Highway/Freeway System, Africa

The road system in Africa is less extensive than in other parts of the world. The international road network has several missing links. The national road systems are in poor condition and do not reach many rural areas. In some countries, only a very small proportion of the roads are paved. Road network development has been hindered by geographic, historical, economic, political, and military factors. Investment in the road system has accelerated in recent decades, facilitated by economic growth and the support of international institutions. Road congestion is becoming a serious problem, however, due to the growth in traffic levels. Road safety and maintenance remain major issues. This entry discusses the road system in Africa, its history, road use, and maintenance.