Lukenya machakos: Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Lee Kinyanjui, has called on stakeholders in the automotive sector to embrace local production of spare parts, such as springs and seats, to expand the local automobile industry. Kinyanjui was speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of a Sh3.5 billion new Isuzu East Africa Spare Parts Warehouse in Lukenya Machakos. He commended Isuzu on the major investment and urged stakeholders to explore local production of spare parts.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kinyanjui highlighted the potential for creating more industries within Kenya's borders, including Machakos and other counties. He noted how infrastructure developments, such as the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway and its connectivity to the expressway and CBD, will spur growth in suburban areas, bringing significant developments with adequate planning.
Kinyanjui emphasized the importance of initiatives that bring growth, more jobs, and investments, stating that such moves strengthen Kenya's footprint in the automotive industry. He affirmed the government's commitment to working with counties to ensure adequate planning, with areas designated for light and heavy industries, factories, and residential spaces.
The government has set up Special Economic Zones in Naivasha and Dongo Kundu, and discussions are ongoing with the ICT Ministry to turn part of Konza into a Special Economic Zone to accommodate more businesses and infrastructure for industry startups.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the increased business for local suppliers and the hospitality sector with more industries investing in Machakos. She urged investors to prioritize employment for local residents, aligning with developmental goals and legal requirements.
Ndeti asserted that Machakos County is prepared to host new industries, creating business opportunities for local communities, spurring economic development, and instilling community pride. Rita Kavashe, Managing Director of Isuzu East Africa, noted that the expansion is part of Isuzu's strategy to ensure spare parts accessibility and enhance automotive services for residents.
Kavashe added that the new facility marks a significant milestone in expanding after-sales support and improving service delivery across Kenya and beyond. Operations are expected to commence in November 2026, resulting in 80 new job opportunities, with plans to ensure up to 99 percent of spare parts are available within 48 hours.