Governance deficits in urban mobility systems: Institutional coordination, capacity gaps and planning challenges in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)

Rapid urbanisation in African cities has intensified pressures on urban mobility systems. In Ouagadougou, sustained population growth, urban sprawl, and rising travel demand continue to challenge the efficiency of urban transport despite ongoing investments in infrastructure and services. This study examines the institutional, organisational, and regulatory factors affecting urban mobility governance in the city. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining documentary review, questionnaire surveys administered to 300 stakeholders, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and SWOT analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS, while qualitative information was subjected to content analysis. The findings reveal that although multiple actors are involved in urban mobility governance, coordination remains weak. Most respondents considered existing coordination mechanisms inadequate, while limited technical expertise, overlapping institutional mandates, insufficient stakeholder consultation, weaknesses in the regulatory framework, and poor integration of urban planning and mobility policies were identified as major constraints. The absence of an operational urban mobility planning instrument further undermines governance effectiveness. The study concludes that strengthening institutional capacities, clarifying stakeholder responsibilities, improving policy integration, and establishing permanent coordination mechanisms are essential for enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of Ouagadougou’s urban mobility system. The development of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan is recommended to support the city’s long-term development.