Simba Corporation, a diversified business group with interests in motor vehicle distribution, hospitality and real estate, has sign a deal to sell French maker’s Renault Vehicles in 7 African countries.

“In a joint venture with Grupo Salvador, Simba will be distributing Renault cars in 7 African Countries,” said a Director at Simba Corporation, Dinesh Kotecha. The partners will trade under the name Simba Corp.

The company will start distribution in Kenya by September before extending reach to Malawi, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Mozambique, Uganda and Tanzania. This provides Renault, France’s largest automobile maker, a comprehensive access to East Africa’s car market.

Simba started selling Chinese car brand Geely in Kenya this year. This offered Simba the opportunity to penetrate the budget car market which is largely dominated by Toyota.

In 2012, Simba acquired dealership from Oriel limited to sell Mahindra SUV and Pick Up trucks and in 2008. It took over the franchise for BMW from Mashariki Motors.

Simba is seeking to further expand its portfolio of dealership by sealing a deal for Nissan SUV and Pick Up. Nissan is currently competing against companies such as RMA Kenya that also wants to bag the popular brand.

The deal between Simba and Renault comes up after Toyota in 2012 bought DT Dobie who was the distributor of Renault and Nissan brands in Kenya.

It is expected that this dealership will raise Simba’s market share to more than 20 percent. The distributor’s share as at the first quarter stood at 17 percent.