Fatshimetrie, a look at the issue of public transport in Kinshasa
The urban dynamics of Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is marked by a major challenge: public transport. With a constantly growing population and infrastructure that is often overloaded and poorly maintained, the daily travel of Kinshasa residents has become a real headache, impacting their quality of life. The resulting monster traffic jams transform short journeys into veritable marathons, against the backdrop of an already precarious socio-economic situation.
The testimonies of the inhabitants of Kinshasa reflect a poignant reality. Thierry Kabemba, a state civil servant, expresses the fatigue and frustration of daily journeys: “Traffic jams in Kinshasa are sometimes annoying and can cause blood pressure. When returning, the vehicles which are supposed to help with road traffic are not found not in the main places. Everyone gets by as they want. It’s a dangerous routine for some parents, having an impact on their physical and mental health.
Julie Kalubi, resident in Mbudi and seller in Zando, highlights the increase in transport prices as an additional pressure on an already trying daily life. “Previously, 6,000 Fc was enough for my transport costs. Currently, I spend at least 12,000 Fc to get to Zando. Taxi drivers increase prices according to their own consent, without consideration for the passengers.”
The issue of unregulated fares also worries Jephté Matungulu, a passenger on the DGC/Zando bus, who pleads for official pricing in order to avoid conflicts. “The adjustments should be based on the official circular establishing the new public transport fare scale, crucial in the Congolese context. Conflicts between drivers and passengers will otherwise emerge,” he underlines.
Drivers, for their part, justify the increase in fares by rising fuel prices and persistent traffic jams. Faced with the fuel shortage, increasing prices becomes a precautionary measure for them.
In the search for solutions, it is essential to act collectively. The creation of public transport governance, with regulated fares and clearly defined routes, could bring a semblance of order to the surrounding chaos. It is also essential to rehabilitate road infrastructure and encourage alternative, more sustainable modes of travel, such as carpooling or environmentally friendly public transport.
In conclusion, the issue of public transport in Kinshasa can no longer be ignored. It requires urgent and concerted action to improve the quality of life of residents, reduce stress on the road and promote more sustainable urban development.. Reflection and innovation are required to transform a challenge into an opportunity for progress for the Congolese capital.