Ruto Announces Start of Naivasha–Kampala SGR Extension
President William Ruto has confirmed that construction on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Naivasha, Kenya, to Kampala, Uganda, will commence in early 2026. The project marks a significant milestone in East Africa’s push to boost regional trade, enhance cross-border transport links, and spur economic growth across multiple nations.
During a public address, the President indicated that the Naivasha–Kampala rail line is more than a domestic achievement; it is an integrated regional corridor. By linking Kenya’s rail network with Uganda’s capital, the extension aims to reduce transportation costs, shorten travel times for goods and people, and attract investment into manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism sectors along the corridor.
Regional Connectivity: From Kenya to Rwanda and DR Congo
Ruto’s vision extends beyond Kampala. He stated that once the Naivasha–Kampala segment is in place, the rail will be extended further into Rwanda and up to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This broader plan positions East Africa’s rail system as a key backbone for regional trade, potentially lowering the cost of imports and exports for landlocked countries relying on overland routes.
Experts note that the planned expansions could facilitate greater cross-border commerce, tourism, and logistics services, while also improving resilience in supply chains. The strategy aligns with broader regional initiatives to upgrade infrastructure, harmonize standards, and create seamless transit corridors that connect the East African Community (EAC) partners.
Economic Implications for Kenya, Uganda, and Neighbouring States
Proponents argue that the SGR extension will unlock new markets for Kenyan manufacturers and farmers and give Uganda a faster link to Mombasa’s port, a critical access point for regional imports. By attracting freight and passenger traffic, the project could stimulate job creation in construction, operations, and ancillary services, while encouraging private investment in rail-related industries.
Conversely, stakeholders emphasize the need for careful project financing, land acquisition, and environmental safeguards. Efficient project management and transparent procurement will be essential to delivering the extension on time and within budget. Passengers and businesses will also look for reliable service standards, including punctual trains, safe operations, and predictable pricing to maximize the line’s potential.
Public Reception and Policy Context
Public reaction to the announcement has been mix, with optimism about better regional integration tempered by questions about funding, security, and maintenance. The extension aligns with Kenyan and Ugandan government priorities to diversify transport networks beyond road and air travel and to strengthen intra-African trade corridors. As the project progresses, stakeholders will monitor milestones, environmental impact assessments, and cross-border regulatory harmonization to ensure smooth operation across multiple jurisdictions.
What Comes Next?
With the formal start slated for early 2026, contractors and authorities will begin finalizing procurement, land rights, and engineering plans. An initial focus will likely be the Naivasha to Kampala segment, followed by phased expansions toward Rwanda and the DR Congo border. If timelines hold, businesses in the region could begin to reap the benefits of improved logistics and reduced transport times in the medium term.
As East Africa advances toward a more integrated rail system, the Naivasha–Kampala extension stands as a defining test of regional cooperation, financing, and execution capacity. The coming years will reveal whether this ambitious corridor can deliver its promised economic uplift and serve as a durable backbone for trade across the on-going East African development story.
