PHOTOS: Ruto breaks ground for revitalisation of Voi–Mwatate railway line
The rehabilitation works are part of a wider government push to expand and modernise rail infrastructure across the country, targeting areas that have not fully benefited from past development projects. The focus is on improving regional connectivity and supporting local economies through better transport systems.
President William Ruto, presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.
PHOTO/PCS
A long-dormant transport link in Taita Taveta is set for a fresh start after President William Ruto on Friday broke ground for the rehabilitation of the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway, marking a renewed push to restore rail services that had fallen into neglect.
The project is expected to reconnect key economic zones, improve movement of people and goods, and reopen a vital corridor for local trade and industry.
President William Ruto is shown the design of the project during the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge RailwayPresident William Ruto is shown the design of the project during the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026/PCS in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto with Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Dhaga and Kenya Railways MD Philip Mainga during the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
A section of residents who attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto, with Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime and other leaders join a group of dancers for a song when he presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto breaks the ground for the revitalisation of the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
The revived rail line is expected to ease transport challenges that have long affected businesses and households along the Voi–Mwatate route. By restoring the railway, authorities aim to provide a cheaper and more efficient alternative to road transport, especially for bulky goods.
The upgraded line is also projected to strengthen economic activity in Taita Taveta, with a focus on sectors such as mining and farming that rely heavily on reliable transport systems.
Traders and producers are expected to benefit from faster access to markets and reduced logistical costs.
The rehabilitation works are part of a wider government push to expand and modernise rail infrastructure across the country, targeting areas that have not fully benefited from past development projects. The focus is on improving regional connectivity and supporting local economies through better transport systems.
President William Ruto with Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime during the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026/.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto, with other leaders, when he presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto, with other leaders, when he presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
President William Ruto greeting residents when he presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for Voi–Mwatate Meter Gauge Railway in Taita Taveta on April 10, 2026.PHOTO/PCS
Officials say the improved railway will help reduce pressure on the road network by offering an additional transport option for both passengers and cargo. This shift is expected to improve efficiency in delivery chains and reduce delays affecting goods moving in and out of the region.
Beyond transport gains, the project is also expected to generate employment opportunities during the construction phase and stimulate small businesses around railway stations once operations resume. Communities along the corridor are likely to see increased economic activity linked to the restored rail service.