Barriers and facilitators experienced by wheelchair users when using minibus taxis in Africa: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Accessible transport is essential for achieving the sustainable development goals. Persons with disabilities often struggle to access public transport with different impairments leading to unique access barriers. Wheelchair users face physical and attitudinal challenges when accessing minibus taxis, a common mode of public transport in Africa.
Objectives: The objective of this review was to explore the barriers and facilitators that wheelchair users in African countries experience when using minibus taxi services.
Method: The scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines for reporting on scoping reviews as well as the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review guidelines. Eight databases were searched. Two reviewers screened articles in Rayyan. Data were analysed and synergised through a convergent integrated approach.
Results: The literature search yielded 236 titles, of which 20 were included after further review. Studies were from four African countries, mostly South Africa (n = 14), Ghana (n = 4), Sierra Leone (n = 1) and Zimbabwe (n = 1). Key findings such as structural (obstructed sidewalks, potholes), mechanical (vehicle design), economic (paying for wheelchairs and carers), attitudinal (impatience, rudeness) and institutional (ableism, lack of political will) barriers and facilitators were identified.
Conclusion: Despite minibuses having evolved into a cheap mode of public transport in most African countries, their design and operating practices still prevent wheelchair users from using them with ease and dignity.
Contribution: This review presents barriers and facilitators that wheelchair users experience when using minibus taxi services. Future research should focus on reconfiguring transport services offered by minibus taxis to provide equal access for wheelchair users in Africa and beyond.