Exploring the Designs of 9 SGR Stations from Nairobi to Mombasa
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) has significantly altered the travel experience between Nairobi and Mombasa, offering a compelling fusion of cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and safety. The Madaraka Express and Inter-County trains of the SGR have become the preferred mode of transport for locals, providing rapid, non-stop journeys, scenic routes, and intermittent stops. However, amidst the success of the SGR, the often-overlooked architectural brilliance of its stations is a fascinating aspect that often goes unnoticed. This guide sheds light on the unique design inspirations behind each station along the Nairobi-Mombasa route.
1. Nairobi Terminus (Syokimau):
Our journey commences at the heart of Syokimau, just south of Nairobi. Nairobi Terminus, the gateway to the SGR adventure, facilitates seamless transfers with three daily passenger trains. The station’s design, featuring two trains with a bridge on top, symbolizes an aerodynamic engine. This integration of modern architecture with historical significance represents a visual bridge between the legacy of rail travel and the modern SGR experience.
2. Athi River Station:
As the second SGR station from Nairobi to Mombasa, Athi River Station, situated in Machakos County, approximately 20 km from Nairobi Terminus, pays homage to the region’s hilly slopes. The large roof design seamlessly blends with the natural contours of the hilly terrain, marrying modern travel with indigenous design.
3. Emali Station:
Located in the fast-growing Emali Town, the third SGR station along the route (approximately 125 km from Nairobi) stands as a testament to unity. Emali Station’s design, inspired by the five fingers of a folded fist, narrates a story of collaboration and harmony, mirroring the spirit of the communities it serves.
4. Kibwezi Station:
In Kibwezi Town, Makueni County (approximately 178 km from Nairobi), Kibwezi Station’s leaf-shaped eaves showcase a fusion of aesthetics and sustainability, inspired by nature.
5. Mtito Andei Station:
Positioned around 230 km from Nairobi, Mtito Andei Station’s design celebrates the natural landscape. Sloping roofs mimic the terrain, while prismatic glass patterns add elegance, offering travellers a visual connection with the surrounding beauty.
6. Miasenyi Station:
Nestled in the heart of the Taru landscape, Miasenyi Station, the sixth SGR station from Nairobi to Mombasa before reaching Mariakani, draws inspiration from the Zebra’s strip. The white and brown colours reflect the region’s characteristics, creating a vibrant and distinctive visual identity.
7. Voi Station:
Located in Voi Town, the largest town in Taita-Taveta County, Voi Station emphasizes unity and harmony. The V-shape of the station’s façades with raised hands symbolizes the spirit of “Harambee” or pulling together—a rallying call from Kenya’s founding President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.
8. Mariakani Station:
This final SGR station before Mombasa, located in the relatively small town of Mariakani, borrows heavily from the coconut tree. The ‘coconut’ porticos serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, immortalizing the nostalgic feelings of approaching Mombasa.
9. Mombasa West Station:
As the second-largest SGR station after Nairobi, Mombasa West Station, located in the Miritini suburb about 11 km from Mombasa CBD, draws inspiration from the ocean’s ripples and tides. The 58-meter view tower adds sophistication, reminiscent of Rotterdam, Netherlands, making this station a unique architectural landmark.
