Pedestrian profile and perception of walkability in Hêvié, Ouèdo, and Togba in Abomey Calavi, Republic of Benin in West Africa

The positive perception of walkability ensures more frequent and continuous use compared to a high objective level of walkability. In a context of increasing traffic-related air pollution, it is important to find alternatives to motorized transport, at least for short distances. This issue is even more important in peri-urban areas, where distances are long and roads are poorly designed. Pedestrian profiles also play a key role in the perception of walkability. The present study examines the perception of walkability and assesses its relationship with the profile of peri-urban dwellers in the Republic of Benin, in the Hêvié, Ouèdo, and Togba districts of the Abomey-Calavi municipality. To this end, the Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale - Abbreviated (NEWS-A) questionnaire was adapted, and 117 pedestrians randomly selected in the study area were questioned between October 6 and 10, 2024, at different times of the day. The data processing allows us to understand that the perception of walkability is evaluated through six criteria: Aesthetics/attractiveness, Access, Comfort, Safety, Connectivity, and Inclusivity. In addition, pedestrians generally have a poor perception of walkability. Pedestrians' gender significantly influences their perception of aesthetics/attractiveness, comfort, and connectivity. In parallel, income significantly correlates with perceptions of accessibility, comfort, and connectivity.