Africa is on the move, with rapid urbanization transforming cities across the continent. To navigate this exciting yet challenging landscape, Smarter Mobility Africa summit 2024 is set to convene industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators on October 2-4 2024, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
This year's summit, themed "Embracing a New Urban Era," will focus on the critical role of integrated smarter mobility solutions in shaping the future of African cities.
“With unprecedented growth in urban populations, Africa has a unique opportunity to leapfrog traditional transport models and embrace smarter, more efficient, affordable, and sustainable solutions,” says Ben Pullen, Group Director of Mobility at VUKA Group, the organisers of the annual summit. “SMA summit 2024 will be a platform for taking action, attracting funding, and ensuring the new urban era can be embraced across African cities”.
Funding is critical for cities across Africa to improve the way we move people and goods. According to SLOCAT (sustainable low carbon transport), closing the investment gap in transport infrastructure in Africa will require an additional US$800 billion by 2040.
To respond to this, Smarter Mobility Africa have launched the Mobility Investment Projects to support project leaders from startups, SMEs, corporate, cities and national level mobility projects in accessing the funding required. Since launching just a few weeks ago, over 50 projects have applied to join with a collecting project showcase of over $150m. Projects onboard to the scheme will benefit from listing in the investment directory, mentorship and masterclasses, and the opportunity to pitch at Smarter Mobility Africa summit in October.
Vusi Thembekwayo, South African entrepreneur and author joined an interview during the launch event expressing support for the initiative and shared that “Building infrastructure is one thing, building infrastructure for the modern day that betters society, but doesn’t take away from the sustainability of our society is a much harder thing to do”
SMA summit 2024 is delivering a dynamic program this year featuring:
- Keynote addresses from leading and inspirational figures in the mobility sector
- Interactive panel discussions on topics such as Expanding Public Transport, Green Fleets, Rail, Active Mobility, New Energy Vehicles, and urban planning
- Training and Workshops
- Quality networking opportunities to connect with industry peers and potential partners
- A showcase of cutting-edge technologies and solutions on the exhibition floor
- Women in Mobility
- Exhibition Awards
- Mobility Investment Pitches
- Smarter Mobility Africa Gala Dinner
- Ride & Drive experiences of the latest vehicles
- Site visits and tours