Toyota dealer recalls vehicles in Kenya over defective airbags

Nairobi, Kenya - CFAO Mobility Kenya has initiated a recall of certain Toyota vehicles produced between 2001 and 2017 due to defective airbags that have caused injuries and fatalities worldwide. The Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) informed insurance company CEOs about the recall plans and the association's collaboration with CFAO Mobility.

AKI Executive Director Tom Gichuhi highlighted the dangers posed by the faulty airbags, which have detonated independently, leading to accidents, fatalities, and property damage claims.

Following a recall presentation at the Underwriting Managers’ Forum on April 17, 2026, affected vehicles were identified, and their details were shared with relevant insurance managers. AKI has called upon insurers to contribute to the recall effort by educating customers with affected vehicles and sharing their contact information with CFAO Mobility for ongoing follow-up.

Gichuhi emphasized that the recall campaign remains active and urged members to continue supporting CFAO Mobility by informing clients with affected vehicles and providing their contact details to CFAO Mobility for further assistance.

The recall specifically targets airbags manufactured by Takata, a Japanese automotive parts manufacturer. Takata filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States and Japan in 2017, owing to billions of dollars in liabilities resulting from defective airbags. These airbags have been associated with at least 17 deaths globally, as faulty inflators have deployed with excessive force, releasing metal shrapnel into vehicle cabins.

The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) in Kenya has granted permission for the sharing of affected customers' contact details to facilitate the recall process.