Isuzu East Africa (Isuzu EA) marked its Golden Jubilee on September 3rd, 2025, with a grand celebration at its Nairobi Assembly Plant.
Honoring the Past, Driving the Future: Isuzu EA’s Golden Jubilee Celebration
(L-R) Dr Fred Wasike, Isuzu EA Director Human Resources and Corporate Sustainability, Isuzu EA Chair of the Board and Managing Director presents the newly launched 14 Years Leadership Excellence Book to Koji Nakamura, Senior Executive Officer, International Sales Division, Isuzu Motors Ltd during the Golden Jubilee celebration where they paid tribute to employees and dealers, past and long-serving pioneers who laid the foundation for the company’s success and the younger generation who represent Isuzu EA’s future.
Isuzu East Africa (Isuzu EA) marked its Golden Jubilee on September 3rd, 2025, with a grand celebration at its Nairobi Assembly Plant. The highlight of the event was the sealing of a Time Capsule, set to be opened in 2050, containing artifacts and messages capturing the company’s 50-year journey.
During the celebrations, Chair of the Board and Managing Director, Rita Kavashe, reflected on the company’s legacy, noting that Isuzu’s history was defined by trust, resilience, and transformation. She said the company had played a vital role in supporting farmers, transporting children to school, enabling businesses, and contributing to economies across East Africa. She emphasized that while the event honored the past, the company was also looking forward with optimism and confidence in a bold and boundless future.
Principal Secretary for Industry, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, commended Isuzu EA for its alignment with Kenya’s industrial agenda. He stated that anniversaries of this nature were not just about reflection but served as guiding points for the next phase of industrial transformation. He praised Isuzu EA for its investments in capacity building, compliance with standards, and promotion of genuine Isuzu parts, which safeguard safety and performance. He further observed that Isuzu vehicles had gone beyond Kenyan borders, reinforcing the country’s position as a regional automotive hub.
The Chief Guest, Koji Nakamura, Senior Executive Officer of Isuzu Motors Limited, lauded Isuzu EA for building strong customer relationships and brand loyalty over the years. He acknowledged the company’s reputation for durability, integrity, and reliability, and reaffirmed Isuzu Motors’ commitment to supporting Africa’s growth through multi-pathway vehicle technologies and carbon-neutral solutions.
Japan’s Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Amb. Matsuura Hiroshi, underlined the importance of the Kenya-Japan partnership in advancing the automotive sector. He pointed out that the recent Samurai loan facility from Japan would largely go towards supporting Kenya’s National Automotive Policy, enhancing local assembly, spare parts manufacturing, green vehicle production, and skills training. He emphasized that companies like Isuzu EA, with its five-decade track record, were central to turning policy into tangible growth.
The event also paid tribute to employees and dealers, both past and present, while showcasing Isuzu’s iconic models such as the F-Series trucks, N-Series, D-Max pickups, and UD Trucks. Guests also revisited the company’s key milestones, including the groundbreaking of a Kshs 3.1 billion Parts Distribution Centre in Lukenya, the commissioning of a Kshs 1 billion Electro-Deposition Paint Plant, and the upcoming full local assembly of the luxury mu-X SUV.
The ceremony concluded with the sealing of the Time Capsule, which contained letters, photographs, miniature models, annual reports, a message from brand ambassador Eliud Kipchoge and various documents that capture the journey of Isuzu East Africa. Rita Kavashe explained that the capsule was more than just a collection of artifacts; it was a message to future generations, symbolizing values of integrity, innovation, and excellence. She expressed confidence that when it is opened in 2050, it would inspire the successors of Isuzu EA to dream even bigger.
For half a century, Isuzu has been at the heart of Kenya’s mobility and economic growth. From supporting small businesses and farmers with reliable pickups, to powering public transport and government fleets, Isuzu vehicles have become part of everyday Kenyan life. Our celebration is not just about our company, it’s about the communities, partners, and customers who made this journey possible.
Through the years, we have remained the market leader for commercial vehicles in Kenya for over a decade, a testament to the trust Kenyans have placed in our brand.
This celebration is about our shared progress. Every trip to the shamba, every school bus ride, every delivery made, every construction site powered, every sand harvester at work and every journey powered by Isuzu is part of our collective story. Our customers, partners, employees, and communities are the true drivers of this milestone.
