Ruto announces Sh5bn plan to extend SGR to Tanzania border

President William Ruto during a church service in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, on September 27, 2026./PCS

President William Ruto has announced plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Voi towards Tanzania, with his administration setting aside about Sh5 billion for the project.

Speaking during a church service in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, on Sunday, Ruto said the planned railway extension would strengthen economic links between Kenya and its southern neighbour.

“We are already extending SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and to the Malaba border. As we extend that, it is also important to link Voi and Tanzania. We've already set aside around Sh5bn for that project,” Ruto said.

The President said the proposed route would include stations in Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau and Taveta before extending into Tanzania.

He said the railway would facilitate the movement of both passengers and cargo, while opening up the region to more economic activity.

“You will be able to drop passengers here and carry cargo. Other places are being developed, so don't listen to those saying Taita Taveta should not be developed,” Ruto added.

The proposed extension is part of the government's wider plan to improve railway connectivity within the East African region, particularly between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Kenya is already working on plans to extend the SGR from Naivasha through Kisumu to the Malaba border.

The Mombasa-Nairobi section of the SGR was constructed during the Jubilee administration, when Ruto served as Deputy President, before the line was later extended to Naivasha.

Ruto also announced plans to issue title deeds to residents of Taita Taveta in the coming week.

He further promised to initiate additional development projects in the county.