Kenya and Japan Forge Deeper Ties in Industry and Trade

In a significant stride towards enhancing bilateral cooperation, Kenya and Japan have solidified their partnership in the realm of industry and trade. Investment Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Miano, hailed as one of Kenya’s standout Cabinet Secretaries, has spearheaded this endeavor with a firm dedication to people-centric service.

The latest development comes on the heels of H.E President William Ruto’s State Visit to Japan in February 2024, during which a Framework Agreement of Cooperation (FAOC) was co-signed by Kenya’s Ministry of Investment Trade and Industry, Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC), and the Cooperation for Africa and Overseas (CFAO).

Today, Secretary Miano convened a pivotal implementation meeting with a delegation from the Toyota Tsusho Group, led by Mr. Okada Kohei, COO for Africa Division. The dialogue revolved around several key areas aimed at bolstering industrial collaboration between the two nations.

Firstly, discussions centered on the planned feasibility study and production of high-efficiency armophous alloy electricity transformers. This ambitious project, facilitated by a tripartite collaboration between the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and CFAO, underscores the commitment to advancing technological innovation and energy efficiency.

Secondly, the meeting delved into the formulation of a local content policy and import duty mechanisms for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, aligning with Kenya’s proposed E-Mobility policy.

By fostering domestic manufacturing and incentivizing the adoption of environmentally friendly transportation solutions, both countries aim to mitigate carbon emissions and drive sustainable economic growth.

Lastly, the conversation extended to the manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (EVs) at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) Ltd in Thika.

This strategic initiative not only signals a shift towards cleaner mobility alternatives but also holds the potential to catalyze job creation and bolster the automotive industry in Kenya.

The collaborative efforts between Kenya and Japan underscore a shared commitment to harnessing innovation, fostering sustainable development, and nurturing a mutually beneficial partnership. As Secretary Miano continues to champion initiatives that prioritize the welfare of the people, the trajectory of Kenya’s industrial landscape appears poised for unprecedented growth and prosperity.