Transport-related health, safety and accessibility in sub-Saharan Africa: Comparative insights from Kumasi-Ghana and Dar es Salaam-Tanzania

Abstract

Urban mobility is crucial in shaping safety perceptions, health outcomes, and accessibility experiences. However, disparities in urban mobility patterns, particularly regarding safety, health, and accessibility, require further exploration to inform equitable and sustainable solutions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Accordingly, this study provides a comparative analysis of transport-related safety in Kumasi-Ghana, and Dar es Salaam (DAR), Tanzania, focusing on community safety perceptions, health impacts, and mobility choices. Using the Perceived Accessibility Scale and a semi-structured data collection framework, the study explores key transport-related safety indicators, including infrastructure quality, inclusivity, and health-related mobility considerations. The study findings are based on data collected from 600 respondents in Kumasi-Ghana, and 1189 in DAR-Tanzania. The findings reveal that Kumasi-Ghana exhibits relatively stronger safety perceptions, whereas DAR-Tanzania faces heightened accessibility challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities. Statistical relationships reveal distinct urban mobility patterns, with travel cost emerging as a dominant factor in DAR-Tanzania's travel decisions, while safety concerns are more influential in Kumasi-Ghana. Additionally, DAR-Tanzania experiences higher travel-related stress, reinforcing the need for efficiency-oriented interventions such as congestion management and improved public transport reliability. Policy implications underscore the need for targeted infrastructure investments, inclusive transport design, and affordability measures. Both cities require enhancements in pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, with DAR-Tanzania demonstrating a greater need for interventions benefiting vulnerable populations. Integrating health-conscious mobility strategies, such as air quality improvements and active transport promotion, can foster sustainability benefits. Through these findings, policymakers can enhance mobility and well-being through equitable and sustainable transport solutions that address urban safety, economic constraints, and health-related challenges.