Title: Principal component analysis of the impacts of innovative technologies on public transportation in the SADC region of Africa

Authors: Kudzai Mbowa; Matthew Ikuabe; Clinton Aigbavboa; Opeoluwa Akinradewo

Addresses: Sustainable Human Settlement and Construction Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa ' School of Construction Economics and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa ' Sustainable Human Settlement and Construction Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa ' Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa

Abstract: Public transportation is a primary means of transportation for many people, and it plays a crucial role in the development of every economy. However, public transportation has proven to be a nightmare in recent years in Southern Africa. The deployment of digital technologies has proven to be a breakthrough to challenges affecting mobility and connectivity by public transportation. The study is set out to assess how the digital transformation of public transportation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) can enhance efficiency in the delivery of services. Data used in this study were derived from both secondary and primary sources. Secondary data was collected through a detailed review of related literature. Likewise, primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to road users on the Johannesburg-Harare route. Out of 110 questionnaires, 100 were received, representing a 91% response rate. Research data was analysed using a non-parametric test and exploratory factor analysis. To ensure the reliability of the survey, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was conducted. The findings showed that, if holistically adopted and implemented, innovative technologies will enhance operational efficiency and improve public transport service quality.

Keywords: efficiency; exploratory factor analysis; fourth industrial revolution; public transportation; Southern Africa.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAOM.2026.151893

International Journal of Advanced Operations Management, 2026 Vol.17 No.1, pp.71 - 85

Received: 03 Nov 2024
Accepted: 07 Jun 2025
Published online: 25 Feb 2026 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article