Isuzu East Africa plans to start local production of motor spare parts in Kenya from next year as it strategises to maintain a stranglehold on motor industry in the Eastern Africa.

In preparation for business expansion in East African Community (EAC) economic bloc, Isuzu East Africa has set in motion the construction of a Ksh3.5 billion ($27.1 million) Isuzu East Africa spare parts warehouse in Lukenya, Machakos, some 30 kilometres southeast of the capital, Nairobi.

During the ground-breaking ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui called on players and stakeholders in the automotive sector to buy locally produced spare parts such as springs and seats to grow the industry in Kenya.

Kinyanjui was speaking during the ground-breaking ceremony of the Isuzu East Africa spare parts warehouse. The minister commended Isuzu for the major investment and urged other manufacturers to explore local production of spare parts.

“That is the next frontier, creating more industries within our borders, including here in Machakos and across other counties,” the cabinet secretary said.

He noted how infrastructure spurs growth in suburban areas and how the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway, with its connectivity to the expressway and CBD will spur massive economic development in metropolitan areas if given adequate planning.

“Any initiative that brings growth, more jobs and more investments is always welcome in Kenya because this move strengthens our footprint in the automotive industry and is a very welcome development,” Kinyanjui said.

The cabinet secretary affirmed that the government’s efforts in working with counties to ensure that there is adequate planning where there are areas set aside for light and heavy industries, factories and residential areas.

He disclosed that the government has set up Special Economic Zones in Naivasha and Dongo Kundu and are in discussion with the ICT ministry to also turn part of Konza into a Special Economic Zone to accommodate more businesses and basic infrastructure for anyone to start an industry.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti reiterated that with more investors setting up shop in Machakos, there is increased business potential for local suppliers and hospitality sectors and urged investors to prioritise employment of local residents.

“As a government we are committed to ensuring that new investors prioritise the employment of local residents in line with our developmental goals and legal requirements,” the governor said.

She pointed out that Machakos County is prepared to host new industries, while creating business opportunities for local communities, spurring economic development, social wellbeing and instilling community pride.

“Machakos County positions itself as an ideal destination for investment by offering a conducive environment for business to thrive,” Wavinya said.

Isuzu East Africa Managing Director Rita Kavashe noted that the expansion is Isuzu’s business strategy to ensure spare parts are accessible through local outlets and enhance availability of quality automotive services to end-users.

“This new facility is a key milestone in our strategy to expand after sales support and improve service delivery to our customers in Kenya and beyond,” Kavashe explained.

She said the company plans to commence operations in November 2026 that will result in 80 new job opportunities. Following completion, Kavashe said, the company will guarantee up to 99 per cent of spare parts availability within 48 hours.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Anne Kangero