Rebecca Miano Hails Sofy Unicharm East Africa Launch as Boost for Women’s Dignity and Local Manufacturing

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano, EGH, has hailed the launch of Sofy Unicharm East Africa Limited as a significant milestone in advancing women’s health, dignity and economic empowerment, while strengthening Kenya’s position as a destination for investment and local manufacturing.

Miano joined her Cabinet colleague, Investments, Trade and Industry CS Lee Kinyanjui, Principal Secretary for Correctional Services Dr. Salome Wairimu, Japanese Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Hiroshi Matsuura, and leadership teams from Toyota Tsusho, CFAO and Unicharm Corporation for the official launch of the venture.

The launch marks an important step towards local production of quality sanitary products, responding to the everyday needs of women and girls while demonstrating how strategic international partnerships can support Kenya’s industrial development.

Miano described the investment as more than a commercial undertaking, noting its potential contribution to the dignity, health and well-being of women and young girls across the region.

The decision by the corporate partners to transition from importing finished products to manufacturing sanitary products locally reflects growing opportunities to build domestic production capacity while responding to essential consumer needs.

By combining Japanese technological expertise, CFAO’s established distribution networks and an understanding of local market needs, the joint venture illustrates the potential of partnerships that bring together international investment and local development priorities.

For Kenya, such investments can contribute to industrial growth, expand manufacturing capabilities and create opportunities across production and distribution value chains. Local manufacturing can also strengthen supply chains and improve access to essential products, subject to production capacity, pricing and distribution.

Miano’s remarks also highlighted the importance of responsible private-sector investment in supporting broader national development objectives. When businesses align commercial growth with social needs, they can contribute to initiatives that promote inclusion, improve everyday welfare and expand economic opportunities.

Access to sanitary products remains an important consideration in protecting the health, dignity and participation of women and girls in education, work and community life. Investments that strengthen local supply can therefore contribute to a wider conversation about affordable access and the importance of ensuring that essential products reach those who need them.

The launch brought together government leaders, diplomatic representatives and corporate executives, underscoring the role of international cooperation in attracting investments that respond to Kenya’s development priorities.

Miano congratulated the partners on the milestone and wished them success as they embark on the venture, expressing confidence in the potential of purpose-driven enterprise to contribute to the empowerment, dignity and prosperity of communities.

The establishment of Sofy Unicharm East Africa Limited adds to the conversation on how Kenya can harness foreign investment, technology transfer and local production to strengthen its manufacturing sector while addressing practical social needs.

As the venture progresses, its wider contribution will be reflected in its ability to sustain quality local production, improve access to sanitary products and generate tangible economic and social benefits.

The launch reinforces the importance of partnerships between government and the private sector in building an investment environment where businesses can thrive while contributing meaningfully to national development.

For Miano, the occasion offered a compelling example of how commercial ambition and social responsibility can work together to advance a more inclusive and prosperous society.