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Just a month ago, the world paused for a moment to reflection an important issue, the urban welfare. Here at Optiven, we are very passionate about the state of urbanization, especially in Africa. We believe that with concerted efforts, our urban centers can indeed become affordable for all, sooner rather than later.
One thing that cannot be divorced from our concerted pursuit for affordable housing is affordable and sustainable transport. Here in Kenya, the Government’s overall expenditure on roads was on an upsurge path of 38.3% from KSh113.2 billion in 2015/16 to KSh156.5 billion in 2016/17. Total development expenditure is also expected to grow by 31.7% from KSh87.8 billion in 2015/16 to KSh115.6 billion in 2016/17.
Development expenditure on trunk and primary roads is expected to grow by 36.2% from KSh51.6 billion in 2015/16 to KSh70.3 billion in 2016/17. Obviously, these are positive steps towards the right direction. Our day to day movement and trade depends on the transport infrastructure: The roads, rails, waterways and flight paths, name them. The transport sector itself is a huge source of livelihood and an engine of economic growth.
Promotion of better transport systems in our cities is fundamental. We must therefore focus on improvement of public transport while promoting walking and cycling. The new sharing economy is opening the way we view public transport. Kenyans can now rent a car using a simple app on their mobile phone. They can also share rides in the same vehicle that normally would have taken just one passenger.
There is an urgent need to make our transport systems safe and secure to reach the ambitious target set in the 2030 Agenda advocating for access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all. As we further develop our infrastructure, there must also be a balanced approach, especially in addressing the environmental impacts of transport in order to mitigate the effect of climate change and reduce local air pollution.
We must take bold steps towards innovation and re-think our transport systems, in terms of design, technology and consumption patterns. The more we place our focus on electric cars, alternative fuels, mass transit systems, etcetera, the more we are headed to better, affordable transport solutions.
George Wachiuri is an Entrepreneur, a Philanthropist, a Motivational Speaker and the CEO, Optiven Group. To get more details on how you can invest with Optiven Ltd. Kindly talk to us via 0702 831083 , 0738 831083, Email; info@optiven.co.ke. Website: http://www.optiven.co.ke
