Integrating public transportation with active travel modes like cycling and walking can play a crucial role in promoting healthier lifestyles and improving public health. This boosts physical activity among commuters and travellers and reduces air and noise pollution, making cities more livable. In rapidly urbanising African cities, there is a unique opportunity to reshape mobility by prioritising integrated public transport systems that promote sustainability, health, and active communities across the continent.
Integrated Public Transport & Active Lifestyles
Public transport systems that integrate multiple modes—buses, trains, cycling, and walking—encourage physical activity, as commuters are more likely to walk or cycle to transit stops. According to the WHO, physical inactivity is a leading risk factor for non-communicable diseases, increasing mortality risk by 20%-30%. In African cities, physical inactivity often stems from limited access to safe and reliable public transport, pushing residents to rely on private cars or informal modes. In cities like Nairobi, inefficient public transport leads to “accessibility poverty,” particularly affecting low-income populations. By enhancing public transport and linking it with cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, cities can address these health issues directly.
Environmental & Health Benefits
Green public transport options like electric buses significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. In fact, electric buses can lower CO2 emissions by up to 60% compared to diesel alternatives. In cities such as Lagos, where air pollution exceeds WHO guidelines, transitioning to electric public transport could drastically cut harmful pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5), which are associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. According to a Climate and Clean Air Coalition assessment, 200,000 premature deaths across Africa could be avoided annually by 2030 through cleaner air initiatives. Poor air quality negatively impacts public health, discouraging outdoor exercise and reducing overall activity levels. Additionally, reduced noise pollution from electric transport enhances the urban environment, encouraging more outdoor physical activities.
Public Transport & Accessibility
Reliable public transport improves access to sports and training facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and community centers, which are often concentrated in specific areas. In sub-Saharan Africa, only 33% of the urban population has access to public transport, compared to 75% in Europe and North America. Transport inequality deepens socio-economic divides and limits access to health-promoting activities. By improving transport links to recreational facilities, cities can encourage greater participation in physical activities, promoting healthier communities.
Furthermore, improved transport networks support social inclusion by enabling people of all ages, income levels, and abilities to engage in regular physical activity. This is particularly important in urban areas where socio-economic disparities often limit access to sports and recreational opportunities.
Mental Health & Public Transport Quality
High-quality public transport also benefits mental health. Reliable, comfortable transport reduces commuting stress, and integration with pedestrian and cycling options can improve mental well-being. Research from Sustrans (UK) shows that walking and cycling, often combined with public transport, can positively impact mental health. Shorter, less stressful commutes are linked to higher well-being and life satisfaction. In contrast, unreliable and overcrowded transport systems, combined with inadequate cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, contribute to stress and dissatisfaction. Improving the accessibility and efficiency of public transport, while promoting active travel modes, can significantly enhance urban residents’ mental well-being.
A Key Factor in Improving Urban Public Health
Integrated public transport systems that promote active travel through better walking and cycling experiences, and improve access to exercise facilities can significantly boost public health outcomes. In African cities, addressing transport congestion and poor air quality is crucial to fostering active lifestyles. By prioritising green transport options and creating well-connected networks, cities can build healthier, more active communities. Ultimately, urban transport systems should not only move people efficiently but also contribute to their physical and mental well-being. Achieving integrated public transport systems will depend on committed political action and active community involvement to create sustainable, inclusive, and health-focused mobility solutions for everyone.
Reference List
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23792949.2024.2364619
Stokenberga, A., Saïsset, E., Kerzhner, T., & Espinet Alegre, X. (2024). Connecting through public transport: accessibility to health and education in major African cities. Area Development and Policy, 1–18.
https://doi.org/10.1080/23792949.2024.2364619
https://www.sei.org/publications/air-pollution-climate-change-africa-full-report/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306261921016007?via%3Dihub
https://www.context.news/green-cities/africa-innovators-turn-to-tech-to-solve-transport-woes
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