President William Ruto has launched a new commuter rail service that connects the Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus to the city centre. The service is expected to transform how residents and visitors move in and out of the coastal city.
Faster and Safer Travel
Speaking on Tuesday, September 17, President Ruto said the project will ease traffic and improve transport.
“With this new service, journeys will be faster, safer, and more predictable. It will cut commuting time between Mombasa town and the SGR terminal, reduce road gridlocks, and lower transport costs,” Ruto stated.
The rail will serve stations at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, Mazeras, and the Mombasa CBD. These stops are expected to ease congestion while helping thousands of daily commuters save time.
A Link With History
The launch took place at Kilometre Zero, a site with great historical value. This is where the Kenya-Uganda Railway began nearly 130 years ago.
“The so-called Lunatic Express started here. It carried the promise of trade and integration, reaching Kisumu in 1901 and Kampala in 1931,” the President noted.
Serving 4,000 Passengers Daily
The government has rehabilitated 13.8 kilometres of the metre gauge railway from Kilometre Zero to Miritini and added a 2.8-kilometre link to the SGR. This link will serve up to 4,000 passengers daily.
According to Ruto, the project offers a reliable “first and last mile” connection. It will make the Madaraka Express more accessible while easing pressure on Mombasa roads.
“This link matters because it improves commuting, reduces congestion, and makes Mombasa a better gateway city,” he added.
