The Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, is currently in London to participate in the London-Sudan Conference and spearhead key negotiations regarding the ambitious Nairobi Railway City project.
The London-Sudan Conference, taking place amidst escalating violence in Sudan, aims to discuss and seek solutions to the ongoing conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions, including vulnerable women and children. The conflict, now in its third year, has drawn attention from the international community, and Mudavadi’s role is pivotal in presenting Kenya’s perspective on regional peace and security.
“The situation in Sudan remains dire, and it is important that we as a region and as global actors, work together for peace. Kenya has consistently played a central role in fostering dialogue between key Sudanese stakeholders, and we continue to advocate for an inclusive and Sudanese-led political process,” said Mudavadi in his address at the conference.
During the session, the Kenyan leader will reaffirm Kenya’s unwavering commitment to a unified Sudan and reiterate the country’s stance against the use of military force to solve political disputes. Mudavadi further emphasized Kenya’s support for African-led peace initiatives, particularly those facilitated by institutions like the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), and the East African Community (EAC).
“Peace in Sudan is not just an internal issue; it’s a regional concern. We stand firmly with the people of Sudan in their quest for lasting peace. We will continue to support African institutions in their efforts to bring stability to the region,” Mudavadi remarked.
Since the conflict’s eruption, Kenya has been a consistent facilitator of peace talks, hosting numerous high-level meetings with both sides of the conflict — the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). These engagements have underscored Kenya’s role as a key diplomatic actor in the region, striving for peace and reconciliation amidst regional instability.
In addition to his diplomatic duties, Mudavadi is also leading the Kenyan delegation in finalizing the terms for the financing of the Nairobi Railway City project. The landmark deal, between Kenya’s Ministry of National Treasury and the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF), is poised to revolutionize the country’s transport infrastructure. The 438-acre project aims to modernize Nairobi’s transport system and is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth.
“We are thrilled to be making progress on the Nairobi Railway City, which will not only transform Nairobi but also open up broader opportunities for regional connectivity. This is a critical step towards our goal of enhancing the nation’s infrastructure and promoting economic development,” Mudavadi explained.
The financing agreement marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s ambitious plans to upgrade its transport infrastructure. The Nairobi Railway City program will focus on expanding and modernizing the commuter rail network, with the inclusion of major components such as the Nairobi Bus Rapid Transit Line 3 and Commuter Rail Lines 2 and 5.
Mudavadi’s visit to the UK will also see the completion of Kenya’s commitments towards the implementation of these transport initiatives. A key meeting between the Government of Kenya and G7+ Transport Heads of Mission is scheduled for 28 April 2025, where the progress on these projects will be formally announced.
The Kenyan government has been prioritizing infrastructure development as a means to drive economic growth, with the Nairobi Railway City seen as a cornerstone project in this vision. By improving urban mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and enhancing commuter services, the program is set to revolutionize the city’s transport landscape.
As the London trip unfolds, Mudavadi’s diplomatic efforts underscore Kenya’s growing influence in regional peace initiatives while also securing vital agreements for the country’s long-term infrastructural development.
With peace in Sudan remaining a critical issue for East Africa, and major infrastructure projects like the Nairobi Railway City set to reshape Kenya’s future, Mudavadi’s leadership continues to play a crucial role in the nation’s international and development efforts.
