Kenya and Etihad Rail Strengthen Regional Freight Infrastructure

Kenya and Etihad Rail have deepened their partnership to advance freight infrastructure, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen regional trade links across East Africa and the Gulf. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Kenya’s Strategic Moves to Boost Freight Infrastructure

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) confirmed ongoing investments in key transport systems to meet the rising demand for efficient cargo evacuation by rail, sea, and road.

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KPA General Manager for Cargo Operations, Dr. Sudi A. Mwasinago, said recent upgrades to operating systems and modern cargo-handling equipment have improved port efficiency.

During a high-level meeting with Etihad Rail and the Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC), discussions focused on sharing best practices and enhancing freight rail integration.

Because both parties prioritize sustainable logistics, the dialogue emphasized linking ports and railways to optimize cargo flows.

Etihad Rail’s Role in Advancing Freight Infrastructure

Etihad Rail, the developer of the UAE’s national freight and passenger network, pledged to strengthen engagement with Kenyan counterparts.

Acting Director of International Relations, Saqqaf Alattas, said the partnership will promote knowledge exchange and create a more reliable railway system.

The collaboration builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in May 2025 between Etihad Rail and KRC.

Witnessed by President William Ruto and the UAE foreign minister, the agreement opened the door to joint projects and technology transfer.

Kenya is also advancing the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension from Naivasha to Kisumu and Malaba.

This corridor is expected to enhance trade with Uganda and the Great Lakes region, reducing transit time and costs.

Since 2017, the Mombasa–Naivasha SGR segment has shifted about 30% of bulk cargo from road to rail, according to the Ministry of Transport.

Officials expect this share to rise as infrastructure expands.

Source, photo: chimpreports.com

FAQ

What is freight infrastructure in Kenya?

Freight infrastructure in Kenya includes rail, port, and road facilities designed to move goods efficiently. You can read more at Kenya Ports Authority.

How will the Kenya–Etihad Rail partnership improve trade?

The partnership focuses on modernizing transport systems, sharing expertise, and enhancing connectivity to lower costs and speed up cargo movement.

Can the Standard Gauge Railway boost regional freight capacity?

Yes. The SGR extension will expand cargo routes into Uganda and beyond, supporting regional integration and faster trade flows.

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