President William Ruto has launched the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service, a new train linking the Mombasa SGR Terminus in Miritini to the city’s Central Business District (CBD).
The project was officially unveiled on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. It aims to make travel easier and cheaper for thousands of passengers using the Standard Gauge Railway.
Cheaper Fares for Travellers
Commuters will now pay only Ksh50 for the train ride from Miritini to the CBD. This is a big drop compared to other transport options.
- Matatus charge about Ksh300 for the same trip.
- Taxis ask for up to Ksh800.
“From today, this will be possible. The fare that was previously 300 shillings by matatu or 800 shillings by taxi will now be just 50 shillings,” President Ruto said during the launch.
New Stations and Stops
The commuter train will operate through a newly built station. It will also make four stops between Miritini and the CBD.
Ruto explained that the stops will allow passengers to connect easily from Miritini through Changamwe into the city centre. The service is expected to reduce congestion on Mombasa roads and save travellers valuable time.
Boost to Coast Region
The launch of the commuter service is part of a bigger plan to improve transport and grow the economy at the Coast.
On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Ruto opened the Vipingo Special Economic Zone in Kilifi. He also promised to return before December to start work on the long-awaited Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone.
A Step Forward
The Mombasa Commuter Rail Service will cut travel costs, improve mobility, and support trade in the city. The government sees it as a key step in modernising Mombasa’s transport network and boosting economic opportunities.
