NAIROBI, Kenya-Heavy equipment dealer Mantrac has unveiled plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled Caterpillar machines into the Kenyan market as it marked 100 years of Caterpillar operations in the country.
The firm said the technology-driven equipment will be rolled out from next year, as it seeks to strengthen its role in powering infrastructure and industrial growth.
“Starting next year we are introducing more innovative products, which will entail Artificial Intelligence and the more digitalization, as we were mentioning today in the celebration. We have started receiving some of them and the more upcoming from starting next year,” said Mantrac Managing Director Mohamed Ibrahim.
Caterpillar executives used the centennial event in Nairobi to underline the multinational’s footprint in Kenya’s economic transformation, pointing to roads, energy projects, agriculture, and even digital connectivity as sectors shaped by its machinery.
“The story of Caterpillar in Kenya mirrors our global journey, it is a story of vision transformed into reality. From roads and infrastructure that fuel the country’s growth, to expanding production at farms, to power for small communities and even modern data centres, our machines and power generation solutions have helped turn the government’s vision and people’s ambitions into realities, and tangible opportunities for the next generation,” said Nigel Lewis, Caterpillar’s Chief Operating Officer.
Lavanya Ajesh, Caterpillar’s Vice President Distribution – Africa, said the company’s long-term presence in Kenya was anchored on adapting to local demand.
“It is a privilege to mark 100 years of doing what we do best together with our trusted partner Mantrac. Their long-term investment in Kenya has created continuity and impact, ensuring we remain close to local markets and responsive to customer needs,” she said.
“While our products may look different from a century ago, our mission remains the same: to power growth, uplift communities, and build Kenya, one century at a time.”
Kenya is currently driving multi-billion shilling infrastructure projects under Vision 2030, with growing demand for heavy equipment in road building, power generation, and urban development.
Caterpillar contends its planned AI-driven machines could give it a competitive edge in a sector where cost and efficiency remain key concerns.
Mantrac Group represents Caterpillar in nine markets, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt, Tanzania, and Uganda, supported through export hubs in the United Kingdom and Dubai.
