Urban mobility governance refers to the collection of policies, institutions, and processes established to organize and regulate transportation systems in urban areas. It encompasses the planning, management, and coordination of various modes of transport to ensure smooth, safe, and sustainable movement of people and goods within cities. In Africa, where urban areas are experiencing rapid growth, urban mobility becomes a critical issue for economic, social, and environmental development.

Efficient urban mobility is essential in Africa for several reasons. It enhances access to jobs, education, and healthcare services, reduces socio-economic inequalities, and improves the quality of life for city dwellers. Moreover, effective urban mobility management can contribute to reducing pollution, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting more sustainable modes of transport. In light of the challenges posed by population growth and rapid urbanization, it is imperative to implement robust and innovative governance models to meet the mobility needs of African populations.

I. Context of urban mobility in Africa

Specific Issues of Urban Mobility in Africa

The rapid and often unplanned urbanization of African cities has led to a series of specific challenges in urban mobility. Existing transportation infrastructures struggle to meet the growing demand, resulting in frequent road congestion, prolonged travel times, and an increase in road accidents. Additionally, many African cities lack well-developed public transport systems, leading to an over-reliance on informal modes of transport such as minibuses, motorcycle taxis, and shared taxis. While these modes of transport are essential for daily mobility, they are often poorly regulated and can be dangerous.

Furthermore, the inadequacy of pedestrian and cycling infrastructures exposes pedestrians and cyclists to high risks, limiting the adoption of more sustainable and active modes of transport. Air pollution, exacerbated by old and poorly maintained vehicles, is another major issue, impacting public health and the environment. Lastly, socio-economic disparities exacerbate inequalities in access to transport services, with the poorest populations often being the most affected by the inefficiencies of the urban transport system.

Growing Needs for Efficient Urban Transport

In the face of these challenges, the demand for efficient urban transport in Africa continues to grow. With the urban population projected to double by 2050, it is crucial to develop transport systems capable of meeting this demand. African cities need to invest in modern and resilient transport infrastructures, including quality public transport networks, well-maintained roads, as well as safe cycling paths and sidewalks.

Improving urban mobility also requires an integrated and sustainable approach, prioritizing environmentally friendly transport solutions. The development of smart transport technologies, such as real-time traffic management systems and shared mobility applications, can help optimize the use of existing infrastructure and reduce congestion.

Moreover, urban mobility governance must include policies that promote social inclusion, ensuring equitable access to transport services for all segments of the population. This involves implementing affordable fares, providing subsidies for vulnerable groups, and enhancing the safety of public transport.

In summary, to meet the growing urban transport needs, African cities must adopt innovative and collaborative governance strategies, mobilizing both public and private resources to create efficient, sustainable, and equitable urban mobility systems.

II. Models of Urban Mobility Governance

Model 1: The Integrated Transport System of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Who are the involved actors?

The integrated transport system of Dar es Salaam, known as the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) system, is a notable example of urban mobility governance in Africa.

The main actors involved in this project include:

• The Tanzanian government: Through the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Communications, the government plays a key role in the planning and financing of the project.
• The World Bank: Provides part of the funding necessary for the construction of transport infrastructure.
• The local authorities of Dar es Salaam: Involved in the implementation and daily management of the DART system.
• Private transport operators: Contracted to provide rapid bus services along designated corridors. 
• Citizens: As end-users, they participate indirectly through feedback and suggestions to improve the service.

What are the objectives and challenges encountered?

• Objectives
  • Reduce Road Congestion: With the rapid increase in the urban population, it is essential to alleviate congestion on the main roads of Dar es Salaam.
  • Improve Air Quality: By promoting the use of modern and well-maintained buses, the project aims to reduce air pollution.
  • Provide Affordable and Efficient Public Transport: The DART system is designed to be an affordable alternative to informal and often costly transport modes.
  • Increase Road Safety: By better organizing public transport, the project aims to reduce road accidents.

• Challenges
  • Financing: Securing and managing the funds necessary to construct and maintain the DART system has been a major challenge.
  • Coordination among Stakeholders: Ensuring effective collaboration among the various actors involved is crucial. 
  • Social Inclusion: Ensuring that the transport system is accessible to all segments of the population, including the most vulnerable, is essential.
  • Resistance to Change: Managing resistance from existing informal transport operators and users accustomed to those services presents a significant challenge.

What Results Have Been Achieved?

Since the implementation of the DART system, several positive outcomes have been observed:

• Reduction in Congestion: Traffic flow on the main corridors of the city has improved, reducing travel times for users.
• Improved Air Quality: The modernization of buses and the reduction in the use of private vehicles have contributed to lower pollution levels.
• Enhanced Access to Public Transport: Many residents of Dar es Salaam now have access to a reliable and affordable public transport system.
• Increased Safety: The organized management of public transport has contributed to a decrease in the number of road accidents.

