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.
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.
25th March 2024: Thousands of Kenyans turned out on Saturday, 25th May 2024, for the annual Mater Heart Run marathon, organized by Mater Hospital and held simultaneously across ten counties.
In Nairobi, the event kicked off at Ulinzi Sports Complex, attracting significant participation from corporate groups, schools and Kenyans of goodwill.
A dynamic team of 150 Isuzu EA employees was also present to support the cause courtesy of the Isuzu EA Foundation Employee Volunteer Engagement Program, which mandates every employee to donate 16 volunteer hours annually. Through this event the employees were able to contribute a total of 900 hours.
In a show of solidarity and commitment, Isuzu EA through its Foundation also sponsored this year’s edition of the Mater Heart Run Programme with KES 250,000.
The move is part of Isuzu EA’s continuing effort to collaboratively find long-term, sustainable solutions to improving the lives and well-being of individuals, families and the community as a whole.
The Mater Heart Run is a crucial fundraising initiative aimed at supporting children facing cardiac complications. Notably, the Mater Heart Fund has already made a significant impact, benefiting 5,448 children from underprivileged backgrounds, providing them with the necessary support to lead normal, productive lives.
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.
On 10th December 2024, Isuzu EA in partnership with the Strathmore University Business School, hosted its 3rd Annual Sustainability Seminar under the theme Bridging the Governance Gap: Best Practices for the Private and Public Sectors.
Through an engaging Panel discussion, the event explored how strong governance can drive sustainable success in private and public organizations.
The Panel members were: Rita Kavashe, Isuzu EA Chair of the Board & MD: Dr Fred Wasike, Isuzu EA Director HR & Corporate Sustainability: Prof Nura Mohamed, Director General Kenya School of Government: David Lawrence, Standard Charter Bank, Associate Principal Marketing in charge of partnerships and sustainability champion; Paulina Nzisa Lanco, Rugby Africa EXCO Member and Chair Women’s Rugby Advisory Committee and Kennedy Karisa, Secretary General, Truckers Association of Kenya. The panelists, led by moderator Eric Latif, discussed sustainable governance practices for organizations through better decision-making led by purpose and values. Among the guests who graced the event and contributed was Eliud Kipchoge, the Isuzu D-Max brand ambassador.
The Seminar recording can be accessed here: 3rd Isuzu EA Sustainability Seminar
On 16th November 2024, Isuzu EA Foundation, in collaboration with the dealer fraternity in Mombasa County, undertook a mangrove reafforestation initiative in Mchanjama Creek along the Ndongo-Kundu bypass.
Led by Coast Region Sales Manager Eng. Paul Gitau, the team successfully planted 2,000 mangrove trees across 2.5 acres, marking a significant contribution to environmental conservation. The activity brought together partners such as Associated Motors Mombasa, Ryce EA Mombasa, the Kenya Forest Service in Coast Region, and the local community.
Eight employees from the UD Mombasa office dedicated eight volunteer hours each, highlighting Isuzu EA’s commitment to employee engagement and environmental stewardship.
This project builds on last year’s efforts and reinforces Isuzu EA Foundation’s environmental pillar by promoting sustainable practices and fostering meaningful partnerships for lasting impact.
This initiative aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By restoring mangrove ecosystems, this effort combats climate change, preserves biodiversity, and fosters collaborations among stakeholders.
Mangroves are critical for their ecological benefits—they act as natural carbon sinks, protect coastlines from erosion, and provide habitats for marine life. For the local community, they support livelihoods through fishing and offer resilience against rising sea levels.
On October 30, 2024, Isuzu East Africa hosted 76 delegates from the Owner Managers Program (OMP) 2024 class by Strathmore Business School (SBS) and Lagos Business School (LBS). The group comprised executives from Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and Burundi, accompanied by SBS and LBS staff.
The visit opened with a warm welcome by Isuzu EA’s Communications Manager, Dancan Muhindi followed by a detailed orientation covering safety by Jane Njagi, EHS Specialist. Rita Kavashe, Isuzu EA’s Chair of the Board and Managing Director, then spoke about Isuzu’s growth journey and her own growth journey that has led her to develop her personal leadership model that she calls “C.A.R.E”: The Acronym stands for Commitment, Awareness, Relationships, and Empowerment.
