The celebrations come as Kenya Railways looks ahead to extending the Standard Gauge Railway through Phases 2B and 2C to Kisumu and Malaba, in line with national development priorities.
Kenya Railways marked a significant milestone on 10 June 2025, celebrating eight years of safe Madaraka Express passenger and freight service operations at a ceremony held at Nairobi Terminus.
The event was attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Amb. Guo Haiyan, and hosted by Kenya Railways Chairman, Mr Abdi Bare, and Managing Director, Mr Philip J. Mainga, EBS. Also present were members of the Kenya Railways Board and Senior Management, the Railway Training Institute Board, representatives from Afristar, freight customers, passengers, and other invited guests.
In his address, the Chairman reflected on the journey since the inaugural ride in 2017, highlighting the growth from a single express service to a full-scale operation. The service now includes Inter-County, Afternoon, and Night Passenger Services, as well as a robust freight offering that has significantly improved logistics within the region.
From its inception, the Madaraka Express has grown to transport over 15.3 million passengers and 39.78 million tonnes of cargo—establishing itself as a symbol of national pride.
The Managing Director underlined Kenya Railways’ commitment to building local capacity and delivering customer-centric innovation. Today, over 97% of the Madaraka Express workforce are Kenyan nationals. The organisation has invested in modern infrastructure, including new Premium Class coaches and 300 freight wagons, to meet growing demand.
Ambassador Guo Haiyan described the Standard Gauge Railway as a flagship project of China–Kenya cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, noting its success as a model for infrastructure-led transformation in Africa. She praised the Madaraka Express for its contribution to reducing congestion at the Port of Mombasa, stimulating economic activity, and supporting environmental sustainability.
“This railway carries more than goods and passengers. It carries trust and hope,” she remarked, reinforcing the deepening ties between the peoples of Kenya and China.
The ceremony also featured special recognition for outstanding passengers and freight clients, who received commemorative token tickets in appreciation of their continued support.
The celebrations come as Kenya Railways looks ahead to extending the Standard Gauge Railway through Phases 2B and 2C to Kisumu and Malaba, in line with national development priorities.
As the country marks eight years of reliable rail transport, the Madaraka Express continues to support mobility, trade, and economic integration—connecting Kenya and the wider region like never before.
