On October 1, 2026, President William Ruto announced plans to establish new railway stations in Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau, and Taveta as part of a proposed KSh 5 billion Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension linking Voi to the Tanzanian border. The President confirmed that rail construction along the route is already making progress toward Mwakitau. This project aims to facilitate trade and regional mobility by connecting Kenya and northern Tanzania.
The proposed cross-border SGR extension will route through Voi, Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau, and Taveta before connecting directly with Tanzania. This initiative is expected to lower transit costs, boost cross-border commerce, and streamline freight and passenger movement between Kenya and northern Tanzania. President Ruto assured residents that strategic stations will be constructed along the route to facilitate the transportation of people and goods.
President Ruto officially launched the KSh 5.5 billion Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) rehabilitation effort on April 10, 2026. By July, Kenya Railways reported completing 70 percent of the initial earthworks for the metre-gauge line. The SGR initiative runs alongside a separate project to rehabilitate the 130-kilometer Voi–Taveta MGR, which had been defunct for nearly two decades.
The project is part of a larger effort to develop regional rail infrastructure. Tanzania is simultaneously advancing its own SGR network expansions, setting the stage for an integrated regional rail corridor connecting Kenya, Tanzania, and neighboring East African markets. This development is expected to enhance economic ties and trade between the two countries.
President Ruto's announcement was made during a visit to Mwatate in Taita Taveta County. Residents had previously urged him to build a railway to improve business between Kenya and Tanzania. The President stated that the rail is already underway, with some sections reaching Mwakitau. He emphasized that the project will boost regional trade and economic growth.
The construction of new railway stations in Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau, and Taveta is expected to create new economic opportunities for local communities. The project will also improve the transportation of goods and people, enhancing regional connectivity. The Kenyan government is investing heavily in infrastructure development to drive economic growth.
The KSh 5 billion SGR extension is a significant investment in Kenya's transportation infrastructure. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, creating jobs and stimulating growth. Key points include:
Key points
- The project aims to lower transit costs and boost cross-border commerce between Kenya and Tanzania.
- The SGR extension will route through Voi, Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau, and Taveta before connecting with Tanzania.
- The project runs alongside a separate effort to rehabilitate the 130-kilometer Voi–Taveta Metre Gauge Railway.
