### Lubumbashi: between urban regulations and reality of motorcyclists
On March 21, 2025, a shock wave shook Lubumbashi, chief town of the province of Haut-Katanga, when the motorcyclists of the city expressed their dissatisfaction with the decree prohibiting their access to the city center. This situation highlights the growing tensions between urban regulations and the daily life of citizens engaged in the informal economy.
### Angry bikers: a cries of economic distress
Motorcyclists challenge is not just a question of access to the city center; It is also a reflection of the economic precariousness that many are confronted. In Lubumbashi, where the official unemployment rate is around 20 %, many young people have found a source of income in the profession of taxi-motorcycle. This profession, although often underestimated and poorly considered, plays a crucial role in the dynamics of urban transport. On this market, access to the city center is synonymous with customers and, therefore, of profitability.
### A legal framework in tension: the city faced with its sanitation challenge
From an administrative point of view, mayor Patrick Kafwimbi defends the decree of the former administration for reasons of fluidity and sanitation of traffic. However, it is essential to contextualize this measurement in a wider table. Indeed, road congestion in Lubumbashi is exacerbated by an often inadequate road infrastructure. Studies even suggest that the city does not have a traffic plan adapted to population growth and the increase in vehicles, including motorcycles. Thus, rather than focusing on a ban, a reflection around intelligent traffic regulation could be more beneficial.
### Statistics and comparisons: can we learn from other cities?
A comparative look with other major African cities could offer interesting tracks. For example, Nairobi has set up specific areas for taxi motorcycles, allowing both fluid circulation and space for these drivers. In Kigali, the government has integrated motorcyclists into a public transport program, offering them training and privileged access.
These models show that urban sanitation solutions should not systematically go through prohibitions, but can also be based on inclusiveness and adaptation to realities on the ground. According to a study by the World Bank, transport systems that integrate informal actors are often more effective, as they take into account the specific needs of users.
### Towards a collective reflection: the issue of sustainable mobility
The response of Patrick Kafwimbi, who advocates respect for the decree while announcing the deployment of inspectors to ensure his good application, could start a critical dialogue on sustainable mobility in Lubumbashi. Indeed, rather than to stick to unilateral decisions, a collaborative approach involving motorcyclists in the decision -making process could lead to innovative solutions.
The future of traffic in Lubumbashi must include an investigation into sustainable and inclusive alternatives. This could include the creation of reserved corridors, training for motorcyclists on traffic rules or discussions around improving existing infrastructure.
### Conclusion: A call for collective action
The mobilizations of motorcyclists of Lubumbashi is not only indicative of a conflict of interest between a municipal authority and an informal sector, but it also raises fundamental questions about the future of mobility in this city in full change. Traffic management should not oppose the local economy; On the contrary, it should find ways to integrate it into a sustainable and inclusive town planning canvas. While Lubumbashi projects himself to the future, a partnership based on dialogue between the different stakeholders may well be the key to harmonious prosperity and urban development.
Original reflections and proposals of Fatshimetrics, it is time to rethink mobility in African cities so that each of them can flourish in diversity and modernity.