Global shipping giant CMA CGM has introduced a new freight train service connecting the Port of Mombasa to Nairobi's Embakasi Inland Container Depot (ICD). This development aims to expand the company's cargo transport network and strengthen connections between Kenya's main maritime gateway and inland markets. The service was launched in partnership with the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC).
The new rail service will initially operate one train per week, with a capacity to transport 108 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per trip. The train consists of 54 wagons and will primarily carry containerized imports from Mombasa to Nairobi. This integrated shipping and rail transport option will enable customers to move goods efficiently from international markets to inland destinations.
CMA CGM's Deputy Regional Director for East Africa, Naveen Prabhu, emphasized that the initiative marks a significant milestone in the company's efforts to improve connectivity between maritime transport, ports, and inland economies. The project reflects the group's long-term commitment to Kenya and its economic development. Prabhu highlighted the importance of cooperation with the government, port and rail agencies, and customers in expanding the company's logistics services.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar noted that stronger connections between Mombasa and inland economic centers are crucial to improving Kenya's logistics chain. He described the initiative as an example of public-private cooperation in support of trade and economic growth. The launch event was attended by French Ambassador to Kenya Wadid Benaabou, KPA Chief Executive Officer William Ruto, Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga, and senior CMA CGM officials.
The new rail service is part of CMA CGM's efforts to develop inland transport solutions and complement its maritime operations. The company is also supporting skills development through a renewed partnership with Bandari Maritime Academy to train Kenyan professionals for the maritime and logistics sectors. This initiative aims to enhance the country's logistics capabilities and support economic growth.
CMA CGM's foundation has also been actively involved in community development projects in Kenya. The foundation partnered with the Kenyan Red Cross in 2023 to develop the I.O.Me001 Innovation Centre in Mombasa, focusing on entrepreneurship and coding. The centre brought together 15 institutions and over 1,200 students in 2025, with plans for further expansion.
CMA CGM operates in 184 countries, employing approximately 170,000 people globally. The company serves over 420 ports across five continents with a fleet of more than 700 vessels. In 2025, it transported over 24 million TEUs, and its logistics subsidiary, CEVA Logistics, handled 15 million shipments during the year. The group aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Key points
- CMA CGM launches a dedicated freight train service between Mombasa and Nairobi's Embakasi Inland Container Depot to expand inland cargo capacity.
- The new rail service will initially operate one train per week, with a capacity to transport 108 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per trip.
- The initiative aims to strengthen connectivity between Kenya's main maritime gateway and inland markets, supporting trade and economic growth.
