Kenya Railways has officially launched construction works on the Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), marking the beginning of the country’s next major phase of railway expansion.
The corporation announced on Wednesday that construction activities are already underway in Narok County, one of the key regions along the planned railway corridor. The project follows its official launch by President William Ruto in March and is expected to strengthen Kenya’s transport network while improving cargo movement to western Kenya and neighbouring countries.
Kenya Railways described the start of construction as a significant milestone in the implementation of one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects.
Narok becomes key section of the railway
According to the corporation, Narok County will host approximately 100 kilometres of the new railway line, making it one of the most important sections of the corridor.
Officials said the project is expected to stimulate local economies by creating employment opportunities during construction while opening up new business and investment prospects once completed.
Kenya Railways added that local communities have welcomed the development, expressing optimism about the economic benefits the railway is expected to bring to the region.
Landowners urged to engage compensation process
As construction progresses, the corporation has called on landowners whose properties fall within the railway corridor to work closely with the National Land Commission (NLC) during the land acquisition and compensation process.
Managing Director Philip Mainga encouraged affected residents to raise any concerns through the established legal channels to ensure the exercise remains transparent and fair.
The corporation maintained that collaboration between communities and government agencies will help facilitate smooth implementation of the project while protecting the rights of affected property owners.
Land verification continues in Kisumu
The construction update comes as Kenya Railways continues preparations for the proposed Kisumu SGR Terminus through an ongoing land acquisition exercise being conducted jointly with the National Land Commission.
Field teams are currently carrying out ground verification to identify and document all land parcels and developments that may be affected by the project.
According to Kenya Railways, the verification exercise is intended to ensure compensation is based on accurate information while promoting transparency throughout the acquisition process.
Officials said engaging directly with landowners allows the project team to validate records on the ground and address concerns before construction advances to subsequent phases.
The Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba SGR extension is expected to enhance regional trade by linking Kenya’s railway network to neighbouring countries while improving freight transport from the Port of Mombasa to western Kenya and the East African hinterland.
