Kenya Railways on June 10th 2025 marked a significant milestone  celebrating eight years of Safe Madaraka Express Passenger and Freight service operations at a ceremony held at Nairobi Terminus.

The event was graced by the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Amb. Guo Haiyan, and hosted by Kenya Railways Chairman Mr. Abdi Bare and Managing Director Mr. Philip J. Mainga, EBS. , Kenya Railways Board and Senior Management, the Railways Training Institute Board, and our esteemed partners at Afristar, representatives from freight customers, passengers, and other distinguished guests.

In his address, the Chairman reflected on the journey since the inaugural ride in 2017, noting the growth from a single express train to a full-scale operation with Inter-County, Afternoon, and Nighttime Passenger Services, as well as a robust Freight Service that has significantly improved logistics across the region.

“From one Express train per day to transporting over 15.3 million passengers and 39.78 million tonnes of cargo, the Madaraka Express has grown into a symbol of national pride,” said Mr. Bare.

Managing Director Mr. Mainga highlighted Kenya Railways’ commitment to local capacity building and customer-focused innovation.

“Today, over 97% of our Madaraka Express team are Kenyans. We’ve invested in modern infrastructure, including Premium Class coaches and 300 new freight wagons, to keep up with demand,” he stated.

In her remarks, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Amb. Guo Haiyan, commended the Standard Gauge Railway as a flagship project of China-Kenya cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, and a model for infrastructure-driven transformation in Africa. She praised the Madaraka Express for its eight years of safe, efficient operations, its role in decongesting the Port of Mombasa, and its contribution to Kenya’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.

“This railway carries more than goods and passengers. It carries trust and hope,” she noted, emphasizing the deepening friendship between the peoples of Kenya and China.

The event also featured a special recognition ceremony for outstanding passengers and freight clients, who were awarded commemorative token tickets in appreciation of their continued support.

The celebrations come at a time when Kenya Railways is looking ahead, with plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway Phase 2B and 2C to Kisumu and Malaba, in line with national development goals.

As the country reflects on eight years of dependable rail transport, the Madaraka Express continues to power mobility, trade, and economic growth, connecting Kenya and the region like never before.