*Local Manufacturing Takes Center Stage as Autoexpo Kenya 2026 Opens in Nairobi*

By W Amondo 

Kenya’s automotive sector took center stage on Wednesday as the 27th Autoexpo Kenya 2026 opened in Nairobi, bringing together manufacturers, investors, distributors, and mobility innovators from over 30 countries.

The three-day exhibition, running from June 3rd to 5th at the Carnivore Exhibition Grounds, has drawn global players across automotive technology, spare parts, garage equipment, batteries, lubricants, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and electric mobility solutions.

Government backs local manufacturing push

Speaking at the opening ceremony, _Mr. Samuel Karanja Njora_, Secretary of Administration in the State Department for Industry, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to growing Kenya’s automotive industry through local manufacturing.

“We are here to show support to stakeholders in manufacturing, especially in the automotive sector,” Njora said. “The government’s focus is clear: we want to encourage local production of motor vehicles and motorcycles.”

He noted that the expo has created a platform for partnerships, technology transfer, and investment by attracting manufacturers and investors from across Africa and beyond. He also urged local innovators, startups, and small-scale manufacturers to attend and draw inspiration from the technologies on display.

A major policy shift is on the horizon. Njora revealed that the upcoming _Local Content Bill_ will require a portion of vehicle and motorcycle components to be sourced locally. Kenya is already making progress, with at least 14 motorcycle components currently manufactured in-country.

In a move to strengthen domestic assembly, the government also plans to prioritize procurement of locally assembled vehicles.  

“In the area of motor vehicles, the government will soon stop buying vehicles imported from outside. We will only buy those assembled in Kenya,” Njora announced.

Electric mobility takes the spotlight

Running alongside the main exhibition is the newly launched _EV Expo Kenya 2026_, highlighting the rapid growth of electric mobility. Electric vehicles, e-motorcycles, charging systems, batteries, and energy storage solutions are among the key attractions.

The surge reflects Kenya’s push toward cleaner transport, backed by the _National Electric Mobility Policy_ launched earlier this year. The policy aims to accelerate EV adoption while supporting investment in charging infrastructure, local assembly, and related industries.

Industry calls for stronger local value chains

_Ms. Margaret Muchoki_, Board Member of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association of Kenya (APMA), praised the collaboration between industry and government to strengthen local manufacturing.

APMA represents manufacturers of components ranging from batteries and brake pads to filters and motorcycle accessories. For Muchoki, the expo is a critical platform for attracting investment and building partnerships.

“We recognize the role international investors can play in skills transfer and in partnering with local companies,” she said.  

She added that government efforts to promote local sourcing are opening new opportunities for Kenyan manufacturers and expanding the automotive value chain. Several local assemblers are already being encouraged to source components such as batteries and other parts from Kenyan suppliers.

The proposed _Automotive Bill_, now in its final stages, is expected to further boost local assembly and increase the use of Kenyan-made components by manufacturers operating in the country.

Positioning Kenya as a regional hub

Industry stakeholders say Autoexpo Kenya 2026 is more than a trade show. It’s a statement of intent: positioning Kenya not just as a market for imported vehicles, but as a regional hub for vehicle assembly, parts production, electric mobility, and related technologies.

Organized by _Expogroup_, the exhibition is expected to welcome thousands of visitors from across East Africa and beyond before it closes on Friday, June 5th.