Women in Business: Mendi Njonjo, KCB Foundation

Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, African Business is collecting the experiences of women leaders in African businesses and asking them how future progress can be assured.

In this interview, we hear from Mendi Njonjo, director of the KCB Foundation, which was established to implement KCB Bank Group’s corporate social responsibility programmes.

AB: Is the glass ceiling getting easier to crack in Africa/your country/industry?

Progress is being made, but significant barriers remain. According to recent statistics, women’s representation in leadership roles across Africa has improved, with some countries leading the way in gender-inclusive policies. However, the pace of change varies across industries.

In the financial sector, for instance, while more women are taking up leadership positions, structural biases and access to capital remain key challenges.

AB: Which women leaders inspire you and have inspired you?

On a personal level, my mother and the women in my family- my aunties by blood and African aunties- who have been pillars of strength, resilience, and wisdom.

Globally, I deeply admire Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados for her leadership in climate change, particularly in championing the rights of island nations and advocating for fairer global economic structures that benefit Southern and African countries. 

At KCB, there are dozens of exemplary women who continue to inspire me, and I believe most of us within the Bank, given their push in driving financial inclusion, community support and brand building.

AB: What were the biggest hurdles you had to overcome on your journey to the top?

One of the biggest challenges has been authenticity- navigating leadership as a black woman in global spaces often means facing stereotypes, biases, and sometimes the pressure to conform. Staying true to myself while pushing for meaningful impact has been both a challenge and as a learning experience.

AB: What surprised or shocked you the most on your journey?

I was pleasantly surprised by how many people are willing to offer support and mentorship. Often, we assume we have to go it alone, but there are individuals who genuinely want to help- it’s just a matter of being open to seeking and recognizing these opportunities.

AB: What would you tell your 20-year-old self?

Believe in yourself, enjoy the ride, and take time to appreciate the journey. Success is not just about reaching the destination but also about the experiences and lessons along the way.

AB: If you were 20 today, what industry would you go into and what skills would you pursue?

I would still choose the nonprofit and social impact sector. Championing social, economic, and environmental justice is not just a career for me- it is a calling. If anything, my conviction in this work has only grown stronger over time.

In terms of skills, I would (still)  focus on data analytics, digital transformation, and policy advocacy, as these are increasingly essential for driving systemic change in development work.

AB: Is greater women representation in business and boardrooms a fight you are continuing?

Yes, absolutely. I remain committed to advocating for policies and structures that increase women’s representation in leadership. Through mentorship, advocacy, and institutional programs, I continue to support initiatives that empower women to take their rightful place in decision-making spaces.