When Rainfall Dictates the Ride: Exploring the Impact of Rainfall on Mobility in Accra

Abstract

The rapid urbanisation in Sub-Saharan Africa poses significant challenges to peri-urban transport systems, especially amidst escalating climatic events. This study examines the impact of recurrent heavy rainfall events and associated flooding on transport infrastructure and commuters’ choice of transportation modes in peri-urban areas of Accra, Ghana. Using data from a comprehensive mobility survey and qualitative interviews, the study examines the state of road infrastructure and its effects on daily mobility. The findings reveal that poor road conditions, exacerbated by heavy rainfall, limit the availability and reliability of transport options, compelling residents to rely on motorcycles and other less conventional modes for part of the entire trip. This paper highlights the interaction between inadequate transport infrastructure and rainfall-induced disruptions, demonstrating how these factors collectively shape transportation choices in peri-urban areas. Our findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable urban planning and flood-resilient transport systems to improve mobility and environmental resilience in rapidly urbanising regions. The study contributes to existing research by providing empirical evidence on the mobility challenges faced by commuters in flood-prone regions of Sub-Saharan Africa.