Riding towards equity: The crucial role of public transportation in Namibia

In many countries around the world, public transportation systems are the lifeline that connects people to their jobs, education and essential services. However, in many parts of Namibia, public transportation remains underdeveloped, unreliable and inaccessible to those who need it most.

Prioritising the development of a robust public transportation system is not merely a matter of convenience but a critical step towards fostering social equity and economic growth across the entire nation.

As cities worldwide continue to urbanise at a rapid pace, issues related to transportation equity and social justice have become increasingly prominent on urban agendas.

The distribution of transportation resources and infrastructure must be equitable to facilitate practical mobility and uphold principles of social justice. More importantly, for many countries in the developing world, where they struggle with socio-economic and infrastructural challenges, disparities in transportation access, affordability and mobility options disproportionately affect vulnerable residents, including low-income individuals and those with disabilities.

Reducing poverty and creating jobs

A well-developed public transportation system can significantly reduce poverty by creating jobs, both directly and indirectly. Directly, the construction, maintenance and operation of public transportation systems require a diverse workforce, providing employment opportunities for thousands of Namibians. Indirectly, affordable and reliable transportation allows more people to access jobs that were previously out of reach due to high transportation costs or limited mobility options.

Increased access to employment opportunities can have a profound impact on reducing poverty levels. When individuals can reliably get to work, they are more likely to maintain steady employment, which in turn leads to economic stability and improved quality of life. For many, the cost of private transportation is a significant barrier to economic participation. By reducing these costs through affordable public transportation, we enable a greater number of people to engage in the economy.

Enabling economic opportunities

Beyond employment, public transportation facilitates access to a wide range of economic opportunities. For small businesses and local markets, increased foot traffic from public transit users can boost sales and foster local economic growth. For individuals, reliable transportation means greater access to education and training programmes, which are essential for personal and professional development.

Moreover, a robust public transportation network can attract investments and encourage businesses to set up operations in areas previously considered inaccessible. This, in turn, can lead to the revitalisation of underdeveloped rural and urban areas, further promoting economic growth and stability throughout Namibia.

Creating green and healthy communities

A proper public transportation system is also crucial for creating clean, green communities and promoting public health across Namibia. By reducing the number of private vehicles on the road, we can significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. This is not only beneficial for the environment but also for public health. Reduced air pollution leads to lower rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, which are often prevalent in areas with heavy traffic congestion.

In addition, public transportation encourages a more active lifestyle. People who use public transit tend to walk or cycle to and from transit stations, incorporating physical activity into their daily routines. This can contribute to overall better health outcomes for the community.

Addressing social inequities

Public transportation is a crucial tool in addressing social inequities. In many parts of Namibia, marginalised communities are often located in areas with poor transportation links, further isolating them from economic opportunities and essential services. By prioritising public transportation, we can bridge this gap and ensure that all citizens have equal access to the resources they need.

Accessible and affordable public transportation is particularly important for individuals who cannot afford private vehicles or are unable to drive due to age, disability, or other factors. Ensuring that public transit is inclusive and caters to the needs of all community members is essential for promoting social equity.

Recommendations for key decision-makers

• Invest in Infrastructure: Allocate funds to develop and maintain high-quality public transportation infrastructure, including buses, trains and dedicated transit lanes.

• Promote Affordability: Implement policies to ensure that public transportation remains affordable for all users, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

• Enhance Accessibility: Design public transit systems that are accessible to people with disabilities, the elderly and other vulnerable groups.

• Encourage Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government and private sector entities to improve and expand public transportation services.

• Integrate Sustainable Practices: Emphasise the use of eco-friendly technologies and practices in the development and operation of public transportation systems.

• Engage the Community: Involve community members in the planning and decision-making processes to ensure that public transportation meets the needs of all residents.

Conclusion

Public transportation is more than just a means of getting from one place to another. It is a vital component of national development that can drive economic growth, reduce poverty and promote social equity. By prioritising the development of a reliable and accessible public transportation system, we can create cleaner, healthier and more equitable communities across Namibia. It is time for our leaders to recognise the transformative potential of public transportation and commit to making it a top priority for the nation.

About the authors

• Johanna Shikukutu, CMILT, works for the Department of Urban and Transport Planning of the City of Windhoek. She can be contacted at [email protected]

• Emmanuel Mogaji, PhD, is an associate professor at the University of Keele, UK.

• Dr Chinebuli Uzondu is a researcher at the University of Technology Owerri.

• Tokunbo Arannilewa is the CEO and co-founder of Eonsfleet Inc.

Disclaimer:

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the authors’ views and do not represent those of their respective employers.