General Motors E.A Partners with MSEA to launch Isuzu Mashinani

Leading vehicle manufacturer General Motors has officially launched ‘Isuzu Mashinani’ – a new, revolutionary and innovative way to ensure genuine and original parts reach hitherto unserved parts of the market.

Launched in conjunction with the Micro and Small Enterprise Authority under the Ministry of Industrialization, the ‘Isuzu Mashinani’ concept, that literary translates to ‘Isuzu at the Grassroots’ is a sales outlet for Isuzu genuine and original parts that will operate out of a purposely built and fabricated container that has been customised by General motors Africa to meet the needs of the discerning clientele who purchase its vehicles.

 Speaking during the launch of Isuzu Mashinani, General Motors East Africa Managing Director Rita Kavashe noted that the launch of the initiative would help combat the widespread use of counterfeit products.

 “Today, just 23% of service parts sold in the market are genuine. This is not only worrying for vehicle safety and reliability, but also weighs down financially on owners and the economy. Through this initiative we will enhance the ease of access to genuine parts and thus improve operational efficiency and economic performance.” She said.

 The Isuzu Mashinani initiative is also well positioned to counter unemployment in a fast growing youthful population by enabling independent ownership of the auto part stores, which gives youths and entrepreneurs an opportunity to apply hands-on experience to generate revenue.

 General Motors East Africa underscored the fact that 6 of the 25 fully equipped container outlets being launched were issued to youth groups across the country, reiterating the fact that the company wanted to invest in the youth.

 “This project provides our business with the opportunity to unearth the rich potential of the Kenyan youth by not only building technical capacity but also enabling access to assets which is key to startups” she added.

 The initiative has received great praise from the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Industrialization and Enterprise Development Mr. Adan Mohamed who officiated the event. He hailed the effort to ensure the increased penetration of genuine parts while at the same time supporting the youth.

 “Through the Isuzu Mashinani concept, we will ensure adequate supply of quality and safe goods and services consumed in the country through synergy with MSEA and General Motors East Africa. My Ministry is at the forefront to ensure that this project is successful as it will not only benefit General Motors customers but the country at large.” He enthused.

 The initiative, through the partnership with the Micro Small Enterprise Authority, is expected to enable youth groups, Community Based Organizations, Matatu Saccos & Entrepreneurs to access startup capital by offering Isuzu auto parts outlets on free lease. This will be supplemented by business training and financial support by MSEA through Youth Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, Uwezo fund & CDF entrepreneurs support fund.

Article by Amina Mbuthia.