Informal public transport in Sub-Saharan Africa as a vessel for novel Intelligent Transport Systems

Abstract

Developed countries have lead the way in the implementation of Intelligent Transport Systems, with the objectives of improving safety, efficiency, and environmental impact of transport. With the developing world entering the fray, the questions are: Is ITS in its current form relevant to the developing world? These regions face challenges that are different to that of the developed world, and are unique in their own ways. Many of the regions are evolving novel and innovative solutions to deliver on ITS objectives. In this paper we explore the informal public transport sector in Sub- Saharan Africa, which is in many ways unique to that of the developing world. We highlight some of the unique aspects, and highlight the dire safety and efficiency challenges that the sector faces. Mindful of the regional limitations, we introduce and discuss novel ITS solutions, which can be used to address these challenges. We also share some of the initial results observed through initial experimentation with one of the solutions.