Kenya has taken a significant step toward strengthening its manufacturing sector following the launch of the local assembly of the iconic Toyota Hiace matatu at Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) in Thika.The event took place at Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) in Thika.
Cabinet Secretary for Trade and Investment Development Lee Kinyanjui during the launch of the initiative called it a major milestone in bringing about industrialization in the country. The Toyota Hiace has been at the heart of public transport in Kenya since the early 1990s.
“For a lot of people, the first association with transformation in public transport was in the 1990s when there was a switch from using ‘face me’ vans to the Toyota Hiace which brought about comfort, reliability and easier mobility all over the country, ” said Kinyanjui.
He further added that imports should continue for some products that can’t be produced locally but here is a new chapter after decades of dependence on imports of the vehicles with the laying down of local assembly aimed at the promotion of domestic manufacturing, employment creation and enhancement of technical expertise.
“Besides a vehicle assembly, it’s a means for job creation, support local industries, development of technical skills and increase of Kenya’s manufacturing capability, ” he stated.
Kinyanjui stated that KVM has already given job opportunities to more than 200 people. He added that the expansion of the plant is in progress and expected to produce more jobs In particular for the young people of Kenya.
The initiative is aimed at driving the local automotive supply chain through increased requirements of locally produced components and suppliers, and at the same time creating opportunities for SMEs and manufacturers.
According to Kinyanjui, the government poised for making the country a regional automotive manufacturing hub by leveraging local assembly for industrial development, value addition, and sustainable job creation.
This launch demonstrates Kenya’s efforts in strengthening local manufacturing, reducing dependence on imported products, and at the same time supporting the economy through industralization.
The post Kenya Unveils Local Production of Toyota Hiace Matatus, Major Industrial Achievement appeared first on Tukio.