SGR deal President Ruto signed in China

Ruto was on a four-day state visit to China, where he discussed various funding options for the railway project.

by WILLIAM WANYOIKE

Infographics25 April 2025 - 14:03

In Summary

Kenya is gearing up to start construction of the Naivasha-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway as early as July, following an agreement between President William Ruto and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The two leaders met to discuss a new funding model for the new railway line, which will connect Naivasha to Malaba, passing through several counties including Narok, Bomet, Kericho and Kisumu.

President Ruto was on a four-day state visit to China, where he discussed various funding options for the railway project, which has a budget of Sh654 billion.

This project is part of Kenya's broader strategy to enhance transportation infrastructure and connectivity within the region.

The Naivasha-Kisumu section, known as Phase 2B of the SGR, will stretch 262.3km and will include an 8.9km branch line leading to the proposed Kisumu port. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir announced that the railway will feature 25 stations, including 15 that will be opened initially, while 10 will be reserved for future use.