Kenya’s SGR records Cargo Surge in First Quarter, Moving 1.82 Million Tonnes
NAIROBI — Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) hauled 1.82 million tonnes of cargo between January and March 2025, marking a 40 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
The data, released by Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) in Nairobi, shows the state-run rail service moved 1.3 million tonnes in the first quarter of 2024. This year’s growth reflects rising demand for freight transport along the Mombasa–Nairobi corridor.
March saw the highest cargo volume, with 636,724 tonnes transported. January followed closely with 634,034 tonnes, while February recorded 549,818 tonnes.
KRC attributed the increase to improved efficiency and growing confidence in rail freight as a dependable alternative to road transport. The corporation has expanded its services to include direct cargo delivery to key inland depots, cutting delays and lowering logistical costs for clients.
In contrast, the number of passengers using the SGR dropped slightly. The service carried 529,591 passengers in the first quarter, a small dip from 531,673 during the same stretch in 2024.
Despite the lower passenger count, the service brought in more money. Revenue rose to 7.24 million U.S. dollars in Q1 2025, up from 4.39 million dollars in the same quarter the previous year.
Cargo revenue also improved. Total earnings from freight operations reached 3.82 billion Kenyan shillings, or approximately 29.5 million dollars, compared to 25 million dollars last year.
The SGR, operational since 2017, remains central to Kenya’s transport network and a key component of its regional trade ambitions. KRC officials indicated ongoing upgrades would further boost reliability and turnaround times.
While the report highlighted gains in freight transport, the decline in passenger numbers raised questions about pricing, convenience, and competition with road-based options.
The corporation did not issue projections for the second quarter but signaled plans to extend rail access to more industrial parks and export hubs, aiming to maintain cargo momentum through mid-year.
