Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has said that the newly launched Riruta-Ngong railway line will transport at least 10,000 Kenyans daily upon its completion.
In a statement on X on Friday, December 14, Murkonen noted that the project will improve the commuting experience of thousands of Kenyans by reducing their transport cost.
“I am glad to have joined H.E. President William Ruto and DP Rigathi Gachagua in commissioning the construction of the Riruta-Ngong metre gauge railway line which on completion will be moving 10,000 Kenyans daily,” Murkomen stated.
Murkomen highlighted the prospect of residents along the Riruta-Karen-Bulbul-Ngong route saving up to 50 per cent of their transportation budget.
The CS said that beyond the economic advantages for commuters, the project is expected to generate job opportunities, ranging from skilled to unskilled positions, both directly and indirectly.
Murkomen on Nairobi Masterplan
Murkomen stressed the central vision behind the Riruta-Ngong railway line, noting its crucial role as a key element within the Nairobi Masterplan.
He said it aims to transform transport infrastructure in the Nairobi Metropolitan area, with plans to extend the line to Kiserian and back to Nairobi through Ongata Rongai.
“After we are done with the Riruta-Ngong sections, we shall extend it to Kiserian and back to Nairobi through Ongata Rongai,” Murkomen asserted.
Murkomen cited the successful rehabilitation of other meter gauge lines, including Thika-Nanyuki, Longonot-Malaba, and Nakuru-Kisumu. He said the revamped lines have significantly enhanced the movement of both people and goods.
“We have linked the Standard Gauge Railway with the Metre Gauge Railway in Naivasha, ensuring seamless movement of wagons to and from Uganda,” he added.
The CS also stated that the cargo volume has risen from 4.8 million tonnes at the beginning of the administration to 7.8 million tonnes, with expectations to surpass 8.1 million tonnes by the end of the coming year.
He further stated that goods have been transported directly from Mombasa to Mwanza, Tanzania, marking a historic achievement.
Murkomen also shared the progress of the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) project, assuring that the contractor is set to commence on-site activities in the New Year.
