CMA CGM has launched a dedicated rail service connecting the Port of Mombasa with Nairobi’s Embakasi Inland Container Depot, strengthening cargo connectivity between Kenya’s main seaport and its inland markets.
The service commenced on 28 October 2026 and will initially operate one train per week, carrying containerised imports. Each train consists of 54 wagons with a total capacity of 108 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
The inaugural journey transported 108 TEUs, according to Kenya Railways Corporation.
Partnership Supports Integrated Cargo Operations
The new service has been developed in collaboration with the Kenya Ports Authority and Kenya Railways Corporation, linking CMA CGM’s maritime operations with inland rail transportation.
The partners are coordinating several stages of the logistics process, including vessel discharge, container segregation, transfer to rail, train scheduling and unloading at the Embakasi Inland Container Depot.
The coordinated approach is intended to improve cargo movement efficiency, streamline port-to-inland transportation and support faster equipment turnaround.
By connecting maritime and rail operations, CMA CGM aims to provide customers with an additional inland transport option while strengthening the efficiency of its logistics network in Kenya.
Service Frequency Could Expand
CMA CGM said future service frequency will depend on customer demand, with potential plans to introduce additional weekly departures and a return service from Nairobi to Mombasa.
Naveen Prabhu, CMA CGM’s Deputy Regional Director for East Africa, said the company’s ambition was to strengthen connectivity between maritime operations, ports and inland economies.
The development forms part of the group’s wider efforts to expand integrated transport solutions and improve access to regional markets.
Regional Connectivity Beyond Kenya
The rail connection also creates opportunities for onward cargo transportation through Kenya’s wider rail and road networks to neighbouring landlocked markets.
Potential destinations include Uganda, South Sudan, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kenya Railways Corporation highlighted the importance of stronger connections between Mombasa and inland economic centres in supporting the country’s logistics chain.
Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary for Transport at Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport, said cooperation between maritime and rail stakeholders was important for facilitating trade and supporting economic development.
The new service adds another option for cargo owners moving imports through Mombasa, while strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional logistics gateway for East and Central Africa.
