The University of Rwanda, in partnership with the City of Kigali and UNEP, is proud to host Walk21 Kigali in 2023, the first Walk21 conference on the African continent.
Together with experts from across Africa and around the globe, we will share insights and expertise on how to develop and implement walking policies and programmes that deliver walkable communities and safer streets, broader community participation and enhance the value of walking.
In African cities, walking is the primary mode of transport for the majority, with up to 78% of people walking every day to access work, education, health care, markets, and public transport.
Until recently, walking, almost everywhere on the continent, received relatively minor policy attention and resource allocation. Walking infrastructure was lacking: most roads had no footpaths or crossings and were poorly signed and maintained. Walking was, for a billion people, difficult, unpleasant, and unsafe and it was children, the elderly, those with disabilities, women, and those with low incomes – who walk most – that disproportionately suffered.
Kigali is leading a growing number of enlightened cities in Africa, that are transforming the paradigm by valuing people walking as a solution to routine road safety challenges, equity imbalances and climate concerns and, at the same time, attracting local and overseas visitors and economic investment.
Supportive land use, mobility and social policies underpin the principles of a walking experience in Kigali that is safe, accessible, and enjoyable irrespective of income, age, ability, or gender. The city planners work with the engineers to deliver affordable actions to improve walkability. They are supported by knowledgeable university professors, ambitious politicians, and a demanding local community. The result is a network of enjoyable streets that are walked by everyone.
For more information, please see >> kigali.walk21.com
