This archive report was first published on 18 December 2019.
On December 18, 2019, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) launched the Mombasa-Naivasha standard gauge railway (SGR) freight service, marking the operationalization of SGR Phase 2A cargo service.
The new service aims to target landlocked neighbours such as Uganda, South Sudan, Burundi, DR Congo, and Rwanda, despite higher charges compared to road transport.
Kenya Railways will charge importers Sh60,000 to transport a 20-foot container from Mombasa to Naivasha, while a 40-foot container will cost Sh85,000 for up to 20 tonnes and Sh91,000 for any weighing between 21-30 tonnes.
The government has introduced promotional rates to entice exporters, charging half price for all loaded cargo from Naivasha to Mombasa, which will cost Sh30,000 for a 20-foot container.
Kenya Transport Association (KTA) chief executive officer Dennis Ombok cautioned importers against being impressed by the new tariffs, claiming there are hidden charges, including marshalling charges and last mile charges.
