Kenya Railways Warns of Further Demolitions in Nairobi to Pave Way for New Railway Line

A train using the standard gauge railways and an insert of demolition of Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi's property on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
A train using the standard gauge railways and an insert of demolition of Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi's property on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Photo
Kenya Railways/Coletta Aluda

Kenya Railways has warned of further demolitions in some areas within Nairobi as the government continues with preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The warning follows yesterday's destruction of properties belonging to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi as the government moves to repossess land meant for a railway project.

The Corporation on Wednesday, January 14, reaffirmed its commitment to delivering an efficient and reliable transport system ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

In Kenya, matches will be played at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Talanta Stadium, and Nyayo National Stadium, with the latter designated as a training centre due to its strategic location.

An aerial image of an empty Nyayo National Stadium
An aerial image of an empty Nyayo National Stadium.
Photo
Zakaris Castro

Due to the tournament, Kenya Railways revealed plans to construct a railway line station adjacent to Nyayo National Stadium, and a railway line stretching from Nairobi Central Station through the Nyayo Stadium area, Kibera, and to Talanta Stadium.

"This line will guarantee commuters a safe, reliable and affordable transport option, thus ensuring ease of movement," Kenya Railways announced.

The Corporation said it had issued prior notices to all individuals and entities occupying the railway corridor, advising them to vacate the area in advance of the planned exercise.

Kenya Railways noted that it had already begun the process of evicting remaining encroachers and repossessing all land identified for the development.

"Therefore, take note that any unwanted structures/property found on the corridor will be demolished and removed without further notice and at the encroacher's risk and cost," Kenya Railways warned.

The update comes a day after business premises linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi near the Nyayo National Stadium were demolished to pave the way for a railway line.

The demolitions took place on the night of Tuesday, January 13, along Douglas Wakiihuri Road, which included a car yard, a restaurant, a car wash facility, and various small businesses.

Witness reports indicate that the exercise began around midnight and continued into the early morning under heavy police supervision.

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi addressing congregants at PCEA St Paul Nderi in Sigona Ward, Kikuyu Sub-County, on Sunday, April 13.
Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi addressing congregants at PCEA St Paul Nderi in Sigona Ward, Kikuyu Sub-County, on Sunday, April 13.
Photo
Wamatangi, Facebook