Dr Fred Wasike, Director Human Resources and Corporate Sustainability took the guests through Isuzu’s corporate culture and emphasized the need for every company to have an identity that reflects its values.
Wanjohi Kangangi, Director of Sales & Marketing, presented an in-depth profile of Isuzu EA, highlighting the company’s comprehensive range of transport solutions tailored to meet diverse market needs across the region. Eng. James Njoroge, General Manager of Production, then introduced Isuzu EA’s manufacturing system, underscoring the company’s commitment to continuous improvement through the “kaizen” philosophy—a Japanese approach focused on ongoing enhancement across all processes. Additionally, Samuel Wasswa, General Manager of Aftersales Marketing, discussed Isuzu’s robust aftersales support, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to customer satisfaction long after the initial purchase.
Delegates engaged with Isuzu EA’s leadership about corporate sustainability practices, developing products to suit various markets, standards of excellence in business, potential future expansions into West Africa, partnerships with local suppliers, and various business networking opportunities within the continent to grow African markets.
The visit concluded with a tour of Isuzu’s assembly plant, allowing guests to witness the production process of Isuzu’s renowned vehicle range as well as a tour of the vehicle display so they could interact with the finished products.
This collaboration underscores the longstanding partnership between SBS and Isuzu EA, fostering visionary leadership and advancing entrepreneurial and job-creation goals across Africa.
On 27th October 2024, Isuzu East Africa reaffirmed its commitment to employee wellness, teamwork, and social impact by actively participating in the 20th edition of the Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon. This iconic annual event, organized by Standard Chartered Bank, brought together thousands of runners, corporate teams, and communities in support of fitness, environmental sustainability, and local talent development.
A strong contingent of 130 Isuzu EA employees took part in various race categories, including the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km challenge, and the 5km fun run. Their participation underscored the company’s focus on holistic employee well-being, fostering resilience, and strengthening workplace camaraderie. The event also provided an opportunity to engage with like-minded financial partners such as Standard Chartered Bank, reinforcing Isuzu EA’s commitment to collaborative social impact initiatives.
Beyond the race, Isuzu EA employees proudly contributed to the marathon’s broader goals, including environmental conservation efforts and nurturing local athletic talent. Through such initiatives, the company continues to champion sustainable business practices while enhancing meaningful community engagement.
Participation in the Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon exemplifies Isuzu EA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of wellness, teamwork, and corporate social responsibility. As we continue to drive positive change, we remain committed to working with partners who share our vision for a healthier, more sustainable, and socially responsible future.
On October 18, 2024, the Isuzu East Africa Product Planning, Engineering, and Bodybuilding Department, led by the Director, Eng. Daniel Kilenge, and General Manager, Bernard Omondi, demonstrated their commitment to impacting communities through a hands-on Social Impact activity at Nairobi Hospice. This initiative aimed to enhance the hospice’s outdoor environment, creating a safe and comfortable space for palliative care patients.
Over 30 Isuzu engineers volunteered their time and skills to construct a shaded outdoor lobby, providing seating, tables, and a carpet to make the space more welcoming. Additionally, the team engaged in cleaning, gardening, painting, and revitalizing the hospice’s branding, ensuring the facility remains a serene and dignified environment for those in need of specialized care.
This impactful initiative was made possible through a strategic partnership with Sai Raj Ltd, who generously donated specialized materials for the project. The collaboration underscores Isuzu East Africa’s vision of fostering strong community connections and reinforcing the organization’s employee volunteer program, which encourages staff to give back to society in meaningful ways.
By enhancing the hospice’s infrastructure, this social impact activity directly supports Nairobi Hospice’s mission of providing holistic palliative care. Furthermore, the project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, and sustainable partnerships.
Isuzu East Africa remains committed to driving impactful community initiatives that create positive change, reaffirming its dedication to responsible corporate citizenship and sustainable business practices.
