Kenya Railways has hit a major transport milestone after moving 640,000 tonnes of cargo in October 2025, the highest amount ever recorded since the Madaraka Express Freight Service began operations in 2017.
The record shows how far the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) has come in transforming the country’s cargo transport system. Once met with scepticism, the SGR is now proving to be one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways of moving goods across Kenya.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Kenya Railways said the milestone reflects the growing efficiency, reliability, and confidence in Kenya’s rail transport system, which continues to play a key role in linking major ports and inland economic hubs.
“In October 2025, Kenya Railways safely transported 640,000 tonnes of cargo — our highest monthly volume since the launch of the Madaraka Express Freight Service in 2017.”
The achievement comes after years of gradual growth, as more businesses, manufacturers, and logistics firms choose the railway to move goods between Mombasa, Nairobi, and Naivasha. The SGR’s efficiency and safety have made it a preferred alternative to road transport, which often faces congestion, accidents, and higher maintenance costs.
According to Kenya Railways, the increase in cargo movement is a sign that the public has growing confidence in rail transport.
The company said the milestone was made possible through improved operations, better service delivery, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
“Proof that efficiency, customer trust, and sustainability keep Kenya moving right on track,” the statement added.
This performance has also brought relief to the corporation as it continues servicing the multi-billion-shilling loan used to build the railway.
The SGR was financed through a Ksh 477 billion loan from the Exim Bank of China. During a fact-finding visit to Mombasa on June 13, 2025, Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga assured lawmakers that the organisation had never defaulted on the loan.
“Hon. Chair, I would like to inform the Committee that we have never defaulted on the SGR loan facility, and we are set to complete the payment in 2028,” Mainga said.
He explained that the loan is being repaid through revenue generated from the freight operations and additional support from the National Treasury.
The record freight numbers, therefore, represent not just operational success, but also financial stability for the organisation.
The October milestone also reflects the growing economic impact of Kenya’s investment in modern transport infrastructure. By easing the movement of cargo from the port of Mombasa to inland depots, the SGR has reduced delays, saved costs, and boosted trade within and beyond Kenya’s borders.
For many importers and exporters, the railway has become a lifeline that simplifies logistics and keeps supply chains running smoothly.
Since its launch, the Madaraka Express Freight Service has played a key role in reducing road congestion and the wear and tear of highways previously strained by heavy trucks.
It has also helped cut down on carbon emissions, supporting the country’s sustainability goals.
Kenya Railways’ latest success strengthens the case for extending the SGR network to other regions, including Western Kenya and into neighbouring countries.
Such an expansion would create stronger links between local industries and regional markets, giving East Africa a competitive edge in global trade.
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