Twenty-one motorcycle companies have launched the Motorcycle Assemblers Association of Kenya Ltd (MAAK). The association will serve as a collective voice of its members, safeguard their rights oand promote safe and lawful motorcycle culture.
MAAK will also offer guidance to members on various government policies with respect to business, banking, taxation, record keeping, and technical aspects of their products especially maintaining and improving the quality standards.
Dr Isaac Kalua, who has been appointed as the chairman, noted that MAAK is looking to use Kenya as the launching pad for its business growth into the regional market. “Motorcycle Assemblers Association of Kenya will offer an excellent opportunity for the Kenya’s motorcycle industry to market their products in Kenya, develop effective coordination among its members in order to achieve high standards of cooperation in technical, management and other relevant matters,” said Dr Kalua.
From 2007 to date, the motorcycle industry has seen tremendous growth, from
about 16, 000 units to over 100,000 units. The Association is planning to unveil a 10-year road map to sustain market growth. The association plans to assemble 35% of motorcycle parts in Kenya to meet growing demand.
MAAK also plans to work closely with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and other government agencies to increase safety awareness and other safety initiatives to make motorcycle riding a safer and viable option.
Last year alone, the industry contributed over Ksh2.2 billion in form of direct taxes only. Through its assembly plants and distribution network, the industry offers employment opportunities to over 100,000 Kenyans. Motorbikes, especially those plying the trade popularly known as ‘boda boda’, have become an important feature in Kenya’s transport sector.
Currently, an average of eight million people ride boda bodas daily in Kenya.
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