Where are we headed with research, training and practice in land passenger transport governance in Africa?

Abstract

This paper takes stock of land passenger transport governance research, training and practice in Africa. It is based on an interpretive analysis of selected studies, training courses and practices of land passenger transport governance in Africa. The key findings of this paper are outlined as follows. Transport governance research in Africa is in a nascent stage with respect to theoretical, methodological and empirical advancements. While relevant theories and methods are utilised, the contextualised reformulation of these theories and methods, based on the African reality is, however, not evident. A sustained effort by prolific scholars who pursue an engaging research agenda or expand on initial transport governance is not also evident. Hence, there is a tendency for one-off empirical studies and not a stream of related studies by the same researcher on a set of topics. An exploratory analysis of courses in 26 African universities shows that there was no course dedicated solely transport governance as a standalone course. Several practices of transport governance like public participation and accountability exist but the extent to which they are adhered to, need to be assessed.