On March 18th, a dynamic group of 58 students and 3 of their faculty members visited Isuzu East Africa’s offices and assembly plant
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.
Kiambu, Kenya, July 5, 2025: In a powerful demonstration of purpose-driven leadership, Isuzu East Africa officially handed over a Kshs. 3 million Learning Hub to the Kamae Girls Borstal Institution, located within Kamiti Prisons. This transformative space is more than just a classroom, it’s a launchpad for second chances, designed to nurture learning, confidence, and hope among young girls in rehabilitation.
The initiative, led by Isuzu’s Aftersales and Channel Development Division, reflects the company’s deep commitment to community empowerment, education, and sustainability. Built using recycled materials from Isuzu’s Completely Knocked Down (CKD) packaging, the hub exemplifies circular economy principles, repurposing waste into impactful solutions that promote environmental responsibility and reduce resource strain.
Over 150 Isuzu employees contributed an impressive 3,600 volunteer hours, offering their time, skills, and compassion to bring this vision to life. Their dedication highlights the company’s vibrant culture of teamwork and purpose-led service.
“We’re not just handing over a building. We are unlocking opportunity, restoring dignity, and investing in a brighter tomorrow for these young women,” said Ndegwa Mwangi, Director of Aftersales and Channel Development.
Ndegwa emphasized that this initiative reinforces Isuzu’s commitment to building stronger communities through access to quality education, advancing gender equality, reducing inequalities, and supporting responsible production. It also reflects the power of partnerships, working hand in hand with employees, customers, and institutions like the Kenya Prisons Service to create meaningful and lasting impact.
The handover ceremony brought together officers from Kenya Prisons, staff from Kamae Institution, and Isuzu volunteers, united by a shared vision of hope and transformation. For the girls at Kamae, the Learning Hub is more than a physical space, it is a chance to learn, imagine, and rewrite their stories.
“You are not your past. From today, choose to rise, believe in your worth, and prepare for the great woman you are becoming,” Ndegwa encouraged the girls.
This initiative, under the banner of the Isuzu East Africa Foundation, is a shining example of what can be achieved when corporate purpose, sustainability, and human dignity come together.
As the doors of the Learning Hub opened, one message was clear, Isuzu isn’t just building vehicles, it’s building and sustaining futures. One story, one community, one life at a time.
On July 4th, 2025, the Isuzu Mentors hosted 70 mentees from St. Thomas Aquinas Boys High School for an engaging and impactful visit to Isuzu East Africa.
The visit was part of the Boys Mentorship Program, which has been running consistently for the past seven years, fostering personal growth, academic focus, and career awareness among students from the school.
During the visit, the mentees were taken through the company’s rich history, diverse product range, and organizational structure. Mentor Roy Ashoya emphasized the importance of STEM education, illustrating its relevance to the students’ future careers and aspirations.
Mentor Andrew Omondi, an alumnus of St. Thomas Aquinas Boys, also shared his inspiring career journey, having served at Isuzu East Africa for over 35 years. His story resonated deeply with the students, offering them a real-life example of dedication and growth within the corporate world.
The mentees were then divided into groups for a guided tour of the plant. The tour provided a rare opportunity for the boys to gain firsthand insights into the automotive industry, and to appreciate Isuzu’s manufacturing and vehicle assembly processes.
Beyond inspiration, this mentorship initiative is anchored in Isuzu East Africa’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning with the SDGs, particularly Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).
By exposing students to real-world work environments, the program not only promotes career readiness but also strengthens Isuzu’s essential purpose, building strong relationships though young brand ambassadors and conducting business in a sustainable, responsible manner that supports future generations. Educational visits such as these are a key part of nurturing informed, empowered youth who are better prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.
As one of the students noted during the vote of thanks, “This program has truly been an eye-opener. I now have a clearer understanding of what I want to pursue and how STEM is relevant in every career path I’ve been dreaming about. I’m more motivated and confident about my future.”
The visit served as both an educational experience and a motivational platform, strengthening the mentorship bond and inspiring the next generation of innovators and professionals.
On 12th June 2025, Isuzu East Africa hosted 50 students from Embakasi Girls Secondary School, accompanied by three teachers, for an enriching mentorship session. Now in its fifth year, this impactful initiative has positively influenced the lives of over 850 students by equipping them with leadership skills, career guidance, and essential life skills.
Spearheaded by the Isuzu women mentors, who have consistently committed their personal time as volunteers, the programme is designed to nurture leadership, build self-awareness, and inspire a focused and purpose-driven outlook in the students. The session was led by the organization’s Managing Director, Rita Kavashe, and the women mentors, and was moderated by Communications and CSR Coordinator, Linda Njiru. Together, they engaged the girls in motivating discussions and shared personal insights to help them shape their futures.
In her keynote remarks, Rita Kavashe encouraged the students to remain focused and intentional, reminding them that “this is the time for you to work on yourselves so that you can become.” She emphasized the power of vision, determination, and self-drive in achieving success and encouraged the girls to stay true to their goals.
The mentees also received a company overview from Lorna Muthoni, HR Manager, Employee Development, who facilitated two career-focused talks: What Employers Are Looking For and STEM Education. She highlighted the need for more women in STEM and encouraged the students to pursue these paths. She also emphasized the importance of independence and resilience, key life skills that foster long-term personal and professional growth. In a powerful moment, Lorna Muthoni used the analogy of a rubber band to illustrate the value of growth through challenge. She encouraged the girls to stretch beyond their comfort zones, embrace hard work, and lay a strong foundation for their future careers and personal development.
The students then embarked on a guided plant tour led by Priscillah Okwako (Production Supervisor), Martha Chepkoskei (GIT), Shirley S. Muhati (Industrial Engineer and KAIZEN Lead) and Jackline Ongubo (Parts Processor). They were introduced to Isuzu’s manufacturing processes and learned about the importance of safety, organization and teamwork on the production floor.
Embakasi Girls Secondary School, a boarding institution in Embakasi Constituency, continues to collaborate with Isuzu East Africa’s women professionals to deliver this structured mentorship programme. The initiative is designed to empower students through leadership development, career guidance, and life skills that prepare them to thrive in a dynamic and evolving world.
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.
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.
