Nairobi — Toyota Tusho Corporation, which fully owns Toyota East Africa, has announced plans to invest millions of shillings in geothermal and wind power generating plants.

Toyota East Africa chairman Dennis Awori on Friday said that although the company is known for manufacturing motor vehicles, it plans the ratio of its automotive business to non-automotive to be 50:50 by 2015.

He told reporters in Nairobi that the power shortage facing the country called for both the government and private organisations to offer solutions. "We expect to be making substantial investment within a few months," Mr Awori said.

"As for the amount, I will not be able to disclosure but given that we are talking about Toyota Tusho Corporation, a $67 billion turnover company, this will be a sizeable investment."

The company plans to invest in geothermal, wind power and biofuel production. It will also invest in coffee and nuts production, Mr Awori said.

Toyota said the 2009 Total Motorshow will be held from August 28 and 30 at Jockey Club, Nairobi. "This offers visitors an opportunity to see and compare makes and models, providers and industry players at one place," said Toyota East Africa managing director Tomonori Umehara.