The Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26‑kilometer CBD Rail Link Line has been completed and officially commissioned, providing a modern commuter rail connection between the SGR terminus at Miritini and Mombasa Central Business District (CBD). The project, which includes rehabilitated metre-gauge sections and a new SGR-compatible link, is fully operational and carrying passengers as of early 2026.

Commissioning and Finalization of Operations

During the commissioning event, Ruto also announced a Ksh 41 billion investment for the Port of Mombasa expansion. Also, he said that resources would be allocated to complete road projects in the county.

The Mombasa Commuter Rail Service is designed to enhance last-mile connectivity for passengers using the Madaraka Express Passenger Service, while also serving local commuters along the corridor.

Passengers  pays 50 Shillings fare charge to use the train. The train will make stops at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, Mazeras, and Mombasa CBD.

20th August 2025 – Kenya Railways announced that it has completed the construction of the $32.5 million Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link. The Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC) is currently finalizing the operationalization of the Ksh4.2B Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line. Earlier this week, Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar visited the site for an inspection. Recent images from the project show that it is complete and is soon to be unveiled. However, the project has had its ups and downs over the years since its launch in 2022. During a briefing for the National Assembly Committee on Implementation that was led by Budalangi Member of Parliament (MP), Raphael Wanjala, during an inspection tour of SGR operations in Mombasa, KRC Managing Director (MD) Philip Mainga revealed that that the railway infrastructure project is ready for launching.

16th June 2025 – The Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC) is currently finalizing the operationalization of the Ksh4.2B Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line.

During a briefing for the National Assembly Committee on Implementation that was led by Budalangi Member of Parliament (MP), Raphael Wanjala, during an inspection tour of SGR operations in Mombasa, KRC Managing Director (MD) Philip Mainga revealed that that the railway infrastructure project is ready for launching.

Also read: Kenya’s 170-Kilometer Nakuru-Nairobi Highway Construction to Commence in July

Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line Project Factsheet

Cost: Ksh4.2 Billion (approximately $32 million)

Length: 26 kilometers

Components:

• Rehabilitation of the existing Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) line to Miritini.
• Construction of a new MGR passenger station at Mombasa Terminus.
• It also entails the construction of four mini-stations at Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi.
•  A pedestrian bridge linking the SGR and MGR platforms.
• A locomotive turntable.
• Construction of a 480-meter railway bridge across the Makupa Causeway.
• Rehabilitation of the historic Mombasa Central Railway Station.

Operator: Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC)

Commencement Date

The railway infrastructure project was initiated in September of the year 2022. However, the project was subjected to delays as a result of land acquisition challenges. In what is termed as a boost for the project, The Ministry of Transport subsequently earmarked a total of Ksh1.1 billion to the National Land Commission. This funds were to be utilized in the facilitation of land acquisition for the project. Therefore, this paved way for the rehabilitation of the Mombasa Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) line to Miritini.

Once operations kick off, passengers who will be using the Madaraka Express and the seven SGR stations arriving at or departing from Mombasa will be able to link to the CBD through the MGR line.

Also read: Kenya’s Government Partners with World Bank in the 165-Kilometer Nairobi Rail Expansion Plan

Current Operational Update

Since commissioning, the line has been in full service, integrating the SGR terminus with Mombasa’s urban transit system. The project has improved travel times between the terminus and the CBD, easing congestion along key city corridors. All major construction and rehabilitation works are complete, and the rail link is actively supporting passenger traffic.

For context on Kenya’s broader railway expansion, see the$2Billion SGR Extension to Kisumu Breaks Ground in March 2026  which details the western corridor development linking Naivasha, Kisumu, and Malaba. This highlights the nationwide SGR strategy to enhance connectivity across Kenya.

The Mombasa CBD rail link complements ongoing western SGR expansion, including the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba corridor. Together, these projects demonstrate Kenya’s commitment to a comprehensive national railway network, improving passenger access, freight efficiency, and regional trade integration.

Scope of the Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line Project

Additionally, the project entails the rehabilitation of the historic Mombasa Central Railway Station and the construction of four mini-stations that will be located in Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi

Furthermore, the project involves the construction of a pedestrian bridge that connects the SGR and MGR platforms, a locomotive turntable and also a railway bridge that will boast a total length of 480 meters across the Makupa Causeway.

The commuter train will offer Mombasa residents an alternative mode of transport. This will therefore reduce the pressure that usually mounts on road transport.

Significance of the Project

This commuter rail is part of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRT) that the Ministry of Roads and Transport is implementing. Also, it entaila the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) for travelers that will enable them to move safely and efficiently.

The Managing Director affirmed that the Corporation is competitive and has been rebranded. Furthermore, he encouraged Kenyans to use rail transport so that they can experience the transformation.

Also read: $13.8 Billion Kenya-Ethiopia Railway Construction Plans Resume

Project Team: Mombasa SGR Terminus and CBD Rail Link

• China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) – Served as the main contractor responsible for construction, rehabilitation of existing metre-gauge lines, and installation of the new SGR‑compatible link.
• Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) – Acted as the implementing agency, overseeing execution, integration with national infrastructure, scheduling, commissioning and operations transition.
• Ministry of Roads and Transport – Provided policy direction, oversight and national coordination, playing a key role in approvals and regulatory compliance.
• National Land Commission – Managed land valuation, acquisition, compensation and PAPs engagement, which were critical for resolving delays and enabling construction progress.
• Mombasa County Government – Facilitated local planning approvals, permissions and community relations, ensuring integration with urban mobility frameworks.