Partner with UNEP 2025-2026 to Transform Urban Mobility Across Africa: Call for Proposals to Implement the Pan African Action Plan for Active Mobility (PAAPAM)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) invites applications from Africa-based organizations to support the implementation of the Pan African Action Plan for Active Mobility (PAAPAM) under the Global Programme for Sustainable Mobility. This initiative promotes low and zero-emission transport solutions across low- and middle-income countries through technical assistance, capacity building, and advocacy.

As part of its commitment to active mobility, UNEP aims to partner with eligible organizations for activities in Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, and Morocco, with possible expansion to additional African countries. This call identifies potential implementing partners who can deliver on specific components of PAAPAM during the first implementation phase (2025–2028).

Project Context and Background

Active mobility—walking and cycling—is a primary mode of transport for millions in Africa but remains underfunded and poorly prioritized in infrastructure and policy planning. In 2022, the “Africa Regional Forum for Action – Inclusive and Active Mobility in a Changing Climate” held in Kigali emphasized the urgent need for investment in non-motorized transport.

Subsequent bilateral consultations and regional forums led to the development of PAAPAM. The framework outlines three key action areas:

1. Create safe, easy, and enjoyable spaces to walk and cycle.
2. Advocate for pedestrians and cyclists in Africa.
3. Integrate walking and cycling into policy and investment processes.

PAAPAM was developed through engagement with thousands of stakeholders, including civil society, academics, NGOs, and development partners. It provides a shared vision, goals, and progress indicators for active mobility across the continent. The initiative aims to reshape urban transport systems, promote equitable access, and influence a shift in decision-making towards sustainable mobility.

Scope of Work and Deliverables

UNEP is seeking partner organizations to implement a range of activities, including:

1. Conducting analysis of national and city-level policies, expenditures, and institutional frameworks related to active mobility.
2. Identifying capacity gaps and training needs for government entities.
3. Supporting the formulation or revision of active mobility strategies aligned with PAAPAM.
4. Organizing workshops, study tours, and stakeholder engagement events.
5. Producing knowledge materials such as policy briefs and case studies with a focus on gender and inclusion.
6. Providing technical support to government agencies.
7. Developing a regional monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework.
8. Establishing regional hubs or task forces to support broader coordination.
9. Overseeing the coordination and integration of PAAPAM at national and regional levels.

During the first year (2025), the focus will be on country assessments, stakeholder mapping, and capacity-building. In subsequent years, emphasis will shift to policy development, sustained engagement, creation of regional support platforms, and implementation monitoring.

Eligibility and Requirements

Organizations must meet the following criteria to be considered:

• Legal Status: Registered non-profit organization operating in Africa, with eligibility extending to NGOs, community-based organizations, foundations, research institutions, academia, or companies engaged in non-profit activities.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years working in sustainable mobility, with at least two relevant projects or three publications in the field.
• Technical Capacity: Demonstrated expertise in at least two of the nine outlined activity areas.
• Regional Knowledge: Strong understanding of the African mobility landscape and experience working with public and private stakeholders.
• Languages: English is required. Proficiency in French, Arabic, or other regional languages is an asset.
• Financial Stability: Ability to demonstrate sound financial management through recent audited financial statements.
• Project Management: Use of written policies and tools for program development and monitoring.
• Local Engagement: Established consultation mechanisms with local communities and stakeholders.

Only organizations registered and validated through the UN Partner Portal will be considered.

Application Process

This is a five-step application process:

1. Register here .
2. Download and review the due diligence documentation.
3. Complete Template 11 (available in the call documentation).
4. Fill out the online application form.

Timeline

• Submission Deadline: 16 June 2025
• Evaluation of Applications: By 30 June 2025
• Roster Notification: By 31 July 2025
• Start of Implementation: 1 August 2025

Shortlisted organizations will be invited to submit a detailed Expression of Interest (EOI) for specific components.

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