Ruto Challenges Museveni to Accelerate Uganda's SGR Link After Kenyan Groundbreaking

Kenyan President William Ruto recently broke ground for the 371km Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Kisumu, placing pressure on Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni to expedite their connecting line from Malaba to Kampala.

Museveni emphasized shifting heavy cargo and petroleum products from roads to rail and pipelines to reduce costs, boost competitiveness, and secure Uganda’s sea access as a landlocked nation. He has long criticized road congestion for inflating transport expenses and hindering exports.

Kenya aims to finish its section in two to three years using diesel-powered Chinese-model trains. Uganda plans to complete its 272km electric Turkish-model line shortly after, with Ruto envisioning extension beyond Kampala for regional integration.

Uganda launched its SGR in November 2024 but lacks the full €2.7 billion (Shs11.8 trillion) funding. Project spokesman David Mugabe noted ongoing talks with the African Development Bank and Islamic Development Bank, with AfDB officials visiting soon.

Under the funding plan, Uganda covers 15 percent, development institutions 65 percent, and export credit agencies 20 percent for equipment. Uganda has already spent Shs329 billion on site preparations, geological studies (completed), labor camps, and 80 percent land acquisition in Mukono, Wakiso, and Kampala districts.

Technical teams from both nations are aligning standards for seamless cargo transfer. Museveni intends to extend the line to Rwanda, DRC, and South Sudan borders to enhance African trade affordability by tackling high transport costs.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)