As we honor the past 50 years, we also look forward to the next chapter. With continued investments in technology and sustainability and with our customers at the center of everything we do, we are committed to driving Kenya’s progress for generations to come.
Together, let’s celebrate 50 years of moving Kenya forward stronger, smarter, and more connected than ever.
On Saturday, Isuzu EA proudly stood side by side with the community during the Mater Heart Run 2025, with 150 employees stepping up in support of children with heart conditions. The event wasn’t just about the kilometres covered, but a powerful reflection of our values in action.
The team was led by Kevin Ochieng, Isuzu EA General Manager, Vehicle Marketing and Export Sales, whose energy and commitment set the tone for the day. Decked out in branded t-shirts and energized by purpose, our team gathered early for warm-up sessions and motivational chants before joining hundreds of other participants in a vibrant display of unity and compassion.
From flag-off to finish line, Isuzu EA employees ran with heart, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism, teamwork and corporate social citizenship.
This initiative formed part of our Employee Engagement Strategy, promoting not only wellness and fitness, but also our culture of giving back. It underscored how we at Isuzu are Driving a Better Tomorrow, one stride at a time, by contributing to causes that matter and inspiring others through our actions.
Soon after crossing the finish line, Kevin reflected on Isuzu’s purpose of doing business sustainably by caring for people.
“The energy, the unity, the cause, it was powerful! It reminded me that our work at Isuzu isn’t just about vehicles, it’s about people. And in fact, children, who represent the future generation.”
In his remarks, Gabriel Kanyingi, Isuzu EA General Manager, Commercial Finance, who is an enthusiastic runner, reinforced the importance of being part of a team that demonstrates care.
“I ran because every child deserves a healthy heart and a chance to live fully. I’m proud to be part of a team that cares beyond the workplace.”
The Mater Heart Run is one of many opportunities that reflect our ongoing commitment to employee wellness, community empowerment, and sustainability. It also strengthens our external brand by showing the human side of Isuzu, a team of professionals who care, act, and uplift through building a workplace culture that promotes wellness, engagement and purpose.
On Friday May 23, 2025, Isuzu East Africa Foundation launched a KShs.7 million water project at Kiwalwa Mixed Secondary School in Mboghoni Ward, Taita Taveta County, targeting to benefit over 2,000 residents in 500 households.
The project was part of Isuzu East Africa Foundation’s Corporate Social Impact initiatives in partnership with Davis & Shirtliff and aimed at alleviating chronic water shortages that have plagued the area in the past.
It also aims to address poor sanitation and hygiene standards that have in the past contributed to outbreaks of waterborne diseases, enhance school attendance rates for girls who spend long hours fetching water for domestic use, and boost the local economy whose activities have in the past been severely limited due to chronic water shortages.
Speaking during the handover of the project yesterday, Isuzu East Africa Managing Director and Chair of the Board Rita Kavashe, who also chairs the Foundation, described it as a major milestone for the school and local community.
“I was raised here, I’m a product of Kiwalwa Primary School and I’m thankful for the foundation it gave me to be the person I am today,” said Ms Kavashe, adding that this is the same background she wished to bestow upon other children from the village as an inspiration to rise to top leadership locally and globally.
She urged students to aim higher and seek to achieve greater things in life, while pledging to support residents to address poor academic results that continued to plague the village and Taita Taveta County as a whole.
On the local economy, she urged villagers to plant fruit trees and other crops to achieve food security and improve their livelihoods.
The project comprised construction of a 60,000-litre water storage and distribution system, and houses for two technicians who will be handling maintenance and repair. It also included drilling of a new borehole and installation of a solar-powered water pump.
The event also saw the donation of dignity packs to over 600 vulnerable girls from 5 local schools within the community, which will last each of them a whole year, to address menstrual poverty, improve school attendance, and promote dignity and confidence among the girls.
Lauding the project, Kiwalwa Mixed Secondary School principal Ms. Muteti said it had relieved them from the financial burden of paying for water, which they would use “to do a little farming” and “plant fruit trees.”
Mboghoni Ward Member of County Assembly Halifa Taraya pledged to donate money to fund the digging of pipes to take the water to people’s homes, while describing the project as godsent and a blessing to residents.
