Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan have embarked on a plan to fast-track the completion of the regional standard gauge railway (SGR) network to boost trade, lower transport costs and enhance regional integration.

Addressing a media briefing in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir revealed that the three countries held a consultative meeting to harmonise timelines, financing options and technical coordination for the cross-border railway network, which forms part of the Northern Corridor transport system.

He announced that Kenya is prioritising the extension of the SGR from Naivasha to Malaba via Kisumu, a key corridor expected to facilitate efficient cargo movement to Uganda and the Great Lakes Region.

In addition, Chirchir said the government is exploring a mix of funding options, including the Railway Development Levy Fund (RDLF) and development-partner support, to ensure continuity of works without placing undue pressure on the exchequer.

“Our priority is to connect Kenya’s SGR to Uganda and ultimately South Sudan to create an efficient transport artery that supports trade and competitiveness across the region,” he explained.

The cabinet secretary noted that the SGR recorded its highest cargo movement so far, 640,000 tonnes in a single month, demonstrating the line’s growing capacity and its potential to ease pressure on the road network while reducing emissions.

“Rail transport is cleaner, safer and more sustainable. As part of our commitment to the climate agenda, we are keen on transitioning to modern electric locomotives and expanding connectivity through a regional approach,” he added.

Chirchir further disclosed that technical teams from the three countries are finalising joint planning details and will present a harmonised implementation schedule identifying funding gaps, sequencing of works and institutional roles.

He reaffirmed that the SGR corridor is part of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) framework and aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 as well as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals.

“This collaboration demonstrates the region’s unity of purpose. A connected railway network will open up industrial zones, improve logistics efficiency, and lower the cost of doing business for our people,” he highlighted.

Uganda’s Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama observed that the three governments have agreed on a nine-week window for technical teams to validate the project’s business potential and align work plans.

“We have given ourselves nine weeks to complete technical validation and synchronise timelines so that construction phases move concurrently across our borders,” Byamukama said, adding that political goodwill and sustained coordination will be essential in delivering an integrated, reliable, and cost-effective railway system that supports intra-African trade.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Naif Rashid