President William Ruto has officially commissioned the commuter Rail Service in Mombasa County at the newly built Mombasa Railways terminus.

 Speaking in Mombasa, the President said the commissioning will significantly transform how people move in and out of our coastal city of Mombasa.

 The President further noted that the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service is a timely and vital solution to some of the city’s most pressing challenges.

 Ruto further added that for a long time, passengers commuting between the Mombasa central business district and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus at Miritini have endured congestion, delays, and the burden of unreliable road traffic.

 “With this new service, journeys will be faster, safer, and more predictable.

 He indicated that the MCRS will cut the commuting time between Mombasa town and the SGR terminal, reduce road gridlocks, lower accidents and costs, and provide residents and visitors with a modern, affordable, and reliable travel option.

 The President also noted that the link is crucial because it provides the much-needed first and last-mile connection for commuters, visitors, and tourists.

 “With a daily capacity of up to 4,000 passengers, it will ease pressure on roads and enhance the commuting experience, while making the Madaraka Express more accessible and convenient for all,” he said.

 The President pointed out that by shifting more passengers from road to rail, the government aims to lower maintenance costs, reduce emissions, and make our transportation safer.

 “We also strengthen Mombasa’s position as a hub  for trade and tourism, while reinforcing Kenya’s role as the gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a market of 1.4 billion

He said the commissioning of the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service is more than a local convenience.

“It is a symbol of our past, a solution for the present, and a promise for the future. With this service, Kilometre Zero once again becomes the epicentre of Kenya’s journey, not just the starting point of our history but the launchpad of our modern economic destiny.”

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the government is commited to building an efficient transport system.

“I want to say that we are committed as a government to ensure that transport is more efficient and affordable,” he noted

He said the government has disbursed 2.1B for compensation of the affected families along the transport corridor.

He called on the national land commission to facilitate the compensation process.

On his part, Kenya Railways Chairman Mohamed Abdi said  Kenya Railways is committed to providing efficient and reliable railway transport.

 “We are committed to ensuring that Kenyans enjoy railway transport,” he said