Corporate and Sustainability Manager Dr Michael Musyoka said the school previously suffered from lack of water due to the inadequate capacity of the 10,000-litre tank and borehole that was there previously.
The new borehole was 40-cubic meters per hour and had been sunk to a depth of over 100 meters compared to the local average of 30 meters.
Davis & Shirtliff Regional Manager Michael Wajwang’a said the solar pump was a high efficiency 11Kw capacity unit linked to 34 545W solar panels to push 40,000 liters of water per hour to the storage tanks.
“The project uses clean energy, which means there are no greenhouse emissions,” he said, adding that the initiative met four of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
The Isuzu World Technical Competition – LCV Division is a prestigious biennial event that brings together top technical talent from across the Isuzu global network. More than just a skills assessment, the competition aims to inspire and motivate technicians to continuously improve their expertise and elevate the quality of Isuzu service worldwide.
This year’s event, held from May 20th to 21st, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, carried the theme “Engage for the Future.” It featured elite teams from 18 countries, each comprising two technicians and one coach. The competition included a rigorous Individual Writing Challenge to test technical knowledge, as well as a high-pressure Team Practical Competition focused on teamwork, speed, and accuracy in real-world service scenarios.
Team Isuzu East Africa achieved an impressive 5th place overall, emerging as the top team on the African continent and outperforming traditionally strong markets such as the UK and Australia. The team comprising of Jimmy Michuki (coach), Paul Mwangi (technician) and Martin Mwangi (technician) demonstrated exceptional skill, composure, diligence, and strict adherence to process throughout the competition.
They were ably supported by technical trainer George Kamau and Workshop Controller, Light Commercial (LC), Eliakim Vidija and Human Resources & Corporate Sustainability Director, Dr. Fred Wasike. They were joined in celebration by Isuzu EA shareholders, including Nishida-san (IML) and Kurihara-san (Itochu), along with the IMIT sales team.
A huge congratulations to our team for their outstanding performance and for flying the Isuzu EA and Kenyan flag high on the global stage!
On Tuesday, 20th May 2025, Isuzu East Africa hosted a delegation from the McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin, as part of their International Business Immersion Program. The visiting group, comprising 29 Executive MBA students from the Austin, Dallas, and Houston campuses, along with two faculty members and two program coordinators, was warmly welcomed at the Isuzu EA Training Centre.The event began with a friendly introduction and a comprehensive safety briefing, setting the tone for an engaging and informative visit.
The delegation was treated to a dynamic overview of Isuzu EA’s corporate culture, strategic product solutions, aftersales services, and community impact initiatives. Presentations by key leaders—including Chair of the Board & Managing Director Rita Kavashe, Director of Sales & Marketing Wanjohi Kangangi, General Manager HR, EHS & Corporate Services Collins Maritim, and Sustainability Manager Dr. Michael Musyoka—highlighted Isuzu’s operational excellence, innovation, and commitment to social responsibility.
Particularly notable was the presentation on Isuzu Aftersales Complete Care and remarks by Isuzu Women Council Chair Loise Njeri, General Manager – Parts & Accessories, which showcased the company’s dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and empowerment within the automotive industry.
A guided plant tour, led by Industrial Engineer & KAIZEN Lead Shirley Muhati and Process Engineer Amimo Ooko, gave the visitors firsthand insight into Isuzu’s world-class manufacturing processes.
The experience concluded with a vote of thanks from Executive Deputy Managing Director Isao Wada, who emphasized the value of cross-cultural exchange and mutual understanding. The visit was rounded off with the presentation of branded merchandise as a token of appreciation.
This visit not only fostered cross-cultural learning and professional exchange, but also reaffirmed Isuzu East Africa’s position as a leading automotive manufacturer, committed to excellence, knowledge sharing, and sustainability.
20th March, 2025: As part of celebrations to mark the International Women’s Month and in alignment with the #AccelerateAction theme of the International Women’s Day 2025, women from the Isuzu EA Foundation have taken decisive steps towards driving impact among vulnerable communities. Through a commitment to education and dignity, the Foundation is keen on tackling period poverty, one of the most pressing but often overlooked barriers to gender equality.
