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FLORA MUTAHI
Pioneering Influence: Legacy of a Chair
Flora Mutahi effortlessly captivates attention with the regal allure of an African queen, adorned in vibrant Kitenge attire. Her presence exudes the grace of a swan, while her intellect, comparable to a sharp and astute mind, establishes her as a dynamic and passionate business magnate. Flora has made enduring contributions to business lobbying both on the local and global scene, solidifying her status as a true business mogul and thought leader.
Her public delivery is legendary, serving as a beacon of empowerment for her fellow women. Leveraging her extensive experience, Flora has actively engaged on numerous boards, both in the past and currently, showcasing her impressive visionary capacity. As the inaugural female Chair of the board of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) from May 2021 to June 2023, Flora skillfully steered the business lobby group, leading it to advocate effectively for the interests of the country’s private sector.
Her focus centred on initiatives that supported entrepreneurs, attracted investments, and fostered innovation. Flora’s inspirational leadership during her tenure played a pivotal role in facilitating substantial reforms, thereby enhancing private sector development and regulatory frameworks. Notably, KEPSA actively contributed to the operationalisation of the Bribery Act of 2016, influencing legal frameworks. One of the significant achievements was the creation of the County Governments’ Induction Manual, serving as a tool to improve the business environment across counties.
In collaboration with the energy sector, KEPSA, under Flora’s guidance, played a crucial role in the formulation of the Finance Act of 2022. This act exempted renewable electricity generation from value-added tax (VAT), resulting in a reduction in business costs. The Alliance’s dedication to youth empowerment materialised in the launch of the Kenya Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (KYEEAP).
Under Flora’s leadership, KEPSA initiated various programs targeting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including the successful KEPSA MSME Accelerator Program which has fostered competitiveness and job creation within the private sector. Furthermore, serving as the first female Chair of the Board of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Flora led the charge in organising the ‘Changamka Festival’. This event served as a platform to showcase local products and innovations while simultaneously empowering women in the manufacturing sector through the Women in Manufacturing programme.
Her exceptional track record also includes her previous position as, once more, inaugural female Chair of the Anti-Counterfeit Agency (ACA), where she successfully implemented a groundbreaking recordation process that significantly boosted revenue generation and bolstered the fights against counterfeit goods. Beyond her national roles, Flora, as a board member of P4G, provides valuable advice and support for investments in impactful initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. Her commitment to sustainable development is further demonstrated by her active involvement in the UN Global Compact.
In her capacity as a Board Member of both the UN Global Compact New York and the UN Global Compact Kenya, Flora actively promotes the principles of these Compacts, fostering impactful change both locally and globally. Flora’s influence extends to her role as a board member of SBM Bank Kenya, where she played a pivotal role in overseeing the smooth acquisition of Fidelity Bank and Chase Bank. She continues to contribute her expertise to the strategic governance and operational excellence of the bank.
Flora’s unwavering dedica – tion to supporting local indus – tries and empowering women is evident through her impactful initiatives and strategic leadership in her various board roles. Her consistent and impactful reputation as a board member reflects her deep commitment to making a positive difference in the companies she collaborates with, as well as in the broader community and economy.
Founding Melvin’s Teas in 1995, the largest natural-flavoured tea company in Kenya, marked the beginning of Flora ’s entrepreneurial journey. The company has since experienced exponential growth in both local and international markets, expanding its reach countrywide and beyond. Dipping her toes into real estate, Flora ventured successfully with the establishment of Azizi Realtors, offering services in property sales, management, and advisory. As a true leader, Flora is dedicated to mentorship and empowerment. She initiated the Melvins Mentorship Impact Programme, providing personalised coaching and mentoring to female entrepreneurs.
Through this program, she has significantly influenced the lives and businesses of numerous women, aiding them in scaling their manufacturing enterprises and accessing formal markets. Flora holds an Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) degree from the University of Cape Town as well as a Bachelor of Science (BSc.) degree in Finance and Accounting from the United States International University (USIU) in the United Kingdom (UK).
In addition to her academic achievements, she possesses various professional qualifications, including a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation and diplomas in executive coaching and marketing. Flora, a pioneer in business leadership, not only etched her name in history as the first female chair of three distinct boards but also stands as a beacon of inspiration for youth, particularly girls.
Breaking barriers with a proven track record, she not only sets the stage for sustainable business practices but goes beyond titles, leaving an enduring mark on the landscape. Her leadership exemplifies that impactful leadership knows no gender boundaries, making her an influential force in paving the way for future leaders.
