Exploring mobility characteristics in rural Sub-Saharan Africa: a case study of the Yamoussoukro Region, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract Access to transportation is a key enabler of economic and sustainable development in rural emerging economies. Implementing effective improvements requires a deep understanding of the current mobility landscape. Despite its significance, recent research on transportation and mobility characteristics in rural Sub-Saharan Africa remains limited. This study addresses this gap by analyzing mobility patterns and motivations in central Côte d’Ivoire, based on a series of quantitative and qualitative field surveys and a two- electric-vehicle pilot study, conducted between 2021 and 2023. We comprehensively assess rural transportation by situating our empirical findings within the context of existing transportation models and prior studies while evaluating their implications for the Sustainable Development Goals, and offering an outlook on electric vehicle usage patterns in rural areas. The findings provide important guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders, helping to develop sustainable interventions and business models that improve local access to goods, services, and economic opportunities.