Kenya Railways has launched a Ksh65 billion transport infrastructure program intended to address growing mobility challenges across Nairobi and surrounding counties. In a notice issued on 12th May 2026, the corporation invited firms to submit expressions of interest for participation in the project under the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project (KUMIP). The initiative, which centers on Nairobi railway expansion, will extend across Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado and Murang’a counties as authorities seek to improve intermodal and multimodal urban transport systems within the metropolitan region.
According to Kenya Railways, the project is being supported through financing from the World Bank, with a portion of the funds designated for consultancy services during the planning phase. “The government has applied for financing from the World Bank towards the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services,” Kenya Railways announced. The corporation further stated: “Consulting services include the development of a sustainable urban mobility plan for the Nairobi metropolitan area, encompassing the county governments of Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado and Murang’a.”
Officials indicated that the Nairobi railway expansion initiative will place significant emphasis on integrating different forms of transportation, including commuter rail systems and public bus networks, to improve movement across the capital region.
Kenya Railways disclosed that consultancy work linked to the multi-billion-shilling development is scheduled to begin on 27th 2026 and continue for one year and three months. Under the proposal, the selected firms will oversee urban mobility planning, environmental and social impact assessments, and strategies aimed at establishing seamless public transport connectivity throughout the targeted counties. The corporation said consulting companies participating in the Nairobi railway expansion program must demonstrate extensive expertise in urban transport planning, metropolitan mobility systems and large-scale infrastructure studies. Authorities also confirmed that construction activities are expected to roll out in phases, while feasibility studies, land acquisition procedures and environmental assessments are already in progress.
The launch of the project comes as Nairobi continues to face rapid urban population growth, worsening traffic congestion and increasing demand for reliable public transport services. The government is pursuing long-term mobility solutions designed to improve transportation efficiency across the metropolitan area, with the Nairobi railway expansion initiative forming a central part of that strategy. By integrating multiple transport systems and improving regional connectivity, the project is expected to support smoother movement within Nairobi and neighboring counties while strengthening urban mobility infrastructure for the future.
