NAIROBI, Kenya — Operators in Kenya’s transport and logistics industry have called on the national government to review policies and streamline regulations, warning that the current operating environment continues to challenge businesses.
The appeal coincides with strong performance by TransAfrica Motors (TAM), one of East Africa’s leading truck suppliers, which reports robust growth over the past three years, particularly along major transport corridors.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Mombasa branch chairman, Abud Jamal, noted TAM’s contribution to regional logistics.
“TAM has strengthened the supply of reliable vehicles, especially Chinese-made trucks, helping move essential goods across Kenya and neighbouring countries. Our business community is a backbone of the economy. They need an environment that allows them to operate efficiently,” he said.
TAM general manager Faiz Awadth highlighted the company’s growing prominence in the regional logistics market, citing increasing demand across East and Central Africa.
He noted that the firm offers a variety of models, including high-horsepower trucks designed for long-distance transport, with the 380-horsepower “Zuchu” unit particularly popular among transporters.
Despite its growth, TAM urged the government to invest in road infrastructure and review certain taxes to lower operational costs and enhance sector profitability.
The company also operates a local assembly plant employing over 500 people and emphasized that greater economic stability could facilitate expansion and job creation.
Head of TAM’s after-sales department, Antony Pete, underscored the importance of fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs for buyers in Kenya and across Africa.
“Our trucks are designed with extended service intervals of up to 15,000 kilometres to reduce operating expenses,” he said.
Industry analysts say that while Kenya’s logistics sector is expanding, regulatory complexity, high taxes, and infrastructure gaps remain key barriers.
Firms like TAM argue that targeted government support could boost competitiveness, reduce costs, and reinforce Kenya’s role as a regional transport hub.
