Analysis of the spatial-economic and socio-professional dynamics of taxi-tricycle drivers in Lome

African cities’ fast rate of population increase from 4 to 6% per year and the decline of organized public transport systems are the origin of the rapid development of non-conventional means of transport [2]. The city of Lomé, since its creation in 1897, has experienced growing demography and spatial extension apart from its socio-collective and mobility infrastructure [5]. Faced with the inability of public transport services to meet the demand, we are witnessing the emergence of informal transport solutions such as taxi-motorbikes and taxi-tricycles in response, not only to the demand but also to youth unemployment and the economic crisis. This article focuses on actors in the taxi-tricycle sector. It analyzes the spatial economic and socio-professional dynamics of taxi-tricycle drivers in Lomé. The scientific interest of this article is dual. Firstly, it makes it possible to map the spatial dynamics of taxi-tricycles in Lomé and, secondly, it identifies the problems related to the propagation of the phenomenon of urban taxi-tricycle transport which, until now, has not been apprehended by Togolese researchers. The methodology focuses on the analyses of data (primary and secondary) collected through a literature search, observations, and a survey. A sample of 47 individuals was selected, made up of 40 taxi-tricycle drivers and seven association leaders. The results show that the diffusion of taxi-tricycles is supported by the logic of marginality and informality. The sector contributes somewhat to solving the problems of mobility and unemployment as well as the increase in municipal revenues. Given the difficulties raised by this study, it is imperative that the sector be regulated by the State.