Kenya has embarked on an ambitious plan to rehabilitate and modernize its rail network across all 47 counties, prioritizing key regions such as Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado, Machakos, Murang’a, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Uasin Gishu.
Afrik21 reports that this significant undertaking aims to enhance the efficiency, safety, and comfort of rail transport in the country. It will start with the electrification of suburban trains, which have historically been powered by diesel engines.
The first phase of this project focuses on the Thika-Nanyuki section, where the experimental phase is set to conclude in August 2024. During this period, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) will install battery-powered electric multiple units (BEMUs).
This upgrade involves replacing diesel engines with rechargeable batteries for propulsion on electrified tracks and using these batteries for traction on non-electrified lines. This initiative is part of the broader Kenya Urban Transport Improvement Project (KUTIP), a collaborative effort led by KRC in partnership with the World Bank Group.
The World Bank has expressed strong support for the project, with a representative stating, “Our team will support efforts to improve the scalability and bankability of electric mobility solutions to meet the growing demand for passenger transport while reducing the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of rail transport.”
The modernization and electrification efforts will initially focus on the 32-kilometre stretch from Nairobi Central Station to Ruiru, with an investment of at least $400 million. The KRC highlights that this segment is expected to yield significant socio-economic and accessibility benefits due to the high demand and diverse socio-economic profile of the neighbourhoods along the line.
Kenyan authorities anticipate these improvements will enhance the travel experience for the 13,000 passengers who utilize the 155-kilometre suburban rail network daily. By transitioning to electric-powered trains, the project aims to increase operational efficiency and passenger comfort and significantly reduce CO2 emissions, contributing to the country’s environmental sustainability goals.
Kenya’s rail network modernization is a critical step towards a more efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly transport system. The project’s focus on key regions and strategic partnership with the World Bank underscores its potential to drive significant socio-economic progress while addressing urban transportation challenges in one of East Africa’s most vibrant economies.
Recall that days ago; the Electricity Hub reported that Nigeria was set to begin diesel-to-compressed natural gas conversions of its railway engines.