Kenya Railways Unveils New Premium Class Coaches on SGR

By Judith Mwai

 

Kenya Railways Corporation proudly introduced its new premium class coaches on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) passenger trains on Wednesday, marking a significant enhancement in its service offerings.

The inaugural trip, which showcased the new premium class, hosted over 20 African ambassadors based in Nairobi. The ambassadors experienced the upgraded service on a journey from Nairobi to Mombasa, enjoying a high level of comfort and luxury.

Mr. Philip Mainga, Managing Director of Kenya Railways Corporation, extended a warm welcome to the ambassadors, stating, “You are the first passengers to travel on the maiden pre-trial launch of the premium class on our SGR. Please relax and enjoy the refreshments before dinner is served.”

 

 

In addition to the launch event, Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar revealed the government's plans to extend SGR Phase 2B from Naivasha to Kisumu. This extension, spanning 362 kilometers, will include a branch line to Kisumu Port, further enhancing Kenya’s railway infrastructure and regional connectivity.

Dr. Abraham Korir Sing’oei, Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, underscored the importance of connectivity for Africa's development. “We need an Africa that is interconnected, which is the vision of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area. Without connectivity, we cannot realize the AfCFTA,” he remarked.

The introduction of the premium class coaches aligns with Kenya Railways' broader strategy to enhance passenger comfort and service quality, reinforcing the SGR's role as a major player in the region's transport network.