What do you believe is the single most important factor driving up the cost of living in Nigeria?

Inside one of the 20 business class coaches flagged off yesterday in Mombasa. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

The recent launch of the new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Premium Coaches marks another significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of Kenya’s rail transport.

Officially unveiled on October 2 by Kenya Railways, the introduction of this exclusive service not only enhances the overall experience for passengers but also aligns with the government’s vision of improving the country’s transport infrastructure. The Premium Coaches, designed for the discerning traveller, offer a higher level of comfort, privacy, and convenience, reinforcing the growing popularity of the Madaraka Express services since its inception.

Launched in June 2017, the Madaraka Express Passenger Service has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s rail transport, quickly becoming the preferred mode of travel for millions of passengers between Nairobi and Mombasa. As of September 2024, the service had transported 13.7 million passengers, a substantial increase from the 11.39 million passengers recorded at the same time last year.

This steady growth is a testament to the efficiency, reliability, and safety that the SGR has brought to Kenya’s transport system, offering an alternative to the long and often risky road journeys that were once the norm.

• Read More