6 Features About the Madaraka Express Train Launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta

The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) train dubbed Madaraka Express was on Wednesday morning launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in Mombasa during a historic event.

Being the first of its kind in Kenya, the train has a presidential coach with a masterpiece of art with a shiny wooden finish coupled with comfortable seats.

Kenyans.co.ke has compiled a list of things you should know about the inaugural SGR train which made its maiden trip with President Kenyatta on board.

No opening windows

Despite having multiple windows, the new system has new rules which strictly dictate that the windows should remain closed.

During the maiden ride, President Kenyatta was seen waving to Kenyans behind a closed window seemingly adhering to the regulation.

No hawking

When travelling especially in public service vehicles, Kenyans are used to small scale traders who selling foodstuffs or snacks.

However, hawkers have been banned from selling their wares both inside the trains and at the railway stations.

No separate toilets

While the SGR trains are self-contained, there are no separate washrooms for the gents and ladies. 

The toilets also clog from time to time even with disposable tissue as they cannot flush away dirt.

Women drivers

The train will which is currently on its way from Mombasa to Nairobi with the Head of Stae on board are being driven by two young Kenyan women aged 23 and 27.

The two, are among several trainees who recently graduated from the railway training institute.

Language and translation

In most trains, messages are delivered in local languages then translated to English but in the SGR one, writings are done in English and mixed up with Swahili.

For example at the Mtito Andei terminus, there is a sign post written: 'Kituo Cha Mombasa Terminus' and 'Watoto Carriage'.

Long Distance to terminus

Passengers will be required to travel to the city outskirts to access the terminus for them to board.

For those travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa, they will have to travel to the final terminus which is located in Syokimau, about 20 kilometres from the Central Business District  (CBD).

Other the hand, Mombasa residents will have to make their way to Miritini which is 11 kilometres away from town.