#21
MWENDA KAGEENU
DIRECTOR – SUPPLY CHAIN, KWAL
“Supply chain is like nature; it is all around us,” declares renowned businessman Dave Waters. Few in business today understand the depth of this statement as well as Mwenda Ruona Kageenu, a transformational leader who has redefined the supply chain landscape at Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), a subsidiary of Heineken Beverages. Since 2016, Mwenda has served as Director of Supply Chain, proving that supply chain management extends far beyond logistics – it is the strategic backbone that connects operations, drives efficiencies, and fuels enterprise-wide success.
Under his leadership, KWAL’s manufacturing volume has tripled in just six years – a remarkable achievement that reflects his ability to scale operations while maintaining quality and efficiency. During this same period, supply chain conversion costs were reduced by 50 percent, underscoring Mwenda’s focus on operational excellence, team mobilization, and cost-effective, streamlined processes that support KWAL’s upward trajectory.
A champion of product localisation, Mwenda has played a pivotal role in achieving local manufacturing of 87 percent of KWAL’s brand portfolio currently sold in Kenya. This includes the successful transition of Savanna Cider and Hunter’s Cider from imports to locally produced beverages, as well as the launch of new local brands like Caribia Gin and Kibao Gin.
To support KWAL’s expansion and local production ambitions, Mwenda led the end-to-end development of a new, state-of-the-art facility – from conceptualisation and design to construction and relocation – from Enterprise Road to Tatu City. This new plant stands out for its eco-conscious design, built with green construction principles and circular systems to promote recycling, reuse, and sustainability.
Currently, Mwenda is guiding the team through the final implementation phase of the facility’s sustainability roadmap. A major milestone in this journey is the installation of solar panels, slated for completion in the first half of the year. The plant has already earned preliminary EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification for its building design, with full certification expected following the solar installation.
Before joining KWAL, Mwenda made significant strides in his role as Head of Supply Chain at Highlands Mineral Water Company, where he led a team of 170 employees across departments. His leadership created operational synergies that improved efficiency, aligned production with sales forecasts, ensured timely product delivery, and integrated sustainable technology. He also played a critical role in launching new products, most notably spearheading the introduction of Highlands Club Soda into the soft drinks category, helping the company stay competitive and efficient.
Earlier in his career, Mwenda rose through the ranks at Nairobi Bottlers, now part of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa. In his final role as Country Planning and Continuous Improvement Manager, he was responsible for strategic demand and supply planning, driving operations in line with long-term business goals. He led the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process and guided new product development planning, embedding demand-driven strategies that enhanced agility and responsiveness to market dynamics.
During a six-month commercial assignment, Mwenda managed sales teams, distributors, and volume targets – an experience that deepened his understanding of customer needs and the full value chain. This cross-functional exposure sharpened his business acumen and reinforced his ability to make strategic, data-driven decisions that enhance growth and operational efficiency. His focus on continuous improvement left a lasting impact on the company’s overall business performance.
As Manufacturing Manager at Nairobi Bottlers, Mwenda oversaw long-term planning, budget control, and manufacturing excellence. He led continuous improvement initiatives, optimized production lines, managed stakeholder relationships, and successfully negotiated with labor unions, all while upholding quality and regulatory standards – setting the bar for excellence in factory operations.
Mwenda began his career in 2000 at Brookside Dairy, where he served as Plant Manager for the Mount Kenya region. There, he managed plant installation and commissioning, asset maintenance, and milk procurement, while optimizing supply chain functions. His early experience in production and technical management laid a strong foundation for his future success.
Academically, Mwenda holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology from Egerton University, equipping him with a solid understanding of the science behind supply chain dynamics. His leadership journey has been further shaped by executive education at Stellenbosch Business School in South Africa. In 2011, while at Coca-Cola, he completed the Leadership Executive Development Program, and in 2018, while at KWAL, he undertook the Senior Management Development Program, refining his expertise in leadership and strategic management.
While Mwenda’s professional focus is on supply chain excellence, his personal interests reveal a well-rounded and dynamic leader. An avid off-road enthusiast and passionate car aficionado, he is an active member of Bundu Rovers and participates in their CSR initiatives, including the annual Rhino Charge competition focused on environmental conservation. He is also a member of the Alfa Romeo Club and a regular participant in the Concours d’Elegance classic car show.
Beyond the thrill of motorsport, Mwenda thrives on building strong teams and fostering a collaborative culture. He encourages learning, fun, and open engagement, creating a positive environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute. “Leadership is about inspiring others to achieve a common goal,” he states – a belief evident in his ability to drive innovation, foster alignment, and lead by example.
His leadership has not only propelled KWAL’s operational success but has also made him a key figure in Kenya’s food and beverage industry.
As KWAL continues its integration into Heineken Beverages, Mwenda’s focus is on enabling a collaborative, networked supply chain. A top priority is embedding a cost-conscious culture by implementing initiatives to optimize processes, reduce waste, and unlock employee potential. He is also advancing supply chain sustainability across the value chain to support environmental goals and create a more responsible business operation.
With a strategic mindset, operational expertise, and a people-first leadership style, Mwenda Ruona Kageenu stands out as one of the top most impactful C-suite executives. As he continues to raise the bar for supply chain leadership, there is no doubt that his influence will shape the future of business in Africa and beyond.
AUTHOR: MARILENE MERCY
EDITOR: DR. HANNINGTONE GAYA
