Global shipping firm CMA CGM introduces train services for Mombasa-Nairobi cargo

The service launched on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, will initially operate one train per week, transporting containerised imports from Mombasa to Nairobi.

According to CMA CGM, the train has 54 wagons and a capacity of 108 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

The service was developed in partnership with the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC), integrating rail freight with the company’s existing maritime transport operations. 

Speaking during the launch, CMA CGM Deputy Regional Director for East Africa Naveen Prabhu said the initiative was aimed at strengthening connectivity between the sea, the port and inland economies.

“Our ambition is to strengthen connectivity between the sea, the port and inland economies,” Prabhu said.

He said the project reflected the company’s long-term commitment to Kenya and its intention to contribute to economic growth by connecting businesses, people and markets.

On his part, Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar observed that efficient connections between the Port of Mombasa and Inland economic centres were essential to strengthening Kenya’s logistics chain.

Daghar said partnerships between maritime and rail transport stakeholders would help connect infrastructure, businesses and markets while supporting trade and economic development.

“Partnerships between maritime and rail transport stakeholders help connect infrastructure, businesses and markets. This initiative demonstrates the importance of cooperation between public and private stakeholders in supporting trade and the country’s economic development,” Daghar said. 

During the event, Kenyan authorities and the French Ambassador also visited the CMA CGM PALMYRE, a vessel powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), as part of the company’s efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of maritime transport.

Beyond freight services, CMA CGM said it was investing in local skills development through a renewed partnership with Bandari Maritime Academy to train Kenyan maritime and local logistics professionals.

The company is also supporting community development through the CMA CGM Foundation, which has worked with the Kenya Red Cross since 2023 to develop the I.O.Me001 Innovation Centre in Mombasa.

The foundation is also supporting the renovation of the University of Nairobi's football pitch alongside the university and the French Development Agency, with the project expected to benefit nearly 50,000 students.