BRT COARSE WORK

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MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

COBAMS

MASTERS OF ARTS IN ECONOMIC POLICY AND PLANNING

AINOMUGISHA DERRICK

2400722431

2024/HD06/22431U

EPP 7103

PROJECT PLANNING MANAGEMENT COURSE WORK


The development of Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) and implementing the Bus
Rapid Transit (BRT) system are among the core projects of NDP. Kampala Capital City
Authority has a total of 1,030 km of roads of which 330 km (32%) are paved. In addition,
approximately 75 km of road network is under the responsibility of either MoWT or Uganda
National Road Authority (UNRA). Most of these roads are 2 lane roads.

The traffic congestion in GKMA, especially in Kampala City, has further worsened and may
endanger sustainable national and regional economic development. Major causes of the
traffic congestion are rapid urbanization, national economic growth, high traffic increase,
poor road network, urban structure concentrated in one city center, lack of traffic demand
management, inappropriate public transport system, etc.

A pre-feasibility study of the BRT had been conducted and its final report was submitted in
May 2010. It planned to introduce BRT on eight routes by 2030. A feasibility study and
detailed design for the BRT pilot project (14 km) was expected to commence in early 2011.

The introduction of BRT would drastically change traffic flows in the city center. The
TONDEKA METRO MASS TRANSIT BUS SYSTEM (MTBS) whose buses are seen on
roads around the city is a pilot component identified to solve the transport infrastructure
problem.
Introduction

Kampala’s population and economic activity have grown rapidly, leading to severe traffic
congestion around key roads, intersections, and corridors particularly during peak hours this
has increased demand on its transport network, long travel times and economic losses. While
the TONDEKA METRO BRT initiative aims to offer efficient, eco-friendly transit options,
existing infrastructure and systemic traffic bottlenecks create significant challenges that
impact city mobility, economic productivity, and the quality of urban life.

i. What, in your view, is the problem?

The key problem is the overdependence on private vehicles: Increasing ownership of private
cars and motorcycles due to inadequate transport options, unregulated informal transit: And
the dominance of informal modes of transport like boda bodas and taxis, which are
uncoordinated and inefficient.

ii. Identify the various causes of the problem.

The city's traffic congestion results from various interconnected issues:

Lack of strategic Urban Planning: Poor integrations of land-use planning with transportation
infrastructure has led to disorganized urban growth

Insufficient Road Infrastructure: Kampala’s road network is narrow and lacks dedicated lanes
for public transit, especially in high-density areas.

Fragmented governance: Multiple agencies with overlapping roles, such as KCCA, traffic
police, and transport unions, struggle to coordinate transport planning and enforcement.

Poor Traffic Flow Management: Uncontrolled intersections, lack of effective traffic signal
timing, and insufficient pedestrian facilities disrupt vehicle flow.

High Vehicle Density: The rising number of private vehicles strains the existing road
capacity, while limited public transport options drive reliance on private cars and
motorcycles.

Inadequate funding: Limited public investment in large -scale transport projects has hindered
the development of efficient transit solutions.
Resistance to regulation: Informal transport operators, such as matatu and boda boda unions,
resist reforms that could potentially regulate and modernize their operations.

iii. Identify the various consequences (effects) of the problem at any level (s)

Without intervention, these issues have implications:

Economic Costs: Congestion increases travel times, fuel consumption, and operating costs for
businesses.

Environmental Impact: Emissions from idling vehicles contribute to air pollution and health
issues.

Safety Concerns: Congested, poorly managed roads result in high accident rates, especially
for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.

iv. What factors may affect the long-term viability of the project?

The long-term viability of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Kampala will depend on a
balanced approach addressing infrastructure, finance, public adoption, regulatory alignment,
and adaptive planning. Proactive management and strategic planning are necessary to ensure
the BRT can evolve alongside Kampala’s growing urban and transportation needs. These
factors can impact its success and sustainability over time.

1. Infrastructure Quality and Maintenance

- Road and Lane Durability: The quality of roadwork, dedicated BRT lanes, and supporting
infrastructure (such as terminals and bus stops) will directly affect the project's longevity.
Poor construction can lead to frequent repairs, service disruptions, and cost overruns.

- Ongoing Maintenance: The BRT infrastructure requires consistent upkeep, including road
resurfacing, traffic signal maintenance, and facilities management. Budget constraints or
insufficient maintenance could lead to deterioration, affecting service quality and reliability.

