Why use Nairobi’s commuter train to the CBD?

On my way from work an evening this week, I was in the company of two colleagues - one who like myself has grown fond of the Nairobi commuter train and other who the mention of it paints an image of ‘the dirty crowded public transport system that typically serves the city’s hustlers who cannot easily afford other mode of transport’.   I cannot entirely blame my latter colleague as I had an almost similar perception two months ago.  For most Kenyans, our knowledge of the train service (except the Standard Gauge Railway) paints memories of the old non-reformed Kenya Railways service with poorly maintained train stations that would ferry thousands of passengers. These trains would be completely packed that you had no room to move a leg let alone breathe easily.

Credit: Kenya Railways Corporation

In case you have not used the commuter train from Syokimau to the CBD (this is what I use) largely because of negative perceptions. Then this post is for you. For starters, the reforms within the rail service allowed for an overhaul of some train stations to include ample parking bays where commuters can park for as low as ksh 100 per day. The stations are well maintained with adequate restrooms, restaurants and information monitors. As you make your way to the ticket desk on a week day morning, you are met by the smile of a newspaper distributor who hands you a copy of the freely circulated People’s Daily (PD) paper. Wonder why I mentioned the free PD paper? Again, it is all about perceptions.

In my first day interaction with the People Daily newspaper; I dropped my copy at a nearby seat because at the time, I regarded it as ‘the free, baseless and weak-content newspaper’. Those who know me reckon that I do not like 'free handouts' often associating them with mediocrity. Well, that has changed for the PD paper as I now enjoy reading it on my commute to the CBD each morning. In particular, I always look forward to reading the #WhackyWorld section on page 3 which publishes crazy global happenings or topical facts. For instance, during the international breastfeeding week, the columnist wrote interesting facts about the importance of breastfeeding.

How long is the ride to the CBD? In my case the ride normally takes about 25 minutes which is ample time to read my PD copy and a chapter of the Bible. I like how clean and spacious the coaches are - some seats go unoccupied occasionally. So if you are a person who loves your space….then this PSV option may just be the right solution for you. See, the Nairobi commuter train is not too bad after all. And no, it is not the cheap option for people who cannot afford to drive to work or otherwise! On the contrary, many people opt to park their cars at the station to enjoy the luxury of a fast, convenient, spacious and reliable mode of transport to the CBD. More importantly, by using the train, you directly contribute towards our national energy costs savings and overall reduction in carbon footprint.

While the Nairobi commuter rail service is not comparable to those used in the first world countries, I believe the Kenya Railway Corporation has made commendable steps in the right direction.  What remains is the need to change our perceptions as citizens and; for the government to invest on expansion of railway infrastructure within the city and its environs.