Kenya Railways has introduced a new freight pricing system that raises charges on key cargo routes while still maintaining selected incentives aimed at supporting the movement of goods.
The revised tariff structure, issued under Tariff Notice No. 4 of 2026, took effect on April 1, replacing the 2021 framework as the operator moves toward a cost-based pricing model.
The adjustments are guided by the Government-Owned Enterprises Act, 2025, which allows the corporation to set prices based on operational costs and market conditions.
Under the new rates, transport of a 20-foot container between Kilindini Port in Mombasa and Nairobi will now cost $550 (Sh71,087), up from $500 (Sh64,625). On the Naivasha–Malaba corridor, the charge for a 20-foot container has increased to $465 (Sh60,101), from a previous range of $350 (Sh45,237) to $450 (Sh58,162), while a 40-foot container now costs $650 (Sh84,012), up from $610 (Sh78,842).
The Mombasa–Naivasha route has been treated differently, with Kenya Railways setting a flat rate of $600 (Sh77,550) for a 20-foot container and $700 (Sh90,475) for a 40-foot container.
This replaces earlier charges that went as high as $1,015 (Sh131,188). Naivasha–Kisumu freight has also been revised upward, with a 20-foot container now costing $465 (Sh60,101) and a 40-foot container $650 (Sh84,012).
Last-mile delivery from inland container depots such as Nairobi will now cost between Sh10,000 and Sh45,000 depending on destination, including Athi River, Industrial Area, Thika and Nanyuki. Empty container return charges to the port remain relatively low at about $50 (Sh6,462) for 20-foot units and $70 (Sh9,047) for 40-foot containers, while export empties range between $100 and $360 (Sh46,530).
Kenya Railways says the review is driven by rising fuel prices, maintenance costs and broader operational demands. It has also introduced a fuel adjustment mechanism linked to EPRA diesel price changes, allowing tariffs to move up or down depending on fuel costs. The corporation says the shift is meant to improve financial sustainability and reduce reliance on government support.