Kenya Railways has announced plans to purchase 24 Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) air compressors in a new World Bank-funded project aimed at improving Nairobi’s commuter train services.
According to a tender notice issued by the corporation, the government will use part of the funding from the Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project (KUMIP) to finance the purchase and installation of the equipment.
The air compressors are critical components in commuter trains as they help power important systems such as brakes, doors, horns, wipers, and other pneumatic functions needed for safe operations.
Kenya Railways stated that all 24 units will be delivered to the Nairobi Central Workshops Stores, where they will be retrofitted into existing DMU trains currently serving commuter routes in and around Nairobi.
The procurement will be carried out through an international competitive bidding process under World Bank regulations, allowing suppliers from across the world to participate. Interested bidders have until June 11, 2026, to submit their applications.
The project is part of the larger KSh65 billion Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project, which seeks to modernise transport systems in Nairobi and improve public transport efficiency.
Earlier, Kenya Railways had cancelled a similar tender for the same compressors before re-advertising the project, raising questions about delays in upgrading the commuter rail network.
Officials say the latest move is expected to improve reliability, safety, and comfort for thousands of passengers who rely on commuter trains daily.
Overall, the project signals renewed efforts by Kenya Railways to modernise Nairobi’s rail transport system and reduce congestion within the city.