Granting the rights, Japan's Isuzu Motors Ltd said it intended to use GM's success and established network in the region to expand the sale of Isuzu vehicles. GM is the sole assembler and distributor for the Isuzu brand in East and Central Africa, and Somalia brings to 11 the number of countries under the GM banner. Targeted for the Somalia market initially are the Isuzu minibuses. Penetration of the market will be done through the existing NGO network and fleet transporters. GM Kenya's export manager, Mr Daniel Maundu, however expressed security concerns in the Somalia market.
Penetration poses enormous challenges with respect to security and lack of a proper banking system.
Last year, the company sold 460 units as exports, comprising 30 per cent of total output.