President Uhuru Kenyatta launching the SGR cargo train in Mombasa on Tuesday. [Photo/PSCU]
Deputy President William Ruto has said the launch of the services of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) was a proud moment for all Kenyans.
Ruto said it was President Uhuru Kenyatta’s commitment that enabled the Government to complete the project despite the many challenges that it faced along the way including court cases and negative politics.
“It is your commitment that has brought us where we are today and I am proud of your leadership,” said the Deputy President on Tuesday.
Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said only a focused and committed government can achieve the feat of completing a project as big as the SGR in the manner the Jubilee Administration had done.
The two were speaking during the launch of the cargo train in Mombasa.
President Kenyatta waved a giant Kenyan flag to flag off the inaugural cargo train of the SGR shortly after 6.00 pm, at Port Reitz in Mombasa, marking a new era where cargo will be moved twice as fast and at a cheaper price.
The ceremony was also addressed by Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Liu Xianfa, President of the China Communications Construction Company Mr Chen Fen Jian and the Chairman of the Kenya Railways Gen (Rtd) Jeremiah Kianga.