China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), one of the most prominent foreign contractors operating in Ethiopia, has been involved in some of the country\u2019s largest infrastructure projects over the past three decades. From expressways and industrial parks to major urban road networks, the company has established itself as a leading player in both international and domestic construction sectors.<\/p>\n
In an interview with The Reporter<\/em>\u2019s Sara Solomon, Tian Zhenke, general manager at CCCC First Highway Engineering in Ethiopia, discusses the company\u2019s achievements, investment footprint, and long-term plans. He also reflects on efforts toward localization, knowledge transfer through a newly established research and development center, and the importance of cooperation with local firms amid ongoing industry challenges. EXCERPTS:<\/strong><\/p>\n The Reporter<\/em><\/strong>: CCCC is one of the dominant foreign construction firms in Ethiopia. What is your current market share and what are your major achievements?<\/strong><\/p>\n Tian Zhenke<\/strong>: CCCC has been active here for over 30 years, beginning with the Ring Road project. To date, we have completed more than 120 projects and currently have over 36 ongoing. We have delivered signature infrastructure such as the Addis Ababa\u2013Adama Expressway, Bole Airport expansion projects, the Woldiya\u2013Mekelle railway, and several industrial parks including Mekelle, Semera, Jimma, and Debre Birhan. Additionally, we have completed 70 percent of the municipal roads in Addis Ababa. Given our extensive portfolio, we play a decisive, dominant role in the sector; we are effectively the number one contractor in both the international and domestic markets in Ethiopia. Our contribution to Ethiopia is significant: we currently employ 10,000 people and have employed over 100,000 throughout our history here. These achievements demonstrate that under the Belt and Road Initiative, we are fulfilling our role effectively. Beyond infrastructure, we contribute to Ethiopian society by enhancing people-to-people cooperation, communication, and diplomatic ties between China and Ethiopia.<\/p>\n How many of those 10,000 employees are Ethiopians<\/strong>, as opposed to expatriates?<\/strong><\/p>\n Of our current 10,000 employees, more than 9,300 are local, meaning our local content stands at a very high 93 percent. We aren’t just hiring laborers; many local employees hold high-level management positions. Our key personnel are Ethiopian. From management down to the labor level, that 93 percent local representation is something we are very proud of. We are blending with your society to the point that CCCC is practically a local contractor already. We aim to become even more localized; for example, my assistant is Ethiopian and is a key member of our team. We are putting localization into practice every day.<\/p>\n Regarding your achievements, have you registered any patents or do you have plans to do so?<\/strong><\/p>\n We have already registered many intellectual properties. As a large company, this is essential. We must ensure that these high-level technologies are recognized as property that is properly registered and reserved. We handle this as a company in strict accordance with the norms, rules, and regulations of Ethiopia.<\/p>\n How do you secure projects in Ethiopia? Is it through competitive bidding or direct awards?<\/strong><\/p>\n We are awarded contracts through international competitive tendering processes. We perform our duties and secure our work according to the established rules, norms, and regulations.<\/p>\n The Adey Ababa Stadium project is nearing completion. What are its key features and what contributed to the delays?<\/strong><\/p>\n This will be a landmark project for both Ethiopia and the East African region. The stadium can accommodate 65,000 people, making it the largest in the country and the region. The project consists of three phases; we are currently in the second phase. Phase One was completed on time, and we are proceeding with phase two according to the schedule. For phase three, we are currently mobilizing resources with great care. We will complete this project and make the country proud. It will be a landmark that the people will feel a great sense of pride in whenever it is mentioned.<\/p>\n Can you provide an estimated completion date for the stadium?<\/strong><\/p>\n If I am not mistaken, it should be completed sometime next year. That is a detail I would need to confirm specifically.<\/p>\n CCCC inaugurated a research and development center in Addis Ababa in January 2026. How vital is R&D to your operations?<\/strong><\/p>\n It is critically important. It is a priority for companies like ours because it facilitates technical and knowledge transfer. This center is the practical application of that goal, as it is a technical hub where we will cultivate and train more people. We intend to train individuals in technical issues and modern construction methods. Many will benefit\u2014specifically local employees\u2014as they gain technical talent and capabilities through knowledge transfer. We are fulfilling our promise to the local community here. It is a strong start that we need to enhance to further deepen this type of development.