Japanese automaker Honda Motor Co. says it plans to establish a production facility in Kenya by 2028 to manufacture Rising Sand, a new road construction material made from desert sand, in a move aimed at addressing Africa persistent infrastructure challenges.
Honda said the project will be led by PathAhead Co., Ltd., a startup created under its IGNITION new business initiative focused on innovative building materials.
According to the company, Rising Sand is the world first artificial aggregate produced from desert sand, engineered to provide consistent quality and durability for use in asphalt and concrete.
Africa infrastructure gap remains significant. The World Bank estimates that only a small share of roads across the continent are paved, contributing to high transport costs and limited connectivity.
Honda said traditional aggregates such as natural sand and crushed stone often vary in quality depending on their source. The company noted that Rising Sand is designed to eliminate this inconsistency by offering uniform composition and performance.
Kenya central to production strategy
Honda identified Kenya as a strategic base for its manufacturing operations, citing its position as a regional hub in East Africa.
The company plans to construct a production plant that will supply construction companies across the continent. Mass production is expected to begin in 2028 following a phased testing process.
PathAhead will begin demonstration testing in Kenya in 2027 before expanding trials to Tanzania and South Africa.
The testing phase will assess durability, workability and consistency under different environmental conditions, including climate and traffic variations.
Honda said the innovation uses proprietary technology to convert fine desert sand into high hardness aggregate suitable for road paving, concrete and foundational layers.
The company added that local sourcing of raw materials will help reduce costs and improve sustainability by using resources that are widely available across the region.
The initiative reflects a broader strategy to expand into infrastructure solutions as demand for reliable road networks grows across Africa.
Honda said it aims to build a stable supply system through local production to support long term infrastructure development.
The announcement comes as Kenya continues to attract investment in manufacturing and construction sectors aimed at boosting local production.
Bamburi Cement recently signed an agreement with Sinoma CBMI Construction Co., Ltd. to build a clinker production plant in Kwale County.
The facility is expected to increase cement output and support infrastructure development while incorporating environmentally sustainable technology.
William Ruto said the government will continue to support investments that promote value addition, job creation and industrial growth.
He noted that the cement industry plays a central role in economic development, supporting projects such as roads, dams and energy infrastructure.
Honda entry into the infrastructure materials sector highlights a growing trend of companies diversifying into new areas to meet global demand.
If successful, Rising Sand could provide a scalable solution to improve road construction across Africa while reducing reliance on inconsistent materials.
The project also reinforces Kenya position as a regional manufacturing hub attracting international investment in key sectors.