Kenya Railways has been identified as one of the leading Kenyan parastatals that are creating viable economic opportunities and jobs.
The State corporation has for the past four years been engaged in strategic master plans that have seen it avail business and job opportunities to Kenyans of different professionalism.
It is estimated that at least 5000 business and job opportunities have both directly and indirectly been created within the last three years.
Kenya Railways under the leadership of Managing Director Philip Mainga has so far achieved modernization of the country’s transport infrastructure with the commissioning of new stations under the Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) project and the launch of the Madaraka Express Premium Class service.
Direct jobs were created with the upgrading of seven commuter rail lines initially identified for infrastructure upgrades and fleet expansion to enhance urban mobility and reduce congestion in Nairobi.
The initiative remains part of the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project, backed by a $670 million World Bank loan.
Another critical area was creation of new stations in Kibera,Makongeni ,Thogoto bringing the total to 32 with between 300 and 500 coaches having been rehabilitated to create more room for service, hence more jobs.
The institution has also leveraged on skill and creativity to expand its servce delivery while creating more opportunities.This was captured with the launch of the Madaraka Express Premium Class service, a new offering designed to provide a luxurious rail travel experience.
This exclusive service, launched in July 2024, includes a range of newly acquired rolling stock that caters to Premium Class, First Class, and Economy passengers. The introduction of the Premium Class represents a major leap forward in providing a world-class rail experience for travelers.
The Premium Class coaches feature optimized seating, with each coach limited to just 28 passengers, allowing for ample legroom and personal space.
The seating arrangements are tailored to ensure maximum comfort, with seats that can fully recline, providing passengers the option to relax or even sleep during their journey.
The coaches are designed with privacy and work-friendly configurations, making them suitable for both leisure and business travelers.
The planned Nairobi Railway City project is also poised to create 10,000 jobs, with 5,000 during the construction of Phases 1 and 2, and another 5,000 after completion. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will benefit from new retail, commercial, and public space opportunities along the pedestrian and transit corridors.