Southern African Solutions to Public Transport Challenges Presented by: Carole Mtizi Department of Logistics, Stellenbosch University Email: carole.mtizi@gmail.com

Public transport in Southern Africa To be beneficial to a wide sector of the continent’s population, transport planning also requires a detailed understanding of the economic, social and political environments in which transport takes place and interventions are made (Porter, 2007). Public transport should inspire the movement from private vehicles to public transport – reduce congestion and pollution in roads. Aim of public transport- reliable, comfortable, safe, flexibility and affordable.

Possible Solutions Non-motorised forms of transport Apolitical transport policies and regulation policy Collaborative rural and urban planning

Technology as a driver of change Integrated payment option – universal payment system. From trains to buses to minibus taxis. Uber-like travel app for taxis- possibly extend it to the rest of the network, if successful.

Recommendations Need for better integration of social outcomes within public transport policy at the strategic tactical and operational levels Governments need to play a key role in decentralising places of business and make policies that promote an integrated approach to public transport planning within Southern Africa Establish a sustainable public transport plan that can satisfy short term demand at a reasonable cost without replicating mistakes from developed countries. More focus needs to be put into developing mobile and innovative public transport applications that will assist commuters, law enforcers, and regulators together with the transport operators in achieving a sustainable public transport service.

Thank You.