NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Roads and Transport has introduced a new bill to allow private operators to use Kenya’s railway network.
Should the Railways Bill 2024, presently undergoing public participation, become law, private businesses operating in the railway sector could use the nation’s railway infrastructure and be permitted to participate in the country’s railway network expansion.
According to the Transport Ministry, the planned amendments are intended to “open access” for other private operators to the government-monopolised railway infrastructure.
The ministry also aims to improve service delivery efficiency in the railway industry, which last underwent reforms in 2005.
“This measure aims to implement a new system for managing the nation’s time railways,” a legal officer from the Ministry, Brenda Mwango, spoke during a public participation session in Nyeri Town.
What are the benefits of the Railways Bill 2024
In her own words, the officer continued, “One of the benefits that the bill will bring to the sector is that it will open the system so that anybody who, for instance, may want to construct a railway line can make an application and do it.”
Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) handles all tasks related to the administration, running, and controlling the railroads.
However, the Bill proposes the separation of the operation aspects from the sector.
The KRC would be responsible for building, maintaining, and establishing fees for the railways’ operating aspects.
Additionally, it will advise the Cabinet Secretary on national train transportation policy. This reorganisation aims to improve service delivery and streamline operations.
The Railway Regulatory Authority, on the other hand, would concentrate on regulatory monitoring. Its responsibilities include licensing and registering railway operators, training infrastructure managers, and establishing national safety guidelines for rail operations.
Where can the public submit their views
Kenya Railways oversees the industry’s adherence to strict safety and operating requirements, which is why the Authority was created.
Additionally, the Bill suggests that the Railways Training Institute (RTI) be given more Authority by becoming a semi-autonomous organisation within the KRC. To develop a professional workforce for the industry, the RTI will concentrate on training and research in rail transportation while providing certificates and diplomas.
“We invite the public to provide their thoughts on the Bill. By September 13th, written contributions may be emailed to the Transport Ministry at railwaybill@transport.go.ke, railbill@krc.co.ke, or ps@transport.go.ke,” the ministry announced.
If passed, the Railways Bill 2024 is expected to bring about several substantial improvements to Kenya’s railway sector, opening up new avenues for private investment and enhancing the general effectiveness and security of the train system.