Driven by the spirit of empowerment, the team led by Isuzu EA Foundation Directors Faith Nene and Shelmith Nderitu, along with Linda Njiru, Isuzu EA Communications & CSI Coordinator, visited Senior Chief Munguti Secondary School in Mbooni, Makueni County. Their mission: To provide 100 annual dignity packs to ensure that girls can attend school without disruption or shame, thus breaking barriers for the girl child in Makueni County.
The school’s principal, Kioko Kaunda, underscored the urgent need for accessible menstrual products, stating: “Education is a right but, for many girls, access to basic resources like dignity packs is still a privilege. We must work together to eliminate this gap and ensure girls can attend school confidently.”
At the Dignity Corner, an open and safe space for critical discussions, students engaged in a powerful conversation on menstrual hygiene, stigma, and self-care. The team shared personal experiences and provided guidance, transforming uncertainty into confidence.
“Our girls have the right to education, dignity, and equal opportunities,” reaffirmed Faith Nene, Isuzu EA Foundation Director. “Empowerment starts with meeting basic needs. No girl should have to miss school because of her period. We will continue to stand with this community and drive sustainable solutions that create lasting change.”
While donations provide immediate relief, the long-term fight against period poverty requires sustainable and systemic solutions. Teacher Florence Muendo, in charge of guidance and counselling, noted the positive impact of previous Isuzu EA Foundation donations, which sustained the girls for six months and significantly improved attendance. However, she emphasized the need for consistent support and policy-driven solutions to ensure long-term menstrual health management, thus creating sustainable solutions for lasting impact.
Student representative Nduta (pseudonym) echoed the challenges, stating, “Sanitary towels are too expensive, and most of us simply can’t afford them. Your support means we can stay in school with confidence and dignity.”
By improving menstrual hygiene and access to affordable products, we open doors to better education, economic opportunities, and self-empowerment for girls, helping them contribute meaningfully to society rather than being held back by circumstances beyond their control.
For many girls in rural areas like Makueni County, menstruation is not just a biological process; it is a monthly crisis. Period poverty forces them to use unsafe alternatives like rags, leaves or nothing at all, putting their health, dignity, and education at risk. The consequences are severe and range from missed school days to public embarrassment and even the risk of dropping out.
A study done by the county Landscape Analysis (2016) by FSG and the Ministry of Health in Kenya, found that 95% of menstruating girls miss between one to three school days due to lack of access to menstrual products. In Makueni specifically, 65% of students report missing school during their periods due to inadequate facilities and resources. About 40% of schools lack adequate water for menstrual hygiene, while 12.8% of girls wash and reuse menstrual materials due to affordability issues. Only 60% of schools in the county have handwashing facilities with soap and water.
Without access to sanitary products, girls fall behind in their studies, affecting their future opportunities. Addressing period poverty is not just about hygiene—it is about ensuring equal access to education and empowering young women to break free from systemic barriers.
This initiative is part of the Isuzu EA Foundation’s ongoing commitment to education, dignity, and empowerment, driving real, measurable change for women and girls in vulnerable communities. But the journey does not end here. The Foundation will continue to accelerate action, challenge inequalities, and advocate for sustainable solutions to period poverty.
Together, we are shaping a future where every girl can attend school, chase her dreams, and live with dignity, uninterrupted.
The NYU Executive MBA program stands as one of the world’s premier postgraduate courses, attracting applications from elite business leaders, innovative founders, industry captains, and sustainability champions.
On March 18th, a dynamic group of 58 students and 3 of their faculty members visited Isuzu East Africa’s offices and assembly plant. This visit offered them a unique opportunity to learn about best practices in the automotive industry while benchmarking against Kenya’s leading automaker.
Isuzu East Africa originated as a public-private partnership (PPP) between the Government of Kenya and the private sector, aiming to provide the Kenyan market with affordable and reliable vehicles. Over the years, Isuzu has grown to become a significant player in the region, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability.
Key Highlights from the Visit:
When answering a question from a student about engaging Kenya’s vibrant youth, she highlighted the Graduate in Training program, discussed the youthful workforce within Isuzu, and elaborated on innovative product pricing tailored for youth-led startups and MSMEs.
