Revolutionising African Transport at Smarter Mobility Africa Summit
With South Africa’s annual October Transport Month just around the corner, all eyes are on the Smarter Mobility Africa (SMA) Summit 2024. Set to take place in Gauteng Province from 2-4 October, this event is primed to showcase the future of mobility in Africa, with a focus on transforming how people and goods move across the continent.
The theme for this year, “Embracing the New Urban Era through Smarter Mobility”, highlights the pivotal role transportation plays in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s wider 2030 visions.
As transport continues to evolve, becoming smarter and greener, the summit promises to deliver ground-breaking discussions, innovations, and partnerships aimed at revolutionising mobility in Africa.
Driving Mobility Forward
The SMA Summit is not just another transport event. It’s an ambitious collaboration between the Gauteng Province and leading mobility experts, government bodies, and innovators. Since its inception in 2019, the Gauteng Province has been a key partner in this endeavour, making the region a hub for smarter mobility discussions in Africa.
Ben Pullen, Group Director of Mobility at Vuka Group, emphasised this long-standing partnership, stating: “Since launching Smarter Mobility Africa Summit in 2019, Gauteng Province has been the perfect home to explore the challenges and opportunities around mobility in Africa. As we head into the sixth year of working with the Province, we’re thrilled to take this partnership to the next level by announcing four key Hosting Partners for 2024—Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, Transport Authority of Gauteng, Gautrain, and G Fleet.”
This collaboration is vital for tackling the complex mobility challenges the continent faces. As the population grows and urbanisation expands, efficient transport systems become increasingly essential for economic growth, equality, environmental protection, and public health.
Smarter Mobility for a Sustainable Future
The heart of the summit lies in its focus on mobility as a key driver for achieving the SDGs. Transportation is no longer just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so in a way that benefits the economy, the environment, and society at large. Integrated smarter mobility systems are key to addressing Africa’s pressing needs—creating jobs, boosting economic growth, reducing inequality, and improving air quality.
The summit will bring together policy makers, industry experts, and innovators from across the globe, offering a platform to discuss solutions that align with Africa’s long-term sustainability goals. These stakeholders will explore new technologies, share best practices, and collaborate on projects aimed at reshaping transport systems to be more inclusive, efficient, and green.
Green Fleets, Rail Expansion, and More
At the core of this year’s event are several critical themes, each of which plays a vital role in advancing smarter mobility across Africa. The 2024 summit will focus on:
- Green Fleets: As nations across the globe shift toward electric and zero-emission vehicles, Africa must follow suit. The summit will highlight strategies to accelerate the adoption of green fleets, reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
- Public Transport and Rail Expansion: For urban centres to thrive, efficient public transport systems must be in place. Rail expansion and improved public transit infrastructure will be key talking points, offering sustainable alternatives to road traffic congestion.
- Active Mobility and Universal Access: Promoting walking, cycling, and other forms of active transport not only benefits public health but also helps reduce carbon emissions. Universal access to mobility for all, including people with disabilities, will be a central focus.
- Mobility Investment Project Pitches: One of the summit’s most anticipated elements is the Mobility Investment Project Pitches, where start-ups and established organisations will have the chance to showcase innovative mobility solutions to potential investors.
Each of these themes represents a step toward making African cities more liveable, sustainable, and economically viable.
A Platform for Innovators and Investors
The SMA Summit is about more than just discussions—it’s about action. One of the most exciting features of the event is its role as a catalyst for innovation and investment. Entrepreneurs, tech start-ups, and large corporations will all have the opportunity to pitch their mobility solutions to a global audience, connecting with investors and decision-makers ready to fund the next big idea in African transport.
Ben Pullen explained the importance of these interactions: “As a delegate at the summit, you will have access to our concierge-led matchmaking service, designed to create meaningful connections with potential business partners, paving the way for collaborations and growth. Don’t miss out on this invaluable chance to network and forge partnerships that can transform your business.”
This matchmaking service, combined with networking events like the Gala Dinner and Women in Mobility Seminar, will create fertile ground for collaboration and new partnerships that can drive the mobility sector forward.
Hands-On Learning and Real-World Insights
Attendees will not only engage in thought-provoking discussions but also participate in hands-on learning experiences. A key highlight of the summit will be a site visit to the Gibela Train Manufacturing Plant, offering an inside look at the latest advancements in rail manufacturing technology.
Moreover, training workshops will provide attendees with practical skills and insights into the latest mobility trends, from electric vehicles to smart city infrastructure. These sessions are designed to empower attendees to implement real-world solutions in their own cities and organisations.
Why Mobility Matters for Africa’s Future
As Africa continues to urbanise rapidly, efficient, sustainable, and inclusive mobility solutions will be crucial for its future development. The SMA Summit is a beacon for this progress, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue and innovation.
With major sponsors like Visa, Uber, Gibela, Circular Energy, and the City of Johannesburg on board, the summit is set to be a transformative event that will leave a lasting impact on the continent’s transport systems.
Smarter Mobility for a Better Tomorrow
For those passionate about shaping the future of transport in Africa, the Smarter Mobility Africa Summit is a must-attend event. It’s not just a conference—it’s a movement toward a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive Africa.
As Ben Pullen concluded: “We’re incredibly grateful to have the support of our Hosting Partners to organise and deliver the sixth SMA summit in October, themed ‘Embracing the New Urban Era through Smarter Mobility’. Together, we can create the mobility solutions Africa needs to thrive in the 21st century.”
