Navigating Policy, Compliance, and Market Challenges
JANE NDUNGO - Head of External Affairs, East Africa
The External Affairs Function in East Africa bridges corporate operations with governments and industry bodies, aiming to ensure a competitive and fair business environment. Led regionally and for MRM in Kenya, the role has evolved from simple advocacy to a broad strategic function. Key 2024 focus areas included VAT refunds, substandard imports, and stakeholder engagement. Initiatives like Project Red Dragon addressed market quality. Looking to 2025, priorities include unified regional advocacy, stronger regulatory enforcement, and continued collaboration with key stakeholders.
Jane explains that ________________ imports refer to products that enter the market without being intended for it,
and some of these goods eventually spill over into neighbouring markets.
Your answer is the password to the next page
The ever-evolving landscape of global compliance is characterized by a growing number of legal requirements, ethical standards, and international norms. In today’s interconnected world, businesses and organizations are expected not only to comply with the laws of their home countries, but also to adhere to a myriad of international regulations and standards. Compliance has transformed from being a mere business function to a strategic cornerstone, reflecting an organization’s commitment to lawful and ethical behaviour.
Navigating the global compliance maze requires a keen understanding of its foundations. It is built upon the bedrock of international law, customized by regional directives, and further refined by local legislation. The challenge lies in the deciphering of these layered complexities and the effective implementation of necessary measures to ensure compliance is successfully navigated.
Navigating policy, compliance and market challenges requires a proactive, flexible, and informed approach
Business must continously adapt to evolving regulations, understand their impact on operations and leverage technology to streamline compliance processes
In order to secure long-term success, the leadership exhibits proactive engagement with stakeholders and remarkable resilience in overcoming obstacles, encouraging teamwork, promoting effective advocacy, and improving the business environment.
in determining market opportunity, market penastrational stratage, and market development metrics. Regulatory compliance, on the other hand, ensures that organizations adhere to relevant laws, regulations, guidelines, and specifications relevant to their business processes.
Market intelligence helps in identifying potential risks in the business environment, such as emerging competitors or changes in consumer behavior. Regulatory compliance ensures that the company’s response to these risks does not violate any laws.