Riruta–Ngong railway promises faster, cheaper Nairobi commute

By Obegi Malack
The Riruta–Ngong commuter railway at Vet Farm in Ngong will soon transport about
10,000 passengers daily, cutting travel time to Nairobi from nearly two hours to just 30
minutes and reducing fare costs by up to 50%.
The Meter Gauge Railway (MGR), branching from Riruta near Lenana School, will serve
four stations; Riruta, Karen, Bulbul, and Ngong. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond
Omollo said the line will ease traffic congestion along the Ngong-Karen stretch and offer
residents an affordable, reliable transport alternative.
Launched in December 2023 by President William Ruto, the project will also boost
access to the Kenya Kwanza Affordable Housing Project in Ngong, located at the Vet
Farm Station. The railway is expected to spur land value appreciation, attract
investment, and stimulate economic growth in the area.
Each train will carry up to 800 passengers, offering a safer, greener, and more cost-
effective option compared to public service vehicles. “The railway will be a game
changer; it’s cheaper, safer, and more environmentally friendly than PSVs,” said Ngong
resident Jared Okoth.
The Riruta–Ngong line forms part of the 165-km Nairobi Commuter Railway network
traversing Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado counties, and will complement the
Nairobi 2030 commuter rail master plan.
However, residents have raised concerns over the abandoned Standard Gauge Railway
station at Oloolua, saying the lack of an access road has rendered it unusable. They are
now urging the government to tarmac the road to make the station accessible.