Safety and Mobility Challenges of People with Disability in Mekelle City: Towards Inclusive Urban Transport – Final Report

This study assessed the safety and mobility challenges faced by people with disabilities in Mekelle city, northern Ethiopia. Based on the findings of this study and experiences from other countries, a disability-friendly design and infrastructure guide of urban transport was developed. A policy brief was also produced for Mekelle city to inform policy makers and provide recommendations based on the findings of the study.

The study consists of a review of both scientific and grey literature, as well as primary data collection. Quantitative data was collected through digital questionnaires conducted through face-to-face interviews and on-site assessments of public roads, buildings, transport services and stops. Qualitative data was also collected by interviewing key informants and through focus group discussions (FGDs). The research findings were discussed among various stakeholders in consultative meetings.

This study found that while directives and guidelines exist for building infrastructure that meet the needs of people with disabilities, communication across the regulatory framework is inadequate and lacks clear mandatory enforcement for the effective implementation of rules and regulations.

In Mekelle city, there are no inclusive directives or guidelines for road infrastructure and transport services that address the needs of people with disabilities. While people with disabilities should be involved in the planning, design and implementation of public infrastructures and services, this study found their participation in urban transport policy preparation remains limited.