By Patrick Chiriba

Kenya Railways has unveiled a new five-year (2023 – 2027) strategic plan with goals to revolutionize the country's rail transport sector.

The plan, launched in Mombasa on Friday by Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, focuses on network expansion, operational efficiency, and market share growth.

The key strategic issues in the plan include rail capacity and associated infrastructure, and market penetration.

Achievements and new projects

Abdi Duale, Chairman of the Board of Directors, highlighted the corporation's achievements since the last strategic plan, including the revamping of the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) network, the resumption of marine haulage services, and a significant increase in freight tonnage transported by rail.

Abdi Duale, Chairman, Board of Directors outlining the corporation's achievements and upcoming projects (Photo: Kenya Railways/X)

“There has been a significant increase in the rail output at the Port of Mombasa from 4% in 2017, to 26% in 2022. During this period, freight haulage increased from 1.73 million tonnes to 7.16 million tonnes for both MGR and SGR while passenger numbers rose from 3.1 million to 5.8 million,” Abdi said.

The chairman also announced the launch of several new projects to enhance efficiency, including rehabilitating key MGR lines and establishing a new commuter service from Miritini to Mombasa Island.

“I urge members and staff to dedicate themselves to the successful implementation of this strategic plan, because it’s only through our collective effort that we can achieve the desired results, and positive socio-economic impact for our country,” he added.  

Focus on freight and passenger growth

Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga highlighted the plan's targets for significant growth in both freight and passenger transport, saying they aim to move over 12 million tonnes of cargo by 2027.

MD Philip Mainga highlighting the goals of the strategic plan. (Photo: Kenya Railways/X)

“We are targeting by the year 2027 that will be able to do 11.4 million tonnes for SGR and around 1.3 million tonnes for MGR. That will give us the target throughput for Mombasa at 42%.,” said Mainga.

He added: “If we can do that, we’ll be able to evacuate 50% of the cargo that comes through the port of Mombasa.”

The MD also announced the introduction of a new passenger class, launching in July this year, alongside the continued development of commuter rail services in Kenya.

This "special class," as Mainga described it, will offer unparalleled comfort, exceeding any current service in the country. It boasts features designed to allow passengers to sleep, work, and enjoy themselves during their journeys.

Government backs vision and plan.

The government has expressed strong support for the Kenya Railways five-year strategic plan.

CS Kipchumba Murkomen delivering his keynote address at the official launch. (Photo: Kipchumba Murkomen/X)

“The Government is committed to extending the SGR from Naivasha to Malaba and beyond to enhance the competitiveness of the Northern transport corridor,” said Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen.

The CS noted the government's commitment to collaborating with regional partners to facilitate the SGR extension and unlock trade opportunities in East and Central Africa.

“We will collaborate with the Interstate Ministerial Committee on the SGR Cluster to explore viable financial options to ensure that SGR extends from Malaba through Kasese in Uganda and finally Kisangani, DRC, as a way of boosting regional trade,” Murkomen stated.

Murkomen also encouraged management and staff to work together to meet the plan's objectives, which he said will guide the implementation of key areas in rail transport over the next five years.

The Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport Mohamed Daghar highlighted the plan's commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce.

PS Mohamed Daghar delivering his remarks at the launch. (Photo: Mohamed Daghar/X)

“Each objective serves as a cornerstone toward realizing the overarching vision of a vibrant and resilient railway ecosystem. Together, we are paving way for a brighter future for Kenya's transportation landscape," he said.

Looking Ahead

The launch of the Kenya Railways Strategic Plan marks a significant step towards a more robust and efficient rail sector in Kenya. The ambitious targets and focus on regional integration position Kenya as a key player in facilitating trade within East and Central Africa.

The plan's success hinges on effective implementation and collaboration between Kenya Railways, the government, and regional stakeholders.