In recent events, the spectacle of Mt. Kenya MPs joining Deputy President William Ruto to inaugurate an auto auction in Naivasha has stirred mixed reactions among the region’s business community, particularly those involved in car sales and importation. This occasion, once seen as a moment of economic promise, now casts a shadow over the aspirations of local entrepreneurs.
During the electoral campaigns, promises were made that the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) would terminate in lands owned by President Uhuru Kenyatta, luring many to believe in a future of economic prosperity centered around the area. Known as a visionary, Uhuru had indeed gazetted the land as a public-owned special economic zone, envisioning an inland container depot (ICD) and an industrial aggregation zone for Nakuru County. Plans were set in motion, attracting pledges from over 100 foreign companies eager to establish factories and manufacturing points, including prestigious names like the Danish Brewing Company.
The strategic linkage of the SGR with the Meter Gauge Railway promised easier movement of railway cargo to Kisumu and Uganda, presenting a boon for businesses importing goods outside Nairobi and neighboring regions. The potential seemed limitless, with prospects for growth under an Azimio government poised to expand the SGR to Kisumu and Malaba, optimizing logistical efficiencies and regional integration.
However, these hopes have been dashed. Instead of pursuing these developmental plans, Deputy President Ruto has opted to lease out spaces within the area to companies dealing in finished products rather than manufacturing. The recent inauguration of the Africa Auto Auction at the Port, a foreign-owned facility specializing in Japanese car auctions, exemplifies this shift. By offering imported cars at lower prices due to tax incentives and favorable conditions, it undermines local car dealers struggling under high taxation regimes.
Moreover, the optics of Ruto’s personal acquisition of a yellow electric hatchback and a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon to “promote” these foreign interests highlight a stark contrast. Meanwhile, Mt. Kenya MPs, including notable figures like John Kj Kiarie, appear content, symbolically applauding these actions while riding the coattails of political leadership.
In conclusion, the promises made during campaigns have not materialized as expected, leaving Mt. Kenya’s car importation businesses grappling with harsh economic realities. The disillusionment felt among the electorate reflects a broader discontent with political rhetoric that fails to align with tangible outcomes on the ground. As the region navigates these challenges, the path forward demands a reevaluation of economic strategies and a renewed commitment to empowering local industries against the backdrop of global competition and changing economic landscapes.
