Importing a car can be a cost-effective way to get a quality vehicle, but it requires careful planning and prior research to avoid getting duped by rouge importers.

The Jumbo Africa Auto Auction in Naivasha is a one-stop shop seeking to mitigate reliance on car bazaars or the cumbersome online ordering process.

Located along Mai Mahiu-Suswa road next to Naivasha inland container depot, approximately 112 Km from Nakuru, is the first Japanese car auction in Africa.

Zahid Khan, General Manager at the Africa Auto Auction yard.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

Speaking to Mtaa Wangu at the Auction Yard General Manager, Zahid Khan said that to take part in the auction one should be a member.

"To become a member one has to fill a membership form and pay an annual membership fee which has been discounted from Sh.100,000 annually. However, we have discounted this amount to Sh. 10,000 up to September," he says.

Khan adds that the auction provides a one-stop shop for the Kenya Bureau of Statistics and Kenya Revenue Authority, ensuring all requirements can be met on-site.

A section of the fully computerized auction room at the Africa Auto Auction yard in Maai Mahiu.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

The auction boasts of a 200-seater, fully computerized auction room where bidders can participate in an online bid.

The facility can accommodate up to 1,000 vehicles.

The Africa Auto Auction yard in Maai Mahiu can hold up to 1000 cars.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

"When bidding, one can visit the yard and be part of the auction from the auction room. You can also opt to participate in the auction from the comfort of your home at an extra fee of Sh. 3,000," he says.

Khan reveals that the yard has two auctions per month where the 1st and 15th of every month are designed for dealers while the 20th of every month is designed for individuals.

He reveals that post-auction, buyers have the option to pay the full amount or 20 percent of the vehicle's price upfront, and clear the remaining balance within 10 days.

Some of the cars displayed at the Africa Auto Auction yard in Mai Mahiu on May 28, 2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

He notes that after payment, one has to wait for three weeks for clearance and the ownership transfer process before the vehicle is collected.

Khan also reveals that registered members have the option to purchase vehicles at a fixed price without participating in the auction.

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Muthoni Wanjiku