Urban mobility in Kinshasa: Bemba announces 490 “Esprit de vie” buses will enter service before year-end

Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba told the Senate on October 16 that 490 buses from the public “Esprit de vie” program, already available in Kinshasa and Matadi, are expected to enter service in the capital before the end of 2026. The announcement comes as residents rely heavily on private operators, which are often criticized for fare increases and “demi-terrain” trips that stop short of their destinations; driver strikes can also disrupt travel. Public transport company Transco, established in 2013, struggles to meet Kinshasa’s needs because of its limited bus fleet, restricted route coverage, and aging or overcrowded vehicles.