By Michelle Ndaga
President William Samoei Ruto on Tuesday commissioned the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service at the new Mombasa Railway Station, marking a major step in improving urban mobility at the Coast. The Head of State also joined passengers for the inaugural ride from Mombasa station to the new Miritini station.
Speaking at the launch, President Ruto said the project is part of the Kenya Railways Master Plan, which outlines modernization of the national railway system. The plan includes expanding commuter services in Mombasa and Nairobi, upgrading metre-gauge lines, and integrating them with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
“What we are launching today is therefore a strategic piece of a much larger national network designed to connect cities, ports, markets, and communities,” President Ruto noted.
Mombasa Governor Abdi Nasir welcomed the development, praising Kenya Railways for the initiative, which he said will ease transport challenges for residents and boost the city’s economic vibrancy.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the service will provide a first- and last-mile connection for rail users traveling into and out of Mombasa, while offering a safe, reliable, and affordable alternative for residents.
The Mombasa Commuter Rail is expected to significantly ease road congestion, cut travel time, and support trade and tourism in the region. It adds to the government’s broader infrastructure agenda aimed at delivering efficient transport solutions and promoting regional integration.