2. Financial Sustainability

- Revenue Generation: Fare collection systems must be efficient and designed to support
operating costs. The project’s financial viability also depends on managing fare affordability
while ensuring revenue generation to cover operational expenses.
- Government Support and Funding: Initial capital and operational funding are crucial, but
continued government support through subsidies or grants can stabilize the project over the
long term.

- Public-Private Partnerships: Partnerships with private entities for advertising, retail spaces
at stations, or co-investment can provide additional funding sources and reduce the financial
burden on public funds.

3. User Demand and Public Adoption

- Modal Shift: The success of the BRT hinges on people transitioning from private cars and
boda bodas to using the BRT. The system’s popularity will depend on reliable, safe, and fast
service compared to other options.

- Affordability and Accessibility: The BRT fares must be affordable for a broad
demographic, and routes should serve high-demand areas to maximize ridership. High fares
or routes that don’t meet commuter needs could limit adoption.

4. Government Policies and Regulatory Support

- Urban Development and Zoning Policies: Coordination between city planning and the
BRT is essential. If urban expansion and zoning do not align with the BRT network, the
system may fail to serve growing or high-density areas, affecting its relevance.

Enforcement of Traffic Rules: Consistent enforcement of bus-only lanes and traffic rules is
critical to preventing congestion and delays. If other vehicles routinely encroach on BRT
lanes, it would undermine the system's speed and efficiency.

5. Environmental and Social Impact

- Environmental Sustainability: The BRT’s impact on reducing carbon emissions, noise


pollution, and urban congestion contributes to its value. Transitioning to hybrid or electric
buses could enhance environmental benefits.

- Social Acceptance: Social factors like accessibility for people with disabilities, inclusion
of low-income areas, and community buy-in impact public perception. Community
engagement and clear communication about BRT benefits are crucial for social acceptance.
6. Technological Innovation and Adaptation

- Smart Traffic Management: Continued investment in adaptive traffic systems and real-
time monitoring will help optimize traffic flows and manage congestion around BRT
corridors.

- Fare Collection Technology: Efficient and convenient payment methods, such as


contactless or mobile payment, enhance user experience and increase ridership. Keeping
these systems up-to-date is necessary to avoid service disruptions.

- Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data on ridership patterns, congestion levels, and
user feedback can enable continuous improvements to the BRT system, ensuring it remains
responsive to changing demands.

7. Population Growth and Urban Expansion

- Urban Density and Growth: Kampala’s growing population will increase pressure on the
BRT network. Planning for future expansion, route flexibility, and scalable infrastructure is
essential to accommodate increasing demand.

- Suburban Development: As Kampala expands outward, the BRT system will need to
adapt to include new areas and maintain relevance, potentially requiring additional funding
for expansion.

8. Political Stability and Governance

- Political Support: Consistent political backing across administrations ensures long-term


continuity. Changes in political priorities or policy shifts can affect funding, management, or
expansion plans.

- Public Perception and Trust: Trust in government-led projects affects public acceptance.
Transparent planning, public consultations, and visible results are necessary to build
confidence in the system.

V. What are the key factors vital to the development of the BRT project?

The successful development of Kampala’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project requires
attention to several critical factors to ensure the system meets the city’s transportation needs
and remains efficient and sustainable. These factors encompass infrastructure, operational
planning, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory frameworks. Here are the key factors vital
to the BRT project’s development:

1. Comprehensive Planning and Design

- Route Selection and Network Design: Identifying high-demand routes and strategically
mapping the BRT corridors to serve major residential, commercial, and industrial zones is
fundamental. The routes should connect key transit points like schools, hospitals, and
employment hubs to maximize usability.

- Feasibility Studies: Conducting thorough studies to assess travel demand, population


density, and existing traffic conditions will help ensure the BRT aligns with the city's needs
and potential future growth.

- Scalable Infrastructure: Planning for scalability allows the system to expand and adapt as
the population grows or as new urban areas develop. This includes constructing terminals,
bus stops, and other infrastructure with future expansion in mind.

2. Dedicated Infrastructure Development

- Bus-Only Lanes: Dedicated lanes are essential to keep BRT buses separated from regular
traffic, allowing them to maintain consistent, high speeds and reduce travel times. Lane
segregation prevents congestion and helps ensure reliability.

- Stations and Terminals: Well-designed, accessible stations and terminals are crucial for
smooth boarding and alighting, safety, and user experience. They should include amenities
like shelters, information displays, ticketing facilities, and proper security.

