Kenya Railways is embarking on a transformative project to upgrade the Nairobi Commuter Rail Network, with significant support from the World Bank. This initiative, part of the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project (KUMIP), aims to revolutionize urban transportation, addressing the growing demands of Nairobi’s population while promoting sustainable and efficient public transport systems.
In a notice published on February 18, 2025, through MyGov, Kenya Railways revealed that it is seeking a loan facility of USD 670 million (approximately Ksh 86.43 billion) from the World Bank to enhance the Nairobi commuter network. The funds will be allocated to the procurement of goods, works, services, and consultations necessary for the project’s successful implementation.
The proposed improvements will center on the rehabilitation and enhancement of the track between Nairobi Central Station (NCS) and Thika, ensuring that the existing infrastructure can accommodate increasing commuter traffic. One of the primary focuses of the project is the creation of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) facilities, which will include the development of mixed-use urban areas around major stations. These TOD facilities will encourage sustainable urban growth, promoting walkability and easy access to public transport like buses and trains. Additionally, the plan will focus on improving access to the railway stations, with enhanced Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) facilities, such as pedestrian paths and bicycle lanes, and the expansion of feeder bus services. This is in line with Kenya’s broader urban mobility strategy, which aims to integrate various forms of public transport into a seamless and efficient system.
Another key feature of the project will be the acquisition of modern multiple-engine trainsets, which will increase the capacity and efficiency of the Nairobi Commuter Rail service. The government will also invest in improving the communication and signaling systems, introducing automatic fare collection systems, and upgrading traffic management infrastructure. These technological advancements will help streamline operations, reduce delays, and ensure a more convenient and reliable commuter experience.
The Nairobi Commuter Rail service, initially established in May 1992, has long been viewed as a promising alternative to road transport, particularly during times of matatu strikes. However, despite its potential, the service has faced challenges such as limited routes, outdated infrastructure, and low demand. The new upgrades aim to address these issues by modernizing the infrastructure and expanding the service to meet the needs of a growing urban population.
In addition to upgrading physical infrastructure, the government plans to digitize Kenya Railways’ services, enhancing the customer experience and improving operational efficiency. This includes developing digital platforms for ticketing, real-time information, and possibly a mobile app to track trains and allow for better communication between the railway and its passengers.
The project builds on a series of prior enhancements to the Nairobi Commuter Rail system. In 2020, the government began rehabilitating existing railway lines, modernizing stations, and upgrading the Nairobi Central Railway Station. These efforts were followed by the December 2023 expansion, which saw the introduction of a new 12.5 km line running from Riruta to Ngong, passing through areas like Karen and Embulbul. This extension is expected to serve an additional 10,000 daily passengers, easing congestion on Nairobi’s roads.
The latest developments also include plans to further expand the network, with a focus on extending the line to Kiserian and Ongata Rongai. By the end of the 2024/2025 financial year, the World Bank is set to fund the construction of an additional 58 km of railway, which will dramatically increase the number of daily commuters from 20,000 to 100,000.
As Kenya Railways continues to evaluate the viability of the project, the government is determined to improve the urban transport landscape, making it more efficient, environmentally friendly, and accessible for Nairobi residents. The success of the Nairobi Commuter Rail upgrades could serve as a model for other urban transport systems in East Africa, creating a template for sustainable mobility solutions in the region.
