The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has announced the completion of the Sh4.2 billion Mombasa SGR Terminus and Central Business District (CBD) Link Line Project, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s transport infrastructure. The 26-kilometre line, which connects the Miritini Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus to the historic Mombasa Central Railway Station, is now ready for commissioning.
KRC Managing Director Philip Mainga, while briefing the National Assembly Committee on Implementation during an inspection tour, confirmed that the long-awaited project is set for launch. Initiated in September 2022, the project encountered delays primarily due to land acquisition challenges, which were resolved after the Ministry of Transport allocated Sh1.1 billion to the National Land Commission.
The link line will enable passengers using the Madaraka Express and the seven SGR stations to seamlessly access the Mombasa CBD via the rehabilitated Metre Gauge Railway (MGR). The project also includes the restoration of the historic Mombasa Central Station, the construction of mini-stations in Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi, as well as key infrastructure like a 480-metre railway bridge across the Makupa Causeway and a pedestrian bridge linking the SGR and MGR platforms.
This development is part of the government’s broader Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) strategy, which includes commuter rail and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems aimed at easing urban congestion and enhancing transport efficiency.
Committee Chair Raphael Wanjala praised KRC’s freight and passenger operations, noting that over 15.3 million passengers and 39.78 million tonnes of cargo have been transported since the Madaraka Express launched eight years ago. He urged the Corporation to increase daily train trips from 14 to 18 to maximize its potential and boost regional trade.
Wanjala also refuted claims that the Port of Mombasa was mortgaged for the SGR loan, affirming KRC’s financial independence and ability to repay its debt.
Other MPs present commended the project’s progress and called for continued government support to expand rail infrastructure to the Malaba border, strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional transport hub
