Kenya Railways has introduced refrigerated wagons, known as reefer wagons, to enhance the transportation of perishable goods such as fresh produce.
This development is expected to streamline the logistics of exporting temperature-sensitive cargo while ensuring that goods maintain their quality throughout transit.
In an announcement made on March 19, Kenya Railways confirmed that these specialized wagons will enable fresh produce to be collected from designated consolidation centers and transported by rail to the Port of Mombasa. From there, the goods will be shipped to international markets, including Europe.
“The introduction of reefer wagons will ensure that perishable cargo is efficiently transported via rail, reducing transit time and maintaining quality,” Kenya Railways stated.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop a Cool Logistics Corridor, a network aimed at improving the movement of fresh produce across East Africa. The new transport system is expected to benefit the horticulture sector, a major contributor to Kenya’s economy.
“These efforts align with Kenya’s commitment to enhancing logistics for perishable goods within the region. By ensuring safe and efficient transportation, we aim to support farmers and exporters in delivering quality produce to global markets,” the statement added.
Advanced Technology for Temperature Control
The newly acquired reefer wagons are fitted with modern cooling technology to maintain optimal conditions for perishable goods. These wagons feature real-time temperature monitoring systems that ensure goods remain fresh throughout the journey.
Historically, refrigerated wagons relied on ice blocks to keep cargo cool. However, advancements in technology have led to the use of mechanical refrigeration systems powered by diesel or electricity. Some modern wagons now utilize cryogenic cooling, such as liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide, to achieve ultra-low temperatures, while hybrid models combine different cooling methods for maximum efficiency.
According to a recent report by Logistics Update Africa, Nairobi continues to serve as a key logistics hub for East and Central Africa, handling a significant portion of Kenya’s export trade. The city processes 60% of goods passing through the country’s ports and contributes over 50% to the national economy.
Improvements in infrastructure, including expanded cold storage facilities near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and upgraded road networks, have strengthened Nairobi’s position as a leader in fresh produce exports. Investments in solar-powered storage units and advanced logistics solutions have further streamlined the supply chain.
However, challenges still exist, particularly in road transport. Poor road conditions and long transit times from farms to export points continue to pose a threat to the quality of perishable goods.
“If we don’t invest in better road networks and reduce delays in transportation, we will continue to lose product quality before it even leaves the country,” warned Okisegere Ojepat, CEO of the Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya.
To maintain its competitive edge in the global market, the report emphasized that Kenya must continue investing in modern infrastructure and efficient transport solutions to support the growing demand for high-quality fresh produce exports.
