Japanese Ambassador to Kenya Hiroshi Matsuura has announced plans to expand Toyota’s business operations in the country, a move expected to improve the availability of spare parts and boost Kenya’s automobile industry.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Matsuura highlighted the vast potential for growth in Kenya.
“Toyota is planning to expand its production in Kenya because there is a huge potential for growth in the country,” he stated.
Wetang’ula welcomed the initiative, noting its economic benefits, including job creation and reduced vehicle importation costs.
“This will create jobs and also lower the cost of importing cars since a significant number of vehicles in Kenya come from Japan,” he said.
Kenya and Japan enjoy a long-standing partnership in key sectors such as infrastructure, trade, technology transfer, health, and education.
Japan has played a crucial role in funding projects that drive economic growth and sustainability.
“If you drive on Kenyan roads, every other car is Japanese. In fact, there is a common phrase that the car in front of you is always a Toyota,” Wetang’ula quipped.
The Speaker acknowledged Japan’s support in constructing classrooms and an administration block at Nalondo Secondary School in Bungoma County.
Matsuura further revealed plans to assist in upgrading Kabula Health Center in Bungoma, with work set to begin soon.
Wetang’ula urged the ambassador to advocate for Kenya’s economic interests, particularly with international financial institutions like the IMF, emphasizing Africa’s economic vulnerabilities.
“A single drought can destabilize an entire economy due to food insecurity,” he noted.
Japan has already backed Kenya’s fertilizer subsidy program aimed at enhancing food production and reducing the cost of living.
“Japan is a trendsetter in Asia. Flowers that gain popularity in Japan will soon be in demand across the region,” Matsuura observed.
The discussions also focused on strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, with Wetang’ula calling for enhanced collaboration through the Kenya-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Group led by Limuru MP Eng. Kiragu Chege.
Japan is also funding major infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the Port of Mombasa and the construction of the Likoni Bridge, which is currently at the contract negotiation stage.
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