. For example, the Nairobi City of British airliner unilaterally proposed dense estimating, accounting, and reporting, a financial resolution siderations affected airport provision. As safer and better-quality airport than Council wanted the 1,000 acres of land by BOAC for use into and out of Nairobi. the colonial power, Britain would have been Eastleigh. The cost of the necessary at Eastleigh for houses for a growing Each had different technical attributes was found. In May 1953 the Kenya Legislative Assembly agreed to the expected to plan airports easily to suit its runway extensions there versus the cost population. But the Council did not and variable requirements as regards construction of the city’s third airport there. needs. But after World War II, Britain – and of developing a new airport at a more have first call on or veto powers over approach corridor, runway length, width Kenya – faced financial austerity. remote and expansive site was a major the use of Crown Land. Meanwhile, and strength, and aircraft parking space. My research shows that planning was consideration. other options were curtailed by require- The introduction of the first ever GORDON PIRIE During World War II, a second, bigger actually slow and fraught, especially when Kenya’s Governor in 1945 was ada- ments to freeze urban land develop- passenger jet aircraft on the London– airport was developed east of the city centre Britain declined to pay the entire bill. And mant that Britain should not expect a menter aircraft flight paths. Johannesburg route via Nairobi in May Honorary Research Associate, University of on vacant land at Eastleigh. The airport was airports in Nairobi were not imagined and colony to pay for even just upgrading 1952 helped focus minds. Without an Cape Town built initially as a colonial air force outpost, planned as part of organic city land use or an airport for an air service which it airport that could handle BOAC’s Comet but was soon shared by civilian airliners. changing urban ecology. Instead, airports had never requested and which few local jet, Nairobi might have found itself off irport histories can be surprising. In the 1950s, a third and even bigger happened to colonial Nairobi. people would use. the principal air route across Africa. Changes to airport names may site was developed at Embakasi, further out Decades later the city’s airports are a The possibility of paying for new The introduction of the After a technical engineering study conceal stretches of their past. from and southeast of Nairobi city centre. window to the institutional complexities, facilities by selling buildings and some first ever passenger jet of the Embakasi site, and piles of dense Thus, the colonial roots of two of After independence from Britain in 1963, compromises and devices of late colonial- land at Eastleigh was considered. But aircraft on the London– estimating, accounting, and reporting, a ANairobi’s three airports are opaque. Each this airport was developed into the current ism. the Royal Air Force was reluctant to financial resolution was found. In May of the three has taken a turn as the prime Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. give up its base there, especially during Johannesburg route via 1953 the Kenya Legislative Assembly international gateway to Kenya. In a paper on the colonial planning Colonial considerations the Mau Mau uprising when military Nairobi in May 1952 agreed to the construction of the city’s During the 1930s, Wilson Airport, to of airports in Nairobi, I discuss the deci- New purposes are often found for old aircraft tracked and attacked their posi- helped focus minds. third airport there. the southwest of Nairobi, was the only city sion-making processes around the three airports, including using them for general tions. In the late colonial period, the airport airport. It was set up by Kenyans for local airports. The research offers a glimpse of aviation, such as serving recreational flying, It was not just defence interests. Without an airport that planning process was not very consulta- flying – still in its infancy – in the colony. and local business and tourist air charter. Britain’s civil aviation ministry, the could handle BOAC’s tive. Officials in various strands of gov- It became a stopping place on the new air This happened at Wilson Airport in Colonial Office, the Treasury, Britain’s Comet jet, Nairobi might ernment were in the driving seat. Settler route operated by Imperial Airways (pre- Nairobi. The airport at Eastleigh reverted national airline (BOAC), and the Kenyan voices were heard indirectly, but not decessor of British Airways) across Africa. to a military facility – now Moi Airbase – Legislative Assembly, had different views have found itself off the those of Africans or the Kenyan Asian having lost its commercial aviation role in on how to even estimate the costs of air- principal air route across population. the 1950s. port renewal or relocation, let alone how Africa. There were no people living on and The layered decision-making behind to fund them. The Legislative Assembly farming the Embakasi site who had to this switch is a fascinating and, in parts, protected its limited budget fiercely. be relocated to make way for the new ugly story. airport. Nevertheless, there was a shame- ful side to Nairobi’s newest airport. In a jarring application of colonial practices, costs were saved during preparation of the new site by using Mau Mau prisoners as manual labourers. Airport passenger terminals are often designed to flaunt a city and country. Embakasi’s modest terminal made Nairobi’s newest airport more colonial utility than colonial showpiece. A glaring showing of colonialism, the airport’s labour history is not commemorated in its post-colonial re-naming.