- Priority at Intersections: Giving BRT vehicles priority at intersections through traffic


signal control and bus-priority measures ensures efficient movement even at major crossings
and high-traffic junctions.

3. Sustainable Financing and Cost Management

- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Engaging private investors or forming partnerships for


specific aspects like station construction, technology solutions, or vehicle procurement can
help reduce the financial burden on the government and ensure shared responsibility.
- Government Funding and Subsidies: Reliable funding sources, including government
support and subsidies, are critical to cover initial capital costs and operational expenses,
especially during the initial stages when ridership may be low.

- Efficient Fare System: The fare structure should balance affordability for users with the
revenue requirements for operational sustainability. Technologies like contactless payments
and mobile ticketing can streamline collection and reduce leakages.

4. Advanced Technology Integration

- Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS): Using ITS to manage traffic flows, control signals,
monitor buses in real-time, and provide traffic updates is essential for efficiency. This
technology helps manage congestion and enables rapid response to any incidents affecting
BRT routes.

- Data Collection and Analytics: Gathering data on ridership, peak travel times, route
performance, and maintenance needs allows for continuous optimization and better decision-
making.

- User-Friendly Fare Collection Systems: Cashless, digital fare collection systems make
payment convenient, reduce waiting times, and minimize fare evasion. Mobile or contactless
payment options can streamline the boarding process and improve the commuter experience.

5. Stakeholder Engagement and Public Support

- Community Outreach and Education: Engaging with the public through awareness
campaigns helps build understanding and trust in the BRT system. Educating the public on
benefits like reduced travel times, affordability, and environmental impact can encourage
adoption.

- Collaboration with Local Authorities: Effective cooperation with municipal, transport, and
traffic management authorities is essential for aligning city-wide policies, enforcing BRT
lane discipline, and addressing potential regulatory challenges.

- Engagement with Businesses and Communities: Involving local businesses and


community groups, particularly those directly affected by the construction and operation of
the BRT system, can help smooth the implementation process and garner local support.
6. Operational Efficiency and Service Reliability

- High-Quality Bus Fleet: Ensuring a modern, reliable fleet of buses that meet
environmental standards and provide comfortable service is essential to maintain ridership
and meet commuter expectations.

- Maintenance and Operations Management: Regular bus maintenance, punctual


scheduling, and effective route management are critical for ensuring reliability and reducing
breakdowns, which can otherwise lead to congestion and delays.

- Frequent and Consistent Service: Maintaining high-frequency, predictable schedules,


particularly during peak hours, is essential to make the BRT system convenient and reliable
for commuters.

7. Regulatory and Policy Framework

- Traffic Law Enforcement: Strict enforcement of traffic laws, especially those governing
bus-only lanes and priority intersections, is crucial to maintaining the BRT’s efficiency.
Without enforcement, other vehicles may encroach on BRT lanes, undermining the system’s
effectiveness.

- Environmental and Urban Development Policies: Ensuring that the BRT aligns with
broader environmental policies, such as emissions reduction targets, and urban development
policies that guide land use near BRT corridors is vital for its long-term integration with city
planning.

- Fare Regulation: Setting a regulated fare structure that balances affordability with
operational sustainability helps avoid fare hikes that could deter ridership or reduce the
system’s accessibility to lower-income populations.

8. Environmental and Social Considerations

- Environmental Impact Assessments: Conducting rigorous assessments to minimize


potential environmental impacts from construction, land use changes, or increased pollution
is critical to align the project with sustainable development goals.

- Social Inclusion: Ensuring the BRT is accessible to all demographics, including low-
income groups, people with disabilities, and elderly users, builds a more inclusive transit
system. Inclusive policies, such as offering subsidies or discounted fares for specific groups,
promote equitable access.

- Minimizing Displacement and Community Impact: The construction of BRT


infrastructure may require land acquisition or the relocation of residents or businesses.
Ensuring fair compensation and relocation assistance where needed will minimize social
disruption and foster positive public sentiment.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Setting clear, measurable KPIs such as ridership
levels, service reliability, operational costs, and passenger satisfaction helps track the
system's performance and impact.

- Continuous Improvement: Regularly assessing and improving routes, schedules, and


services based on data and feedback ensures that the BRT adapts to changing conditions and
user needs.

- Public Feedback Mechanisms: Encouraging feedback from users can provide valuable
insights into operational issues, commuter satisfaction, and areas for improvement. Platforms
such as mobile apps or hotlines can facilitate easy communication between users and BRT
operators.

