By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, April 20, 2026 - Absa Bank Kenya has entered into a partnership with World Navi Co. Ltd in an effort to streamline vehicle importation for Kenyan customers.
The partnership, which was launched on Monday, will enable customers to directly import vehicles from Japan through World Navi while accessing structured asset financing from Absa Bank.
Customers will be able to access import financing that covers key upfront costs, including vehicle purchase and shipping expenses.
The partnership will also offer an importation process that is backed by rigorous quality assurance through physical inspections by Japanese engineers, certified genuine mileage, and guaranteed accident-free vehicles, as well as a 90-day warranty on engine and transmission.
ABSA Bank managing director Renato D’souza said that the partnership will address the long-standing challenges faced by customers seeking to import vehicles from the Japanese market.
“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,” D’souza said.
“However, the process has traditionally been complex, often involving high upfront costs, fluctuating shipping expenses, and extended delivery timelines,” he added.
On his part, World Navi Co. Ltd Managing Director Yoshifumi Sawada said that the move will expand access to high-quality vehicles for individuals, SMEs, and corporates as well as set a new standard for the industry by integrating financing and supply into one solution.
“This partnership with Absa Bank Kenya represents a defining step for World Navi as we bring together our global vehicle sourcing expertise with Absa’s strong asset financing capabilities to deliver a seamless, trusted, and customer-centric importation experience,” Sawada.
The announcement comes days after the bank entered into a similar partnership with Trans Africa Motors to support businesses in scaling their transport, logistics, and mobility operations in the country.
The bank said that the partnership will benefit businesses seeking to upgrade or expand their commercial vehicle fleets by offering flexible financing that preserves working capital and avoids heavy upfront payments.
Customers of the bank will access tailored asset solutions to finance up to 90 percent payable over 72 months to facilitate the acquisition of select truck models.
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