112 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 113 EDUCATION Opinion

How much Biden can actually reform 5 ways the Biden the immigration system remains to be seen. But international applications to administration U.S. colleges for this fall are already up 9% compared to a year ago. This suggests a renewed interest in the U.S. as a study may help stem destination. It also serves as a hope- ful sign that international enrolment will the loss of soon rebound, presuming Biden’s handling of the pandemic instils more confidence international abroad than that of his predecessor. 2. Elimination of discriminatory bans students On his first day in office, Biden revoked the Trump administration’s so-called Muslim ban and other discriminatory restrictions The exchange of ideas between students and scholars President Joe Biden’s election signals a on travel and entry in favour of strengthen- from different parts of the world is important for new day for international education. This is ing information-sharing relationships with evident based on a slew of Biden’s executive foreign governments. advancing knowledge and addressing global threats While many of the country-specific that range from climate change to Covid-19. orders, many of which revoked immigration restrictions did not directly affect people and travel restrictions imposed by the Trump with student visas, the policy had a broad administration. cooling effect. Consider the sharp decline are needed to achieve these goals, the According to a recent survey, the top in student visas issued to applicants memorandum should provide the coun- recommendation that researchers around from countries included in the bans. For try’s more than 200,000 DACA-eligible the world have for the Biden administra- DAVID L. DI MARIA instance, student visas issued to Iranian college students with the hope that a path- tion is to expand scientific collaborations Associate Vice Provost for International Education, nationals fell by 59%, from 3,139 in 2016 way to citizenship is not far off. between the U.S. and other countries. to 1,970 in 2019. The exchange of ideas between stu- University of Maryland, Baltimore County Biden’s approach to national secu- 4. Options for graduates to stay dents and scholars from different parts rity aims to keep would-be threats from Even before he was elected, former of the world is important for advancing ver the past four years, the Trump administra- entering the U.S. while allowing for cit- President Donald Trump regularly claimed knowledge and addressing global threats tion made it increasingly difficult for students izen diplomacy efforts, such as student that immigrants were taking jobs away that range from climate change to Covid- from other countries to study in the United exchange programs, to resume. This tactic from American workers. This is a notion 19. However, research indicates that two States. will ultimately increase the diversity of largely disproved by economists, disputed of the most significant barriers to interna- OIn 2017, the number of new international students nations represented on college campuses. by employers and rejected by 64% of the tional collaboration are a lack of funding enrolled at American colleges and universities – that is, Such diversity enhances learning opportu- general population. and restrictions on sharing data. those just coming to the U.S. for the first time – declined nities for all. In sharp contrast to his predeces- Biden’s decisions to elevate the direc- for the first year on record. Restrictive immigration sor, Biden has proposed making it easier tor of the White House Office of Science policies, frayed relations with foreign nations and travel 3. Protections for Dreamers for international students with advanced and Technology to a Cabinet-level posi- bans all contributed to further drops in new enrolment 1. Reform of the immigration system Undocumented immigrants brought to degrees in STEM fields to receive work tion, re-join the Paris climate accord and over each of the following years of Trump’s presidency. In 2019, the total number of enrolled international students – that is, new- the U.S. as children – often known as visas and apply for permanent residency. If reverse the previous administration’s President Joe Biden’s election signals a new day for ly-arrived students as well as those already studying in the U.S. – dropped Dreamers – faced an uncertain future successful, Biden would enable the U.S. to move to depart from the World Health international education. This is evident based on a slew for the first time since 2005. And the economic impact of international under Trump. The Trump administration retain a greater number of STEM workers Organization all indicate that science will of Biden’s executive orders, many of which revoked students decreased by US$1.8 billion. refused to accept new applications for the who are critical for continued economic inform future policy decisions. This could immigration and travel restrictions imposed by the While the declining number of international students wreaked havoc Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals growth. Just consider that nearly 25% of help address current barriers to interna- Trump administration. Additionally, Biden sent a bill to on U.S. colleges and universities, as well as the communities in which they program – which extends certain protec- billion-dollar start-up companies had a tional collaboration. Congress aimed at reforming the nation’s immigration are based, there is renewed optimism that things will change. tions to Dreamers – that was established founder who first arrived to the U.S. as an Biden’s commitments to “lead with system. That’s because the Biden administration has expressed a commitment under the Obama administration. And international student. science and truth” and attract top global As a university administrator who specializes in to modernizing the nation’s immigration system in ways that respond to this occurred even after the program was STEM products and services are the talent to the U.S. not only bode well for international education, I foresee five major ways the economic needs and prevent the U.S. from losing talent to other nations. upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. focus of many of these companies, which U.S. colleges, universities and companies United States may once again become the top choice This includes making it easier for international students who are working Biden issued a memorandum aimed at create an average of 1,200 new jobs each. but also hold the promise of reclaiming for students from around the world during the Biden on advanced degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics preserving and fortifying DACA the same lost ground by restoring U.S. leadership in administration. – or STEM – to stay and work after graduation. day he was sworn in. While further actions 5. Boost for global science science and technology.

