Kenya Railways is finalizing the construction of a new railway link connecting the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Mombasa Terminus in Miritini to the Me
Kenya Railways is finalizing the construction of a new railway link connecting the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Mombasa Terminus in Miritini to the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) Mombasa Central Railway Station within the city’s Central Business District (CBD).
This 17-kilometer link includes stops at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, and Mombasa Central Station. Once operational, it will facilitate easier access between the SGR terminus and Mombasa’s CBD, benefiting residents, tourists, and commuters traveling to and from Mombasa.
The project, initially slated for completion by May 2024, faced delays primarily due to challenges in land acquisition, stalling progress at approximately 65% completion. To address this, the government allocated Ksh 1.1 billion for land compensation to facilitate the rehabilitation of the Mombasa Metre Gauge Railway to Miritini.
The total project cost is estimated at Ksh 4.2 billion, covering the construction of a new MGR from Miritini Station, its connection to the existing railway, and the rehabilitation of the old MGR to ensure seamless travel from Miritini Station to Mombasa Island.
Boost in ridership
This service is similar to the train link operating between Nairobi Central Station and Nairobi Terminus, aiming to enhance commuter convenience and boost passenger numbers on the SGR. In 2018, the SGR handled 1.6 million passengers and 5 million tonnes of freight. However, in late 2024, there was a notable decline in passenger numbers, with a drop of 105,782 from 281,683 in August to 175,901 in September, resulting in a revenue decrease of Ksh 144 million during the same period.
Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga emphasized the project’s significance, stating, “We are looking to operationalize the Link train for Mombasa County soon. Once operational, residents, tourists, and train enthusiasts traveling to Mombasa will be able to use the Link train. This train will ease access not only to Mombasa Terminus and Mombasa CBD but also to the areas in between these destinations.”
The new link is expected to enhance commuter convenience and potentially boost passenger numbers on the SGR, addressing previous declines in ridership.