UITP changes its operations in Africa for direct connections

To improve its services to members in Africa, UITP is changing the way it operates on the African continent. Previously the association’s activities and member relations were handled by the African Association of Public Transport (UATP) in partnership with UITP. Both associations have agreed that going forward, UITP will operate in Africa, interacting directly with local members, taking the lead in member development and retention, and managing all membership related administration.

With this development, African members of UITP benefit from improved access to UITP’s global network of public transport and urban mobility stakeholders. They will enjoy enhanced knowledge sharing, training opportunities, participation in events, and regular newsletters. This transition also allows UITP to better tailor its global efforts to this unique region.

UITP Africa’s dedicated services will foster stronger collaboration between UITP and the African Association of Urban Mobility Authorities, amplifying the collective efforts to drive sustainable urban mobility solutions across the continent. By actively engaging with local stakeholders and policymakers, UITP Africa will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of public transport and urban mobility in Africa.

In the coming months, UITP will undertake the recruitment of a Head of Africa, further demonstrating its commitment to the region. In the interim, Dounia Gourram will serve as the acting head of the office, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity of service. Dounia has been UITP’s Head of Maghreb for several years. UITP intends to prioritise African member needs and effectively address their unique challenges.

The decision to establish UITP Africa reflects UITP’s belief in the immense potential of Africa’s public transport sector and its commitment to driving sustainable, efficient, and inclusive mobility solutions on the continent. By facilitating direct administration and member support, UITP aims to empower African members to contribute actively to the global discourse on urban mobility while simultaneously addressing local priorities.

UITP’s strategic shift in Africa signifies a shared vision for sustainable mobility and represents a landmark moment in strengthening ties between UITP and its African members. UITP Africa is well-positioned to become a driving force in the continent’s urban mobility transformation, and its members are poised to benefit immensely from this enhanced partnership with UITP’s global network of public transport and urban mobility stakeholders.