The Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NaMATA) hosted a joint partners coordination workshop to foster collaboration and streamline efforts in the development of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) in the Nairobi Metropolitan Area. This initiative was organized through the European Union-funded Institutional Support for the Kenyan Transport Sector (ISKTS), implemented by NTU International.
Driving Collaboration for Public Transport Transformation
The workshop brought together over 70 participants from state agencies, developmental partners, and stakeholders to align activities, share progress, and develop strategies for effective coordination in MRTS implementation.
NaMATA shared its mandate, organizational structure, and the progress made on key initiatives, including:
- Implementation status of various Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines.
- Advancements in commuter rail systems.
- Development of non-motorized transport infrastructure.
Key Partners and Contributions
Representatives from multiple organizations presented their roles, activities, and achievements in MRTS implementation. The workshop emphasized that the support provided by development partners plays a pivotal role in advancing the project. Participating organizations included:
- Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) – BRT Line 5
- Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) – BRT Line 1
- European Union (EU)
- European Investment Bank (EIB)
- Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
- Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP)
- Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
- Cooperation for Urban Mobility in the Developing World (CODATU)
- World Resources Institute (WRI)
- Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS)
- Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA)
- Additional agencies including Kenya Police Service, Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya Airports Authority, Sports Kenya, Kenya Power, and Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company.
Establishing Technical Working Groups
To address technical aspects and ensure seamless implementation of MRTS projects, the participants agreed to form technical working groups. These groups will focus on:
- Aligning technical components of MRTS projects.
- Identifying and addressing implementation gaps.
- Resolving bottlenecks.
- Facilitating joint actions to enhance project delivery.
NaMATA will oversee the coordination and communicate with respective organizations to nominate members for these working groups.
Shaping the Future of Nairobi’s Public Transport
This workshop marks a significant step toward the development of a reliable and integrated public transport system in the Nairobi Metropolitan Area. By fostering collaboration and leveraging the expertise of various partners, NaMATA is paving the way for a sustainable and efficient MRTS that will transform urban mobility in the region.
