Within IDEES, Raynald Ballo explored the impact of digital technology on shared mobility in West Africa.
Raynald Ballo, chercheur·e au sein de IDEES (Université de Caen Normandie).
Thèse soutenue en 2025 à l'école doctorale École Doctorale Homme, Sociétés, Risques, Territoire.
Référencée dans le réseau ABES/STAR, cette thèse répond aux critères de rigueur de l'enseignement supérieur français.
Raynald Ballo's thesis, conducted at the University of Caen Normandy, addresses a crucial subject: how digital technology can transform shared mobility in West Africa. This region, rich in a tradition of sharing, faces major challenges in transportation infrastructure. Indeed, roads are often in poor condition, public transport is unreliable, and traffic jams are common in large cities like Cotonou, Dakar, or Abidjan. However, the failure of imported collaborative economy models does not result from a technological lag, but from a mismatch between technological diffusion paradigms and local realities. Research findings reveal that 60% of urban residents use shared transport services, with a 30% increase in the use of mobility applications in Cotonou. These figures reflect untapped potential that could be unleashed through better integration of digital technologies into existing transport systems.
The recommendations of the thesis are clear: it is imperative that policymakers adopt strategies that promote the integration of digital technologies. This involves partnerships between local governments and technology companies to improve transportation infrastructure. For example, initiatives such as the development of local carpooling or on-demand transport applications could meet the specific needs of users while creating local jobs. Indeed, collaboration among various sector stakeholders is essential to overcoming current obstacles. Policymakers must also question territorial governance models that could facilitate this transition. A decentralized approach could allow for better resource management and greater responsiveness to citizens' needs.
It is time to rethink mobility in West Africa. Digital technologies are not a panacea, but they offer solutions tailored to local needs. The action-research conducted by Ballo highlights the importance of a contextual approach, where solutions are co-constructed with users. For example, involving communities in the development of transport applications could ensure that these tools truly meet their expectations. Decision-makers must listen to the needs of citizens and cultural specificities to succeed in this transformation. This also involves considering the social and economic dynamics that characterize the region, such as the role of women in transport or the importance of informal networks.
In summary, this thesis highlights the potential of digital technology to revolutionize shared mobility in West Africa. The challenges are numerous, but the opportunities are equally abundant. Sector stakeholders must act quickly to leverage this momentum and build a future of sustainable and accessible mobility. By integrating digital technologies thoughtfully and appropriately, it is possible to create a transport system that not only improves the quality of life for citizens but also contributes to the region's economic growth. Indeed, effective mobility is a key factor for development, enabling individuals to access education, employment, and essential services. Thus, digital technology, as a tool for transformation, can play a decisive role in building a better future for West Africa.
Données clés
- 60% : proportion d'habitants des zones urbaines utilisant des services de transport partagé.
- 30% : augmentation de l'utilisation des applications de mobilité à Cotonou.
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Sources et accès
Raynald Ballo. Le numérique au secours des mobilités partagées en Afrique de l'Ouest. Géographie. Normandie Université, 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025NORMLH10⟩. ⟨tel-05391367v2⟩