The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has elected Hitesh Mediratta as its new chairperson, replacing Jane Karuku at a time when manufacturers are pushing for lower production costs, stable tax policies and a more competitive business environment.
Mediratta, who has served as KAM’s vice chairperson since 2024, will lead the association for the next two years.
He takes over from Karuku, the Group Managing Director of East African Breweries Plc (EABL), whose term as KAM chairperson has ended.
Speaking after his election, Mediratta said he will focus on strengthening Kenya’s manufacturing sector and increasing its contribution to economic growth.
“I am honoured to serve as Chairperson of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers at a defining moment for Kenya’s manufacturing sector. While global uncertainties continue to shape trade, supply chains and investment shifts, they also present an opportunity for Kenya and Africa to strengthen regional value chains, increase local value addition and unlock the full potential of manufacturing as a driver of economic growth and industrialization,” he said.
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KAM Elects PG Bison Kenya MD Hitesh Mediratta as New Chairperson
He said his priority will be to build on KAM’s advocacy work by creating a business environment that allows manufacturers to compete fairly.
“My priority will be to build on KAM’s strong legacy of advocacy by creating a level playing field that enhances the competitiveness of Kenyan manufacturers both locally and globally. We shall continue to champion equitable value chains where all manufacturers have an opportunity to compete, grow and thrive,” he said.
Mediratta added that KAM would continue working with the government and industry stakeholders to advance reforms that support industrial expansion, unlock new business opportunities and strengthen Kenya’s manufacturing sector.
The new KAM chairperson is the Managing Director of PG Bison Kenya Limited, where he has served for 21 years.
Within the association, he has previously chaired the Timber and Furniture Sector, served as Vice Chair of the Trade and Tax Board Committee, and has been a KAM Board Director since 2020.
KAM said Mediratta has played a key role in the association’s work on tax and trade policy, pushing for measures to strengthen manufacturers and support the sector’s growth.
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The association also elected Mary-Ann Musangi, the Managing Director of HACO Industries Kenya Limited, as its vice chairperson.
Musangi currently chairs KAM’s Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Programme, where she has led initiatives to promote women’s leadership, mentorship and skills development in the manufacturing sector.
Karuku will remain on the KAM Board as an ex officio member.
About KAM
KAM is a Business Membership Organization (BMO) established in 1959 to unite industrialists and offer a common voice for the manufacturing sector.
The association provides an essential link for dialogue and understanding with Government by representing the views and concerns of its members to the relevant authorities.
KAM promotes trade and investment, upholds standards and encourages the formulation, enactment and administration of sound policies that facilitate a competitive business environment and reduce the cost of doing business.
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