Ruto launches Sh5.5 billion plan to revamp Voi-Taveta metre gauge railway

Kenyan President William Ruto has launched a KSh5.5 billion plan to rehabilitate the Voi–Mwatate–Taveta metre gauge railway (MGR), aiming to revive a key transport corridor that has been dormant for nearly two decades.

The project will involve the rehabilitation of the existing railway line and the development of an inland container depot in Voi, which is expected to strengthen regional logistics and trade efficiency.

The Voi–Taveta railway previously served as an important link between Kenya and northern Tanzania but was abandoned due to declining passenger and freight demand. Once restored, the line is expected to reconnect Mombasa with Taveta and extend through Tanzania to Moshi, Arusha, and further into the regional network.

According to the government, the revived corridor will reduce transport distances between Mombasa and inland destinations such as Burundi by approximately 300+ km, improving competitiveness for cargo movement.

The project is also expected to support the development of mineral resources in Taita Taveta County and enhance agricultural trade by providing more efficient access to export markets.

Officials emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to revitalise Kenya’s metre gauge railway network alongside the existing standard gauge railway (SGR), creating a more integrated, multi-layered rail transport system.