A London-based international tribunal has ruled in favor of Uganda, dismissing all claims made by Rift Valley Railways (RVR) investors in a case involving over $2 billion in compensation.

The final award, issued on July 22, 2025, concluded a legal battle that began in April 2020, when RVR Investments (Pty) Ltd and KU Railways Holdings Limited filed a case under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules. The hearing took place in March 2024 before a three-member panel seated in London.

The investors had accused Uganda and Kenya of breaching agreements related to the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) concession. Their claims included failure to harmonize railway operations, negative impacts from the new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and alleged deceit over intentions to phase out the old railway system.

However, the tribunal dismissed all these claims. It ruled that Uganda did not violate any of its obligations and clarified that the termination of the Uganda Concession Agreement was due to RVR’s own failings.

“The Tribunal found that Uganda was not in breach of its harmonization obligations,” the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs stated.

“The termination was justified because RVR failed to meet agreed freight targets and did not carry out proper maintenance.”

In addition to rejecting the claims, the tribunal ordered RVR to pay Uganda USD 3,668,519.25 in legal fees and GBP 200,369.11 in arbitration costs.

The Ministry said this outcome confirms Uganda’s stance that ending the concession was necessary to protect the country’s key railway infrastructure.

“Uganda remains committed to fair and transparent investment partnerships and responsible management of public resources,” the statement concluded.

Uganda was represented by the Attorney General’s Chambers, Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP, and K&K Advocates.