By BONIFACE MULU
Kitui, Kenya: In a recent public participation forum held at the Kitui Multipurpose Development Training Institute, members of the public from Kitui County, Kenya, were led by officials from the Roads and Transport Ministry to discuss the proposed Kenya’s Railways Bill 2024.
The public participation saw hundreds of people in attendance. Kitui West District Commissioner, Elizabeth Atemi, stood in for the Kitui County Commissioner, Kipchumba Ruto, serving as the event’s chief guest. During the function, officials guided the participants through various sections of the proposed railway bill for the year 2024.
The new bill introduced by the Ministry of Roads aims to transform the railway administration in the country. This transformation involves establishing the Railway Regulatory Authority (RRA) to foster private sector involvement.
By obtaining a license from the regulator, private sector companies will be permitted to own trains, transport goods and passengers, and contribute to enhanced standards and safer railway development and operations. Moreover, the proposed legislation allows private companies to construct their railway lines, extending rail connectivity to markets currently underserved by the government.
Brenda Mwango, a government official, announced that Kenya Railways will maintain its focus on developing railway infrastructure and operating train services for both freight and passengers on the public railway network. However, the company will also require a license from the regulator to continue these operations.
The public was notified that these changes aim to create opportunities for broader participation in railway development and operations, with the goal of expanding the sector and enhancing its contribution to the overall economy.
The Railway Training Institute’s incorporation into the proposed bill aims to enhance its capacity and make it more visible to a broader range of stakeholders. Currently, the institute functions as a department within Kenya Railways, which has restricted its exposure to the extensive support provided to other vocational training institutions in the country.
The proposed bill seeks to rectify this limitation, allowing the institute to align with the anticipated expansion of the railway sub-sector and provide the necessary skills training for efficient railway operation and maintenance.
Jonathan M. Kilelo, the Assistant Rail Safety Manager at Kenya Railways Corporation, emphasized that certain crucial skills necessary for railway operations, particularly train driving, necessitate extensive training within the Kenya Railways and at the Railway Training Institute.
“And that such skilled staff will also be licensed by the Railway Regulatory Authority to ensure proper regulation for safety,” said Jonathan.
During the session, participants learned about the offences outlined in the act and the rationale behind the law’s goal of implementing reasonable penalties and punishments for offenders. Specifically, they were informed that vandalizing railway infrastructure would result in severe legal consequences. This measure aims to protect the public and rail service users from the potential impact of accidents caused by interference with railway installations.
“The punitive measures include a life imprisonment without an option of the fine,” the KRC Assistant Rail Safety Manager said. He told Kenyans that they can find the proposed Kenya’s Railways Bill 2024 online.
“And one can send comments to railwaybill2024@transport.go.ke or railbill@krc.co.ke for considerations during the final draft of the bill,” he said.
At the event, Detective Chief Elizabeth Atemi expressed her deep appreciation to the participants for their enthusiastic and punctual attendance.
“We are so happy with your turnout, the people of Kitui. Through your participation you have demonstrated your understanding of your constitutional right. Public participation is constitutional in the country. Today I am a proud person to be here with you. Your participation in the event is very important for Kitui County,” the administrator said.
