Imali Makotsi: A Globally Recognized Leader In Communications And External Relations
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate Imali Makotsi, a renowned leader in communications and external relations with over 14 years of experience driving transformative growth for African organizations.
Describing herself as a “connector,” Imali is deeply committed to shaping positive brand narratives and creating platforms for both individuals and organizations to share their stories.
Imali Makotsi: A Globally Recognized Leader In Communications and External Relations
Her passion for working with purpose-driven organizations was sparked during her time at Safaricom PLC, where she began her career as a project and communications officer at the M-Pesa Foundation. Through her daily interactions with partners and communities, she played a key role in launching and expanding the Foundation’s online presence across multiple platforms.
In an exclusive interview with Africa Business News, Imali, who now serves as Head of Brand and Communications at Watu, reflects on her professional journey, which she describes as fascinating. She highlights her fortunate experience working for organizations that aren’t overly rigid in their processes, enabling her to create, build, and grow within her role.
Imali is passionate about documenting impact in creative ways, using digital platforms to craft brand narratives that resonate with stakeholders. At Watu, where she leads a small team based in Kenya and supports operations in eight other countries, she emphasizes the importance of digital space in amplifying visibility. “It’s not just about monetizing what people say but connecting with the customer,” she explains. “Digital has been a key success driver for us.”
Imali Makotsi: A Globally Recognized Leader In Communications and External Relations
On the essential skills required for her role, Imali stresses the importance of being strategic—understanding and anticipating business needs. She also highlights the value of being analytical, critical in thinking, and adept at problem-solving, especially in crisis communication. “You always need to find ways to quickly diffuse a situation,” she says, emphasizing the importance of being keen and attentive to industry conversations.
Under Imali’s leadership at Watu, the company has seen remarkable results: a 30% increase in brand recognition, a 40% rise in positive media coverage, and a significant reduction in project delivery time due to the well-fit team she has built. Additionally, her efforts in internal communications have helped increase employee engagement.
As this year’s International Women’s Day calls for action, Imali urges both the private and public sectors to accelerate gender inclusivity by providing women with equal opportunities to have their voices heard. “At Watu, women are leading diverse, large, and integral teams,” she notes, pointing to the fact that both the brand leadership and the legal team are women-led, ensuring compliance across the organization.
Looking ahead, Imali believes digital communication will continue to shape the future of brand and communication strategies. “For me, digital communication is the past, present, and future,” she shares. “With the rise of Artificial Intelligence, there are opportunities for research, idea formation, and trend analysis. While it’s an unknown and somewhat scary space, I am excited to see how it will transform and shape our industry.”
Imali Makotsi: A Globally Recognized Leader In Communications and External Relations
Encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams, Imali advises, “Be brave, do it boldly, and even do it afraid. Build networks with women who can support you. As young women, we need to share thoughts that will make an impact and remain curious.”
“Be a woman, but be the best woman you would like to see,” she concludes with a smile.
Imali holds a Master’s Degree in Globalization and International Development from the University of East Anglia, UK. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring beautiful sights, and immersing herself in different cultures through her travels around the world.
