Kenya is moving ahead with plans to modernise Nairobi's commuter rail system through a major World Bank-backed project that will introduce new rail manufacturing units, maintenance workshops, and modern rolling stock.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

In a notice issued on Wednesday, June 17, Kenya Railways invited local and international industry players to a high-level market sounding forum scheduled for June 24, 2026.

The meeting will focus on key components of the planned commuter rail upgrade, including the development of rail manufacturing facilities, maintenance infrastructure, and the acquisition of modern trains.

According to Kenya Railways, the engagement will give contractors, suppliers, and technology firms an opportunity to shape the project's design, pricing models, and procurement strategies before implementation begins.

📌 What You Need to Know

The event will be happening at the  Railway Training Institute in Nairobi, ahead of competitive procurement under World Bank regulations.

According to the notice, they will effectively open the early gate to one of the most ambitious urban transport investments in the country’s recent history.

Additionally, the project is expected to position Nairobi as a regional model for integrated, rail-driven urban mobility.

The programme focuses on improving urban mobility through a wide-ranging upgrade of the commuter rail network, with a key focus on the Nairobi–Thika commuter line.

Planned interventions include acquiring the electrification of the commuter rail network, acquisition of new rolling stock, including electric multiple units (EMUs) and diesel-electric multiple units (DEMUs), and expansion of supporting infrastructure.

Additionally, the project also includes the development of Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) around railway stations, aimed at integrating housing, commercial spaces, and transport hubs along key commuter corridors.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke