The 'Advancing Public Transport' co-located event at the SMA Summit will address the urgent need to modernize and expand public transport infrastructure across Africa. Cities like Dakar, Nairobi, and Johannesburg are already demonstrating the impact of investments in BRT systems, rail networks, and digital platforms. The Tanzania Standard Gauge Railway and Senegal’s Regional Express Train highlight the critical role of these projects in strengthening regional connectivity and trade.
Why does this matter? With an estimated $30 billion annual investment needed to maintain and expand Africa's public transport, the event will focus on key opportunities for businesses. This includes infrastructure development for stations, tracks, and depots; the vital transition to fleet electrification with electric buses, minibus taxis, and passenger vehicles; and the implementation of digital platforms for ticketing, Mobility as a Service (MaaS), and data-driven operations management to optimize service efficiency. Recognizing the crucial role of traditional providers like Minibus Taxis, Matatus, and Boda Bodas, the event will also explore how these services are evolving through the adoption of new technologies and solutions, ensuring they remain integral to urban mobility.