Absa Bank Kenya has entered into a strategic partnership with Japan-based global vehicle exporter World Navi Co. Ltd in a move aimed at reshaping how Kenyans import vehicles.
The collaboration, implemented through Absa’s Asset-Based Finance (ABF) offering, brings together vehicle sourcing and financing into a unified solution designed to improve accessibility, efficiency, and financial flexibility for individual and business customers.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Nairobi, Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Renato D’souza noted that the partnership responds to a growing shift in consumer behaviour, with more Kenyans opting to import vehicles directly from Japan.
“A growing number of Kenyans are opting to import vehicles directly from Japan due to the availability of high-quality units, competitive pricing, and a wider range of models. However, the process has traditionally been complex, often involving high upfront costs, fluctuating shipping expenses, and extended delivery timelines,” he said.
He added that the new arrangement seeks to address these challenges by merging financing and sourcing into a single streamlined experience.
“Through this partnership, we are seeking to address these challenges by offering an integrated solution that combines trusted vehicle sourcing with tailored financing support,” D’souza said.
Under the model, customers will be able to access import financing covering key upfront expenses such as vehicle purchase costs and shipping fees.
The structure is designed to ease pressure on working capital while enabling individuals and businesses to acquire vehicles without significant initial outlays.
World Navi Managing Director Yoshifumi Sawada described the collaboration as a milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy and a step toward redefining the vehicle importation experience.
“This partnership not only expands access to high-quality vehicles for individuals, SMEs, and corporates, but also sets a new standard for the industry by integrating financing and supply into one streamlined solution,” Mr. Sawada noted.
He added that the collaboration prioritises reliability, transparency, and value while making the import process more predictable and efficient for Kenyan customers.
Beyond financing, customers will benefit from access to inspected, quality-assured vehicles sourced through World Navi’s global network.
Each unit is subject to rigorous checks, including physical inspections by Japanese engineers, verification of genuine mileage, and confirmation of accident-free status. Vehicles will also come with a 90-day engine and transmission warranty.
The integrated process is expected to shorten turnaround times significantly, with priority shipping and coordinated logistics from Japan to Kenya reducing delays commonly associated with traditional import channels.
Local support services in Nairobi and Mombasa will further facilitate clearing, logistics, and vehicle handover.
Absa’s Asset-Based Finance offering includes competitive financing structures such as up to 95 percent financing for general motor vehicle units, 90 per cent for Chinese and Indian models, and up to 100 percent loan-to-value financing for personal vehicles valued below Sh6 million, repayable over a period of up to 72 months.
School transport operators can also access financing of up to Sh10 million for buses.
Customers will additionally benefit from bundled insurance through Insurance Premium Financing (IPF) without facility fees, as well as an extra 10 percent working capital facility to support business operations.
The package further includes premium service elements such as VVIP transaction handling, pre-shipment coordination, and value-added delivery benefits, including a full tank of fuel upon handover.
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