Haco Industries Managing Director Mary-Ann Musangi was declared the Woman Industrialist of the Year at the Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Awards 2025, which was held at the Nairobi Serena Hotel.

Musangi was recognized for her exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in the manufacturing sector in the award presented by Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM).

The awards celebrate trailblazing women who have made exceptional contributions to the development of industries, sustainability, and economic empowerment in the country.

Under her stewardship, Haco Industries has grew into an example of innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth and expanded its industrial footprint in Kenya.

In her speech while receiving the key award, Musangi thanked her team at Haco Industries, other industry stakeholders, and all her fellow women making a mark in manufacturing.

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“This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the resilience, creativity, and tenacity of women in manufacturing,” said Musangi.

She added: “It reaffirms the power of leadership, sustainability, and value-driven business practices in transforming industries and empowering communities.”

Musangi is credited with the shift from contract to localized manufacturing that gave Haco more control over quality and efficiency while supporting Kenya’s industrialization vision.

She also oversaw the establishment of an in-house research and development department, that empowered the firm to come up with local solutions to boost product competitiveness.

She also custom-built a solar-powered plastic manufacturing plant for its day operations and cut dependency on imported plastic components and also integrated recycled materials into its production processes.

Musangi also oversaw the regional expansion of Haco through strategic collaborations and saw the firm’s brands reach 10 key and emerging markets across East and Central Africa.

Further, as the chair of KAM’s Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Program, she pushed for more women participation in the sector, access to financing and mentorship for women-led SMEs.