By M, KNA
Global air conditioning manufacturer Daikin Industries has inaugurated its liaison office in Nairobi, marking its entry into the African market, with a focus on sustainable cooling solutions and skills development.
Speaking during the launch, Daikin India chairman and Managing Director (MD), kanwaljeet Jawa, who is also a board member of Daikin Industries Limited, noted that the move represents a historic step in the company’s global growth strategy.
“This is not just the inauguration of an office. It is the beginning of a shared journey between Africa, India and Japan,” stated Jawa, adding that Africa is not a future market but a present force.
With rapid urbanization, infrastructure growth and a young population, he observed that the continent is ready to leapfrog into a sustainable and energy-efficient future, just like India.
Additionally, Jawa revealed that Daikin intends to replicate in Africa the model that has transformed India into a global export hub for air conditioning systems.
“Our aim is not merely to sell products but to build trust, create local value and grow together with the communities we serve,” he echoed.
Further, Jawa announced that the Nairobi office is expected to act as a hub for East Africa, positioning Kenya as a key gateway for Daikin’s expansion across the continent, explaining that Kenya’s youthful workforce, favourable business environment and strategic location made it an ideal entry point.
“We found English language proficiency, a young ambitious population, and a dynamic environment. These are strengths that align perfectly with Daikin’s global vision,” he highlighted, adding that Kenya will serve as a stepping stone into other African markets such as Nigeria.
Founded in Osaka, Japan in 1924, Daikin has grown to become the world’s largest air conditioning manufacturer, operating in more than 170 countries with a workforce of 99,000 and an annual turnover exceeding USD 29 billion.
The company is recognized globally for its innovation in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC) technologies.
During the event, a video presentation highlighted Daikin’s 100-year journey, from pioneering Japan’s first packaged air conditioners in the 1950s to launching advanced variable refrigerant flow systems in the 1980s.
In addition, the company has invested over USD 300 million in research and development and continues to lead in sustainable technologies.
Similarly, Jawa noted that India’s experience serves as a blueprint for Daikin’s African strategy, where he disclosed that since entering the Indian market in 2000, the company has established three major manufacturing facilities and numerous research centres, positioning India as both a domestic market leader and a global export hub.
“Made in India, made for the world is a story we want to replicate here. Africa’s growth trajectory mirrors India’s journey two decades ago,” he asserted.
Asked about job creation, Jawa assured that Daikin’s African operations will focus on training and empowering local youth.
Likewise, he revealed that the Company has already partnered with Don Bosco Technical Institute in Nairobi to establish a centre of excellence for HVAC training.
Jawa further maintained that Daikin globally, has a vision not just on business growth but also on sustainability and skills development.
“In India, we have created jobs for more than 150,000 people directly in the last five years. We see Kenya’s youthful population as a strength and intend to create similar opportunities here,” he reported.
The MD cited the partnership between Japan, India and Africa as a representation of a unique blend of innovation, scale and resilience describing that it combines Kenya’s youthful energy, India’s manufacturing capabilities, and Japan’s technological expertise.
“Together, we can redefine the global south, not as a region waiting to catch up, but as one ready to lead,” urged Jawa.
Notably, he reiterated that Daikin’s Nairobi office is part of a wider strategy to align with global sustainability goals stressing that the company is committed to supporting Africa’s transition to energy-efficient cooling systems while contributing to climate change mitigation.
“Our Environmental Vision 2050 aligns with Africa’s aspirations for sustainable development. We are here to deliver solutions that balance comfort, energy efficiency and environmental responsibility,” he reassured.
Principally, Jawa reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment stating, “This is not about Daikin alone. It is about building bridges between businesses and people. The journey we begin in Nairobi will be a landmark chapter in Africa’s growth story and Daikin’s mission to create a sustainable tomorrow”.
Also in attendance were Daikin Global board members, Omori Junichi, Paul wanjohi and Shogo Ando, who underscored the importance the company places on Africa.
Meanwhile, industry observers have noted that Daikin’s entry will not only enhance competition in Kenya’s HVAC sector, but also open new opportunities for skills transfer, job creation and technology adoption.