Ruto reveals plan to extend SGR line into Tanzania

Speaking during a church service in Mwatate, Taita Taveta county, the president said his government has set aside at least KSh.5 billion for the planned extension. 

"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 KSh.5B for that project," Ruto said.

He added that the project will include SGR stations in Mwatate, Bura, Mwakitau and Taveta, and extend into Tanzania.

"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 president said this is part of the plan to link Kenya to the other East African countries, especially Tanzania and Uganda. 

Kenya and Tanzania look to connect their standard gauge railway (SGR) networks through Uganda to the other East African countries like Rwanda and Burundi. 

Kenya is already planning to extend its SGR to the Malaba border through Kisumu City.

The Jubilee administration, where Ruto served as deputy president, built the SGR line from Mombasa to Naivasha through Nairobi.

During the announcement, Ruto also promised to give title deeds to residents of Taita Taveta in the coming week, and initiate more development projects in the area.