Thousands of commuters using the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) are set to benefit from easier access to Nairobi’s central business district following plans to extend the railway from Syokimau to the city centre.
The proposed 15-kilometre extension will connect the existing SGR passenger terminus at Syokimau with Nairobi Central Station, enabling passengers to complete their journey by train without relying on road transport for the final leg into the CBD.
The project is expected to significantly improve convenience for travellers while easing congestion on roads connecting Syokimau and the city centre.
New rail link to improve commuter experience
Currently, passengers arriving at the SGR terminus in Syokimau must use buses, taxis or private vehicles to cover the roughly 20-kilometre journey into Nairobi’s CBD.
The planned extension is designed to eliminate this last-mile transport challenge by providing a seamless rail connection directly into the heart of the capital.
The move is also expected to reduce travel times and improve connectivity for both daily commuters and long-distance travellers using the SGR.
Kenya Railways seeks contractor
The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has begun the process of identifying a contractor to undertake the construction of the extension.
Once complete, the new railway line will integrate the modern Standard Gauge Railway with Nairobi Central Station, creating a direct link between the country’s newest rail infrastructure and one of its oldest transport hubs.
Boost for Nairobi’s transport network
The extension is expected to enhance integration between Kenya’s standard-gauge and metre-gauge railway systems while strengthening Nairobi’s public transport network.
It will also improve accessibility to the city centre for passengers travelling from Mombasa and other destinations served by the SGR, reducing dependence on road transport and helping ease traffic congestion.
The project forms part of broader efforts to modernise Kenya’s railway infrastructure and improve urban mobility by creating more efficient and convenient transport connections for commuters.
