Regional logistics and transport costs
Operationalise the Standard Gauge and Metre Gauge Railways for freight
Implementation is underway.
Where this stands
SGR under construction; Tororo–Gulu MGR rehabilitation was due for completion February 2026.
Why this reform was agreed
The main mode of transport for regional exports is road, characterised by delays, non-tariff barriers and high costs, while rail is around 50% cheaper and barely attracts logistics-related non-tariff barriers.
Ongoing and planned interventions
Government has begun construction of the 272 km Standard Gauge Railway from Malaba to Kampala, expected to halve cargo transport cost from the current USD 120 per tonne and cut transit time from Mombasa to Kampala from seven days to one. Rehabilitation of 375 km of the Tororo–Gulu Metre Gauge Railway was scheduled for completion by February 2026.
Progress updates
No progress updates recorded yet
Updates are published as the lead institution confirms movement on this action.