PEDESTRIAN DECISION-MAKING IN RWANDA'S URBAN LANDSCAPE: A CROSS-CULTURAL EXPLORATION OF TRAFFIC BEHAVIOR AND RISK

Abstract

This study investigates and evaluates the challenges faced by pedestrians in the City of Kigali, focusing on issues affecting their mobility and safety. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology with structured and unobtrusive data collection techniques, the research reveals significant obstacles in the urban environment. The findings highlight that pedestrian mobility remains inadequate, with notable issues including the lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, insufficient road signage, limited information on pedestrian behavior, and the suboptimal performance of existing traffic signals. Furthermore, the study underscores the pressing challenges of road crossings and the absence of proper footpaths, zebra crossings, and shelter facilities at bus stops.

One of the most critical findings of this study is the inadequacy of pedestrian safety measures, such as traffic signal designs and the provision of walkways. High vehicle speeds further exacerbate the difficulties pedestrians face in freely navigating the city. The study also emphasizes the need to address the mobility concerns of disabled individuals and advocates for the introduction of pedestrian overpass bridges in congested areas of Nyabugogo, Kicukiro Sonatube, and Remera Giporoso within the City of Kigali.

This research offers a unique contribution to both theory and practice by promoting pedestrian safety through the implementation of traffic lights to alert drivers and advocating for the introduction of pedestrian overpasses in high-traffic zones. These initiatives aim to reduce pedestrian fatalities and enhance the overall mobility experience in Kigali. The findings of this study have the potential to inform policy decisions aimed at improving the safety and mobility of pedestrians in urban environments.