This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
Kenya Railways has sparked outrage among Kenyans with a notice prohibiting passengers from carrying food or alcohol on the Madaraka Express.
Chairman of the Kenya Tourism Federation, Mohammed Hersi, has written a stern letter to the state corporation, calling the notice 'rubbish' and urging them to correct it.
According to Hersi, the notice is draconian and makes no sense, as it targets food, which is essential for young children and people with conditions like diabetes.
He argues that the real issue is alcohol consumption and disorderly passengers, and suggests that a simple rule limiting alcohol consumption to the bar cabin or coach would be more effective.
"Please modernise your thinking process," Hersi advises Kenya Railways management.
He also warns fellow Kenyans that travelling on the SGR is not a blank cheque to drink and act recklessly, and that they should respect the space of other passengers.
"Decent and civilised people don't drink themselves silly," Hersi writes.
