Kenya Railways Poised to Revive Freight Services on Key Route

By Bruno Aero Family Media Staff Writer

Kenya Railways Corporation is set to resume freight operations on the Uplands-Kijabe-Longonot corridor, following completion of rehabilitation works on the damaged railway line. The route, which was severely affected by heavy rains in April 2024, has undergone successful test rides, confirming its safety and operational readiness. ¹ ²

The Railways corporation Managing Director Eng, Philip Maingi emphasize and applaude the Chinese contractor and he further appreciate the good work  They have put on track with the  current undertaking slope protection works to enhance long-term stability and safety along the route. Once operational, the corridor is expected to play a critical role in easing transport between Mombasa and the Nyanza Region, as well as neighboring countries including Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. 

The reopening of the route is also expected to reduce pressure on roads, cut transport costs, and restore confidence in rail as a dependable backbone for trade and travel across the region. This development comes a month after the corporation announced the resumption of the Kisumu Safari Train, which had been out of operation for nearly a year.

The corridor will also boost regional trade, benefiting traders in western Kenya and neighboring countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. Kenya Railways Managing Director Eng, Philip Mainga emphasized that the development restores confidence in the corporation's recovery efforts and signals renewed momentum for rail transport serving Kenya and the wider region.