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.

“Isuzu East Africa hosted a regional delegation on 3rd October 2024, showcasing its energy efficiency strategies as part of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) Program. The visit provided senior civil servants and green energy experts with insights into Isuzu EA’s sustainable practices and solutions for emission reduction, reinforcing its leadership in energy management.”

On Thursday, 3rd October 2024, Isuzu East Africa hosted a group of 40 senior civil servants from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Ethiopia as well as green energy experts from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden as part of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) Program. The program, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), focused on building capacity for sustainable economic development, with a particular emphasis on energy efficiency and emission reduction.

The visit, organized by the University of Nairobi’s Department of Economics and Development Studies led by Mr. Kenneth Kigundu, was a key component of a cross-country workshop. The delegation had a detailed sit-in session lead by the Isuzu EA team where they were familiarized with Isuzu EA’s corporate culture, product offerings and solutions and energy efficiency strategies. The Isuzu EA team comprised of General Manager, HR, EHS & Corporate Services, Collins Maritim; Retail Sales Manager, Catherine Muthui; Communications Manager, Dancan Muhindi; Plant Maintenance Services Supervisor, George Okal and Manager, Sustainability, Monitoring & Evaluation, Dr. Michael Musyoka.

Afterwards they toured Isuzu East Africa’s plant, where they observed the company’s innovative energy efficiency practices, which earned Isuzu EA the 2023 Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Energy Management Award (EMA). This offered valuable insights into policy solutions that could be adopted across the region.

“Forward Travellers Sacco has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of 23 Isuzu NQR buses, marking a key milestone in its growth. The ceremonial handover at Isuzu EA headquarters reinforced the strong partnership aimed at enhancing the Sacco’s service across key routes.”

On 3rd October 2024, senior management from Forward Travellers Sacco attended a ceremonial vehicle handover at Isuzu EA headquarters. Forward Travellers Sacco operates a fleet of 450 buses, 260 of which are Isuzu units, comprising 170 NKR buses and 90 NQR buses. The Sacco serves key routes including Malaa, Kayole, Eastleigh, Gikomba, Cabanas, Mihango, Mwiki, Kitui, Murang’a, Nyahururu, and Loitoktok, supported by 560 licensed drivers.

As part of its ongoing expansion, the Sacco has committed to purchasing 60 Isuzu NQR buses, with the first 23 units delivered on 4th October 2024. Of these, 16 buses were supplied by CFG, while 7 were provided by KCI.

Notable Sacco leaders present at the event included Chairman Paul Ngai, CEO Esther Waithera, Vice Chairman Patrick Karanja, Secretary Isaac Kimani, and Treasurer Julius Maina. They were warmly received by Isuzu EA Chair of the Board and Managing Director, Rita Kavashe, and Sales & Marketing Director, Wanjohi Kangangi. Also in attendance was the Central Farmers Garage (CFG) Managing Director Kevin Njenga and Sales Manager John Ngugi.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for Forward Travellers Sacco as they strengthen their fleet with reliable Isuzu buses, enhancing both operational capacity and service delivery across their extensive routes.

Our Featured Employee for this edition is Isuzu EA Field Engineering Assistant, Rahab Njung’e

How long have you worked at Isuzu EA and what is your current role?

It is hard to believe how swiftly time has passed. I am now entering my third year at Isuzu EA and yet it feels like just yesterday that I joined the company.

I joined Isuzu EA as a Graduate in Training (GIT) under a one-year contract which was later extended for an additional year. During the 24-month period, I initially served as an Aftersales Marketer for 19 months, contributing to various initiatives within that department. In the final five months of my contract, I transitioned into the role of a Field Engineer, where I gained valuable hands-on experience. Following the conclusion of my contract, I was offered a permanent position with the company, assuming the role of Field Engineering Assistant.

Comment about the GIT program and how it has benefited you.

