This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
On May 4, 2020, residents of Nanyuki got a glimpse of the revival of the old metre gauge railway line when a passenger train did a test run at the local terminus. The train, which was ferried to the town via road, was a welcome sight for the residents who are eager to see the line become operational.
According to residents, the revival of the railway line will spur economic growth in the region by providing a reliable form of transport for agricultural goods. Simon Karanja, a resident of the town, said that farmers will now be able to transport their produce and livestock to Nairobi and other parts of the country once the line becomes operational.
Another resident, Ginaro Maina, welcomed the revival of the railway line, saying it will create jobs for locals. He urged the Railways Corporation to consider employing local youths once the line becomes operational.
Excited residents got a chance to ride on the train during the test run, and Irene Nyachomba, another resident, said that the revival of the railway will spur economic growth of the entire Mt. Kenya region.
By Martin Munyi
