Updates on the Kenya Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) 2026

Since its launch on 31 May 2017, the Kenya Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) has remained one of the country’s most significant infrastructure projects, designed to improve national connectivity and support long-term economic growth.

As of 2026, the SGR continues to operate on its completed sections, while further expansions remain in the planning and preparatory stages. Recent developments focus on future extensions, service optimisation, passenger experience improvements, and regional connectivity objectives, reflecting Kenya’s broader transport and integration strategy.

Current Operational Status of the SGR

1. The SGR is currently operational along the Mombasa-Nairobi corridor, with both passenger and freight services running regularly.
2. The Nairobi-Naivasha (Phase 2A) extension is also operational, and supports passenger movement and freight logistics in the inland corridor.
3. The Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICD) forms part of the existing corridor for freight operations and interchanges.
4. Extensions beyond Naivasha toward Kisumu and Malaba are not yet operational and remain under planning, feasibility, and financing arrangements.

Extension of the SGR (Planned: Not Yet Operational)

The Government of Kenya continues to advance preparatory work to extend the Standard Gauge Railway, enhancing regional connectivity and trade integration. These extensions are intended to link Kenya’s rail network to western Kenya and neighbouring countries; however, commercial rail operations on these sections have not commenced as of 2026.

Phase 2B (Naivasha-Kisumu)

• Planned length: approximately 262-269 kilometres
• Includes a spur connection to Kisumu Port
• Intended to improve cargo and passenger movement between central and western Kenya, supporting regional trade and economic activity around Lake Victoria

Phase 2C (Kisumu-Malaba)

• Planned length: approximately 107 kilometres
• Designed to connect Kenya’s SGR to the Uganda border at Malaba
• Aims to support East African regional rail integration once implemented

These phases remain in the feasibility, planning, and funding coordination stage, with engagement ongoing across relevant government institutions.

Fare Adjustments (Operational Section)

Kenya Railways has periodically reviewed SGR fares to balance operational sustainability and service delivery standards. Since fare levels and policies can change, passengers are advised to consult official Kenya Railways channels for the most current fare structure applicable to the operational routes.

Role of the SGR in National and Regional Connectivity

Connectivity remains central to Kenya’s economic transformation strategy. The SGR plays a critical role by:

• Supporting efficient cargo movement between the port of Mombasa and inland destinations.
• Helping reduce road congestion and logistics costs.
• Laying the groundwork for future regional rail connections within East Africa.

Once completed, planned extensions are expected to unlock agricultural, industrial, and mineral trade potential across western Kenya and neighbouring economies.

Passenger Services Enhancements 

Kenya Railways continues to focus on improving passenger convenience and service efficiency along the operational corridor. Key features include:

• Online booking platforms enable seat selection and secure electronic payments.
• Advance ticket reservations to support journey planning.
• Updated ticketing and refund policies aligned with operational guidelines.
• Continuous service reviews aimed at improving travel comfort and reliability.

Operational and Capacity Developments

To strengthen reliability and efficiency, Kenya Railways continues operational initiatives such as:

Service Management

• Ongoing efforts to manage occasional disruptions linked to operational or environmental factors.
• Emphasis on maintaining service continuity along the active corridor.

Capacity Expansion

• Plans to procure additional coaches to meet growing passenger demand on high-traffic routes.
• Infrastructure upgrades to support increased utilisation.

Value-Added and Premium Services

• Exploration of enhanced service offerings targeting higher-end passenger segments on select services.

Cargo Services and Freight Efficiency

• Continued investment in freight handling infrastructure, including inland depots and yards.
• Operational improvements aimed at supporting rising cargo volumes and logistics efficiency.

Summary

The Kenya Standard Gauge Railway continues to serve as a cornerstone of Kenya’s transport infrastructure. While core operations remain concentrated along the Mombasa-Nairobi-Naivasha corridor, planned western extensions toward Kisumu and Malaba reflect long-term ambitions for expanded capacity, improved logistics efficiency, and deeper regional integration.