Honda Kenya local sourcing of parts gains momentum

Ronald Owili
2 Min Read

Honda Kenya is targeting to increase production of parts used in local motorcycle assembly by 60 from the current 14 to 35 by next year.

According to the firm, this increase will ensure locally manufactured parts used in motorbike assembly account for 12pc of of all parts used in assembling the motorbikes which requires 299 parts.

Speaking during his first visit to Kenya where he toured Honda Kenya manufacturing plant in Nairobi, Honda global vice president Masanori Shimazoe said the local manufacturing industry has the potential to grow last mile transportation especially the boda boda sector where it is estimated that one bike has the potential of feeding about 6 people.

On his part, Honda Kenya Chairman Dr. Isaac Kalua Green noted the significant strides Kenya has made in driving the sustainability agenda by creating employment for thousands of Kenyans through the assembly factories as well as jobs created for the boda boda operators across the country.

The Japanese giant automaker is further keen on expanding its presence in Africa, and the global space where Shimazoe says Honda seeks to capture 50pc of the motorcycle market share from the current 40pc.

Consequently, the firm will shift focus to environmentally friendly options for its productions as well as all safety concerns that have been brought forth by consumers.

Honda Kenya recently launched the ACE150 with a bigger capacity for the Kenyan market, as well as putting into perspective the terrain of the boda boda industry in the country.

Shimazoe has further promised support for growth to the Honda Kenya manufacturers as they seek to maintain its market share.

Dr. Kalua has also called on the government to empower the private sector that is on the forefront of creating jobs for Kenyans and providing comfort for more families and thus driving meaningful economic growth.

Shimazoe also visited a local motorcycle parts manufacturing factory that is currently employing at least 500 Kenyans where he pledged to support for local manufacturing.

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