Ruto and Museveni set to launch Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba SGR
By Kiprono Keileb, March 16, 2026Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has said Kenya is preparing for an infrastructure milestone as the government moves closer to launching the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway extension.
In a statement shared on X on Monday, March 16, 2026, CS Chirchir said the project is expected to strengthen regional trade and improve transport connections across East Africa. Chirchir added that preparations are underway ahead of the planned groundbreaking of the railway project.
“Kenya stands on the brink of a historic milestone as we prepare for the groundbreaking of the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (369 km), a transformative project that will redefine transport and regional trade,” the statement reads.
The CS explained that the railway extension will play a crucial role in linking Kenya’s transport network with neighbouring countries and strengthening trade routes across the region.
“The Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba SGR extension will connect Kenya’s rail network to Uganda through Malaba, strengthening the Northern Corridor, a vital gateway for trade across East and Central Africa,” the statement reads.
Chirchir also said he had visited key sites where early preparations are already ongoing as the government readies for the official launch ceremony expected to be led by William Ruto and Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“Today, I inspected the ongoing preparation works at Kibos in Kisumu County and Motunyi in Narok County ahead of the launch by President William Ruto and President Kaguta Museveni,” the statement reads.
The project is expected to significantly improve the movement of goods between Kenya and its neighbours while supporting economic growth in counties along the railway corridor. Leaders believe the railway will also reduce pressure on road transport while lowering the cost of moving goods across the region.
Chirchir emphasised that the project reflects a broader vision by Kenya and Uganda to strengthen cooperation and deepen regional economic integration through shared infrastructure development.
“The project underscores the shared commitment of Kenya and Uganda to deepen regional integration, strengthen infrastructure connectivity, and boost economic cooperation for the prosperity of our region,” the statement reads.