NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has provided an update on the Riruta-Ngong commuter railway line, saying construction is progressing steadily and remains on course for completion within the next 18 months.
Launched by President William Ruto in December 2023, the meter-gauge railway is part of Kenya’s ambitious plan to modernize its transport infrastructure and ease urban congestion in Nairobi and its surroundings.
The line is a flagship component of Nairobi’s Transport Master Plan and aligns with the country’s long-term Vision 2030 development blueprint.
According to a statement by interior PS DR. Raymond Omollo, the railway is already stimulating the local economy through job creation and will soon offer a cheaper, more efficient option for daily commuters.
“This project is not only a game-changer in urban mobility but also a significant boost to livelihoods in the Nairobi Metropolitan Region,” the statement said.
The Government has continued to prioritize strategic investments in transport infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth and urban mobility.Commissioned by H.E President @WilliamsRuto in December 2023, the Riruta-Ngong Commuter Meter Gauge Railway (MGR), is one such
Route, Reach and Impact
Once completed, the commuter rail will branch off from the existing meter gauge line at Riruta, near Lenana School, and serve four key stations: Riruta, Karen, Bulbul, and Ngong.
The line is expected to carry at least 10,000 passengers daily, cutting travel time between Ngong and Nairobi from nearly two hours to just 30 minutes during peak hours.
Transport costs are also expected to drop by as much as 50%, potentially easing the financial burden on households that rely on daily travel across the capital.
A standout feature of the project is a three-kilometre bridge stretching from the Southern Bypass to Karen Shopping Centre.
The bridge is designed to improve safety and streamline connectivity for passengers.
Future Expansion to Kiserian and Rongai
The government also confirmed plans to extend the line to Kiserian and Ongata Rongai in a later phase, a move aimed at supporting the rapidly expanding Nairobi urban corridor and improving regional access.
With Nairobi grappling with growing population pressure and worsening traffic gridlocks, the Riruta-Ngong line is being positioned as a sustainable and long-term fix to commuter woes.