In summary, developing a BRT system in Kampala requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted


approach that addresses planning, infrastructure, finances, technology, and community
engagement. By focusing on these key factors, the project will be well-positioned for
successful implementation and long-term impact in transforming Kampala’s urban transit
landscape.

vi. What other projects, if any, are competing for the scarce resources in the same
period

In the context of Kampala’s urban development and transportation planning, several other
projects and initiatives are competing for limited financial, infrastructural, and administrative
resources. These competing projects could influence the budget allocations, timelines, and
prioritization for the BRT project. Each of these projects addresses critical needs for
Kampala’s growing urban population, and as such, they all compete for limited funding,
skilled labor, and land resources. Prioritizing BRT development amid these competing
projects will require clear evidence of its benefits, robust stakeholder engagement, and
strategic planning to maximize resource use and secure government and donor funding.
Effective inter-project coordination could also help streamline resource sharing, particularly
with ITS and environmental initiatives that could complement the BRT’s goals.

Here are some key projects that might be vying for similar resources:

1. Road Expansion and Rehabilitation Projects

- Kampala Flyover Project: This initiative, funded by the Japanese government through the
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aims to build flyovers at critical junctions
like Clock Tower and Kitgum House. The project aims to decongest major intersections and
improve the flow of vehicles. However, it requires significant investment and resources for
construction, planning, and land acquisition, which may compete with BRT funding.

- Outer Ring Road Expansion: Efforts to expand and rehabilitate ring roads around
Kampala (like the Northern Bypass) are intended to reduce congestion by directing through
traffic around, rather than through, the city center. This project requires substantial capital
and, if prioritized, could affect BRT funding and resource availability.

2. Traffic Signal and Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Upgrades

- Traffic Signal Synchronization and ITS Implementation: The Kampala Capital City
Authority (KCCA) has ongoing efforts to modernize and synchronize traffic signals at major
intersections across the city. This upgrade aligns with plans to adopt Intelligent Transport
Systems (ITS) for real-time traffic management and could share technology resources, skilled
personnel, and even funding channels with the BRT project, especially for signal priority
systems at intersections.

3. Waste Management and Drainage Improvement Projects

- Kampala Drainage Master Plan: Addressing urban flooding is a priority in Kampala, as


poor drainage has led to regular flooding, damaging infrastructure, and impacting transport
corridors. Investments in drainage systems and flood control, such as the Lubigi Drainage
Channel project, are essential but costly. These drainage projects are also part of the city’s
broader resilience efforts, which could draw funds and administrative attention away from
BRT development.

- Solid Waste Management: Kampala’s growing waste disposal needs require investments
in waste collection, sorting, and disposal facilities. Waste management projects are typically
funded by local budgets and may compete with urban transport initiatives for resources.

4. Urban Affordable Housing Initiatives

- Low-Cost Housing Developments: With Kampala’s population growth, there is a push for
affordable housing projects, such as the planned low-cost housing estates by the National
Housing and Construction Company (NHCC). These housing projects are designed to
alleviate slum development and improve living standards, potentially requiring substantial
funding and land resources. Projects like these may compete for available land that could be
used for BRT infrastructure or stations.

5. Public Utility Infrastructure Projects

- Water and Sanitation Projects: The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC)
has ongoing water and sanitation projects to meet the growing demand for clean water and
wastewater management. These projects require infrastructure and funding support and are
prioritized to ensure public health, especially as Kampala’s population expands.

- Electricity Grid Expansion: Expanding the electricity grid to underserved and newly
developed areas is a priority. While not directly competing with BRT funds, electricity grid
projects can compete for labor and land resources, as both projects require skilled workers
and space for infrastructure expansion.

6. Railway and Intercity Transport Projects

- Standard Gauge Railway (SGR): The government of Uganda has ongoing plans to build
the Standard Gauge Railway as part of a regional East African railway network, linking
Kampala to other East African cities. This rail project, while operating at a different scale,
competes for attention, strategic planning resources, and potentially, financing.

- Kampala–Jinja Expressway: This expressway, a key part of the larger Northern Corridor
infrastructure, aims to ease congestion between Kampala and Jinja. If prioritized, this large-
scale project could pull funds and technical resources away from city-level BRT
developments.

7. Climate Resilience and Environmental Initiatives

- Green Infrastructure Projects: As part of its climate resilience efforts, Kampala is pursuing
green infrastructure projects like the establishment of green belts and tree planting along road
corridors. These projects aim to improve air quality and reduce heat effects in the city.
However, they could compete for land and local funding resources that might otherwise go
toward transportation-focused developments.

