CMA CGM has launched its first weekly full block rail link between the Port of Mombasa and the Nairobi-Embakasi Inland Container Depot (ICD), which it says will power the connection between Kenya’s main maritime gateway and its inland logistics network.

With 54 wagons and a capacity of 108 twenty-foot equivalent units, the service initially carries containerized imports to Nairobi to assess demand, the company says the dedicated rail will initially carry containerized imports from Mombasa to Nairobi, with one operating each week.

Naveen Prabhu, Deputy Regional Director for East Africa at CMA CGM said on Friday, October 28, that idea is to address broader problems in the sea, port and inland economies by ensuring strong connectivity.

It will also offer solutions, enabling CMA CGM to accurately assess customer demand, determine opportunities, and successfully introduce a return service to Mombasa

“This project is also about partnership: with the Government of Kenya, the Kenya Ports Authority, Kenya Railways and our customers. It reflects our long-term commitment to Kenya and our ambition to contribute to the country’s growth by connecting people, businesses and opportunities,” Prabhu said.

By integrating rail freight with its maritime services, CMA CGM is expanding its transport solutions for customers moving goods between international markets and Kenya’s inland economic centers. The service has been developed in cooperation with KPA and KRC.

The inauguration ceremony held on Friday, October 28, was attended by government officials and industry leaders, including Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary for Transport, Wadid Benaabou, Ambassador of France to Kenya, Capt. William K. Ruto, CEO of the Kenya Ports Authority, and Philip J. Mainga, the Managing Director of Kenya Railways Corporation. CMA CGM was represented by Naveen Prabhu, Deputy Regional Director for East Africa, and Benjamin Coston, Managing Director of the East Africa Cluster.

Investing in local expertise and communities

CMA CGM’s presence in Kenya extends beyond transport infrastructure. The Group is developing inland solutions that complement its maritime services, including the Kilima service, while supporting the development of local skills through its renewed partnership with Bandari Maritime Academy. The partnership helps train the next generation of Kenyan maritime and logistics professionals.

“Developing efficient connections between the Port of Mombasa and inland economic centres is

essential to strengthening Kenya’s logistics chain. Partnerships between maritime and rail transport

stakeholders help connect infrastructure, businesses and markets. This initiative demonstrates the

importance of cooperation between public and private stakeholders in supporting trade and the country’s economic development,” Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary for Transport in Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport, said.