### Kinshasa: Alternating one-way traffic, a disappointed hope for the people of Kinshasa
In a vibrant spotlight on the repercussions of the one-way alternating traffic measure in Kinshasa, the report of the National Movement of Injured Consumers (MNCL) reveals alarming results concerning the perception of the people of Kinshasa. Entitled “Impact of one-way alternating traffic measures on the fluidity of traffic in the city of Kinshasa”, this survey, conducted from December 13 to 18, 2024, highlights a widespread disgust at an initiative that had nevertheless been announced as a miracle solution to the chronic traffic jams in the capital.
### A revealing study
The MNCL explored the opinions of 546 people of Kinshasa across several districts of the city, including Tshangu, Mont-Amba, Lukunga and Funa, aimed at assessing the effectiveness of this measure. The results are clear: 83% of respondents say they used the new lanes, but only 39% are satisfied with the changes. A striking figure for Kinshasa’s population of over 12 million suggests that initial optimism quickly faded.
### A historical and comparative look
To contextualize these results, it is essential to look at the history of traffic management in major African cities. Consider Johannesburg, South Africa, where similar urban remodeling measures were implemented with great success, coupled with sustainable development plans and strong community engagement. Unlike Kinshasa, where the implementation of the new measures appears to have been rushed and poorly prepared, Johannesburg emphasized effective user awareness while investing in robust road infrastructure.
### The numbers speak for themselves
The MNCL study also reveals interesting nuances. While 46% of drivers report an increase in their travel time, it is striking to note that 80% of users report having encountered difficulties. These results highlight a gap in traffic planning that should have, upstream, integrated user feedback. With reference to successful initiatives elsewhere, a better analysis of infrastructure viability could have offered a more attentive approach to local dynamics.
### The psychosocial and economic impact
Beyond the simple traffic figures, the psychosocial and economic impacts of this measure are worrying. With 55% of respondents reporting a negative impact on their productivity, it is becoming urgent to think about an integrated urban mobility policy that takes into account not only the numbers, but also the well-being of users. The stress caused by inefficient transport has much deeper repercussions, fueling a cycle of civic discontent that can lead to social unrest.
### A call to action
The report’s conclusions are clear: users are demanding significant improvements, including stronger traffic police, investments in infrastructure, and better education on the highway code. As such, government stakeholders must take these demands seriously. An inclusive and collaborative approach that integrates communities into decision-making could help regain the lost trust of the Kinshasa residents.
### Towards a new mobility strategy
It is crucial to view the Kinshasa residents’ desire for change as an opportunity to redefine the urban mobility strategy. This could involve assessing existing infrastructure, implementing integrated public transport solutions, and applying smart technologies, such as real-time traffic management applications. The example of other African and global cities shows that innovative solutions can significantly improve the quality of urban life.
### Conclusion
The one-way alternating traffic system in Kinshasa was supposed to transform the face of urban traffic, but the results suggest a painful and ill-conceived experiment. The MNCL has highlighted an urgent need for change in the government’s approach to addressing the concerns of the people of Kinshasa. By adopting a more holistic perspective and integrating users into the reform process, it is possible to turn the page on these disillusionments and initiate real progress in the capital. Kinshasa deserves urban mobility that reflects not only its unique challenges, but also its vibrant aspirations for the future.