Sakaja backs landmark Nairobi underground rail project to end traffic gridlock

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has reaffirmed the county government's commitment to transforming the capital's transport system through the ambitious Nairobi Metropolitan Mass Rapid Transport (MMRT) project, a move expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve mobility across the city.

The first phase of the project has already received the necessary approvals from the Nairobi City County Government.

It will involve the construction of a 30-kilometre underground railway linking the densely populated Eastlands area to Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD), with a network of 25 stations strategically positioned to serve thousands of commuters daily.

The underground rail system is expected to become the backbone of a modern, integrated public transport network that will also incorporate Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and commuter rail services.

Once fully implemented, the multimodal transport system is projected to efficiently serve nearly five million Nairobi residents who make more than 12 million trips every day.

Governor Sakaja noted that the project represents a major milestone in the city's journey toward becoming a modern, efficient and globally competitive metropolis.

He emphasized that improving public transport infrastructure remains central to the county's long-term urban development agenda.

The progress of the Nairobi Metropolitan Mass Rapid Transport project was reviewed during a high-level briefing at State House, Nairobi.

The meeting brought together officials from the Ministry of Transport led by Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, and the Nairobi City County Government led by Governor Sakaja.

The planned transport system is expected to reduce travel time, decongest major roads, lower transport costs, and promote sustainable urban mobility, positioning Nairobi among leading global cities with efficient mass transit infrastructure.