A proposed legislation aimed at breaking the longstanding monopoly held by Kenya Railways. This bill, currently undergoing public participation across the country, seeks to usher in a new era of competition and efficiency within the railways sub-sector by inviting private entities to join the industry.
The Railways Bill 2024 proposes the establishment of a Railways Regulatory Authority tasked with overseeing and regulating the railways industry. Jonathan Kilelo, head of railway safety at Kenya Railways, highlighted that the new authority will be responsible for issuing operating licenses to both individuals and entities that meet the required standards. This move is intended to level the playing field and introduce competition, which is expected to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency in the sector.
According to Kilelo, the new regulatory framework will allow private companies to procure their own trains and operate them under licenses issued by the Railways Regulatory Authority. Additionally, these companies will have access to existing railway infrastructure and the opportunity to construct their own railway lines, enabling them to connect their facilities directly to the rail network. This initiative is anticipated to provide a significant boost to the logistics and transportation sectors by facilitating more efficient movement of goods and reducing operational bottlenecks.
The bill also proposes the strengthening of the Railway Training Institute (RTI) to support the influx of new players in the industry. The RTI will focus on equipping individuals with essential skills required for various roles within the railways sector. This includes training in mechanical engineering, infrastructure maintenance, signaling, telecommunication, freight management, and customer service. By bolstering the capabilities of the RTI, the government aims to ensure that as private entities enter the market, there will be a pool of skilled professionals ready to support their operations.
The proposed legislation has received a mixed reception from the public. While many stakeholders welcome the move towards deregulation and the potential for improved services, there are calls for amendments to address specific concerns. One major point of contention is the requirement that private individuals wishing to enter the railway sector must have five years of experience working within the industry. Critics argue that this stipulation could deter potential investors who may bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas but lack experience with the state-owned Kenya Railways.
During a public participation session held at Nidhamia Hall in Malindi, Tomicky Randu, a retired telecommunications engineer, proposed further modernization of Kenya’s rail infrastructure. Randu suggested the introduction of electric and underground trains, which he believes could significantly enhance the speed and efficiency of transportation. His comments reflect a broader desire among the public for a more advanced and competitive rail system that aligns with global standards.
The Railways Bill 2024 represents a pivotal moment for Kenya’s railway sector, promising to inject new dynamism into an industry that has long been dominated by a single player. By opening the doors to private investment and modernizing regulatory frameworks, the government aims to create a more competitive, efficient, and forward-looking rail network. As the bill continues to undergo scrutiny and public consultation, it is clear that the proposed changes will have far-reaching implications for the future of rail transport in Kenya.
