"Hustler Express” Set for Launch as Kenya Revives Nairobi-Nyahururu Railway Line

Kenya Railways is set to officially launch a new passenger train service dubbed the “Hustler Express” along the Nairobi-Gilgil-Ol Kalou-Nyahururu route after years of inactivity on the railway line.

The new service, which is expected to begin operations on Tuesday, June 2, was announced by the government through the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. 

According to the announcement, the train will connect Nairobi, Gilgil, Ol Kalou, and Nyahururu, offering residents a new mode of transport after decades without railway services in the region.

UDA, through its social media platforms, urged Kenyans to prepare for the unveiling of the new train service, describing it as part of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

“This is not just a train launch, it is the BETA agenda in motion, opening up regions, boosting trade, creating jobs and connecting people to opportunity,” the party stated.

The latest development comes months after Kenya Railways confirmed plans to reopen the 78-kilometre Gilgil-Nyahururu railway line, which had remained dormant for years. 

The reopening is expected to boost transportation, tourism, and business activities within the region.

The “Hustler Express” name appears to draw inspiration from President William Ruto, who branded himself as the “Hustler” during the 2022 General Election campaigns and frequently referred to his administration as the “Hustler Government.”

The government believes the revived railway line will help farmers transport agricultural produce more efficiently to both local and export markets while also creating employment opportunities for local communities.

Kenya Railways further noted that the project will enhance tourism and provide a safer and environmentally friendly transport alternative for passengers and cargo.

The launch also adds to the government’s broader railway expansion plans, including the revival of the Taita Taveta railway line linking Kenya and Tanzania, as well as the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to the Malaba border through Kisumu.

Currently, Kenya’s most popular passenger train service remains the Madaraka Express, which was launched during the administration of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.