Abstract: Rapid urbanization and increased motorization are prevalent in Sub-Saharan African cities, where automobiles have become the primary mode of transportation. This reliance has resulted in significant challenges, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and limited access to public spaces. In response, there is an urgent need to reevaluate the role of automobiles in the sustainable urban planning of cities in the Global South. This paper (i) identifies the causes of automobile dependency in selected cities in Cameroon, (ii) examines the impact of automobile usage on the urban environment, and (iii) proposes solutions to reduce automobile dependency. Through 380 surveys and 15 in-depth interviews, the researchers gathered data from residents in four Cameroon cities: Yaoundé, Douala, Bamenda, and Bafoussam, and engaged city stakeholders, including mayors, transport syndicate leaders, and traffic officers to gain insights and perspectives crucial for effective urban transportation solutions. The findings highlight the necessity of reimagining transportation policies and infrastructure in Cameroonian cities to foster more livable, resilient, and inclusive urban environments. By challenging the perception of automobiles as symbols of progress, this research advocates for a holistic urban planning approach that prioritizes the needs of the community and the urban environment in Cameroon.
Abstract: Rapid urbanization and increased motorization are prevalent in Sub-Saharan African cities, where automobiles have become the primary mode of transportation. This reliance has resulted in significant challenges, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and limited access to public spaces. In response, there is an urgent need to reevaluate the ro...Show More
Abstract: The use of expansive soils as subgrades in road pavement construction poses significant challenges due to their high swell-shrink potential, leading to structural damage resulting to increased maintenance costs. This study investigates the durability performance of Onna Expansive Soil (OES) stabilized with rice husk ash (RHA)-based geopolymer, an eco-friendly alternative for enhancing soil properties. Geopolymer mixtures with varying RHA contents (10%, 20%, and 30% by dry weight) were prepared and subjected to cyclic wetting-drying conditions to simulate natural climatic changes. Key parameters, including California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), were evaluated after 7 and 28 days of curing. The results reveal that mixtures with 10% RHA content showed significant weight loss, disintegrating by the 7th cycle, whereas 20% RHA stabilized samples survived up to intermediate cycles. The mixture containing 30% RHA exhibited optimal performance, retaining over 90% of its mass after 12 cycles, with a CBR value of 14.97% at 7 days and a residual UCS of 714 kN/m² after 28 days. These findings indicate that a higher RHA-geopolymer content significantly improves the long-term durability and strength of OES, making it a viable option for sustainable road construction. This study contributes to addressing both the disposal issues of agricultural waste and the enhancement of problematic soils, offering a pathway to cost-effective and durable road infrastructure in regions with similar soil conditions.
Abstract: The use of expansive soils as subgrades in road pavement construction poses significant challenges due to their high swell-shrink potential, leading to structural damage resulting to increased maintenance costs. This study investigates the durability performance of Onna Expansive Soil (OES) stabilized with rice husk ash (RHA)-based geopolymer, an e...Show More