Stakeholder insights on enhancing public transport services in sub-Saharan African cities – Perspectives from Accra-Ghana and Dar es Salaam-Tanzania

Abstract

Public transport (PT) systems in sub-Saharan African (SSA) cities are critical for urban mobility and economic development, yet they face numerous challenges that hinder their efficiency, equity, and sustainability. These challenges include exorbitant operating costs, deteriorating road infrastructure, and significant gender imbalances among the stakeholders involved in planning, management, and operation. Addressing these interconnected issues is essential for developing robust, equitable, and efficient PT systems that can support the growing urban populations in SSA. Accordingly, this study examines key stakeholders' perspectives on improving PT through an in-depth analysis of PT systems in Accra-Ghana, and Dar es Salaam (DAR)-Tanzania, focusing on stakeholders, existing systems, route configurations, fares, vehicle distribution, service areas, passenger information, operations, and capacity-building needs. The study findings are based on data collected from a semi-structured interview guide administered in person to 20 agencies in Accra-Ghana, and 12 agencies in DAR-Tanzania involving local government, transport regulators, transport unions, user groups, law enforcement, and research institutions. The findings reveal significant gender imbalances among stakeholders, high operating costs, poor road conditions, and poor fare structures in both cities. Despite these challenges, there is a strong commitment to improving PT systems through better route setup, vehicle allocation, and passenger information systems. The study highlights the importance of tailored solutions to address the unique needs and challenges of PT in each city. Policy implications include addressing gender imbalances, improving road conditions, reducing operating costs, and promoting fare transparency and professional certification. By leveraging these insights, policymakers and urban planners can develop targeted interventions to create more efficient, equitable, and sustainable PT systems in Accra-Ghana and DAR-Tanzania and, by extension, in SSA cities.