pida sector
transport
The transport sector is aimed at enabling the free movement of goods and people through efficient, safe, affordable, and reliable transport services across Africa.
Overview of the Transport Sector
Outline
Overview
PIDA Transport
Transport Infrastructure Development
Vision and Objectives
Key Statistics and Achievements
Future Outlook
Transforming Africa Through Modern Transport Infrastructure
Connecting the continent with efficient, safe, and sustainable transport networks to drive economic growth and regional integration.
Explore Priority ProjectsPIDA Transport Sector Overview
PIDA (Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa) is an AU-led initiative that drives integrated, sustainable transport projects across Africa. It aims to connect major economic centers through modern highways, railways, ports, and airports. By 2040, PIDA plans to add over 30,700 km of highways and 30,200 km of railways, dramatically boosting regional trade and integration.
Key achievements include the Kazungula Bridge which has reduced border crossing times by up to 70% along the North–South Corridor. PIDA’s work is essential for enhancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by reducing transport costs and increasing intra-African commerce.
30,700 km Highways
Planned by 2040
30,200 km Railways
To connect major hubs
Kazungula Bridge
Significantly reduced transit times
Vision & Objectives
The PIDA Transport Sector envisions an integrated African transport network that is safe, affordable, and reliable. This vision supports economic growth, regional integration, and social development.
- Regional Integration: Efficient corridors for intra-African trade.
- Economic Growth: Reduced transport costs boost markets.
- Accessibility: Affordable transport for all Africans.
- Sustainability: Environmentally sound and climate-resilient infrastructure.
- Safety & Security: High standards across all modes.
- Technology Integration: Digital tools optimize transport management.
Flagship Transport Projects
Explore some of PIDA’s transformative projects below. Use the tabs to switch between Railway and Road projects.
Video: Vision of the African Integrated High-Speed Rail Network under PIDA.
Video: The Kazungula Bridge project, reducing border crossing times in Southern Africa.
Kazungula Bridge Project
The 923-meter Kazungula Bridge spanning the Zambezi River connects Zambia and Botswana, replacing a slow ferry service. With one‑stop border facilities, it has cut crossing times significantly, boosting trade along the North–South Corridor.
PIDA also supports major corridors like the North–South Multimodal Corridor, the Abidjan–Lagos Coastal Corridor, and the LAPSSET Corridor – all designed to drive regional integration and economic growth.
Trade Facilitation: One‑Stop Border Posts (OSBPs)
One‑Stop Border Posts streamline inspections by merging processes from neighboring countries into a single, efficient checkpoint. Benefits include:
- Up to 70% reduction in border crossing times.
- Lower transportation costs.
- Enhanced regional trade flows.
- Improved border security.
PIDA Priority Action Plans (PAP 1 & PAP 2)
PAP 1 (2012–2020) laid the foundation with 51 programmes and over 400 projects, while PAP 2 (2021–2030) builds on that success with 69 priority projects targeting integrated corridors and sustainability.
| PAP 1 (2012–2020) | PAP 2 (2021–2030) |
|---|---|
| 51 programmes (433 projects) | 69 priority projects |
| Estimated cost: ~$68 billion | Estimated cost: ~$160.8 billion |
| Focus: Cross-border infrastructure | Focus: Integrated corridors & sustainable projects |
Key Statistics & Achievements
Here are some impressive outcomes from PIDA’s transport initiatives:
| Metric | Outcome |
|---|---|
| New highways by 2040 | 30,700 km |
| New railways by 2040 | 30,200 km |
| Operational transport projects | 52 projects |
| Projects under construction | 82 projects |
| Investment mobilized (PAP 1) | USD 82 billion |
| Intra-African export share | Increased to 16% |
Future Outlook
PIDA’s journey is just beginning. The focus now is on:
- Smart Corridors: Integrating digital tech for efficient traffic management.
- Green Transport: Shifting to sustainable, low-emission transport solutions.
- Multi‑Modal Integration: Seamless connectivity across road, rail, air, and maritime modes.
- Urban Mobility: Developing mass transit systems to tackle congestion in growing cities.
These initiatives will help create a well-connected, resilient, and prosperous Africa.
About Us
The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is a strategic initiative launched by the African Union to address critical infrastructure gaps across the continent.
pida@auda-nepad.org