114 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 115 ECONOMY Beyond Business

The Global Gag Rule requires NGOs What we found based outside the US that receive US Research participants in Kenya described government global health assistance US anti-abortion “gag increased difficulties referring women to certify that they will not use any for contraception, legal abortion, and funding to provide legal abortion rule” hits women hard: post-abortion care. This is because some services, referrals, or information organisations chose to end sexual and to clients, or to advocate for the reproductive health programmes that What we found in Kenya included abortion in order to receive US liberalisation of a country’s abortion government funding. law. and Madagascar Additionally, we found that some organisations unnecessarily restricted their family planning or post-abortion care services, which are permitted, due to confusion about the policy’s stipulations or fear of losing US government funding opportunities. SARA E CASEY In Madagascar, we found evidence of Assistant Professor, Heilbrunn Department negative effects on women’s access to fam- of Population and Family Health, Columbia ily planning services. This was true even University though abortion is illegal there. The impact on one NGO illustrates how. The NGO was a major partner to EMILY A MAISTRELLIS Madagascar’s Ministry of Health. It pro- Public Health Researcher, Mailman School of vides safe abortion in other countries Public Health, Columbia University Medical where it’s legal. But the NGO lost US Center government funding after declining to sign the Global Gag Rule. As a result, it stopped receiving funding and supplies TERRY MCGOVERN from USAID. This meant that it had to Chair, Heilbrunn Department of Population reduce family planning outreach in some and Family Health, Columbia University rural areas, and ended support to nearly 200 public and private health facilities. Medical Center Women described facing many barriers when trying to access contraceptives. S President Joe Biden has reversed These included higher fees to obtain a a Trump administration policy contraceptive method, stock-outs in many that prohibited US funding for health facilities, and having to travel to nongovernmental groups that pro- multiple locations in search of their pre- Uvide or refer patients for abortions. ferred method. The Global Gag Rule, also known as The Global Gag Rule requires non-gov- Our mission is to share knowledge and Communautaire to study the effects of the truly pave the way towards reversing the One woman in Madagascar mentioned the Mexico City Policy, was enacted in 1984 ernmental organisations (NGOs) based out- inform decisions. Global Gag Rule in Kenya and Madagascar. effects of the Gag Rule, the US Congress that buying the method is a “problem by President Ronald Reagan. Since its side the US that receive US government The policy allows for limited excep- In both countries, we found that the Global must permanently repeal it through leg- because the money is needed to buy food introduction, the policy has been instated global health assistance to certify that they tions. For example, NGOs may provide Gag Rule weakened national health sys- islation. for the family, but you have to take some by each Republican president and rescind- will not use any funding to provide legal information, referrals or services for legal tems by disrupting NGO partnerships and out to buy the method.” ed by each Democrat president. abortion services, referrals, or information abortion in cases of rape, incest, or when fragmenting service delivery. In turn, this Under former Republican Some women ended up with an unin- Under President Donald Trump the to clients, or to advocate for the liberali- the pregnancy threatens the life of the created barriers to women’s sexual and tended pregnancy because they could not policy was made more stringent on two sation of a country’s abortion law. It also pregnant person. However, our research reproductive healthcare access. presidents the Gag obtain their contraceptive method. occasions – once in 2017 when his adminis- applies to non-US based NGO sub-grantees shows that these exceptions are not always Our research provides fresh evidence Rule applied only to tration passed the Protecting Life in Global of organisations getting money – even if understood or followed in practice. of the devastating effect that the Gag Rule US government family Expansion under Trump Health Assistance policy and again in 2019 they don’t receive US global health assis- We collaborated with the African has had on projects, particularly over the Under former Republican presidents the with a further expansion of its implemen- tance. The policy applies to US government Population Health Research Centre and past four years. It points to the importance planning assistance. Gag Rule applied only to US government tation. and non-US government funds alike. L’Institut National de Santé Publique et of the repeal, but also underscores why, to family planning assistance. This stood

