Côte d’Ivoire plans integrated transport network to ease urban mobility and cut emissions
Côte d’Ivoire plans to expand public transport and develop cleaner mobility solutions as it seeks to reduce congestion, improve access to affordable transport and address the environmental impact of urban growth.
Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé outlined the government’s priorities on Tuesday at the opening of the second International Conference on Sustainable Mobility and Climate (CIMDC 2026) in Abidjan.
The proposed transport options include metro services, bus rapid transit (BRT), lagoon transport and cable cars, alongside greater use of clean energy and concessional financing to support infrastructure projects.
Transport Minister Amadou Koné said mobility was central to economic development, social inclusion and urban competitiveness. He stressed that infrastructure investment alone would not resolve transport challenges without better coordination between transport policies, urban planning and land development.
The government aims to build an integrated transport network in which different modes of transport complement one another and connect more effectively to serve commuters.
As part of this strategy, Koné announced plans to revitalise lagoon transport in Abidjan through the construction of 13 lagoon stations and the acquisition of 25 passenger boats.
The government also invited private operators with innovative mobility solutions to propose projects suited to the country’s needs and explore partnerships with public institutions.
The plans come as Abidjan faces growing pressure on its transport system amid urban expansion and increasing demand for daily travel. Expanding public transport could improve access to jobs and services while helping limit emissions, depending on the technologies used and the extent to which commuters shift away from private vehicles.
However, implementation will depend on financing, infrastructure delivery and coordination among transport operators. Authorities have not provided a detailed timetable or budget for the lagoon transport expansion in the announcement.
The conference places sustainable mobility at the centre of Côte d’Ivoire’s broader efforts to prepare its cities for population growth and climate challenges.
