In the view of Vertu Ikombo Otoka, life in the Republic of the Congo has transformed greatly since the completion of the No.1 National Highway. Born in Brazzaville, the country’s capital, he has witnessed firsthand the significant impact of this highway on the nation’s economic development, particularly in the rural regions it connects.  

“When I was young, it was hard to imagine there would be a road linking Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, the country’s financial centre, due to the complex geographical conditions,” the 30-year-old engineer told ChinAfrica in fluent Chinese.  

Otoka’s connection with China began in 2014 when he went to study civil engineering at Chang’an University. There, he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees while also mastering the Chinese language. 

The highway holds personal significance to Otoka. Upon graduation, he became a proud employee of China State Construction Engineering Corp. (CSCEC), working on the maintenance of the road that has changed countless lives in his country.

Symbol of progress  

A key outcome of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, the No.1 National Highway, built by CSCEC, has become the main transportation artery and an economic lifeline for the Congo. Prior to its completion, travel between Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, two cities separated by hundreds of kilometres, was incredibly difficult. The journey could only be made via poorly maintained dirt roads or the Congo-Ocean Railway, which took 14 to 16 hours. This severely restricted the movement of people and goods, stifling economic growth. For many, a road connecting these two cities had long been a dream. This crucial transport artery has significantly reduced the travel time to just six hours for a one-way trip. 

The highway has now become a symbol of progress, transforming the country’s connectivity. Its exceptional quality and infrastructure have earned it the nickname “Dream Road.” 

The dream of the highway turned into reality in 2016 after eight years of construction that was full of hardships and difficulties. The project faced the challenges of complex geographical conditions and tough natural conditions, since the road passes through the dense Mayombe rainforest, the Niari River valley and the Batéké Plateaux, each presenting unique obstacles. 

The Mayombe forest, a vast and formidable tropical rainforest, posed the most difficult natural barrier. The construction team had to contend with dangerous wildlife, resource shortages, and logistical difficulties. For over three years, they worked tirelessly to complete the section of the highway that cuts through this dense forest. Their perseverance and determination earned them the admiration of locals, who affectionately referred to them as the “mountain splitters.” 

During the construction of the highway, the project team collaborated with Tsinghua University on eight research projects, through which they summarised the experiences and lessons learned in the process, forming a set of construction techniques and management methods suitable for the complex geologic and geographic conditions in Africa. In the process of overcoming specific challenges, a system of standards was established based on Chinese operational norms, with some reference to French standards. This initiative also facilitated the export and application of a significant amount of Chinese equipment, materials, and technical specifications.

Road of prosperity 

Following the highway’s completion, over 90 percent of the country’s key goods, minerals, and forest resources began to be transported along this route to the port of Pointe-Noire. The significant reduction in transportation time and costs also sparked the growth of small markets along the highway, creating new economic opportunities for local populations and raising incomes. 

Additionally, the project created over 10,000 local jobs, and trained more than 4,000 local technicians, addressing a critical shortage of skilled workers in the region. In March 2019, CSCEC, in partnership with France’s Egis and the Congolese government, launched La Congolaise des Routes to manage and operate the highway. This collaboration has significantly improved road maintenance, transportation efficiency, and local economic development. Today, over 700 local employees work in various management and construction posts along the highway, ensuring its operation. 

Otoka is one of those who benefitted from this opportunity. “It’s an honour to work with CSCEC and contribute to the maintenance of the No.1 National Highway,” Otoka said. “I joined the company right after graduation, without much experience. I was nervous at first. But I quickly discovered that the company offers valuable opportunities for me to apply my knowledge and skills. Also, my Chinese colleagues have been very friendly, helpful and supportive.”  

Otoka also highlighted the work environment. “I enjoy being part of a team that values solidarity and resource sharing. I hope that through my own effort and the support from the company, I can join the management team in the future,” he said. This supportive atmosphere has helped many local workers grow, contributing to the long-term success and sustainability of the project.  

Enduring friendship 

Throughout the construction of highway, the project team attached great importance to understanding local culture and customs, and actively participated in charitable activities that improved the region’s economy, education, and infrastructure. As an example, the team built schools and roads according to the needs of local communities. 

As a Chinese company operating locally, CSCEC regularly organises cultural events for both Chinese and local employees to foster mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s traditions, strengthening the bonds of friendship. “I find these events very enriching,” Otoka said. “During this year’s Chinese New Year celebration, I performed a Chinese drum piece at the Chinese embassy in the Congo. I’m happy to have delivered a successful performance for both Chinese and Congolese audiences.” 

The highway has become a powerful symbol of cooperation between China and the Congo. Continuously facilitating transport and development, this road helps to realise countless aspirations, embodying the enduring friendship between China and Africa.

African Times has published this article in partnership with ChinAfrica Magazine.