President William Ruto of Kenya has expressed confidence in the country’s ability to become one of Africa’s leading vehicle manufacturers, alongside nations like South Africa and Morocco.
The government is committed to attracting more automotive players to increase local vehicle production, according to President Ruto.
He highlighted the National Automotive Policy, which has created a favorable environment for firms to establish themselves in Kenya and has brought stability to the sector, particularly in terms of tax laws.
President Ruto’s vision is for more vehicle assemblers to operate at full capacity, allowing Kenya to supply the African market with competitive units.
This expansion will not only create more jobs but also promote skills development and provide reliable mobility. Currently, the existing manufacturing companies in Kenya generate approximately 100,000 jobs, and with the implementation of the new policy, this number is expected to rise.
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President Ruto emphasized the need for Kenya to claim its rightful place among Africa’s leading vehicle manufacturers, citing South Africa as an example. He mentioned that South Africa’s automotive industry supports 110,000 direct jobs and over 350,000 indirect jobs, producing hundreds of thousands of vehicles annually.
At the launch of the first-ever electro-deposition paint plant at Isuzu East Africa, President Ruto applauded the Ksh.500 million investment made by the company, stating that it will contribute to making Kenya globally competitive in vehicle manufacturing.
He urged investors to explore the untapped potential of the automotive industry and emphasized the importance of eco-friendly manufacturing in the face of climate change.
The event was attended by key figures such as Isuzu East Africa’s Managing Director Rita Kavashe, Trade Principal Secretary Alfred K’Ombudo, Isuzu East Africa’s Chairman Hiroshi Hisatomi, and Deputy Chief of Mission Counsellor in the Embassy of Japan Kitagawa Yasuhisha, among others.
Isuzu’s investment is expected to stimulate the transfer of technology and expertise while promoting eco-friendly practices. With continued investments like Isuzu’s, Kenya aims to reclaim its position as a leader in Africa’s automotive competitiveness.
