CFAO Mobility Kenya has appointed a liquidator to wind up DT Dobie, marking the final chapter for one of Kenya’s most iconic automotive brands.
The move comes more than two years after DT Dobie transferred its business assets to its parent company, CFAO Motors Kenya.
Merger and Restructuring
The liquidation follows CFAO Group’s 2023 internal restructuring, which merged DT Dobie’s operations with CFAO Motors Kenya. The consolidation brought together two of Kenya’s oldest and most respected automotive players under one roof.
Toyota Tsusho Corporation, which fully acquired CFAO in 2016, said the merger aimed to streamline its African mobility operations.
End of an Era
Founded in 1949 by British army officer David T. Dobie, DT Dobie was the official dealer of Mercedes-Benz in East Africa for decades. It also held franchises for Nissan, Suzuki, Maruti, and Jeep.
The brand’s exit follows a High Court ruling dated August 15, 2025, confirming the company’s liquidation and the appointment of Mark Gakuru as official liquidator.
“Creditors of the company are required on or before September 15 to file full particulars of their claims by submitting Proof of Debts (Form No.5) via eCitizen,” said Gakuru in a public notice.
Creditors and Asset Disposal
The liquidator will oversee the sale of DT Dobie’s remaining assets to settle outstanding debts. Creditors who fail to file claims by the deadline risk exclusion from any distributions.
“In default thereof, they may be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved,” the notice added.
Continuity Under CFAO Motors Kenya
While DT Dobie’s corporate identity is being retired, its services and brand partnerships continue under CFAO Motors Kenya, led by Managing Director Arvinder Reel. The company now operates two divisions:
- Toyota & Yamaha Division – Headed by Joshua Anya
- Multi-Brand & Equipment Division – Led by Chris Ndala
CFAO Motors Kenya has 36 branches nationwide and continues to offer sales and servicing for Mercedes-Benz and other global brands previously under DT Dobie.
“The restructuring combined the heritage and expertise of two respected automotive players. CFAO Mobility Kenya broadened its portfolio to include globally recognized brands,” CFAO said in a statement.
Industry Context
DT Dobie’s exit follows the January 2025 closure of CMC Motors, which ended operations in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania after over 40 years.
