Decarbonizing the Transport Sector in Africa: Urgent Action and Proposals for Climate Action

Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)

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Abstract: Africa has a unique opportunity to recalibrate its transportation strategies and set the continent on a trajectory towards a sustainable and decarbonized transport future. The global transport sector accounts for a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions and, in Africa, there has been a notable surge in transport-related emissions. Between 2010 and 2021, the region experienced a substantial 34 per cent increase in carbon emissions, making it the second-highest growth rate globally, just behind Asia (SLOCAT, 2023). The main contributors to this rising trend include the prevalence of outdated vehicles dependent on traditional fuels, a lack of robust public transit alternatives, and an escalating demand for increased mobility (SLOCAT, 2023). Decarbonizing the transport sector is not only a climate imperative but also an avenue for job creation, energy security, and improved air quality (EASAC, 2019). African leaders can leverage COP28 as a catalyst for transformative policy actions that will set the continent on a trajectory towards a sustainable and decarbonized transport future. Achieving this goal will require careful policy planning and external support, balancing pressing needs such as poverty reduction and access to electricity with climate goals (EASAC, 2019; Tokam, 2022). This policy brief implores African leaders to leverage COP28 as a catalyst for transformative policy actions that will set the continent on a trajectory towards a sustainable and decarbonized transport future.