• Geneva donates 200 buses to Tunis, starting 2026
• Tunis ordered 300 more buses amid ridership decline in 2024
• Partnership aims to modernize transport, boost clean energy transition

Geneva's public transport company, Transports publics genevois (TPG), has donated 200 thermal buses to Tunis' transport company, Société des transports de Tunis (Transtu), as part of its program to replace its fleet with electric vehicles. The buses are expected to be delivered over a four-year period starting January 1, 2026, according to Swiss media reports.

Transtu announced in December 2024 a separate order for 300 new buses to replace its aging fleet, which is often cited as a reason for its declining ridership. Official figures show that passenger numbers dropped from 335 million in 2010 to 113 million in 2023.

The company also faces increasing competition from other transport providers, including yellow taxis, private bus operators, and ride-hailing services. In addition to the road transport segment, Transtu's ongoing recovery plan, supported by the government, also addresses rail services, including expanding its fleet of trains and rail lines.

Beyond the material contribution, the partnership highlights the value of international cooperation in modernizing urban transport systems. It could pave the way for a transfer of expertise in fleet management and the gradual integration of clean energy. As sustainable mobility becomes a major driver of competitiveness and quality of life, the success of this program will send a strong signal for the future of Tunisian public transport.

Henoc Dossa