I cannot help but reminisce about the sheer joy I felt when I got that call about the GIT program. I had to hide in the compressor room of my former workplace. It was an unforgettable moment, marking the beginning of an incredible journey with Isuzu EA. The GIT program at Isuzu EA has truly been a transformative experience for me, playing a pivotal role in shaping me into the professional I am today. As a recent graduate eager to take my first steps into the professional world, this program provided me with remarkable opportunities to:

• • Gain hands-on experience in a nurturing and dynamic environment.
  • Develop a strong work ethic and a drive for excellence.
  • Receive free mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals.

What do you love most about working at Isuzu EA?

Let me begin by expressing the immense pride I feel in being part of Isuzu EA; a workplace of choice renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence. Whenever I mention where I work, there’s always a swell of pride within me. There are aspects I genuinely cherish about working at Isuzu EA:

• • The unparalleled opportunity to interact with intellectuals on a daily basis. Engaging with and learning from such insightful colleagues ensures that every day, I leave work feeling wiser than when I arrived.
  • The collaborative culture within the organisation fosters an environment where people genuinely support and work cooperatively with each other.
  • Working here is a truly fulfilling experience.

If you were not an Engineer, what else would you have pursued?

Interior design. I have always had a deep passion for creating beautiful and inviting spaces, and the idea of transforming houses into homes where people feel comfortable resonates deeply with me.

What do you like doing during your free time? Interests, passions, hobbies etc.

I have a passion for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. It serves as a mental escape that allows me to recharge and gain perspective. Additionally, I enjoy reading books during my leisure hours. I am currently reading ‘The Art of the Good Life by Rolf Dobelli’

Where do you see yourself in five-years’ time?

I aspire to take on increasingly challenging roles that allow me to contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s success while further developing my skills and expertise in the field of engineering. In five years, I hope to have achieved certification as a professional engineer.

Beyond my professional aspirations, I am deeply passionate about giving back to the community. I envision myself actively involved in initiatives that empower and mentor young girls, inspiring them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

What advice would you give your peers as they navigate similar career paths?

Stay true to yourself and your values. Your unique perspective and contributions have the power to make a difference in the world. Trust your journey, and never underestimate the impact you can have as you strive to achieve your goals.

Is there a quote that motivates you?

Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying the basic fundamentals – by Jim Rohn.

Who inspires you?

I find inspiration in the people and experiences that I encounter along the way.

Whether it’s witnessing the dedication of my colleagues, learning from the wisdom of mentors, or being moved by the struggles and triumphs of those around me. Each encounter offers valuable lessons and insights that motivate me to strive for excellence in my own endeavours.

What skills have you found vital to your job?

I have found sincerity to be paramount. It is not just a skill, but a guiding principle that underpins every aspect of my work. The ability to approach every task with honesty, integrity and authenticity forms the foundation upon which trust with my colleagues and clients is built.

Teamwork also stands out as an indispensable skill in my job. It not only amplifies our collective strengths but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and support that fuels our success.

How do you maintain work-life integration?

I have a guiding principle: ‘don’t play at work and don’t work at play.’ This means that wherever I am, whether it’s at work or at home, I strive to be fully present and engaged in that moment.

While at work, I am committed to giving my best and never shortchanging my employer. I approach tasks with dedication, focus, and professionalism, ensuring that I contribute positively to the team and organisation.

Conversely, when I’m at home with my family, my priority is to be present and available to support them physically and emotionally. I believe in being fully engaged in quality time with my loved ones, creating cherished memories and nurturing strong relationships.

What professional associations are you a member of?

Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK).

Imagine that you were the CEO of this company, what is the first thing you would do?

Haha! I think I would initiate a company-wide ‘Reverse Day.’ On this day, traditional roles and hierarchies would be flipped upside down.

Junior employees would take on the responsibilities of senior leaders, making strategic decisions and leading meetings, while executives would swap roles with entry-level staff, rolling up their sleeves to experience the day-to-day challenges firsthand.

By experiencing each other’s roles, we would gain valuable insights into the perspectives and challenges of our colleagues, leading to greater collaboration and innovation.

Sounds fun, right?

