Transport and mobility governance: Uncovering barriers to walking infrastructure decision-making processes in urban areas in Kenya and Malawi

Abstract

This study examined the barriers to implementing walking infrastructure in Kisii Town, Kenya, and Mzuzu City, Malawi. The inter-country research was motivated by evidence of high pedestrian fatalities in these two cities, among other mobility challenges. It focused on smaller, rapidly growing urban centres where early interventions could drive meaningful improvements in overall urban governance, thereby enhancing transport planning and financing. Additionally, the study aimed to address the scarcity of literature on this subject, which remains limited in Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where little research has been conducted on decision-making and the implementation of walking infrastructure in urban areas. The findings reveal that decision-making for walking infrastructure faces numerous challenges. The study recommends taking deliberate steps to improve walking infrastructure, as walking remains the preferred mode of transport for the majority of urban residents in sub-Saharan Africa due to prevailing economic conditions.