On November 21, Uganda reached a significant milestone in its quest for economic transformation and regional integration with the official inauguration of the Eastern Line of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). This 272-kilometer railway will connect the country’s capital, Kampala, to Malaba on the Kenyan border, marking a pivotal moment for Uganda’s infrastructure development. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in Tororo district, with President Yoweri Museveni leading the celebrations and emphasizing the critical role the railway will play in the country’s future.
In his address at the ceremony, President Museveni described the SGR project as a cornerstone for Uganda’s economic growth. He stressed that the railway would not only improve transportation efficiency but would also serve as a catalyst for long-term regional cooperation. This project is part of a broader vision to enhance Uganda’s regional trade links and create a more robust and sustainable economy. The construction contract, valued at €2.7 billion, was awarded to the Turkish construction firm Yapı Merkezi, following the signing of an agreement on October 14. The contract covers the development of a 1,435 mm gauge electrified line with high-standard specifications, including UIC60 rails, a 25-tonne axle load, and a design speed of 120 km/h. The completion of the line is expected within 48 months.
One of the key aspects of the project is the Ugandan government’s commitment to fostering local economic development. A stipulation in the contract ensures that 40% of the project’s total value will be directed to domestic suppliers. This move is expected to create numerous local business opportunities and contribute to building Uganda’s industrial capacity. In his remarks, Turkish Ambassador to Uganda Fatih Ak expressed his country’s enthusiasm for supporting Uganda’s economic transformation through this project, highlighting its potential to stimulate growth across the region.
Looking forward, the SGR project will have a regional dimension, with Uganda coordinating closely with neighboring Kenya. In January 2025, Kenya will begin work on its section of the railway line, which will connect to the Ugandan line at Malaba. Both countries have synchronized their project timelines to ensure seamless rail movement between Kampala and Mombasa, providing faster and more efficient transport of goods.
President Museveni has long been critical of the inefficiencies within Uganda’s current transport system, particularly the overcrowded roads that cause delays and contribute to rising traffic congestion. The SGR, he emphasized, will provide a much-needed solution to these problems. Rail transport is expected to significantly reduce the cost of moving goods across the region. For example, transporting a 20-foot container from Mombasa to Kampala is projected to be 50% cheaper, with transit time reduced from 14 days to just 24 hours.
The construction of the SGR is also expected to create over 150,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting the local labor market and reducing road maintenance costs. Additionally, towns along the railway’s route are set to experience revitalization as trade, tourism, and other economic activities increase. The Ugandan government has also outlined an ambitious long-term vision for the SGR network, with plans for an expansive system that will connect not only to Kenya but also to South Sudan, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Future lines include the Northern line from Tororo to Gulu and Nimule, the Western line to Bihanga, Kasese, and Mpondwe, and the Southern line to Mirama Hills.
To ensure smooth transition and improved services, the government is also rehabilitating the existing Malaba-Kampala metre-gauge line, complementing the development of the new SGR network. This strategic move will ensure continued railway service availability as Uganda embraces its new, modern rail infrastructure.
Ultimately, the SGR Eastern Line project represents far more than just an infrastructure upgrade. It signals Uganda’s commitment to its long-term development goals and its vision of becoming a key player in East Africa’s economic integration. With this railway, Uganda is laying the groundwork for a more connected, prosperous future for its people and the region at large.
