Taita Taveta, Kenya – Kenya has officially revived a historic railway line dating back over a century, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize transport and strengthen regional trade links.
In a landmark ceremony held at Taita Taveta University, President William Ruto presided over the groundbreaking of the rehabilitation of the Voi–Taveta Railway Line—originally constructed by British forces between February 1915 and 1916 during World War I.
The President symbolically launched construction by unveiling the project plaque and tightening the first rail nut, signaling the official commencement of works on the long-dormant metre gauge railway.
“This milestone underscores the Government’s commitment to modern, efficient and integrated transport systems that continue to move Kenya forward,” President Ruto said.
The Voi–Taveta railway line was initially built as a strategic military supply route during World War I to support British troops advancing into German-controlled territories in East Africa. Stretching approximately 100 kilometers, the line replaced slow porter-based logistics and played a crucial role in the British campaign.
The railway later served civilian and commercial purposes for decades before falling into disuse. Today, its revival represents both a restoration of history and a forward-looking economic investment.
The KSh5.5 billion rehabilitation project is expected to transform the economic landscape of Taita Taveta County and beyond. Once complete, the railway will enhance connectivity between Kenya and Tanzania, making it easier for locals to move and conduct business.
The project includes the restoration of the Voi–Mwatate section and the development of a dry port in Voi, positioning the town as a strategic logistics hub linking the Port of Mombasa to the Taveta/Holili One-Stop Border Post.
Crucially, the revived railway will reconnect a historic trade corridor stretching from Mombasa through Voi and Taveta to Moshi, Arusha, Singida, and ultimately Bujumbura—reducing the distance between Mombasa and Bujumbura by 358 kilometers.
Officials say the railway will significantly ease the movement of goods and passengers across Kenya, Tanzania, and Burundi, boosting regional integration.
The project is also expected to unlock Taita Taveta’s rich mining potential while supporting agricultural trade, particularly the transport of commodities such as sisal and maize.
Additionally, the line will enhance access to historic World War I battlefields in Taita Taveta, now emerging as a unique battlefield safari tourism destination.
The revitalisation of the Voi–Mwatate metre gauge railway, launched at Mariwenyi in Taita Taveta County, is scheduled for completion early next year.
Once operational, the railway is poised to restore a vital transport link that blends Kenya’s historical legacy with its ambitions for economic growth and regional connectivity.
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