Mary-Ann Musangi, Managing Director of HACO Industries, has been named Woman Industrialist of the Year at the Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Awards 2025, an event organized by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) to honor outstanding female leaders in the industrial sector.
The prestigious award, presented at a gala event at the Nairobi Serena Hotel, celebrates women who have made exceptional contributions to manufacturing growth, economic empowerment, and sustainability in Kenya.
Transforming HACO Industries Through Innovation and Sustainability
Under Mary-Ann Musangi’s leadership, HACO Industries has transformed into a powerhouse of innovation, sustainability, and regional expansion. She has spearheaded several key initiatives, including:
- Shifting from contract manufacturing to local production, ensuring better quality control and efficiency while supporting Kenya’s industrialization agenda.
- Establishing an in-house Research & Development department, enhancing HACO’s ability to formulate competitive, homegrown products.
- Commissioning a solar-powered plastic manufacturing plant, reducing reliance on imported plastic components and promoting circular economy practices.
- Expanding HACO’s regional footprint, with the company’s brands now present in 10 key markets across East and Central Africa.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Mary-Ann emphasized the importance of leadership, innovation, and resilience in the manufacturing sector.
“This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the resilience, creativity, and tenacity of women in manufacturing. It reaffirms the power of leadership, sustainability, and value-driven business practices in transforming industries and empowering communities,” she said.
A Champion for Women in Manufacturing
Beyond her role at HACO, Mary-Ann Musangi has been instrumental in advancing gender inclusivity in manufacturing. As Chairperson of the Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Program at KAM, she has led initiatives to:
- Advocate for greater access to financing for women entrepreneurs in the industrial sector.
- Strengthen market linkages for women-led businesses to promote their growth and competitiveness.
- Drive capacity-building programs through technical training, mentorship, and leadership development.
Her efforts continue to inspire more women to step into leadership roles in the manufacturing industry, breaking barriers and shaping the future of industrial growth in Kenya.
Mary-Ann’s recognition at the WIM Awards 2025 serves as a powerful message that women are a driving force in Kenya’s industrialization journey. With her visionary leadership, HACO Industries is not just thriving—it is setting the standard for sustainability, innovation, and gender inclusivity in the region’s manufacturing space.
As more women take up leadership roles in manufacturing, technology, and entrepreneurship, Kenya’s industrial sector is poised for transformational growth, driven by diverse and inclusive leadership.
