The 3rd annual Women and Transport Africa Conference, organized by Flone Initiative, centered around the pivotal theme of fostering a more inclusive and equitable public transport system across Africa. It convened stakeholders from around the world, aiming to transition from isolated thinking towards a holistic approach, informed by research, policy interventions, program implementations, and the insights of both users and women professionals in the field.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the conference adopted an online format, utilizing the Zoom platform to facilitate discussions. To mitigate technological disruptions, panel conversations and research presentations were pre-recorded, while presenters remained available for live Q&A sessions.

The pandemic has profoundly altered our way of life, and the transport sector has not been immune. Women, as both transport workers and users, have borne the brunt of the industry’s transformations brought about by the crisis, not only in Africa but globally. It is imperative for the public transport and mobility sector to adapt to this ‘new normal’ by providing women transport workers and users with options that cater to their unique needs. This adaptation must also consider other vulnerable groups, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, adolescent girls, children, and their caregivers.

There exists evidence of simple, cost-effective strategies that can be implemented within existing infrastructure to enhance the equity of public transport and mobility systems for all. However, this endeavor necessitates political commitment from governments, collaboration from the private sector, a well-defined implementation strategy, and active engagement of citizens.

In essence, the path towards a more inclusive and equitable public transport system in Africa, and beyond, requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, guided by research, policy, and the shared experiences of those impacted by transportation systems.

Read and download the report HERE