At the conference, Morgan State University’s National Transportation Center researchers will demonstrate their newest innovation: an AI-powered wheelchair designed for navigating complex public spaces.
Over two decades, Transforming Transportation has become a landmark event that shapes the global dialogue on sustainable mobility in developing countries. Over the years, the conference has built a solid narrative and compelling trajectory. We've set the vision for what modern transport can look like in developing countries - safe, efficient, clean and accessible. We've discussed how to finance these advances. Now, for 2025, we are taking the next bold step: moving from vision to action.
This year’s theme, “Driving Change, Delivering Solutions,” reflects this shift. As developing countries grapple with rapid urbanization, natural disasters, and supply chain crises, the need for actionable solutions in transport has never been more urgent. In response, Transforming Transportation 2025 will focus on the skills, policies, and resources required to implement sustainable mobility systems that meet the needs of all citizens.
A journey from vision to reality
Transforming Transportation has consistently advanced the narrative of what modern transport can achieve. In its early years, the conference emphasized the potential of safe, efficient, and clean transport systems to enhance urban livability and to bring benefits to people globally. We’ve made the case for ways public transport and active mobility can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and prove access to more opportunities.
As the vision became clearer, the conversation expanded to encompass the financial dimension. The 2024 conference brought together international donors, financial institutions, private sector partners, and policymakers to discuss innovative financing solutions. We zoomed in on how to mobilize more resources for transport, particularly in low-income countries where infrastructure needs are greatest. From public-private partnerships to green bonds, Transforming Transportation has left no stone unturned.
But a vision and funding alone are not enough. The journey to modern mobility requires the right skills, policies, and institutions. This is where Transforming Transportation 2025 comes in: a spotlight on how to implement lasting change.
Key themes and topics at Transforming Transportation 2025
The 2025 agenda is rich with sessions designed to inspire and empower action. Highlights include:
• Capacity Building and Governance: Effective leadership and sound governance are essential for implementing sustainable transport systems. Sessions will explore how to strengthen institutional capacity and create enabling environments for change.
• Innovation and Digital Transformation: From smart mobility solutions to data-driven decision-making, digital innovation is reshaping the transport landscape. We will showcase cutting-edge technologies that can help developing countries leapfrog traditional infrastructure challenges.
• Road Safety Leadership: With road traffic injuries remaining a leading cause of death worldwide, this year’s conference will address the policies and leadership needed to enhance road safety.
• Resilience: As natural disasters become more intense and frequent, resilient transport infrastructure is crucial for safeguarding communities. Discussions will center on designing transport systems that can withstand shocks while minimizing emissions.
Thought leaders driving the conversation
Attendees will hear from many influential voices from across the globe, including:
- Bernardo Arevalo, President of Guatemala, who will help us set the tone for the day by discussing key transport developments in his country.
- Ilan Goldfajn, President of the Inter-American Development Bank, who will share insights on financing sustainable infrastructure in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Jean Todt, UN Special Envoy for Road Safety, who will advocate for urgent action to improve road safety worldwide.
- Frannie Léautier, Partner, CEO, SouthBridge Investment, Rwanda, who kill kick off our opening plenary about capacity building.
- Kelly Larson, Road Safety Program Director, Bloomberg Philanthropies, a critical voice on road safety.
- Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director, UN-Habitat, who will highlight innovations and challenges and opportunities in the decarbonization of the transport sector.
- Global leaders and experts from the World Bank Group, World Resources Institute Center for Sustainable Cities and partner organizations, governments, and the private sector will also participate, sharing their experiences and strategies for driving change.
Exhibition
In addition to compelling speakers and panel discussions, Transforming Transportation 2025 offers other ways to engage. We have an extensive knowledge exhibition planned, where a dozen partners will showcase their latest research, publications and ideas.
In addition, leading researchers from Morgan State University’s National Transportation Center will be demonstrating their newest innovation: an AI-powered wheelchair that is designed to help people with disabilities navigate complex public spaces.
From dialogue to action
By moving from vision to action, the 2025 conference aims to equip policymakers, urban planners, and development practitioners with the tools they need to create cleaner, safer, and more inclusive transport systems.
Join us in this global dialogue. Be part of the movement that is transforming transport—and lives.
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