Julius Berger Makes Significant Strides On Cotonou Road Bridges Project, Promotes Ethnic Diversity In Workforce

Cotonou, Benin – Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a leading construction company renowned for its engineering expertise, has commenced the first phase of its contracted construction works on the critical Acces et traversed Cotonou (ATC 2) highway in Cotonou, Benin.

Following the completion of preliminary works, the company has launched into the rehabilitation and reconstruction of access roads in the city.

On-site observations reveal substantial progress on Roads 7, 9, and 10, with a particular emphasis on Road 10, the crucial presidential route connecting to the airport.

Julius Berger’s meticulous approach allows for uninterrupted traffic flow despite the busy highway.

Site Manager Vodounou Blaise highlighted the complexities of the project: “Before any major construction work, we must identify and relocate buried network cables.

This requires extensive expertise and patience.  While seasonal weather changes pose challenges, the work continues steadily.”

Blaise detailed the ongoing work: “We are currently installing drainage systems and laying slabs on Road 9, including replacing interlocking stones on the road pavement in preparation for asphalt laying.

Our government engineer serves as a liaison with the community, ensuring a smooth and harmonious working environment.”

At the Julius Berger workshop in Cotonou, workers are actively engaged in various installations.  The office facilities are complete, and the Asphalt plant, located in Calavi, is nearing completion.

Workshop Supervisor, MMrNoal Lacey, confirmed the rapid progress: “We have finished the concrete wall and the Hot Storage section. The mixer will be operational today.

“We are moving on to the screens, filter, box, dryer, loading bins and elevator.  This 200-ton per hour Asphalt Plant will be fully operational very soon.”

Julius Berger’s commitment to equal opportunity employment is evident in its Benin operations.  Project Head Christoph Fierrens emphasized the company’s efforts to promote diversity: “We are actively encouraging participation from individuals from Benin North, recognizing the importance of ethnic diversity.

“We treat our women with the highest respect and foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration.”

Fierrens underscored the multinational workforce: “We have workers from Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, and Benin. This diverse workforce is crucial for meeting the project deadlines.”

Fierrens provided a comprehensive overview of Julius Berger’s projects in Cotonou: “Roads 9 and 10, along with major aspects of the Asphalt plant, will be completed this year.

We are demolishing pavements, retaining walls, reinforced and unreinforced concrete structures, and surveying networks in central earthwork areas and along the retaining walls.”

This extensive project represents a significant investment in Cotonou’s infrastructure, facilitating improved transportation networks, economic growth, and community development.

Julius Berger’s commitment to high-quality construction, along with its dedication to promoting equal opportunity and ethnic diversity, is a testament to its enduring commitment to sustainable development in the region.