This visit exemplifies the NYU Executive MBA Program’s commitment to experiential learning, providing students with practical insights and real-world applications of their studies. Such interactions not only enrich the learning experience but also prepare these future leaders to tackle challenges in the business landscape.
On Saturday, 8th March, the Isuzu HR & Corporate Sustainability Department led a CSI initiative at Tania Children’s Home, Kajiado County, which provides care and support for orphaned, special needs and vulnerable children from diverse communities.
The Isuzu team, led by Dr. Fred Wasike, Human Resources & Corporate Sustainability Director, engaged in meaningful interactions, donations and activities aimed at uplifting the children’s well-being and happiness at the Center. This initiative reinforced Isuzu commitment to social responsibility, inclusivity and creating a lasting impact through, both, material and emotional connection in the lives of vulnerable children in our communities.
By extending such extraordinary kindness beyond the workplace, the Isuzu team demonstrated that their shared value of driving change where it matters most goes beyond business. The host, Mrs. Jennifer Kigunda, Founder and Centre Manager, expressed her indebted gratitude to the visiting Isuzu team stating, “We are thankful to God and to you (Isuzu team) for coming to visit…welcome to our home and feel free. Your presence brings hope and joy to these children, reminding them that they are recognized, valued and supported even beyond these perimeters.”
Dr. Fred Wasike, in his remarks expressed his honour in representing Isuzu EA towards the initiative while also being personally invested in the visit. He further noted, “I applaud the center managers, Mr. and Mrs. Kigunda for your incredible work in supporting these children. As the self-proclaimed, Director for happiness, I see my philosophy reflected here. These children radiate joy and warmth.” he added, “I also want to urge you children to stay focused and pursue your highest aspiration. I believe a true community growth will happen when you all rise and extend a hand back here.”
Participants were treated to an electrifying entertainment session by the special needs children, whose energy and joy were nothing short of infectious. They strutted down a makeshift catwalk in a heartwarming fashion show that turned the home into a stage of pure bliss. They sang with unshakable confidence and a few, the hearing impaired, even used their hands to paint melodies in the air. Then came individual presentations such as soulful worship songs that echoed with raw gratitude. It was a powerful reminder of resilience that touched hearts.
Naomi, a former beneficiary of the home, has dedicated the past seven years to giving back as an administrator. Her journey from being as a child under the home’s care to a pillar of its operations was inspiring and a testament to the impact of sustained support.
“This home nurtured and shaped my life. Now I have the honor to shape others. Today you (Isuzu team) are not just visitors, you are part of this family. Make this place your own, and if your heart calls to serve, join us for the mission work,” she said.
To leave a lasting impact, the Isuzu team planted fruit trees at Tania Centre to symbolize growth, nourishment and a future of abundance for the home. They handed over their donations to the institution’s management, who received them with heartfelt gratitude as a meaningful contribution to the children’s well-being.
This visit was a powerful reminder that true social impact goes beyond donations. It’s about connections, understanding, shared happiness and the profound impact of giving to uplift the children with special needs.
Tania Children’s Home was founded in 2002 by Mrs. Jennifer and Mr. Joseph Kigunda to accommodate and reintegrate vulnerable children, including special needs children (impaired/mentally disturbed/abandoned), FGM survivors and victims of early marriages. The facility currently hosts 130 children, who have been referred there by churches, social workers and community members.
The center depends on volunteers and part-time workers to operate, with a ratio of one social worker for every 20 children. Additionally, they provide basic education starting from nursery school through kindergarten to Grade 6 and are still lobbying the government for a licence to extend their capacity for junior secondary school. The center, in addition to education, focuses on enhancing the children’s skills and talents, offering a range of other opportunities in beauty and hair dressing, tailoring and farming.
On Saturday, 1st March 2025, the Aftersales and Channel Development Division reaffirmed Isuzu EA’s commitment to Corporate Social Investment (CSI) through a hands-on initiative at Kamae Borstal Girls Institute, Kamiti Prison. The team of 103 Isuzu employees volunteered their time and skills to completing the construction of a learning hub for the juvenile girls at the facility.
Hosted by SSP Jacquiline Amondi Onyango, the Senior Superintendent in charge of Kamae Borstal Girls Institute, the initiative emphasized the power of education in rehabilitation. The learning hub is a symbol of hope, designed to empower young inmates with knowledge, personal development opportunities, and a vision for a brighter future.
