Kenya-Tanzania rail link moves closer as Voi–Taveta project hits 70 per cent
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Kenya Railways cautions passengers against fraudulent Madaraka Express ticket sellers
Rachael Mutabasi
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Kenya Railways says the Voi–Taveta Meter Gauge Railway rehabilitation has reached 70 per cent of earthworks, paving the way for improved cross-border trade, passenger transport and regional connectivity with Tanzania.
The rehabilitation of the 130-kilometre Voi–Taveta meter-gauge railway, a key rail corridor linking Kenya and Tanzania, has reached 70 per cent completion of earthworks, bringing the restoration of cross-border rail transport closer to reality.
Kenya Railways said the project, being implemented in Taita-Taveta County, is also creating employment opportunities for local communities while boosting economic activity across the region.
“The rehabilitation of the 130-kilometre Voi–Taveta Meter Gauge Railway Line has reached another significant milestone, with 70 per cent of the earthworks now complete, while continuing to create employment opportunities for local communities and stimulate economic activity across Taita-Taveta County,” the corporation said in a statement.
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According to Kenya Railways, the project will restore a vital transport corridor between Kenya and Tanzania, providing a more efficient and cost-effective option for both passenger and cargo transport.
“Upon completion, the rehabilitated railway will provide a more efficient and cost-effective transport corridor for passengers and cargo, facilitate cross-border trade with Tanzania, promote tourism, reduce the cost of doing business, and unlock new economic opportunities for communities along the corridor,” the corporation said.
The project also includes the construction of a dry port in Voi and new railway stations at Voi, Mwatate, Bura, Maktau and Taveta.
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Kenya Railways said Taveta Station will connect Kenya’s railway network with Tanzania, strengthening regional connectivity and supporting cross-border trade.
“The project also includes the development of a dry port in Voi, positioning the town as a strategic logistics and trade hub. In addition, new railway stations will be constructed at Voi, Mwatate, Bura, Maktau and Taveta, with Taveta Station linking Kenya’s railway network to Tanzania and strengthening regional connectivity,” the statement said.
The corporation said the project reflects the government’s commitment to revitalising the Meter Gauge Railway network to boost trade, attract investment and support sustainable socio-economic growth.
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