- Carbon Reduction Initiatives: Uganda’s commitments under the Paris Agreement have led
to projects aimed at reducing emissions, such as incentives for electric vehicles and green
public transport. BRT projects typically qualify as “green” projects, but other carbon-
reduction initiatives, especially electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure projects, may also draw
from similar environmental and development funds.

8. Healthcare and Social Infrastructure Development

- Hospital and Health Facility Upgrades: With the government prioritizing healthcare,
funding for hospital upgrades and construction of new health facilities is high on the agenda.
These social infrastructure projects are critical, especially in light of urban population growth,
but they compete for national funding.

- Educational Facility Expansion: Expanding and improving educational facilities within


Kampala could compete for government funds. Both healthcare and educational
improvements are seen as essential for long-term social development and stability, which
might lead them to be prioritized alongside or even over transport projects.

vii. Are the support systems adequate to support the proposed project? Explain

It’s essential to assess whether the existing support systems in infrastructure, technology,
policy, and administration are sufficient to enable the project's successful implementation and
sustainability. Here's a detailed evaluation of these support systems, identifying gaps and
opportunities for improvement.
1. Infrastructure Support

- Road Infrastructure: Kampala's existing road infrastructure presents both opportunities


and challenges for BRT implementation. While certain arterial roads are adequate for
creating dedicated BRT lanes, many roads suffer from congestion, lack of maintenance, and
poor conditions. Dedicated BRT lanes require reinforced construction to handle frequent bus
operations, which will necessitate significant investments and upgrades. Currently, this
infrastructure support is partially adequate but requires enhancements, especially on heavily
congested routes and in areas prone to flooding.

- Stations and Terminals: Infrastructure for bus stations and terminals is largely insufficient.
The current bus stops do not meet the capacity needs or the structural requirements for an
effective BRT system. Developing accessible, safe, and well-designed stations will be
critical, particularly in high-density areas. Integrating these stations with other modes of
transport (like taxis, bodas, and potential railway hubs) will also require coordinated planning
to ensure seamless transfers.

- Parking and Traffic Management: Park-and-ride facilities at major transit points are
limited, which could affect BRT’s adoption by commuters who need secure parking for
private vehicles or bicycles. Additionally, existing traffic management systems are strained,
and the enforcement of dedicated bus lanes would require significant upgrades to prevent
encroachment by private vehicles.

2. Technological Support

- Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS): A BRT system relies on advanced ITS for traffic
signal prioritization, real-time vehicle tracking, and passenger information displays.
Kampala’s ITS infrastructure is in early stages, with limited signal prioritization and
synchronization across the city. Substantial investments are required to install and integrate
ITS elements like GPS tracking, signal priority, and real-time passenger information systems.
Without these upgrades, the BRT could struggle to maintain reliable schedules and efficient
operations.

- Digital Fare Collection Systems: An efficient BRT system needs cashless and digital fare
collection to streamline boarding and reduce delays. While Kampala has some experience
with mobile payments in other sectors, a citywide, integrated system for BRT would require
significant upgrades, including electronic fare cards or mobile payments that are accessible to
all user groups. Implementing such a system would involve partnerships with telecoms and
payment providers, which requires further planning and integration efforts.

3. Policy and Regulatory Support

- Traffic and Urban Planning Policies: BRT's success depends on clear policies that
prioritize public transport over private vehicles. Although Kampala has some transit policies,
enforcement is inconsistent, and private vehicles often encroach on designated lanes, leading
to congestion. The regulatory environment needs stronger traffic laws and consistent
enforcement, specifically focusing on maintaining dedicated BRT lanes, regulating boda
bodas and taxis, and ensuring compliance with speed and safety regulations.

- Land Use and Zoning: Efficient BRT systems thrive when supported by land-use policies
that encourage transit-oriented development (TOD) along BRT corridors. In Kampala, land-
use planning is still evolving, with limited zoning to encourage high-density development
near major transport corridors. Clear policies to support TOD, incentivize development along
BRT routes, and integrate public spaces with BRT stations could improve ridership and
accessibility but would require coordination with city planning authorities.

- Environmental Policies: Since BRT systems contribute to reducing carbon emissions, the
project aligns well with Uganda’s national environmental goals. However, environmental
regulations, such as emissions standards and clean energy policies, are still developing in
Kampala. Adopting low-emission or electric buses could further align BRT with these
environmental goals, but this would require policy support for green infrastructure, as well as
investment in charging facilities if electric buses are chosen.

