Mombasa Commuter Rail Set to Transform Coastal Transport

Mombasa, Kenya — 2025-09-17 12:00 EAT. A newly rehabilitated 13.8 km metre-gauge railway connecting the Miritini SGR terminus to Mombasa’s central business district (CBD) is poised to revolutionise transport in the coastal city, offering cheap, seamless travel while easing congestion and revitalising the urban economy.

The Latest

• Cost: Sh6 billion rehabilitation project.

• Fare: Sh50 per trip, compared with Sh350–1,000 taxi fares

• Commissioning: Scheduled for Sept 17 by President William Ruto.

Context in Brief

• 2.8 km spur into the CBD with stations at Mombasa Island, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, and Miritini

• Three daily trips aligned with SGR arrivals, expandable based on demand

• Integrates with SGR Madaraka Express, reducing reliance on road transport.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Salim Mbarak, Matatu Owners Association: Operators will adapt to reduced trips by focusing on CBD pickupsDr Sam Ikwaye, Tourism Officials: Predicts tourism growth through better access to city attractions

• Hotelier Groups: Urge city authorities to address security and waste management for maximum benefits

• Philip Mainga, Kenya Railways MD: Capacity to grow from 1,000 to 4,000 passengers daily with investment

Evidence & Data

• 13.8 km rehabilitation + 2.8 km CBD spur.

• Locomotive turning table and new rail bridge built to protect marine ecosystems

• Project complements Dongo Kundu Bypass for regional logistics.

Risks and Implications

• Transport: Cuts commuting costs, eases road congestion.

• Economy: Revives Mombasa CBD; boosts logistics & tourism sectors.

• Environment: Promotes eco-friendly travel; safeguards tidal flows via new rail bridge.

What We Don’t Know

• Final ridership targets after full rollout.

• Long-term integration with matatu routes and city transit plans.

• Security measures for stations and rolling stock.

Timeline

• Pre-2025: Rail line underutilised; SGR commuters rely on road transport.

• 2025-09-17: Launch of commuter service by President Ruto.

• Future: Possible frequency and capacity expansion with rising demand.

What to Watch

• Ridership growth in first six months.

• Impact on Mombasa CBD economy and SGR passenger volumes.

• County government reforms for urban security and city planning.