Kenya Railways Marks 8 Years of SGR Success, Honours Partners and Loyal Passengers

Kenya Railways celebrated eight years of transformative Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) operations at the Nairobi Terminus, marking a decade since construction began and eight years since the Madaraka Express passenger and freight services were launched.

Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) CEO Philip Mainga, who played a pivotal role in the project’s rollout, reflected on SGR’s journey from conception to execution.

“I was the liaison officer during its construction from Mombasa to Nairobi. Today, we celebrate 8 years of safe, efficient, and growing operations,” he said.

SGR, completed in two phases between 2017 and 2019, has revolutionized Kenya’s transport sector. Passenger numbers have soared from 200,000 in the first year to over 2.5 million annually, while freight tonnage rose from 500,000 tonnes to 6.3 million tonnes in 2024. This year, the target is 7.7 million tonnes.

SGR Chairman Abdi Bare reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to extending the railway to Kisumu and Malaba under Phase 2B and 2C, aligning with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and regional integration goals.

China’s Ambassador to Kenya, Guo Yan, hailed the SGR as a landmark project of the Belt and Road Initiative and praised its role in boosting bilateral ties.

She highlighted achievements such as 90 Percent local workforce integration, zero wildlife pollution, and emission reductions of over 800,000 tonnes of CO₂.

During the event, eight outstanding passengers were honoured for their loyalty, including Mr. Juma, who has travelled 884 times on the Madaraka Express, and a mother who delivered a baby on board among others.

The ceremony  shows a commitment to advance SGR services through innovation, safety, and expanded regional connectivity.

By Sharon Atieno