In a significant move toward improving economic ties in East Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan have reaffirmed their commitment to complete the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network. This network will connect Mombasa to Juba and extend to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
During a meeting in Nairobi, Kenya’s Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen met with his counterparts from Uganda and South Sudan. They discussed their timelines and financing plans for the multi-billion-shilling regional project. The three countries are focusing on coordination to ensure that no part of the corridor falls behind. This will help avoid the inefficiencies of separate national networks.
Murkomen highlighted that the SGR is more than just a transport project. It will serve as a driver for regional trade and promote climate-friendly growth. Kenya plans to finance its segment using money from the 2% Railway Development Levy, which brings in about KSh 40 billion each year. They are also looking for extra support from international lenders. Meanwhile, Uganda is working on the Kampala–Malaba line so it can connect with Kenya’s section at the border.
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The project aims to move cargo traffic from road to rail. This shift will lower logistics costs, reduce accidents, and cut carbon emissions. At present, only 20% of cargo arriving at the Port of Mombasa is transported by rail, a number the three countries hope to double in the coming years.
In addition to cargo, the partners are also exploring e-mobility solutions and passenger services that will rely on renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal. Murkomen mentioned that this change could reduce fuel imports and support cleaner transport in the region.
Once finished, the SGR will turn the Northern Corridor into a smooth trade route, lower business costs, and open up new markets throughout East and Central Africa. This will be a key step toward creating a truly connected regional economy.