In conclusion, the urban mobility governance model of Dar es Salaam through the DART system demonstrates how integrated planning and effective collaboration among stakeholders can significantly improve urban mobility in a rapidly growing African city.

Model 2: The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System of Lagos, Nigeria

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Lagos is another model of urban mobility governance in Africa, established to enhance the quality and efficiency of public transportation in Nigeria’s most populous city.

Involved Actors

• Government of Lagos State: Responsible for the planning and implementation of the BRT system. The Lagos State government plays a central role in overseeing and regulating the service.
• Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA): This authority is in charge of the management and administration of the BRT system. LAMATA also ensures coordination among the various stakeholders and monitors the service’s efficiency.
• Private Partners: Various private operators are involved in the daily management of BRT buses. They provide the vehicles and ensure their maintenance.
• Local Communities: The residents of Lagos are important stakeholders, as their usage and acceptance of the BRT system are crucial to its success.

Objectifs et Défis Rencontrés

• Objectives
  • Reduce Urban Congestion: The primary goal is to decrease heavy traffic in Lagos, thus facilitating daily commutes.
  • Improve Air Quality: By reducing the number of private vehicles on the roads, the BRT aims to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Provide Reliable and Affordable Transport: To offer a fast and cost-effective public transport alternative for the residents of Lagos.
  • Stimulate Economic Development: By facilitating access to jobs and services, the BRT contributes to the economic growth of the region.
• Challenges:
  • High Infrastructure Costs: The construction and maintenance of dedicated BRT lanes and stations require significant investments.
  • Conflicts with Traditional Transport Operators: Minibus and taxi drivers may perceive the BRT as a threat to their income, leading to tensions.
  • Maintenance and Management of Equipment: Ensuring regular and adequate maintenance of buses and infrastructure is essential to avoid service interruptions.
  • Community Support: Gaining the trust and buy-in of residents to utilize the new transport system is crucial for its success.

What Results Have Been Achieved?

Similar to the reduction in congestion and improvement in air quality observed with the BRT system in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, we have noted other significant benefits: 

• Increased Accessibility: The BRT has become a more accessible and affordable transport option for residents, facilitating better mobility within the city.
• Economic Development: The BRT system has stimulated the local economy by improving access to commercial and industrial areas, thereby creating new economic opportunities.
• User Satisfaction: Many users have expressed satisfaction with the reliability and efficiency of the BRT system, which has strengthened its adoption.

III. Challenges and Opportunities

Key Challenges Encountered in Implementing Governance Models

• High Infrastructure Costs

Public transport projects, such as BRT systems, require significant financial investments for infrastructure construction, vehicle procurement, and equipment maintenance. For instance, the cost of establishing dedicated BRT lanes and stations can be prohibitive for many African cities with limited budgets.

• Conflicts with Existing Actors

Traditional transport operators, such as minibus and taxi drivers, may perceive new transport systems as a threat to their income. For example, in Lagos, tensions have arisen between minibus drivers and BRT authorities.

• Maintenance and Management of Equipment

Ensuring regular and adequate maintenance of infrastructure and vehicles can be a major challenge, leading to service interruptions and quality degradation. For example, frequent service interruptions in BRT systems due to poor maintenance can discourage potential users.

• Community Support

Gaining the buy-in and acceptance of residents for new transport systems is crucial for their success. For instance, a lack of awareness and education about the benefits of BRT systems can lead to low public adoption.

Opportunities for Improving Urban Mobility in Africa

• Expansion of BRT Infrastructure

Implementing BRT systems in other major African cities can help reduce congestion and improve access to essential services. Consequently, residents benefit from faster and more reliable commutes, enhancing their quality of life.

• Integration of Transport Modes

Creating integrated transport networks that combine different modes (buses, trains, bicycles) can optimize urban mobility. For example, better integration facilitates transfers and makes public transportation more attractive.

• Promotion of Green Transportation

Promoting the use of electric vehicles and bicycles can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby improving air quality and decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.

• Development of Inclusive Transport Policies

Developing policies that incorporate the needs of vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and disabled, fosters more equitable mobility, enhancing social cohesion and economic inclusion.

Conclusion

In the context of urban mobility in Africa, we have identified significant challenges such as increasing congestion and the growing need for efficient transport. Governance models like the Integrated Transport System of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and the BRT System of Lagos in Nigeria illustrate varied approaches to addressing these challenges, each with its own successes and specific challenges.

The main challenges encountered include resistance from traditional operators and the need for adequate infrastructure maintenance. However, these challenges also present opportunities to improve urban mobility, such as integrating policies that promote more inclusive and sustainable mobility, and encouraging alternative modes of transport like electric vehicles and integrated transport systems.

For the future, it is essential for policymakers in Africa to invest in flexible and adaptive governance models that address the specific needs of cities while promoting innovative and sustainable solutions for improved and equitable urban mobility.

Webographie / Bibliographie

United Nations – Urbanization in Africa World Urbanization Prospects (https://population.un.org/wup/Publications/Files/WUP2018-Report.pdf)