Kenya’s first automobile arrived in 1903 during British colonial rule. Australian road engineer George Wilson imported the De Dion Bouton car from France through the Mombasa Port. At the time, the model was one of the most popular in the world and became a status symbol and engineering marvel in East Africa. Wilson was among the civil engineers tasked with constructing highways from Mombasa to Mumias.
The car featured a one-cylinder engine and costly maintenance. Its unique design required passengers to sit in the front facing the driver, who sat at the rear. Despite its significance, Wilson faced multiple challenges. He did not know how to drive initially and relied on a manual from the French company. Fuel was scarce as there were no petrol stations, forcing him to carry jerrycans strapped to the car.
Additionally, roads were unsuitable for vehicles, making travel difficult. It took Wilson 26 years to complete his first road trip from Mombasa to Nairobi, by which time the railway was already in use. The trip in 1929 marked a milestone in Kenya’s transport history, symbolising the beginning of the country’s technological journey despite early struggles.
By Kenyans