By Eddah Waithaka
Vivo Energy Kenya has extended its Mechanic Training Programme to Lodwar, equipping 90 local mechanics with technical skills to support the town’s emergence as a key commercial and transport hub in Northern Kenya.
The company, which markets and distributes Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in the country, conducted the session as its 23rd training of 2026, following earlier engagements in Mombasa, Voi, Grogon, Ruiru, Embu, Migori, Rongo, Kabarnet and Malaba.
The inclusion of Lodwar, the largest town in north-western Kenya, reflects the growing importance of emerging economic centres beyond Kenya’s major cities. In recent years, Lodwar has witnessed increased commercial activity, new hotels, retail developments, and investments in roads and urban infrastructure.
The wider Turkana economy is also expanding. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics’ 2025 Gross County Product report, Turkana County’s economy was valued at approximately KSh178.4 billion in 2024 at current prices, representing 14.6 per cent growth compared to the previous year.
As trade, construction, and commercial activity expand, reliable mobility becomes increasingly important. Motorcycles, tuk-tuks, pickups, and commercial vehicles support the movement of people, goods, and services, underpinning the livelihoods of traders, transport operators, and small businesses. Mechanics are therefore essential to keeping the growing economy moving.
The Mechanic Training Programme reflects the company’s commitment to making technical development accessible to mechanics regardless of their location. Mechanics are among the most influential voices when it comes to vehicle maintenance and lubricant selection.
As towns like Lodwar grow, the need for skilled mechanics becomes even more important. With access to technical knowledge and skills, mechanics can serve customers better and grow their businesses. Bringing this training programme to Turkana demonstrates Vivo Energy Kenya’s commitment to leaving no mechanic behind.
Also Read : https://africawatchnews.co.ke/shell-v-power-tanker-leads-major-petroleum-discharge-at-mombasa-port/
The training course covers engine care, lubricant selection, product application, and appropriate vehicle maintenance practices. It also addresses growing concerns over counterfeit and illicit lubricants in Kenya’s automotive aftermarket.
Counterfeit and illicit lubricants remain a significant challenge in Kenya, reducing engine protection, increasing wear and repair costs, and shortening vehicle lifespan. For transport operators, including boda boda and tuk-tuk riders, vehicle breakdowns can result in lost income, while poor maintenance may also undermine road safety.
Mechanics are an important part of the solution as they can help customers identify suitable lubricants, recognise genuine products, and adopt better maintenance practices. The programme also reinforces the importance of using quality fuels and purchasing Shell lubricants from trusted outlets.
Lewis Boinett, Director at Tess Enterprises Limited, the official distributor of Shell lubricants in the North Rift region, said the partnership was helping bridge technical knowledge gaps while improving access to genuine products. He said, “With this training, mechanics will be more informed and better equipped to offer customers quality services using the right products”.
For participating mechanics, the training offered an opportunity to update their knowledge and improve service delivery. Josephat Wafula Okwako, another beneficiary who’s worked for 15 years as a mechanic highlighted challenges common in the profession today, said, “The Mechanic Training Programme helped us learn and understand how to service modern vehicles. The knowledge I have gained will make my work easier because I now have a clearer understanding of which products are suitable for different vehicles and applications. Whether I am carrying out an engine repair or routine servicing, I can make more informed decisions about the lubricants I use. Ultimately, this benefits the customer because they receive the right service and their vehicles are maintained to the standards they deserve”.
As Lodwar continues to grow, developing the skills of the professionals who keep its vehicles moving is an important investment in the wider economy. Through its national mechanic training programme, Vivo Energy Kenya is reinforcing its commitment to technical excellence, consumer education, and leaving no mechanic behind.
