Ruto Unveils Voi–Taveta Railway Revival to Boost Regional Trade
President William Ruto has announced an ambitious plan to restore the Voi–Taveta railway, a move set to transform the region into a major logistics hub in East Africa.
Speaking during the launch of the revitalisation of the Voi–Mwatate Metre Gauge Railway at Mariwenyi in Taita Taveta County, the President said the project will strategically position Voi as a key link between the Port of Mombasa and the Taveta/Holili One-Stop Border Post along the Kenya–Tanzania border.
The KSh5.5 billion initiative aims to revive the once-thriving trade corridor stretching from Mombasa through Voi and Taveta to Moshi, Arusha, Singida, and ultimately Bujumbura. According to Ruto, the upgraded railway will shorten the distance between Mombasa and Bujumbura by 358 kilometres, making transport more efficient and cost-effective.
Beyond improving regional connectivity, the project is expected to ease the movement of goods and passengers across Kenya, Tanzania, and Burundi. It will also unlock economic opportunities in Taita Taveta County, particularly in mining, while supporting the trade of agricultural products such as sisal and maize.
Once completed—expected early next year—the railway is poised to breathe new life into cross-border trade and position Voi as a critical gateway for regional commerce.
