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Kenya and Uganda Presidents Meet to Discuss Railway Extension Project
The presidents of Kenya and Uganda met near their shared border Saturday to discuss the extension of a Chinese-built railway. The project's next phase aims to promote regional economic growth and establish Kenya as a key transport hub.
Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni met near their shared border on Saturday to discuss the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway. The railway, constructed between 2013 and 2019, links Mombasa to Nairobi and Naivasha. China halted further lending for the line's extension to Uganda, leading to delays. Kenya spends approximately $1 billion annually servicing Chinese debt, largely due to railway construction loans. The railway generated about $165 million in revenue last year, despite growing passenger and cargo numbers. An auditor general report indicated over $260 million in wasted penalties and interest from late debt payments.
Key Facts
- The presidents of Kenya and Uganda met to discuss a railway extension.
- The Standard Gauge Railway was built from 2013 to 2019, linking Mombasa to Naivasha.
- China ceased lending for the railway's extension to Uganda.
- Kenya spends roughly $1 billion each year servicing Chinese debt related to the railway.
- The railway generated approximately $165 million in revenue last year.
- A report indicated that over $260 million was wasted on penalties and interest from late debt payments.
- Kenya is keen to complete the railway line to Uganda.
- President Ruto says the project will stimulate regional economic growth and position Kenya as a transport hub.
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Research Sources
- EWN Traffic — Kenya, Uganda presidents to meet for rail link