Kenyans have been sharing their most frustrating Madaraka Express stories

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said it was a "historic moment" because the rail line will "transform the economy of this country."

Among the many expected benefits, was the promise of a boost to the Kenyan GDP by at least 1.5 per cent during its operations as well as the decongestion of the Mombasa port.

The hospitality industry especially budget hotels at the coast that had taken a beating slowly started to recover once the service become operational

Charging $7 for an economy class seat and $30 for first class, SGR was a huge relief to Kenyans.

Also read: MADARAKA EXPRESS TO BE GROUNDED ON AUGUST 8TH

However, there are a few annoying things which can drive you mad when you board Madaraka Express.

Business Insider SSA sampled views of Kenyans who are frequent users of the train.

Economy class seats will leave you nursing bruises

“The seats are uncomfortable, you get a stiff back and neck” Chris a frequent commuter said.

“I didn't enjoy my ride, i was in the economy class. The seats are not good I started feeling uncomfortable when we were at Mariakani and I was praying the journey to end asap” Cecilia added.

It's clear the seats were designed for long term use and not for comfort.

First class is a big joke

When you purchase a first class ticket, you expect a snack or at least a drink. Not on this train ride though.

Also read: KENYA'S FIRST GOVERNOR ON-BOARD SGR COMPLAINS OF SMELLY TOILETS AND DRY TAPS

“So what do you get for that $30 then if food is sold to you again.......just a better seat or what?” Maggie wondered.

Getting tickets is still a headache

Booking a Madaraka Express ticket is so frustrating you would think you are going to the moon.

There are still long queues even though the system is supposed to be be easier due to an online component and an M-Pesa option. Middle men have become the biggest beneficiaries of the chaos.

Expensive food

There is something about a full stomach, it makes you more comfortable, lift your spirits, able to slowly and rationally think through your problems, drop your guard and basically enjoy life in general.

When SGR was officially launched lots of Kenyans envisioned lazily gazing outside to see elephants walking majestically at the Tsavo reserve while slowly slurping a cold madafu (coconut) as they slowly massaged their full stomachs, it never came to pass.

Food sold inside Madaraka Express is so expensive that some Kenyans have been forced to carry their own snacks

In these harsh economic times, it is understandable for Kenyans to feel shortchanged for having to buy a single mandazi (pastry) for $1 (Sh100).

“I will carry extra cushion for my my seat and neck as well as snacks too, hunger is not my friend oooh,” Maggie said.

On board customer service is slow. Very slow.

"My seat mate bought mandazi when we were at Mariakani, tea came when we were at Athi River” Tina said.

“To get the tea it's an issue even if you have money, I saw some passengers going to fetch it in the next cabin. Lesson learnt next time I know what to do” Cecilia said.

Brace yourself for a staring contest until you blink

Madaraka express is a public train and therefore it is understandable that you have to compromise on your comfort a little and learn to share.

For shy people however boarding SGR can be a nightmare.

“I don’t know how Introverts can manage though, economy class is like a bar where you have to share a small table among five people and all through the journey you have to stare at each other” Nancy said.

“U can't even yawn in peace” Cecilia cheekily added.

It may be mindful therefore if you are not comfortable with crowds to carry a book to keep yourself busy.