Kenya Railways has introduced a vehicle freight service on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), providing an alternative to road haulage for transporting vehicles between Mombasa and Nairobi. The service, unveiled at the Nairobi Inland Container Depot, marks an expansion of rail freight operations beyond containers and bulk cargo. This new service aims to offer a safer, faster, and more cost-effective option for businesses moving vehicles in large numbers.
The inaugural consignment was transported in partnership with vehicle dealer Autobarn East Africa, which plans to move about 700 vehicles monthly from Mombasa to Nairobi using the service. Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga stated that the service followed trials conducted since last year. He expressed excitement about the new development, saying it presents a significant opportunity for growth in the railway business.
Vehicles will be transported using specialised freight wagons, each with a capacity of six cars. The arrangement is expected to ease the movement of imported vehicles from the Port of Mombasa to dealerships and distribution centres in Nairobi and other destinations. This development is anticipated to reduce the number of vehicles making lengthy journeys on highways, thereby enhancing road safety.
The service will significantly reduce transit time between Mombasa and Nairobi to about eight hours, compared to more than a day by road. According to Mainga, rail transport will give businesses an alternative to relying entirely on long-distance road haulage while preserving the condition of vehicles during transit. This is because road transportation often exposes vehicles to dirt and possible dents.
Kenya Railways is also eyeing the regional market, targeting vehicle importers and traders dealing with neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi, Uganda, and Tanzania. The corporation seeks to expand its freight business and encourage more players in the motor vehicle industry to take up the service.
Beyond commercial freight, the service will be open to holidaymakers travelling between Nairobi, Naivasha, and Mombasa. Travellers can have their personal vehicles transported by rail and collect them at their destination, avoiding the need to drive the entire distance. This option could help reduce fatigue among motorists undertaking long-distance journeys, potentially contributing to efforts to curb road accidents.
The launch of the vehicle freight service is part of Kenya Railways' efforts to diversify its services and increase the use of the SGR for passenger and freight transport. Mainga urged importers and clearing agents to work with the corporation as it seeks to expand its freight business. The service is expected to benefit both businesses and individuals by providing a more efficient and reliable means of transporting vehicles.
Key points
- The service will transport vehicles in about eight hours, offering dealers and importers an alternative to road haulage.
- Vehicles will be transported using specialised freight wagons, each with a capacity of six cars.
- The service will be open to holidaymakers travelling between Nairobi, Naivasha, and Mombasa.
