Counties push for revival of Nairobi-Nanyuki railway

Plans are underway to revive Nairobi-Nanyuki metre gauge railway.

According to Governor Ndiritu Muriithi (pictured), the move will enable distributors supply fuel to central and northern Kenya at a lower cost.

"Talks are at an advanced stage between Kenya Railways and fuel distributors and we believe it will lead to operations of the railway," said Mr Muriithi.

A month ago, county executives for transport, from Mount Kenya region, held a meeting with officials from Kenya Railways to discuss the issue.

Talks to revive the railway were initiated by governors from central region in November 2017.

The initial plan was that each county would contribute Sh100 million to start off the project.

It is however not clear if all the devolved units kept their pledge towards the project that is estimated to cost Sh25 billion.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga said his county had not contributed because there was a feeling that it was not a well-thought out proposal.

"We felt the Sh100 million that each county was to contribute was too little to do the job, however discussions on the matter are at an advanced stage and are being handled by Central Kenya Economic Bloc.

The railway is one of the bloc's priority projects. The bloc is composed of 10 counties.

"Kenya Railways has shown commitment towards the project and we expect major funding from the national government," said Muriithi.

The revival of the railway is expected to open up Mount Kenya region. Once revived, traders and farmers will easily and cost-effectively transport their products. 

Once it is rehabilitated and operationalised, it is also expected to be a source of revenue for the region.