Kenya Railways transported 396 tonnes of Government-subsidized fertilizer from Athi River Railway Station to the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots in Ol Kalou and Nyahururu, marking the revival of freight services on the Gilgil-Nyahururu branch line after 46 years. The movement, undertaken using 11 Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) wagons, is the first cargo train to operate on the corridor since its closure and underscores the railway’s role in supporting economic growth, regional development, and enhanced connectivity.
The Rail Mavuno fertilizer will support farmers across Nyandarua and Laikipia counties, regions renowned for agricultural production, including potatoes, carrots, cabbages, peas and other horticultural crops, as well as long-term crops such as wheat.
The revival of the line has already attracted interest from key players across various sectors. Potential and existing customers include OCP Kenya for fertilizer transportation, Bamburi Cement PLC for cement products, New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (New KCC) for dairy logistics, and Autoports Freight Terminals Ltd. for freight and logistics services. Additional opportunities exist in the transportation of construction materials, including sand and building stones, as well as livestock and related agricultural products.
Beyond freight transportation, the restored railway line will also support passenger services, providing communities along the corridor with a safe, reliable, affordable and environmentally friendly mode of transport. The return of rail services is expected to improve mobility, enhance access to markets and social services, promote tourism, and strengthen regional integration.
The resumption of freight and passenger services along the corridor is expected to lower transportation costs, stimulate trade and investment, create employment opportunities, and support sustainable economic growth in the region.
This milestone aligns with the Government’s commitment to the realization of Kenya Vision 2030, leveraging railway transport to drive both microeconomic and macroeconomic growth while strengthening connectivity between production centres, markets and communities.