Cynthia Masibo
Mantrac Kenya, the sole authorised dealer for Caterpillar, commemorated 100 years of Caterpillar’s global and local presence with a landmark celebration in Nairobi. The event gathered senior government officials, diplomats, Caterpillar and Mantrac executives, customers, partners, and media, highlighting Caterpillar’s century-long partnership in Kenya’s growth story.
The ceremony was moderated by renowned journalist Tom Mboya. Mohamed Ibrahim, Managing Director of Mantrac Kenya, applauded Caterpillar’s pivotal role in infrastructure development, affirming Mantrac’s continued commitment to power Kenya’s progress. He announced a sponsorship plan to support 1,000 pupils over five years through classroom construction, water supply, and power provision.
Nigel Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of Mantrac Group, emphasized Caterpillar’s journey from machinery to building dreams and realities in Kenya spanning roads, farms, power for communities, and digital infrastructure. Lavanya Ajesh, Caterpillar’s Vice President for Distribution in Africa, underscored Caterpillar’s commitment to responsible business, investing over $24 million since 2015 in community support via the Caterpillar Foundation.
A highlight of the event was a panel featuring top executives including PS Charles Hinga, Principal Secretary for Housing, and 14-year-old innovator Samuel Omochi. Samuel impressed attendees by driving a homemade backhoe loader crafted from scrap, showcasing Kenyan youth innovation. PS Hinga pledged support to Samuel’s family with dignified housing, tying Samuel’s determination to Kenya’s affordable housing mission. He noted the government’s achievement of delivering over 200,000 housing units and efforts to raise a billion dollars for further housing development. He also shared the government is investing in schools and hospitals near affordable housing projects to ensure access to essential social amenities.
Mantrac’s Mohamed Ibrahim reiterated that their mission extends beyond machinery to improving livelihoods, citing infrastructure projects like Kisumu Road that empower local communities. Mantrac committed to supporting Samuel with tuition, internships, and enrolment in Caterpillar’s Technicians for the World programme.
Lavanya Ajesh reflected on Caterpillar’s global footprint and future innovation through AI and digitalisation, while Frédérique Duranton, Mantrac Group CFO, highlighted local talent development and financial support initiatives. A testimonial from a Caterpillar machine operator celebrated Samuel’s drive as emblematic of a hopeful future.
The occasion also showcased Caterpillar’s historical machinery, cultural performances, networking, and recognitions for loyal customers and long-serving staff. A raffle with prizes including a generator and a trip to Malaga, Spain, capped the memorable event.
Caterpillar’s centennial celebration affirmed the company’s integral role in Kenya’s infrastructure, community upliftment, and Vision 2030 ambitions. It marked not just 100 years of machines, but a century of shaping Kenya’s physical and economic landscape through partnership, innovation, and people empowerment.
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