Kenya, France Sign Ksh 12.5 Billion Deal to Expand & Modernise Nairobi Commuter Rail System
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President William Ruto held talks with President Emmanuel Macron of France and witnessed the signing of 11 instruments between our two nations at State House, Nairobi, on Sunday, May 10. 2026.
In a statement after the meeting, Ruto said the deals include the rehabilitation and modernisation of the Nairobi Central Station to the Embakasi Rail Line 5.
“As part of the strengthening of the strategic partnership between Kenya and France, our two countries today signed right here 11 instruments aimed at deepening cooperation across strategic sectors of our economies. Among the key instruments signed today is the rehabilitation and modernisation of the £83 million (Ksh12.5 billion) Nairobi commuter rail, which will serve as a central pillar of our urban transport modernisation program,” Ruto said.
The France-Kenya deal will expand Nairobi’s commuter railway connectivity by linking the city to satellite towns such as Siokimau, Mbakasi, Ruiru, and Kikuyu.
Besides, Ruto said the commuter rail will also link the Riruta-Ngong line, which is currently under construction.
Other Agreements
The deals also include promoting Kenya’s premium purple tea, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and the development of the Masinga Dam project.
Ruto on Kenya-France Relationship
Ruto said Kenya and France have maintained strong diplomatic relations since 1963 and continue to deepen their partnership in areas of shared interest for the benefit of the people of both nations.
“The decision to host the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya, for the first time in a non-Francophone country, is a strong affirmation of the growing ties between our two countries. The summit marks a significant step towards a more balanced, action-oriented, and results-driven partnership,” Ruto said.
Emmanuel Macron Welcomes 11 Deals
Macron welcomed the deal and reaffirmed France’s commitment to increasing investments and expanding cooperation programmes with African countries.
He said the partnership will focus on key sectors including healthcare, education, food security, digital technology, energy, and infrastructure development.
Also Read: Emmanuel Macron Arrives in Kenya for Africa Forward Summit
Macron also emphasized the importance of the private sector in driving the new phase of economic growth and cooperation between France and Africa.
“Our priority is clear: to step up investments and strengthen our cooperation programmes in healthcare, education, food, digital technology, energy, and infrastructure. We are making a strategic choice in ensuring the private sector is the driving force behind this new momentum,” he said.
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President William Ruto held talks with President Emmanuel Macron of France and witnessed the signing of 11 instruments between our two nations at State House, Nairobi, on Sunday, May 10. 2026. PHOTO/PCS.
