Kenya Railways targets December reopening for Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot line after major repairs

A collage of the damaged railway line and the ongoing repairs/Kenya Railways

Kenya Railways has announced that restoration works on the damaged Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) line are more than 70 per cent complete, with reopening targeted for December 2025.

The line was severely damaged in April 2024 following unprecedented rains and severe washaways that disrupted both freight and passenger movement along the corridor. The damage halted operations on one of Kenya’s key transport routes linking the Central and Western regions.

In an update, Kenya Railways said the restoration involves rebuilding critical infrastructure to ensure the line’s long-term resilience against future extreme weather.

The works include the construction of multiple-cell culverts, stabilization of embankments, reconstruction of drainage systems, and improvements to the line’s structural strength.

The Corporation said the project reflects its ongoing commitment to revitalizing Kenya’s Meter Gauge Railway network as a dependable and complementary transport system within the national and regional rail ecosystem.

The MGR continues to play a vital role in connecting towns, industries, and markets across the country.

Once completed, the Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot line will restore a key link between Central and Western Kenya, enabling the return of passenger and freight services that were suspended after the washaways.

The restoration will also pave the way for the resumption of the Kisumu Safari Train, which is expected to boost travel, trade, and tourism across the Lake Region.

Freight operations will resume to facilitate efficient cargo movement to the Western region, as well as transit goods bound for Uganda, South Sudan, and other regional markets.

Kenya Railways said the project is part of its wider strategy to strengthen the MGR as a sustainable alternative to road transport. The effort supports national goals of reducing congestion, cutting logistics costs, and promoting environmentally friendly modes of transport.

The Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the line’s timely completion, noting that teams are working to restore operations safely and efficiently.

Upon reopening in December 2025, the Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot line is expected to play a significant role in reconnecting communities, revitalising regional trade, and reinforcing Kenya’s position as a gateway to East and Central Africa.