4. Administrative and Institutional Support

- Project Coordination: Effective BRT implementation requires strong coordination


between the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the Ministry of Works and Transport,
and other city agencies. Currently, administrative coordination is a known challenge, with
overlapping responsibilities and the potential for bureaucratic delays. Establishing a
dedicated BRT management team or agency could improve focus, streamline decision-
making, and ensure accountability, but this would need administrative restructuring and
political support.
- Capacity and Expertise: Running a BRT system requires expertise in transit operations,
maintenance, and management. Currently, Uganda has limited experience with large-scale
mass transit, and capacity-building efforts are necessary to train personnel in areas like ITS
operation, maintenance, data analysis, and customer service. Partnerships with international
BRT operators and capacity-building programs for local staff could help bridge this skills
gap.

- Law Enforcement and Traffic Management: Enforcing BRT-only lanes and maintaining
efficient traffic flows are essential, but this requires a robust traffic management framework.
Kampala’s traffic enforcement is currently stretched, with limited manpower and resources to
manage traffic congestion or ensure compliance with lane restrictions. Dedicated
enforcement teams and investments in traffic management technologies (e.g., automated
traffic cameras) could support compliance.

5. Financial and Economic Support

- Public and Private Funding: Financial support is fundamental to BRT's success,


particularly during the initial phases when ridership may not cover operational costs.
Competing priorities strain current government budgets, so a stable funding model is
necessary, possibly involving a mix of government funding, loans, and public-private
partnerships (PPPs). Securing PPPs could help bridge funding gaps for infrastructure
development, while government subsidies may be needed to ensure affordable fares.

- Fare Affordability and Revenue Models: To attract a wide user base, BRT fares must be
affordable yet sufficient to cover operating costs. This requires a balanced pricing model and
reliable fare collection to ensure financial viability. Conducting a willingness-to-pay study
could inform fare setting, while subsidies may be needed in early phases to offset costs and
encourage adoption among low-income users.

6. Community and Stakeholder Support

- Public Awareness and Community Engagement: Building strong public support is crucial
for BRT adoption. Current support systems for community engagement are limited, and more
robust strategies are needed to communicate the benefits of the BRT, address public
concerns, and foster a positive image of public transport. Community meetings, informational
campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations could enhance buy-in and minimize
resistance.

- Stakeholder Collaboration: The success of the BRT system will depend on effective
collaboration between various stakeholders, including transport unions, private transport
operators, local businesses, and the general public. Transport unions, particularly those of
boda boda riders and matatu operators, may view the BRT as competition, so early
engagement and strategies to integrate them into the transit ecosystem (such as first-mile/last-
mile solutions) are critical.

Summary and Recommendations

Overall, while Kampala has certain foundational support systems in place for BRT
development, significant gaps remain, particularly in infrastructure, technological systems,
regulatory support, administrative coordination, and public awareness. To address these gaps,
the following recommendations are essential:

Strengthen Traffic and Infrastructure Support: Invest in road upgrades, ITS, and dedicated
lanes, along with robust maintenance and traffic management to ensure smooth BRT
operations.

2. Policy and Regulatory Enhancements: Develop clear policies supporting BRT lane
enforcement, TOD zoning, and public transport prioritization, focusing on compliance and
enforcement.

3. Dedicated Project Management Team: Establish a specialized BRT management unit to


streamline coordination, manage day-to-day operations, and ensure accountability across
multiple agencies.

4. Capacity Building: Partner with international BRT operators and initiate training programs
for local staff to build expertise in operations, technology, and customer service, a good
benchmark would be E-mobility project recently launched.

5. Sustainable Funding Model: Secure a balanced funding model involving government


support, PPPs, and subsidies, especially in the project’s initial phases.
6. Public Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration: Enhance public awareness through
community outreach and foster collaboration with transport unions and local businesses to
ensure broad support.
References

1. KCCA Urban Transport Master Plan, 2022


2. http://we-gov.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Final-Report_WeGO-FS-2019-
Kampala.pdf?ckattempt=2
3. World Bank, Urban Mobility in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2021
4. https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/docs/1_-
_1._Urban_Congestion_in_African_Cities_-_Wandera.ppt
5. UNEP, 2020
6. http://we-gov.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Final-Report_WeGO-FS-2019-
Kampala.pdf?ckattempt=2
7. BTS Updates National Transportation Statistics 10/31/2024 | Bureau of Transportation
Statistics

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