Sustainable Transport Festival 2023Kicks off in Lagos

Yinka Olatunbosun 
 
In an effort to raise awareness for Lagosians to embrace more sustainable modes of transportation like walking, cycling, and sustainable public transportation, a group of CSOs has launched the maiden edition of the Sustainable Transport Festival. 

The festival which runs from September 20th to 23rd assembles professionals, agencies and advocates of sustainable transportation in a series of activities to educate the public on the benefits and opportunities inherent in sustainable urban development. The festival is supported by Cycology, African Cycling Foundation, Heinrich Boll Stiftung, SimbaPlanet, Shuttlers, Rethinking Cities among other stakeholders in sustainable transport.

More than ever before, Lagos is in dire need of a sustainable transport system. The city’s  population in Lagos is growing at a fast rate with an increased demand for transport services. Hours are spent in traffic resulting in huge economic loss for many businesses. Also, the quality of life of people are at risk as standstill vehicular traffic make most Lagosians live sedentary lifestyles.

Other issues occasioned by the non-sustainable transport system in Nigeria include climate change, air pollution and road injuries. To achieve sustainable development, there is a need to pursue sustainable transportation that is inclusive, safe, efficient, diverse (multiple modes), cost-effective, accessible and comfortable. A sustainable transport system should limit emissions and pollution, support a vibrant economy, improve the quality of life or livelihoods of the people and spread societal benefits to all. 

This explains why the ‘Let’s Get Lagos Moving Campaign’ group started its advocacy for Non-Motorised Transportation modes in the state by celebrating World Bicycle Day in 2021. Its success inspired another initiative last year known as The first Car Free Day in Lagos in 2022 in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

The 2023 Sustainable Transport Festival opened up with a series of Live Online  followed by a walkability assessment on September 21 to assess the walkability, accessibility and air quality of streets in Ikeja. The group will host an Open Mic and documentary screening on September 22nd which is focused on equity, gender and public transport. It will feature young people who will interact and share their experiences through spoken word, comedy, and performance. On the last day of the festival, a curated bike will be done to advocate for sustainable transportation.

The project manager, Lagos Urban Development Initiative, Yinka Jones remarked during  a press conference and a panel discussion held in Alausa, Ikeja: “Improving public spaces contribute to community pride and identity; reinforcing our shared commitment to making our world an harmonious place to be.”

He added that this call for prioritising sustainable transport systems and accessible public spaces would impact greatly on mental health and well being by providing opportunities for relaxation.

In addition, the Captain, Cycology Cycling Club, Temitope George Captain  stressed the need to implement policy on sustainable transport, proper cohesion in government to ensure that infrastructural development such as a road project is made to be accessible to all kinds of road users: pedestrians, cyclists, private and commercial drivers as well as persons living with disabilities.