Speaking at the event, Ndegwa Mwangi, the Aftersales & Channel Development Director, who led the Isuzu EA team, expressed gratitude to the correctional facility’s leadership for their collaboration, emphasizing the profound impact such partnerships have on society. He encouraged the girls, saying, “Use the library to transform yourselves through reading. I believe you will return to society as empowered individuals. You have so much potential. Stay positive and focused.”
He further reiterated that the learning hub is a long-term investment, with plans to equip it with books and computers in the fiuture, ensuring the girls have access to learning resources despite their circumstances.
Linda Njiru, the CSI Coordinator, played a pivotal role in spearheading this initiative. Representing the Sustainability Department, she commended the Aftersales team for their unwavering commitment to social impact.
“This project might look small, but the impact will be immense. We have constructed this learning hub with tomorrow in mind, empowering these girls to create a better tomorrow,” she said.
Several inmates, who also contributed labour to the project, shared their thoughts on the initiative. They expressed their gratitude and encouraged Isuzu to extend similar support to other sections of the prison, ensuring the impact reaches even more inmates. In his remarks, Ezekiel (Pseudonym) said, “The donation of books to this facility would add great value to our learning experience.” Boniface (Pseudonym) also commended the initiative, “I commend the partnership between Isuzu and our prisons. This initiative is transformative. If I were to grade Isuzu, I’d give them 99%.”
The initiative saw exceptional dedication from the Isuzu team including those from the dealerships, with Keraba Dhokare, Service Workshop Manager, going above and beyond in the construction efforts. “This is an exciting initiative, demonstrating care and goodwill. The learning hub will give the girls a sense of love and hope, encouraging them to embrace education for personal growth.”
Jackline Ongubo, Parts Processor, HC, reflected on the deeper significance of the project: “This hub is here to shift the mindset around correctional services. We’re providing an opportunity for these girls to learn, grow, and reintegrate into society as better individuals.”
To strengthen partnerships, Isuzu engaged key dealers, including Associated Motors (AM), Central Farmers Garage (CFG), Africa Commercial Motor Group (ACMG), and Ryce EA.
Dorcas Ogonga, Workshop Manager, Ryce EA, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable change: “It’s an honour to be part of this initiative. Seeing both Isuzu EA employees and dealers come together for such a cause is inspiring. This learning hub should serve as a reminder to these young girls that correctional facilities are about reform, not punishment.”
The Aftersales CSI initiative is a testament to Isuzu EA’s dedication to Relationships, Community Impact, and Sustainable Development. Beyond corporate walls, the company continues to create meaningful change, ensuring a better tomorrow for all.
Precision and teamwork: Isuzu employees secure wooden boards, transforming an empty space into a sturdy learning hub.
Isuzu EA in collaboration with UD Trucks Corporation hosted customers and business partners in Mombasa to a colorful launch of UD Trucks in Kenya on Saturday 14th December 2024. The event also marked the official opening of the new UD Trucks Mombasa Service facility located at the Jomvu area in Mombasa.
Speaking at the event, Isuzu EA’s Chair of the Board and MD, Rita Kavashe, said that the partnership with UD Trucks will create synergies through technology transfer and promote job creation in support of the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya Vision. She later introduced the UD Trucks Kenya team led by General Manager David Were.
On his part, Mr Tetsuya Ikemoto, Director of the Board, and Managing Executive Officer, Isuzu Motors Ltd congratulated the Isuzu EA team for working hard over the years to build strong relationships and brand loyalty with customers in Kenya.
Mr Koichi Ito, Chairman of UD Trucks Corporation said that Isuzu EA was the right partner to deliver top notch products and comprehensive aftersales support to UD Trucks customers in the region.
Mourad Hedna, UD Trucks President for Middle East, East and North Africa region highlighted key features of UD Trucks models, including their fuel efficiency, innovative technologies and driver comfort.
In August 2024, Isuzu EA commenced the assembling of two UD Trucks models, the heavy-duty Quester and the medium duty Croner, at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) Plant in Thika.
The company has opened two dedicated UD Trucks service centers in Nairobi and Mombasa to support customer requirements in the region.
