Opportunities to maximise the benefits of motorcycle and motorised three-wheeler taxis in rural Democratic Republic of Congo: Policy Brief

This policy brief has been developed based on a 2019 study of motorcycles and motorised three-wheeler taxis in rural areas of DRC. The aim of the study was to improve the current knowledge and understanding concerning the effective ways of enabling rural people to benefit from the safe use of motorcycles and motorised three-wheelers. The results of the study can be used to enhance the operation of these vehicles to provide safe, affordable and socially inclusive access for rural communities.
The project was supported by the Government of DRC through the local AfCAP partner institution Cellule Infrastructure, a technical body of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Public Works and Reconstruction, and funded by UK Aid.

The use of motorcycles has increased greatly in sub-Saharan Africa in recent years. Motorcycles are often used as taxis, with riders charging a fare to carry passengers or goods. Motorised three-wheelers are also used in some rural areas, although their numbers are far fewer.
Motorcycle taxis play a critical role in enabling rural mobility in Africa. In many countries, they are the only available means of affordable motorised transport for people living in rural communities and have become an increasingly popular mode of transport.
They provide access to healthcare, including in medical emergencies, as well as access to markets and social amenities. They also provide employment and generate a reasonable income, predominantly for young men.

This project is a part of the Research for Community Access Partnership (ReCAP) funded by UK Aid, with the aim of promoting safe and sustainable transport for rural communities in Africa and Asia. ReCAP comprises the Africa Community Access Partnership (AfCAP) and the Asia Community Access Partnership (AsCAP). These partnerships support knowledge sharing between participating countries in order to enhance the uptake of low cost, proven solutions for rural access that maximise the use of local resources. The ReCAP programme is managed by Cardno Emerging Markets (UK) Ltd.

To read the full policy brief, please click below.