Nairobi — The COMESA Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a consumer alert over safety risks linked to recalled vehicle models supplied by Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Corporation across the regional market.

In a notice dated April 24, the regulator warned that some of the affected vehicles--initially recalled in South Africa--may have been imported into the 21-member Common Market, exposing motorists and dealers to potential risks.

"The Commission warns the general public in the Common Market of the dangers related to the recalled vehicles," it said, urging caution when purchasing the models.

Ford has recalled 438 units of its 2025 Ranger XLT and Wildtrak models manufactured between February and March 2025 due to a fault in the exhaust gas recirculation valve that could lead to loss of engine power at low speeds.

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An additional 26 units of the Ford Puma models (2023-2024) are affected after concerns that corrective software linked to the restraint control module may not have been properly installed, potentially compromising passenger safety.

Meanwhile, Toyota has recalled 58 Hino 700 series trucks sold in 2025 due to a defect in the fuel pump housing that could result in cracks and fuel leakage under high load conditions.

The Commission noted that while the vehicles were distributed in South Africa, cross-border imports mean they could be in circulation within COMESA countries.

Motorists have been advised to contact authorised dealers to confirm whether their vehicles are affected and arrange repairs at no cost.

The regulator said it is working with manufacturers and member states to trace affected units and ensure consumers are protected.