New Sh4.2 billion Mombasa Commuter Rail set to ease traffic, boost SGR link
The new service connects the Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus in Miritini to the Mombasa Central Railway Station.
Kenya Railways has finalised the Sh4.2 billion Mombasa Commuter Rail Service, a project designed to reduce traffic congestion and provide a seamless link for travellers using the Madaraka Express train to reach the coastal city’s centre.
The new service connects the Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus in Miritini to the Mombasa Central Railway Station.
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It involved the construction of new passenger stations in Miritini and Mombasa, rehabilitation of 16.6 kilometres of the metre-gauge railway, and the building of a 2.3-kilometre bridge across the Makupa Causeway.
Kenya Railways announced that two more stations will be constructed in Changamwe East and Changamwe West to expand commuter coverage.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar confirmed that safety tests have already been carried out and that passenger operations will commence soon.
“I am pleased to inform you that the project is now complete and ready for operations. Our goal is to reduce commuting time, ease road congestion, cut carbon emissions, and provide safe, reliable, and affordable transport for all,” Mohamed said during an inspection tour.
The Mombasa Commuter Rail Service will offer “Park and Ride” and “Drop and Ride” options with parking space for over 100 vehicles. It is expected to serve more than 1,000 commuters daily.
Until now, passengers disembarking at the Miritini SGR terminus, located about 15 kilometres from Mombasa town, have relied largely on taxis and matatus for last-mile travel.
Kenya Railways board chairman Abdi Bare noted that the commuter train schedule has been aligned with Madaraka Express arrivals and departures for seamless connectivity.
“Every time the Madaraka Express arrives, the Link train will be on standby to provide last-mile transport into Mombasa town. Likewise, the Link train will transport passengers from Mombasa to Miritini station to board the Express,” Bare said.
The project began in September 2022 but stalled midway due to land acquisition challenges. The Ministry of Transport later allocated Sh1.1 billion to the National Land Commission to compensate landowners along a 1.4-kilometre stretch required for the railway.
Mohamed, who was accompanied by Kenya Railways chairman Abdi Bare and Managing Director Philip Mainga, emphasised that the commuter service complements the Nairobi-Mombasa Madaraka Express by offering last-mile integration while easing pressure on Mombasa’s congested roads.
“This development represents a major milestone in the integration of rail services in Mombasa,” Abdi said, adding that it demonstrates Kenya Railways’ commitment to closing logistical gaps and enhancing passenger convenience.
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