116 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 117 CULTURE Last Word THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER TECHNOLOGY IS EVERYWHERE THESE DAYS

Former U.S. President at $575 million in 2016. promotion of integrated services. What now? Donald Trump signs But the changes made by Trump In addition, the policy’s on-again- The repeal of the Global Gag Rule the first of three expanded the policy to apply to most off-again history makes it very diffi- by President Biden is a necessary step Executive Orders in categories of US government global cult to repair the damage it causes. towards improving women’s sexual and the Oval Office of the White House health assistance – which in 2016 Even when the policy is not in effect, reproductive health and rights world- in Washington, stood at US$9.5 billion. some NGOs are wary of rebuilding wide. But it will not be enough to reverse DC on Monday, This meant that a greater num- or reinvesting in abortion-related the effects that it’s had over the last four January 23, 2017. ber of NGOs working in a variety of work, for fear of its reinstatement. years. Standing behind health areas – from HIV to nutrition Clear communication and guidance THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER the President, from left to right: Then to child health – were newly affected. about the policy reversal from US gov- STARTING FROM $136 000* US Vice President One huge implication was that, ernment donors to global health imple- The new Land Rover Defender doesn’t just have the strength, Mike Pence; White for the first time, the Global Gag The changes made menting partners – in multiple languages it has the intelligence. Inside that muscular body is an incredible House Chief of Staff Rule was attached to President’s – will be critical to end its implementa- by Trump expanded brain. With technology built around a smartphone-like interface, Reince Preibus; Peter Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief tion and mitigate against the rampant Navarro, Director the policy to apply to it’s completely intuitive. Always on, ready for work immediately. of the National (PEPFAR) funding. In the case of confusion and fear that it has created for And the all-new infotainment system, Pivi Pro, provides a seamless, Trade Council; Jared Kenya, this made up to 58% of HIV most categories of US civil society across countries. It will take streamlined experience. This is 21st century technology for 21st Kushner, Senior funding to Kenya. government global NGOs time to re-establish relationships century adventurers. Defender. An icon in a category of one. Advisor to the As a result, we found that the health assistance. This and services that they ended. President; Steven delivery of the country’s HIV and In addition to permanently repealing Book your test drive today Miller, Senior Advisor meant that a greater to the President; sexual and reproductive health ser- the Gag Rule, there needs to be renewed unknown; and vices has been fractured.NGO rep- number of NGOs investment in comprehensive sexual and Inchcape Kenya Steve Bannon, resentatives said they were forced working in a variety reproductive health information and Land Rover Center, Ground Floor, Oracle Tower, Westlands White House Chief to choose between US government services from the US government and [email protected] 254 0 730 191 000 Strategist. Photo funding and projects related to HIV of health areas were national governments in order to rebuild | AFP and other sexual and reproductive and strengthen national health systems newly affected. landrover-kenya.com health services, despite USAID’s own and contraceptive supply chains.

*Ts and Cs apply. 118 BUSINESS MONTHLY | MAY-JUNE 2021 An exquisite citrus burst in every sip