An Assessment of Walkability and Pedestrian Perceptions in Jinja City: A Case Study of the Central Business District

Abstract

There is a close relationship between walkability and liveability in growing cities such as Jinja. As a key mode of transport in towns and cities, walking has economic, social and environmental benefits. This paper assessed walkability conditions and pedestrian perceptions in Jinja Central Business District in view of the region’s urbanisation trends and development. The study was evaluative in nature and employed a mixed methods research design. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research were also used. A sample of 80 pedestrians on 8 selected roads of Jinja city in the Central Business District was used in undertaking a questionnaire survey. Besides, 10 agency forms that involved rating of the walkability parameters for the 8 selected roads in Jinja city Central Business District based on the Global Walkability Index (GWI) were filled by the city officials. The results showed that the Walkability Index (WI) for Jinja Central Business District considering the busiest 8 selected roads is neutral at 51 on scale of 100. This means that there are some walkable locations in the CBD of Jinja city but most of the daily trips still require a bicycle, car or public transport. The study also identified major obstructions on the roads in Jinja city to include big cars parked on both sides of the roads, cyclists especially numerous bodabodas and vendors who use the sidewalks as parking and waiting areas. Some kiosks have been put along the walkways of some major roads such as Nizam Road and along the market area. This is coupled with poor road surfaces due to eroded tarmac and potholes with poor drainage along these roads. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the city authorities adopt diverse walkable approaches for the city through involving a series of comprehensive urban policies and actions that affect the urban quality and city plans as well as innovative interventions that encourage the development of walkable communities. Pedestrian facilities urgently needed include walkways, security lights, and traffic control signals/lights, curb ramps, sign posts, zebra crossings, waiting shades and other pedestrian amenities like benches and public toilets.