President William Ruto has officially launched the revitalisation of the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway, marking a major step in Kenya’s efforts to strengthen regional trade and transport infrastructure.
The project was launched at Mariwenyi in Taita-Taveta County and is expected to be completed early next year.
Ruto: Railway to Transform Regional Logistics
Speaking during the launch, the President highlighted the strategic importance of the project in positioning Voi as a key trade hub.
“The restoration of the Voi-Mwatate railway, including a dry port in Voi, will position the town as a strategic logistics hub linking the Port of Mombasa and the Taveta/Holili One-Stop Border Post along the Kenya-Tanzania border,” Ruto said.
Reviving a Historic Trade Route
The Head of State noted that the KSh5.5 billion investment will revive a once-thriving regional corridor connecting multiple East and Central African countries.
“The KSh5.5 billion initiative will revive the once vibrant Mombasa-Voi-Taveta-Moshi-Arusha-Singida-Bujumbura trade route, reducing the distance between Mombasa and Bujumbura by 358km,” he stated.
Boost for Trade and Local Economy
Ruto emphasized that the railway will play a critical role in easing movement across borders while unlocking economic potential within the region.
“The railway will ease the movement of people and goods across the three countries, unlocking Taita-Taveta County’s mining potential and boosting the import and export of agricultural products such as sisal and maize in the region,” he added.
Project Timeline
The revitalisation of the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway is expected to be completed early next year, forming part of a broader infrastructure agenda aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic growth.
The project underscores Kenya’s ambition to strengthen its position as a regional logistics hub while improving livelihoods through modern transport systems.
