French State Secretary for the Sea, Herve Berville, embarked on a diplomatic mission to Kenya, accompanied by esteemed delegates including the French Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Arnaud Suquet. Their objective is to explore opportunities for collaboration and exchange between the two nations, particularly in the fields of transportation and environmental sustainability.

Their journey culminated in a significant meeting at the Headquarters of Kenya Railways on Friday, March 1st, 2024. Welcomed by Kenya Railways dignitaries, including Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar and Managing Director Philip J. Mainga EBS, the French delegation engaged in discussions aimed at fostering mutual growth and development.

A pivotal moment unfolded during a boardroom meeting, where Mr. Mainga passionately outlined the milestones achieved since the inception of rail transportation in Kenya. From the Metre Gauge to the Standard Gauge Railway networks, Kenya Railways showcased its ambitious plans for modernization and expansion, promising improved connectivity and efficiency across the nation.

Amidst the discussions, State Secretary Berville praised the Nairobi Commuter Rail passenger service. Fully immersing himself in the experience, he boarded a Diesel Multiple Unit passenger service train, experiencing first-hand the vibrancy of Kenya’s rail infrastructure. Witnessing the modern control room activities, Berville commended Kenya Railways’ dedication to ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable services for passengers.

In his remarks, State Secretary Berville emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, highlighting transportation’s role in fostering economic prosperity while mitigating environmental impact. He noted the potential for transformative advancements through the synergy of French expertise and Kenyan innovation in the transportation sector.

Kenya Railways, motivated by the encouragement of its distinguished guests, reaffirmed its commitment to excellence and innovation in the transportation sector. With a focus on mutual respect and cooperation, Kenya Railways is poised to embrace a future of shared prosperity and environmental stewardship through strategic partnerships.