The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) recently championed the essential role of women in advancing industrial growth. Association representatives attended the Accelerate Women Event (AWE) to highlight strides made by female leaders in the global manufacturing sector. The forum operated under the theme “Unstoppable Women: Going Beyond Borders.”
This gathering united professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders to exchange insights and build meaningful connections. The primary objective was to champion opportunities for women to succeed beyond traditional geographical and industry limits. KAM was represented by Mary-Anne Musangi, the Board Director and Women in Manufacturing Program Chair, alongside SME Hub Chair Harriet Ng’ok.
Ms. Musangi addressed delegates during the welcoming dinner, calling on women in the sector to leverage global markets. She emphasized the need for strategy, thorough preparation, and confidence. She provided specific guidance on how female-led businesses can successfully scale their operations on the international stage.
“Conquering global markets calls on us to strengthen our vision, know our value, build a global mindset, invest in networks and partnerships and embrace technology,” Musangi stated.
She added, “We must also prioritize financial literacy; build a strong, scalable team; develop resilience and understanding the power of showing up.”
During a panel session focused on regional trade, Ms. Ng’ok highlighted specific challenges facing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). She specifically addressed the hurdles businesses encounter when attempting to transition from small-scale operations to large-scale production.
“Market access is often the most transformative factor. Direct linkages into value chains and support to leverage digital platforms create pathways for selling products locally, regionally, and even internationally,” Ng’ok explained.
She noted that expanding market access requires tailored training for manufacturing SMEs. Ng’ok advocated for deliberate efforts to increase opportunities, such as targeted business-to-business linkages and financing solutions aligned with real operating conditions.
The event served as a platform to celebrate the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs while providing practical strategies for market expansion. It reinforced the power of leadership and innovation in driving growth locally and globally.
KAM’s participation included 15 members of the Women in Manufacturing Program. The initiative was supported by Trademark Africa and the British High Commission (FCDO). This partnership seeks to strengthen the participation of Kenyan MSMEs in key export markets across the continent.
The collaboration focuses on advocating for an enabling domestic business environment. It aims to foster stronger public-private sector cooperation and improve access to critical export market information.
