Tourism Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua on Wednesday, April 3, revealed plans to ask the Kenya Railways Corporation to include a new night station along the Nairobi - Mombasa route.
In a statement, the CS argued that it was not right to bypass Voi as a centre for Standard Gauge Railways (SGR) passenger trains to stop at night to allow passengers to catch a breather and refresh.
Mutua who was speaking during a meeting with Taita Taveta County leaders, argued that the current state of affairs is not ideal since it stops passengers from visiting the town.
"I committed to writing to the Kenya Railways to reconsider this decision, as it negatively impacts Voi's economy," he stated.
Additionally, to boost Voi's economy, the CS emphasised that his ministry was working to ensure full participation by local communities in project tendering processes.
The CS who was on a nationwide Utalii Fresh tour added that the Ministry of Tourism would also provide training to local tour guides equipping them with the necessary skills to enhance visitor experiences.
"In partnership with the county government and private sector, we will explore opportunities to develop adventure tourism in Taita Taveta and support the growth of existing tourist attractions while developing new ones," he added.
CS Mutua's proposal comes at a time when the government is looking to improve the transport industry, especially in the rail sector.
On Tuesday, the Kenya Railways Corporation announced that the interlink connecting the SGR Mombasa Terminus to the Mombasa Old Town to be known as the Meter Guage Railway (MGR) line would be completed on May 31, 2024.
This is a move to improve commute rail services to the Mombasa terminus and make travel easier for the residents in the county and others.
In March, the corporation also announced plans to buy at least 21 new coaches and rehabilitate 56 old ones to increase transport capacity.
This move is also set to upgrade SGR to global standards and reduce transportation costs.
Plans are also underway to launch six new passenger stations in Mombasa County including at; Mombasa Terminus, Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi and the Mombasa Central Station.