<\/p>\n How much does your company invest annually in this R&D center?<\/strong><\/p>\n The investment is substantial. When it comes to social contributions, we don’t focus on the cost. We don’t worry about the specific input or assets. We view this as a necessary investment in the cooperation between our two countries and the betterment of Ethiopian society. Helping people develop their skills is precious and, in my opinion, priceless.<\/p>\n Since CCCC began operations in Ethiopia, what is the total investment to date?<\/strong><\/p>\n It is approximately ten billion dollars, by my estimation.<\/p>\n Generally speaking, are your projects financed by the Chinese government or through other mechanisms?<\/strong><\/p>\n As a company, CCCC has its own social responsibilities, so we invest our own resources. We intend to stay here for another 100 years and want to continue working with your country, so we invest ourselves. We believe this is necessary and beneficial for Ethiopia and our employees. We embrace these social responsibilities as a company.<\/p>\n Regarding industry challenges like foreign exchange shortages and workforce constraints\u2014how have these affected the industry and your specific operations?<\/strong><\/p>\n These are indeed common challenges facing the entire construction industry, not just CCCC. However, where there are challenges, there are also opportunities. As a giant international firm, we view these as opportunities to develop and stabilize the industry. We aim to create standards and benchmarks to help the sector become more sustainable. Ultimately, we are moving in a good direction under this country\u2019s leadership. The government and the people are working efficiently, actively, and energetically. This energy is where we see the most opportunity for the industry.<\/p>\n Local companies often worry about being overshadowed by foreign firms. How do you view the competition between local and international players?<\/strong><\/p>\n In my view, international and domestic contractors should learn from one another. We should foster more cooperation to achieve mutual understanding and a “win-win” outcome. Local contractors have their own unique advantages, while international contractors bring technical advancements. By joining forces, we can overcome difficulties together. We are currently increasing our cooperation with local firms through joint ventures and consortia for bidding and tendering, such as with Stadia Consultants. Competition should not be the mainstream focus; cooperation should be. We must look at the big picture of boosting one another.<\/p>\n Regarding the R&D center and knowledge transfer, what recommendations do you have for local construction companies?<\/strong><\/p>\n We should engage in mutual learning; local firms should recognize that technical talent is the priority. Through our CCCC workshops, we are boosting skill transfers. We need more platforms to facilitate this. CCCC is working hard to increase local content\u2014not just by employing local people, but by procuring locally and partnering with local contractors. If we continue to learn from each other, it will boost the entire industry and help local contractors grow. A win-win situation is created when we prioritize local employment and mutual benefit.<\/p>\n How does the construction industry in Ethiopia compare to other countries where CCCC operates?<\/strong><\/p>\n I have worked in more than 14 African countries over an 18-year career, so I feel qualified to answer. Ethiopia is a wonderful country with smart, friendly people. The industry and the workforce here are developing very well compared to other nations on the continent. I learn a lot from your people; I often tell my employees that I am still learning here. I am very happy to be here and hope to work another 30 years and eventually retire in Ethiopia.<\/p>\n How has the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) contributed to infrastructure growth in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa?<\/strong><\/p>\n CCCC operates within the framework of the BRI, engaging in pragmatic cooperation. We are the primary implementers of these initiatives on the ground. The BRI benefits these countries and their people through the goal of “constructing and sharing together.” CCCC plays a decisive role in executing that vision of shared development.<\/p>\n In light of BRICS initiatives, what is the future plan for CCCC in Ethiopia and the broader region?<\/strong><\/p>\n As mentioned, our plan is to stay for 100 years, which requires even deeper localization. We want to move toward projects involving advanced technologies, digital implementation, green development, and integrated systems. We are seeking more projects that emphasize intelligent and digital development. This will transform the country\u2019s image and ensure mutual benefits for everyone involved.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), one of the most prominent foreign contractors operating in Ethiopia, has been involved in some of the country\u2019s largest infrastructure projects over the past three decades. 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