Jane Karuku, East African Breweries

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 Jane Karuku, CEO of East African Breweries.

Is the glass ceiling getting easier to crack for African women in business?

The glass ceiling is certainly cracking, but it hasn’t shattered just yet. In Africa, and particularly in Kenya, we’ve seen tremendous progress in women’s leadership across business, politics, and other sectors. More organizations are actively driving diversity and inclusion, and we have inspiring women breaking barriers in industries that were traditionally male-dominated like FMCG where I operate.

However, challenges remain. Women still face unconscious bias, limited access to funding and leadership opportunities, and the pressure of balancing career growth with societal expectations. In the corporate world, while we have more women in boardrooms and C-suite roles than before, true equity requires continuous effort, mentorship, policy changes, and a shift in workplace cultures to create more opportunities for women to thrive. I actively champion these efforts at EABL, ensuring that diversity is not just a box to check but a fundamental driver of business success.

What gives me hope is the resilience, talent, and ambition of women today. With the right support systems and leadership commitment, the glass ceiling will not just crack—it will break completely.

Which women leaders inspire or have inspired you?

I have always been inspired by women who challenge the status quo and drive transformative change, such as Wangari Maathai. I deeply admire leaders who have successfully balanced corporate leadership with social and environmental impact, as well as those who have broken barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries including trailblazers in politics like Joyce Banda, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Samia Suluhu. Closer home, I acknowledge the profound influence of early mentors like my mother and aunties, as well as the remarkable women in my professional circles, colleagues, mentors, and even young professionals who exemplify resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to perfect their art.

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

One of the biggest hurdles I had to overcome was navigating male-dominated spaces. Early in my career, I often found myself as the only woman in the room, which meant having to work twice as hard to prove my capabilities and earn a seat at the table. Over time, I learned that competence, confidence, consistency and seeking out allies are the best ways to break barriers.

What surprised or shocked you most on your journey?

One of the lessons in my leadership journey has been the power of resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned that no matter how well you plan, uncertainty is inevitable—whether it’s economic shifts, industry disruptions, or global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. What truly defines a leader is the ability to navigate these challenges with clarity and courage.

Another realization that stood out for me is how leadership is not about having all the answers but about building strong teams, listening actively, and empowering others to thrive. The impact of culture and people in driving business success cannot be overstated.

Lastly, I was struck by how much representation truly matters. Seeing more women rise into leadership roles is encouraging, but the journey is far from over. As leaders, we must continue paving the way for more inclusive workplaces where everyone has a seat at the table.

What would you tell your 20-year-old self (we know you still look and feel 20)?

I would tell my 20-year-old self to be bold, take risks, and trust the process. At that age, it’s easy to doubt yourself, to wonder if you’re on the right path, or to feel the pressure of societal expectations. But growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing challenges, and learning from every experience—both successes and failures.

I’d also remind myself that leadership is not about having all the answers but about continuous learning, grit, and building strong relationships. The people you surround yourself with—mentors, colleagues, and friends—will play a critical role in shaping your journey.

Most importantly, I would say: ‘You belong in every room you step into. Speak up, take your place at the table, and never shrink yourself to fit into someone else’s expectations. The world needs your voice, your vision, and your leadership.’

If you were 20 today, what industry would you go into and what skills would you get?

That is a very interesting question, and I would still choose to work in FMCG and beverages industry, particularly with a company like EABL. The industry’s ability to blend business strategy, brand innovation, and community impact aligns with my passion for driving meaningful change through business. The FMCG sector remains dynamic, with evolving consumer preferences, sustainability imperatives, and digital transformation reshaping how businesses operate. The opportunity to lead in an industry that touches millions of consumers daily, supports local economies, and champions sustainability initiatives would be just as compelling today as it was when I first joined.

Beyond technical skills, I would focus on leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving. The future belongs to those who can think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and continuously learn. No matter the industry, strong communication, resilience, and the ability to navigate change will always set you apart

Is greater women representation in business/boardroom a fight that you are continuing to fight?

Absolutely! I am a firm advocate for gender diversity and inclusion, not just in EABL but across the corporate landscape. So far, EABL has implemented deliberate strategies to increase female representation in leadership. Some of the initiatives include graduate training programs for women to build a strong pipeline of future leaders, mentorship, and sponsorships programs that connect young women with experienced leaders who can guide them in their career progression.

Companies with diverse leadership make better decisions, drive more innovation, and perform better financially. That’s why I remain committed to mentoring, advocating for policies that support women’s career growth, and ensuring that organizations create environments where women can rise based on merit, not gender.

It’s encouraging to see more women stepping into leadership, but true change will come when gender balance is no longer a discussion point but the norm. Until then, I will continue to champion this cause because when women thrive, businesses and economies thrive too.