Finance ministers from Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda have agreed on a framework to finance the long-awaited Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), signaling renewed momentum for the regional infrastructure project.
The ministers met in Washington, D.C. on the sidelines of the ongoing IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings 2026, where they reviewed progress and discussed next steps for implementation.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Finance, John Mbadi, reaffirmed his country’s commitment, noting that Kenya is taking the lead in extending the railway to the Malaba border with Uganda.
He emphasized the need for stronger coordination among partner states to ensure the project’s viability.
Speaking on behalf of Rwanda, Finance Minister Yusuf Murangwa said Kigali is ready to extend the railway from the Ugandan border, describing the SGR as a strategic investment that will boost regional connectivity, trade and investment.
He commended Uganda and Kenya for spearheading the initiative, adding that Rwanda is preparing for its phase of implementation.
Uganda’s State Minister for Finance (General Duties), Henry Musasizi, reiterated Kampala’s commitment, noting that construction has already commenced on the Malaba–Kampala section.
“The viability of this SGR depends on all of us committing to do the project,” he said, adding that Uganda plans to extend the line to the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi said Uganda has contracted the construction of the 270-kilometre Malaba–Kampala stretch and appointed Citibank as lead arranger for financing.
He added that progress has been made in securing the right of way, while discussions are ongoing with the World Bank for additional funding support.
Earlier, the Ugandan delegation held talks with a World Bank team led by Qimiao Fan, who indicated that the institution is open to supporting the project and will explore financing options.
Mr Ggoobi described the SGR as a critical investment that will lower cargo transport costs, improve regional connectivity and enhance Uganda’s trade competitiveness.
The delegation also met officials from Citibank, led by Managing Director Richard Hodder, to review progress in mobilising funds for the railway project.
