Kenya Railways has introduced a new passenger train service on the Nairobi-Gilgil-Ol Kalou-Nyahururu railway line, which will resume operations after decades of being inactive.
The government, represented by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, announced through Kenya Railways that the new service will be named the “Hustler Express” and will commence operations on Tuesday, June 2.
According to information shared on UDA social media platforms, the railway line will link Nairobi, Gilgil, Ol Kalou, and Nyahururu.
“Are you prepared for the unveiling of the Hustler Express Train operating on the Nairobi Gilgil Ol Kalou Nyahururu route? Tuesday, June 2, 2026, is the scheduled date,” UDA stated.
This announcement follows an earlier declaration by Kenya Railways indicating their intention to reopen the Gilgil-Nyahururu line beginning in June.
The recent confirmation establishes that on Tuesday, June 2, a passenger train service named the Hustler Express will commence operations on the route from Nairobi.
According to the ruling party, the name reflects the government’s bottom-up economic transformation agenda (BETA), which aims to open up regions, stimulate trade, create jobs, and connect people to opportunities.
“This represents more than just a train launch; it embodies the BETA agenda in action, opening up regions, boosting trade, creating jobs, and connecting people to opportunity,” the statement emphasized.
President William Ruto was commonly referred to as “Hustler” during his 2022 presidential campaign and frequently stated that his administration would be the “Hustler’s Government”.
By naming the passenger train “Hustler,” the government is subtly creating a lasting impression on the public consciousness that will endure beyond any transitions.
Currently, the Madaraka Express operates between Nairobi and Mombasa, a service initiated by Kenya’s fourth president, Uhuru Kenyatta.
The new service is intended to enhance trade for local communities, as indicated in the announcement.
Kenya Railways has highlighted several key benefits, including improved transportation of agricultural products to local and export markets, creation of employment opportunities, promotion of tourism, and provision of a safer, more environmentally friendly transportation alternative.
The government is also in the process of reviving the Taita Taveta railway line, which will connect to neighboring Tanzania.
Additionally, the Standard Gauge Railway is being extended from Naivasha to the Malaba border with Uganda, passing through Kisumu.