Kisumu Safari Train Service Nears Return as Railway Restoration Hits 70%
Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has announced significant progress in the restoration of the Mai Mahiu–Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot metre-gauge railway line, with repair works now over 70 percent complete. The progress paves the way for the highly anticipated resumption of the popular Kisumu Safari Train service by the end of this year.
Railway Restoration Progress
70% Complete - Full restoration on track for December 2025 completion
Flood Damage and Service Disruption
The rail line was severely damaged in April 2024 following heavy floods in the Mai Mahiu area. The incident resulted in the destruction of embankments, collapse of culverts and washouts that left a key stretch of the track impassable. Passenger and freight services on the route were subsequently halted, disrupting travel and trade between Central Kenya and the Western region for nearly a year.
2025 Restoration Work Update
KRC engineers are currently working on rebuilding the washed-out embankments, installing reinforced culverts, improving drainage systems and stabilising vulnerable sections of the track. The corporation says these measures are intended to ensure the line can withstand future extreme weather events and support safe, reliable train operations.
Economic Impact on Kisumu
The suspension of rail services throughout 2024 and early 2025 has had a ripple effect on economic activity in Kisumu:
- Businesses that rely on bulk transport have faced increased costs due to the shift to road transport
- Tourism, which had benefited from the unique Safari Train experience, has also felt the impact of the disruption
- Connectivity between Nairobi, Naivasha and the Western region has been significantly reduced
- Local businesses eagerly await the return of tourist traffic the Safari Train brings
Imminent Return of Safari Train Service
With restoration work progressing steadily, the Safari Train service to Kisumu is expected to resume operations before the end of 2025, reconnecting the lakeside city with the central railway network. The return of the service will restore passenger mobility and enhance freight movement between Nairobi, Naivasha and the Western region.
The restoration of the railway line is seen as a major step toward reviving Kisumu's connectivity and strengthening regional trade flows. Kenya Railways confirms work continues at an accelerated pace to ensure the line is ready for full operations within the projected timeline.
Further updates will be issued as the project progresses through 2025 and as the exact schedule for the return of the Safari Train is finalized.
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