What qualities do you look for in friends?

I gravitate towards individuals who show compassion and empathy towards others. Friends who genuinely love and support me unconditionally are invaluable. Loyalty is also essential; I value friends who stand up for me, even in absentia. These qualities form the foundation of strong and meaningful friendships, enriching my life in countless ways.

How do you handle workplace disappointment?

I believe workplace disappointment always provides an opportunity for growth and learning. I strive to approach it with resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Of utmost importance is addressing the situation with objectivity and a solution-oriented mindset.

What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?

Bali, Indonesia. I hear it offers an unforgettable travel experience. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The Isuzu EA Aftersales and Channel Development Director Julius Mwangi led a pivotal business deployment meeting on March 28, 2024 with ASOs and Mashinanis at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies. These dealerships collectively contributed an impressive 23% share of Isuzu EA’s parts business, amounting to KSh459 million in the fiscal year 2023.

With unwavering determination, the team is poised to soar to greater heights, setting their sights on a revenue target of KSh568 million for the fiscal year 2024. This ambitious goal reflects a remarkable 24% growth projection from the previous fiscal year’s achievements.

Isuzu EA Managing Director Rita Kavashe graced the occasion and delivered an inspiring message. She urged the team to cultivate a long-term vision for their businesses, emphasising the importance of strategic foresight in driving sustainable growth. Rita also expressed heartfelt appreciation for their invaluable contribution in ensuring customers’ vehicles’ uptime, underscoring their pivotal role in enriching the Isuzu EA customer experience.

Isuzu East Africa hosted a vibrant evening session on March 20, 2024 to celebrate and appreciate the continued partnership with esteemed members of the media. The event, held at Serena Hotel, brought together business and sports journalists, editors, and automotive bloggers for an evening of networking, insightful discussions, and celebrating their vital role in shaping the automotive landscape in East Africa.

Isuzu East Africa Sales and Marketing Director Wanjohi Kangangi expressed his sincere appreciation for the invaluable support and unwavering commitment of the media partners. He emphasised the vital role of the media in fostering transparency, sharing information, and shaping public perception. He remarked that Isuzu’s journey wouldn’t have been possible without the relentless dedication of the media partners.

Throughout the event, guests were treated to an interactive display showcasing Isuzu East Africa’s journey since its inception, East Africa’s export market, latest innovations, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement programs. From electric vehicle prototypes to impactful social responsibility projects, attendees had the opportunity to gain insights into the company’s various endeavours aimed at its readiness in the market and driving positive change in the society.

The Q&A session covered a wide range of topics, from Isuzu’s research and development, latest product launches, technological advancements, sports sponsorship to its future plans for the region. The Isuzu East Africa team provided insightful responses, shedding light on the company’s commitment to innovation, customer experience and stakeholder engagement.

On March 14, 2024, the Isuzu East Africa Drivers Academy, in collaboration with Bamburi Cement Plc, held its fourth graduation ceremony. A total of 26 drivers, including four women, were honoured for completing their training, which took place in August and November of 2023.

Established in 2019, this program aims to equip drivers working for Isuzu East Africa’s customers with essential skills, transforming them into proficient drivers capable of efficiently handling logistics operations. The curriculum covers a wide range of areas, including equipment handling, economical driving techniques, understanding commercial vehicle financing and insurance, and utilising tools such as Google Maps for navigation.

Addressing the audience at the event, Isuzu East Africa Human Resources and Corporate Sustainability Director Fred Wasike, emphasised the program’s crucial role in enhancing road safety. He underscored the importance of driver discipline and exemplary behaviour in achieving this goal.

Bamburi Cement Plc Sustainability and Geocycle Director, Jane Wangari, described the significance of their partnership with Isuzu EA. She highlighted the Women on Wheels (WoW) initiative, launched in 2021, which aims to diversify the traditionally male-dominated driver workforce. Wangari stressed the importance of enrolling more women into the program, with a target of training 50 women this year. She emphasised that this effort is not only about gender balance but also about meeting road safety and sustainability objectives.

