Abstract
Active mobility is a cornerstone of sustainable development and equitable urban transport. However, in South African townships, its adoption is shaped by a unique legacy of spatial inequality, transport poverty, and a lack of user-centric data, creating a disconnect between policy and lived reality. This study addressed this gap by providing a quantitative assessment of residents’ perceptions of active mobility in a South African township, using Soshanguve South as a case study. The research aimed to identify the primary barriers, motivators, and key demographic factors that influence transport choices.
The study employed a cross-sectional quantitative survey (n=406), administered to residents of Soshanguve South. The analysis was guided by the mobility lifecycle framework (MLF), a conceptual model developed for this study to distinguish between ‘captive users’ (who walk out of necessity) and ‘choice users’ (who walk out of preference). Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, reliability testing (Cronbach’s alpha), chi-square tests, independent sample t-tests, and a multinomial logistic regression to determine the predictors of mode choice.
Key findings revealed the dual reality of walking, statistically confirming the MLF’s core premise. A significant negative relationship was found between household income and walking for essential trips, confirming the ‘captive status’ of lower-income residents. Concurrently, a ‘choice user’ segment exists, primarily among younger residents (18-35 years) and those who value ‘transport benefits’ (efficiency). Secondly, the study identified the ‘twin fears’ of crime (58.4%) and traffic danger (67.7%) as the most significant barriers. These fears revealed a gendered face of mobility, where female residents feel significantly less safe than males, acting as a filter that blocks voluntary adoption for women.
Furthermore, a ‘sustainability paradox’ emerged; the regression analysis revealed that health awareness does not prevent the shift to private vehicles. Only strong ‘environmental values’ were found to statistically discourage car ownership. This suggests the private car is viewed as an ‘aspirational mode’, offering status and freedom that active mobility cannot yet match. Finally, a ‘capability gap’ was identified. While latent demand for cycling is high, the regression analysis revealed that...