Kenya Railways hikes Madaraka Express fares over high fuel prices

Madaraka Express Train at a terminal. [File,Standard]

Kenya Railways has increased Madaraka Express passenger and commuter train fare prices effective January 1, 2024.

The railway service company has attributed the increase to the effects of high fuel prices.

According to a statement released by the management on Wednesday, November 1, the transport cost of travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa will be Sh1,500, up from the initial Sh1,000 for the economy class.

Business class passengers travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa will be parting with Sh 4 500 when the changes are effected.

“This increase is informed by changes in the energy and petroleum sector where fuel prices have significantly increased thus affecting the cost of our operations,” the statement reads in part.

“The new fares come into effect on January 1, 2024. Customers making advance purchases for the Madaraka Express Passenger Service will notice the adjusted fares as of November 1, 2023, to take into account the advance ticket purchasing window of 60 days,”

The changes will affect the Madaraka Express Passenger Service as well as the Commuter Service, Nairobi Commuter Rail Service, Kisumu Safari Train and Nanyuki Safari Train.

Travelling from Nairobi to Rongai or Ngong will cost Sh130 from the current Sh100 while travelling from the city to Mai Mahiu or Suswa will cost Sh250.