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A rehabilitated railway linking Miritini SGR station to Mombasa’s CBD will allow passengers to travel for Sh50, ease congestion and revive the coastal city’s economy, though matatu operators worry about lost business.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Final ridership targets after full rollout.
Long-term integration with matatu routes and city transit plans.
Security measures for stations and rolling stock.
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.
Ridership growth in first six months.
Impact on Mombasa CBD economy and SGR passenger volumes.
County government reforms for urban security and city planning.
