Philip Mainga’s name has become synonymous with the transformation and modernization of Kenya’s railway system. From his early days as a management trainee at Kenya Railways to his current role as the Managing Director, Mainga has built a career rooted in passion, dedication, and an unyielding belief in the potential of the country’s rail infrastructure. His journey, marked by perseverance and a wealth of hands-on experience, highlights a man deeply committed to making rail transport a cornerstone of Kenya’s economic growth.
Joining Kenya Railways in 1997 at just 28 years old, Mainga stepped into the organization with a dream of shaping the future of the rail network. Armed with an economics degree and further training in project management and rail systems from institutions such as Harvard University, Mainga brought both academic and practical skills to his role. Over the years, he held multiple positions within Kenya Railways — from assistant planning officer to procurement officer, then general manager, before rising to the helm as Managing Director. His work took him beyond Kenyan borders, with training stints in China, the United Kingdom, and the United States, all contributing to his in-depth understanding of global rail systems.
Mainga’s leadership came at a time of both challenge and opportunity. He recalls a particularly difficult period in the early 2000s when employees went a year without pay, and the corporation was teetering on collapse. His loyalty and passion for railways kept him committed, even during the uncertain days of the Rift Valley Railways concession when he found himself effectively jobless. His decision to stay the course bore fruit when he was reinstated in 2008, paving the way for a new era of railway rejuvenation.
Under Mainga’s stewardship, Kenya Railways has experienced significant milestones. One of the most pivotal was the reclaiming of operations from the private sector, followed by the extensive rehabilitation of the Metre Gauge Railway. Regions such as Nanyuki, Butere, Kisumu, and Nyahururu have once again been connected by rail, reinvigorating trade and passenger movement. In Nairobi, the commuter rail system has expanded from a single daily train to nine, moving thousands of people each day and easing congestion in the capital.
Perhaps the crown jewel of Mainga’s achievements is his role in the implementation and expansion of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). His involvement included participation in key negotiations with China and overseeing improvements in both passenger and freight services. Today, SGR is a critical economic artery, with ambitions to move over 8.2 million tonnes of cargo and generate over Sh24 billion in revenue this financial year.
Looking to the future, Mainga is leading the push to extend SGR to Kisumu and Malaba, with environmental assessments and relocation plans already underway. He is also spearheading the development of Nairobi Railway City, a transformative urban project aimed at integrating transport modes and revitalizing Nairobi’s cityscape. Furthermore, Kenya Railways under his leadership is reclaiming illegally acquired land, recovering nearly 1,000 acres across the country.
In a country grappling with power stability, Mainga advocates caution before electrifying the railway, emphasizing the need for a dedicated power grid. Additionally, his efforts have extended to Lake Victoria, where Kenya Railways operates vessels like MV Uhuru I and II, enhancing regional trade with Uganda and Tanzania.
Philip Mainga’s story is one of unwavering commitment and strategic vision. As he continues to drive Kenya’s railway renaissance, his leadership stands as a testament to what determination, expertise, and a clear vision can achieve.
