[PHOTOS] Nyahururu Safari Train returns after 46 years

The revived Nyahururu Safari Train engine 7504 stationed along the tracks during the launch of the official resumption of operations along the Nairobi–Gilgil–Ol Kalou–Nyahururu route on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Residents of Ol Kalou and neighbouring towns turned out in large numbers to witness the return of the Nyahururu Safari Train, marking the restoration of rail services to the region after a 46-year hiatus.

The arrival of the train signalled the official resumption of operations along the Nairobi–Gilgil–Ol Kalou–Nyahururu route, reconnecting communities that had been without passenger rail services for more than four decades.

The launch also marked the beginning of freight operations on the line. During the event, Former CS Moses Kuria and Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga flagged off a freight train carrying fertiliser, highlighting the role of rail transport in reducing logistics costs and supporting agricultural production.

The revived service will offer two passenger round-trip every week alongside dedicated freight operations, providing residents, traders and visitors with an alternative mode of transport.

Speaking during the event, Kuria described the revival of the line as a major milestone for the people of Gilgil, Ol Kalou, Nyahururu and surrounding areas.

He said the railway would improve mobility, lower transport costs and create new opportunities for trade, tourism and investment.

The return of the railway is expected to improve the movement of goods and passengers between Nyandarua county and other parts of the country while strengthening access to markets for farmers and businesses.

The event attracted residents, railway officials, local leaders and national government representatives who gathered to witness the historic moment.

Among those present were Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru, UDA candidate in the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election Samuel Muchina Nyagah, members of the Kenya Railways Board and several Nyandarua Members of County Assembly.

The restoration of the line marks one of the most significant transport developments in the region in recent years and revives a rail connection that had remained dormant since passenger services were discontinued nearly half a century ago.

Dignitaries, railway officials, and local leaders descend the steps of the newly renovated Ol Kalou Railway Station during the historic relaunch of the region's passenger rail services on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria (right) with Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga inside a cabin of the Nyahururu Safari Train on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

A close-up view of the Nyahururu Safari Train locomotive adorned with banners highlighting its return after a 46-year hiatus on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Kenya Railways staff members during the launch event for the region's restored rail network on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Former Trade CS Moses Kuria (right), Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga (center), and other local leaders share a laugh ahead of flagging operations on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

A freight train moves down the newly revived line, marking the official resumption of freight operations aimed at lowering logistics costs for farmers on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Former Trade CS Moses Kuria (right), Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga (center), and other officials cut the ribbon to officially launch the Nyahururu Safari Train service on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Kenya Railways staff members during the launch event for the region's restored rail network on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.

Residents gather to witness the historic return of rail services to the region on June 2, 2026/HANDOUT.