President William Ruto has announced that Kenya is in discussions with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to secure financing for the completion of the regional railway project that will extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from the Rift Valley to the border with Uganda.

This move comes after China withdrew its support for the project, halting progress on the SGR extension in 2019.

This left a gap of 468 kilometres (290 miles) from the Kenyan port of Mombasa to Uganda.

“We are exploring a partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates to extend the Standard Gauge Railway to connect Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan,” President Ruto stated.

He further noted that both nations had agreed to conduct a feasibility study to assess the viability of the extension, which is expected to play a pivotal role in regional integration and boosting trade.

The talks with the UAE also extended beyond the railway, with the President revealing that discussions in Abu Dhabi included potential investments in Kenya's Galana-Kulalu irrigation project and other agricultural initiatives.

"We also agreed on UAE’s investment in the Galana-Kulalu project and other agricultural initiatives aimed at strengthening our food security agenda,” Ruto added.

This strategic partnership with the UAE marks a significant step in Kenya's efforts to complete its railway network and enhance connectivity within the East African region.

With the SGR set to connect Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan, it is hoped that the project will stimulate trade and regional cooperation, while also contributing to the country’s broader economic growth goals.