Public participation for proposed Railways Bill 2024 kicks off at Kisii County Hall

On Monday, a significant number of residents gathered at Kisii County Hall to participate in a public consultation on the proposed Railway Bill 2024. The event, moderated by Antony Obel, Kenya Railways’ legal counsel, highlighted the crucial role of public involvement in legislative processes.

Obel stressed that engaging the public is not just a procedural formality but a constitutional requirement designed to ensure that proposed laws meet the needs and preferences of the populace. He outlined the key changes introduced by the Railway Bill 2024, which marks a substantial shift in Kenya’s rail transport sector.

The bill proposes adopting an open access model intended to transform the railway industry by inviting private sector investment. Under this new framework, private entities would be allowed to invest in railway infrastructure, build new railway lines, and operate their trains either on existing government-owned tracks or on newly developed private lines. This approach aims to foster a collaborative environment between public and private sectors, driving efficiency and innovation.

Obel explained that the bill represents a departure from the current model where Kenya Railways is the exclusive operator and manager of the railway system. The proposed public-private partnership model is designed to broaden the range of investors and operators in the railway sector, enhancing service quality and stimulating economic growth.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Kenya Railways Act of 1978 to reflect modern needs and technological advancements. Key provisions of the bill include licensing private operators, establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure safety and efficiency, and promoting fair competition within the sector.

Obel emphasized that multiple forums have been set up to gather public feedback and ensure comprehensive community input. “We have made every effort to keep the public informed about the bill and to provide ample opportunities for feedback,” Obel said.

To facilitate public access, the bill is available for review on the Ministry of Public Transport’s website and the Kenya Railways Corporation website. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage citizens nationwide. The feedback collected will be integrated into the bill’s final draft, which will then be presented to Parliament for further legislative consideration. This process is vital for ensuring that the bill meets democratic standards of scrutiny and accountability.

Kisii Central Deputy County Commissioner Johnson Maina Ngunyi, who also spoke at the event, commended the government’s efforts to modernize the railway sector. He highlighted the importance of legal amendments in fostering development, noting that they would facilitate the integration of modern practices and support growth in both the public and private sectors.

Addressing concerns raised by participants regarding land compensation, Ngunyi assured that any land acquisitions required for new railway projects would be managed fairly and promptly.

Attendees, including local business owners and community leaders, expressed optimism about the bill’s potential benefits. Many hoped that the legislation would address transportation challenges by offering more options for passenger and freight services. There was a palpable sense of anticipation among the participants, who believed the bill could significantly contribute to economic growth both regionally and nationally.

For those unable to attend the session but wishing to provide feedback, comments can be sent via email to info@krc.co.ke. This ensures that all interested individuals have the opportunity to influence the development of this important legislation.