Kenya has officially launched the local assembly of the Toyota Hiace matatu at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) plant in Thika.
Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Kinyanjui, said the move is a significant milestone in Kenya’s industrial development, noting that the country has relied on imported versions of the popular vehicle for decades.
“Today, we marked a major milestone in our industrial journey with the launch of the local assembly of the Toyota Hiace matatu at Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) in Thika,” he said.
The CS added that the project goes beyond vehicle assembly, saying it will help create jobs, strengthen local industries, build technical skills, and expand Kenya’s manufacturing capacity.
He noted that Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers has already created employment for more than 200 people, with further expansion expected to generate additional job opportunities, especially for young people.
“I am encouraged that KVM has already created employment opportunities for more than 200 people, with plans for expansion expected to create even more jobs for our youth,” he said.
According to him, local assembly will also increase demand for locally made parts, opening up opportunities for suppliers, manufacturers, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to participate in the automotive value chain.
“We will continue to position Kenya as a competitive automotive manufacturing hub to drive industrial growth and job creation,” he added.
The Toyota Hiace is widely used across Kenya and East Africa as a key public transport vehicle, commonly known as a matatu, as well as for tourism and business transport due to its durability and reliability.
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