Business

Unicharm and Toyota Tsusho Launch Sofy Unicharm East Africa in Kenya

By Odipo RiagaOctober 16, 2026

Unicharm and Toyota Tsusho Launch Sofy Unicharm East Africa in Kenya

On 14 October 2026, SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA LIMITED officially opened its doors in Nairobi, marking a significant step toward improving menstrual health Kenya for women and girls. The new company brings together Unicharm Corporation, Toyota Tsusho Corporation and CFAO Kenya Limited, combining Japanese innovation with local market expertise to create a Ksh 2 billion investment that will support regional growth and manufacturing. You will see the integration of product development, production, sales and marketing on the ground, with plans to expand the supply and export of sanitary products to neighboring East African markets, reinforcing local capabilities.

The SOFY brand entered Kenya in 2023 with the premium Deep Absorb product, and in January 2025 introduced a locally produced Long Lasting option designed to match the purchasing realities of Kenyan consumers. In response to feedback about cost barriers, the company launched single‑pad sachets, a format that makes menstrual health Kenya more accessible for households with tight budgets. You will also notice the strong focus on education, as the firm has partnered with JICA, UNFPA and UN Women Kenya to run school and community programs that discuss menstruation openly and reduce stigma.

Mr. Takahisa Takahara, President and CEO of Unicharm Corporation, demonstrated that elevating SOFY into the company name signals a dedication to standing beside women in East Africa and supporting their possibilities. Daigo Fujiwara, Managing Director of SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA LIMITED, noted that the venture aims to improve quality of life by addressing hygiene challenges and supporting the health and dignity of women across the region. Sustainability forms an integral part of the growth strategy, as the company will promote local production, responsible waste management and resource circulation while delivering affordable menstrual health Kenya solutions that align with the SDGs.

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