~Contributing to the Achievement of Carbon Neutrality in Kenya~
On Thursday, 8th February 2024, Toyota Tsusho Corporation hosted a high-level meeting at its head office in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture and announced the signing of the Framework Agreement for Collaboration ~Contributing to the Achievement of Carbon Neutrality in Kenya~ in the presence of the President of Kenya H.E Dr. William Ruto and relevant cabinet secretaries.
The aim of the agreement is to contribute to the achievement of carbon neutrality in Kenya, through establishing a green energy value chain that connects the generation, distribution and utilization phase and promoting industrial development and capacity building. To make industrial carbon management projects happen on the ground, the Agreement is setting out a series of horizontal actions which could create a more attractive environment for investments including:
Development of renewable energy projects
By 2030, the government of Kenya aims to achieve 100% renewable energy. Toyota Tsusho Corporation will cooperate with the Kenyan government to promote the development of new power generation projects utilizing Kenya’s abundant renewable energy resources, including geothermal, solar, and wind power.
Expansion of high efficiency transformers
By leveraging expertise and resources Toyota Tsusho Corporation commits to conducting demonstration of high-efficiency transformers, a feasibility study of local production and capacity building. This development aims at minimizing electricity losses during transmission and distribution in Kenya.
Advancement of electrified vehicles through the “multi-pathway’’
Renewable energy presently constitutes 90% of Kenya’s power generation. Through policy initiatives and collaborative programs, Kenya aims to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation and facilitates the widespread adoption of sustainable practices within the automotive sector including the adoption of electrified vehicles. As part of this agreement, TTC pledges to support in cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices including the development of electric vehicles (EVs), starting with hybrid cars, through the “multi-pathway” approach.
Progression of the Kenyan Automotive Industry
The Kenyan government aims to boost local production of automotive by implementing the National Automotive Policy (NAP), which includes regulations on used cars. With the support of NAP, Toyota Tsusho will work on improving productivity and enhancing competitiveness of local automotive assembly industry.
“The signing of the Framework Agreement that we have witnessed this morning is a testimony of the relationship that exists between our country and Toyota, and the harvesting of a new dawn of deeper and much more expanded collaboration between Toyota and Kenya. Let me confirm our partnership on behalf of the people and Government of Kenya, to make sure we frame and create a win-win relationship that not only benefits your company but also benefits the people of Kenya,” stated the President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Ruto during the signing ceremony.
With a shared commitment to environmental stewardship towards carbon neutrality, Toyota Tsusho Corporation and Kenya demonstrate their unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility and leadership in the fight against climate change. “Toyota Tsusho will continue to contribute toward realizing a society filled with the smiles of the future children of Kenya. We will continue to strengthen the relationship between Kenya and Japan to further invigorate the economic activities of Japanese companies in Kenya,” Mr. Ichiro Kashitani, President and CEO of Toyota Tsusho, commented.
This partnership sets a powerful example for industries worldwide and underscores the transformative impact of collective action in building a more resilient and sustainable economy for future generations.
