Ruto commissions Mombasa commuter railway service
The Mombasa Commuter Railway Service marks a bold step in transforming the mode of transport by linking the city centre with the SGR terminus at Miritini and other stops, easing congestion and offering Kenyans a more reliable transport system.
The Sh 6 billion Mombasa Commuter Railway Service was launched this week in a move expected to transform urban transport in the coastal city. The train service billed as a game changer in the transport industry, was launched by President William Ruto on Tuesday. The project provides a seamless link between the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Terminus at Miritini and Mombasa city centre.
Speaking at Miritini during the launch, the President said the Mombasa Commuter Railway Service marks a bold step in transforming the mode of transport by linking the city centre with the SGR terminus at Miritini and other stops, easing congestion and offering Kenyans a more reliable transport system.
The president pointed out that the train service will reduce travel time, ease congestion, and provide a safer and more affordable alternative to road transport for residents and other Kenyans. “This is part of our government’s strategy to expand the rail network from Naivasha to Malaba through Kisumu and across the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport corridor, securing Kenya’s place as the gateway to Africa,” said the head of state.
“The commissioning of the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service is more than a local convenience. It is a symbol of our past, a solution for the present, and a promise for the future. With this service, Kilometre Zero once again becomes the epicentre of Kenya’s journey and not just the starting point of our history, but the launchpad of our modern economic destiny,” President Ruto added while highlighting the historical significance of the location where the Kenya-Uganda Railway started in 1896.
President William Ruto unveils a plaque at the launch of the Mombasa Commuter Railway
Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir said the project is a strategic move to ease pressure on Mombasa’s road network while enhancing last-mile connectivity for commuters. “This project enhances last-mile connectivity and links directly with the Nairobi-Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway. It will facilitate economic inclusion by connecting underserved communities to the city’s commercial hubs,” he said.
On his part, Kenya Railways Board Chairperson Abdi Bare Duale said the new service will halve travel time and significantly reduce costs. “This commuter rail we are will cut the travel time between the city of Mombasa to the SGR Terminus by half, and it will also reduce the cost of travelling to and from the city from Sh1,000 by taxi and Sh400 by matatu to Sh50 between the two stations,” he said.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir welcomed the project, calling it a strategic economic move that aligns with the county’s urban development and decongestion plan. “This isn’t just a transport milestone. It opens up suburban areas, boosts productivity, and supports our vision of a connected and inclusive city,” he said.
The service train will also offer travelers a 'Park and Ride' option that will allow motorists to park their vehicles and take the train to and from the terminus, and the 'Drop and Ride' option for users of public service vehicles.
The Sh4.2 billion project features a newly constructed bridge across Kibarani creek to the modern, well-equipped stations in Mombasa town and Miritini and a refurbished 16.6 kilometre track network that enhances service reliability and safety. To further improve on the service, two additional stations will be built in Changamwe West and Changamwe East. Residents along the railway corridor in Shimanzi, Changamwe, and Mazeras are expected to reap the benefits of improved transport links and arising economic opportunities.