Collaboration for active mobility in Africa - CAMA

Abstract

The project Collaboration for Active Mobility in Africa (CAMA) investigated walking and cycling as key components of everyday mobility in rapidly growing cities in Sub-Saharan Africa. The project aimed to generate user-centred knowledge on mobility behaviour, safety perceptions and infrastructural barriers, and to translate this knowledge into context-sensitive and practice-oriented solutions through participatory processes.

CAMA combined quantitative and qualitative research methods, including surveys, digital crowd mapping, video-based traffic and conflict analysis, and transdisciplinary formats such as Learning Alliances and Living Labs. Empirical work was carried out in the cities of Kampala (Uganda), Nairobi (Kenya) and Mekelle (Ethiopia) in close collaboration with local universities, city administrations, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

The results show that walking is the dominant mode of transport in all three cities, while cycling has significant but largely underutilised potential. Safety concerns, inadequate infrastructure, conflicts with motorised traffic and institutional constraints were identified as major barriers to active mobility. Through Living Labs and alternative implementation formats, the project tested both physical and non-physical interventions, demonstrating that flexible, participatory and locally adapted approaches are essential for successful implementation.

By integrating research, practice and capacity building, CAMA provides transferable methods, empirical insights and lessons learned for promoting active mobility in cities with limited data availability and complex governance contexts. The project contributes to ongoing international debates on sustainable urban mobility, road safety and inclusive city development.