By Christine Gitonga
Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) has officially launched a new Toyota Hiace assembly line at its Thika facility, marking a major milestone in efforts to strengthen local manufacturing, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imported vehicles.
The launch ceremony, held on Thursday, brought together government officials, industry stakeholders, and automotive sector representatives, who welcomed the investment as a significant boost to industrial growth and economic development.
KVM management said the new assembly line is designed to meet rising demand for Toyota Hiace vans in Kenya and the wider East African region.
The company noted that local assembly will help reduce production costs, shorten delivery times, and improve access to commercial vehicles for businesses and public transport operators.
The Toyota Hiace is widely used in Kenya for passenger transport, logistics, and corporate services. Through local assembly, KVM aims to increase the use of locally sourced components while supporting the government’s Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative.
Government officials praised the development, saying it aligns with Kenya’s industrialisation agenda and efforts to grow the manufacturing sector’s contribution to the economy. They emphasized that local vehicle assembly will promote skills development, technology transfer, and job creation, particularly for young people.
According to KVM, the new assembly line is expected to generate both direct and indirect jobs across the automotive value chain, including engineering, component supply, logistics, and maintenance services. The company also plans to work closely with local suppliers to gradually increase local content in production.
Industry experts say the investment could strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional automotive hub, reducing dependence on imports while encouraging growth in related industries such as steel, plastics, and auto parts manufacturing.
The launch comes as the government continues to promote local manufacturing through incentives aimed at attracting investors and boosting industrial competitiveness.
The introduction of the Toyota Hiace assembly line in Thika underscores KVM’s commitment to Kenya’s industrial transformation. Stakeholders are optimistic that the initiative will drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and position Kenya as a leading automotive manufacturing hub in East Africa.