The program’s core focus remains on instilling drivers with the necessary values and skills, contributing significantly to national efforts to bolster road safety standards.

On March 13, 2024, Isuzu East Africa, Co-operative Bank, and CIC Insurance announced an asset financing partnership tailored for schools and businesses grappling with weakened financial capabilities. The prevailing economic challenges have severely impacted the cash reserves of many schools and businesses, necessitating customised financial terms to ensure operational continuity.

William Ndumia, the Retail and Business Banking Director of Co-operative Bank, highlighted the bank’s track record of supporting over 10,000 commercial vehicles in the past five years, including financing 1,500 matatus through Isuzu East Africa. Speaking on behalf of the Group CEO – Dr. Gideon Muriuki, Ndumia observed that tough economic times had made it difficult for many customers to raise capital for deposits, underscoring the need for innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by MSMEs, schools, and learning institutions.

Rita Kavashe, the Managing Director of Isuzu East Africa, acknowledged the partnership with Co-operative Bank as a vital step towards providing solutions to ensure the resilience of businesses, schools, and learning institutions amidst varying economic conditions. She expressed gratitude for the launch of a joint asset financing partnership, offering a 95% financing option for Isuzu’s N-series, F-series, Pickups, TFS, and TFR Series, along with a 100% financing option for school buses.

As part of the program, Isuzu EA pledged to provide a 5,000-litre water tank for medium buses (26-seater) and a 10,000-litre water tank for large buses (51-seater and above) for every school that purchases a bus.

Isuzu Women Council hosted an International Women’s Day Event on March 8, 2024 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi. This annual celebration honours women and their accomplishments, serving as a platform to recognize their contributions to society. The chief guest at the Isuzu EA event was Hon Mercy Wanjau, Secretary to the Kenyan Cabinet.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day was “Inspire Inclusion,” aimed at advocating for gender equity through deliberate actions that challenge stereotypes, address barriers, and promote an environment that embraces diversity and fosters mutual respect for women.

Addressing the audience during the event, Isuzu East Africa Managing Director Rita Kavashe, highlighted that this year’s theme presents an opportunity for envisioning a world of gender equality – free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. She emphasised the importance of implementing gender-responsive policies and interventions, such as equal opportunities in hiring, training, and remuneration, to drive rapid progress towards this goal.

Loise Gichure, Chairperson of the Isuzu Women Council, congratulated all the awardees, commending them for their embodiment of the principles of diversity and inclusion. She affirmed their dedication to fostering an inclusive society where everyone’s contributions are valued and respected.

The panel discussion centred on the theme of International Women’s Day, emphasising that when individuals are inspired to understand and appreciate the importance of women’s inclusion, societies are propelled toward a better future. The event culminated in the recognition and award of ten women who had excelled in different fields while making a positive impact in society.

On March 5, 2024 Isuzu East Africa announced that it had secured distributorship rights for UD Trucks Kenya through Isuzu Motors Limited, Japan. This acquisition grants Isuzu EA the responsibility for assembly, sales, and aftersales support of UD Trucks in the country.

Announcing this new collaboration in the heavy commercial vehicle sector, Isuzu EA MD Rita Kavashe emphasised that the partnership would solidify Isuzu’s position in the region as a trusted provider of transportation solutions, offering high-quality products tailored to meet customer needs. She conveyed Isuzu EA gratitude for the opportunity to incorporate the UD Trucks brand into its portfolio.

Mourad Hedna, the President of UD Trucks MEENA (Middle East, East & North Africa Region), expressed confidence in Isuzu East Africa’s capability to deliver exceptional support to UD Trucks customers through comprehensive aftersales services and expertise.

This partnership integrates the comprehensive and modern UD Trucks range with the robust Isuzu EA local knowledge in the trucking industry. Such synergy pres- ents an immensely appealing value proposition for Ken- yan customers, supporting their growth and prosperity. Additionally, the collaboration is anticipated to generate employment opportunities and bolster the local assem- bly sector.