The world’s largest database of user-contributed data on cities and countries, Numbeo, has ranked Lagos State as having the most severe traffic congestion.
The ranking places Lagos ahead of Nairobi, Kenya.
Numbeo provides up-to-date information on various aspects of living conditions around the world, including the cost of living, housing, healthcare, traffic, crime, and pollution.
According to Numbeo, by mid-2024, traffic conditions in many African cities have worsened, leading to longer commutes and reduced productivity.
“The traffic index looks at commute time, dissatisfaction with traffic, CO2 emissions, and overall system inefficiencies to show how bad the problem is,” Numbeo explained.
Numbeo reported that Lagos consistently ranks as one of the world’s most congested cities. With a high Traffic Index of 354.5, the average commuter spends about 68.8 minutes in traffic each day.
“High population, poor road conditions, and frequent potholes are major factors that cause traffic problems in Lagos,” Numbeo noted. “The public transport system is often overcrowded and inefficient, so many people use private vehicles.”
Nairobi, Kenya, comes second in the ranking, also dealing with severe traffic congestion. The city’s Traffic Index is 249.0, with an average commute time of 52.7 minutes.
“Nairobi’s role as an economic and administrative hub significantly contributes to its traffic issues,” Numbeo stated.
Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, is also notorious for its traffic jams. With a Traffic Index of 242.4, commuters in Cairo spend an average of 49.9 minutes in traffic.
“Cairo’s ancient infrastructure struggles to handle modern-day traffic volumes, and overpopulation is a significant factor as it is one of the most densely populated cities in Africa,” Numbeo reported.
Pretoria, one of South Africa’s three capital cities, faces significant traffic challenges too. It has a Traffic Index of 228.1 and an average commute time of 45.0 minutes.
“Traffic congestion is a major concern for residents and authorities in Pretoria,” Numbeo observed.
Cape Town, another major city in South Africa, also deals with heavy traffic. The city’s Traffic Index is 209.3, with commuters spending an average of 42.5 minutes in traffic each day.
