In a major development for Kenya’s automobile sector, Japanese Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Hiroshi Matsuura, announced Toyota’s plans to expand its operations in the country. The announcement came during a courtesy visit to Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. The expansion is expected to enhance the availability of spare parts and bolster Kenya’s growing automotive industry.
“Toyota is planning to expand its production in Kenya because there is huge potential for growth in the country,” Ambassador Matsuura stated, highlighting Kenya’s promising market. Speaker Wetang’ula warmly welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to create jobs and reduce vehicle importation costs. “We import a lot of vehicles from your country,” he remarked, adding humorously, “The car in front of you is always a Toyota.”
The visit underscored the deep ties between Kenya and Japan, spanning infrastructure, trade, health, education, and technology. Wetang’ula expressed gratitude for Japan’s past contributions, including funding for classrooms and an administration block at Nalondo Secondary School in Bungoma County. Matsuura revealed that further assistance is underway, with work soon to begin at Kabula Health Center in the same region.
Beyond the automotive sector, discussions touched on broader economic cooperation. Wetang’ula urged Japan to advocate for Kenya with international lenders like the IMF, citing the fragility of African economies amid challenges like drought. He also sought continued Japanese support for agriculture, particularly the fertilizer subsidy program aimed at boosting cereal and coffee production to improve food security and living costs.
Ambassador Matsuura emphasized Japan’s role as a trendsetter, noting its influence on regional markets, particularly in floriculture. Meanwhile, Wetang’ula pushed for stronger parliamentary ties through the Kenya-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Group, chaired by Limuru MP Eng. Kiragu Chege, to advance Kenya’s foreign policy goals. Japan’s ongoing investments in Kenya, including road projects in Nairobi and the expansion of the Port of Mombasa—currently in contract negotiations for the Likoni Bridge—further cement this partnership. The Toyota expansion signals a new chapter in this multifaceted relationship, promising economic growth and sustainability for Kenya.