This study attempts to relate the policy and good practice literature on urban and suburban passenger rail, much of which originates from high- or middle-income countries to the context of developing cities in Africa. The study includes case studies from three African cities- Lagos, Maputo, and Nairobi to identify and provide guidance on key issues for developing effective urban rail services in Sub-Saharan Africa. All three cities use existing railway right-of-way for part or all of their networks. Lagos illustrates the challenges of building a new urban rail line, where high capital investment, land acquisition, and the need to reposition existing infrastructure and utilities can result in delays and cost overruns. Maputo and Nairobi are examples of suburban rail operated by the national railway company on existing mixed-use infrastructure. Improving the established right-of-way and assets provides faster and less costly option than building new, if coordination challenges can be overcome.