Julius Berger Begins Construction Of Cotonou Road Bridges, Embraces Diversity In Workforce

Cotonou, Benin – Construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has commenced the first phase of its contracted works on the major highway, “Acces et traverse de Cotonou,” (ATC 2) in Cotonou, Benin.

The project, which involves the rehabilitation and reconstruction of access roads in the city, follows the completion of preliminary works.

Work has begun on Roads 7, 9, and 10, with a particular focus on Road 10, the key presidential route to and from the airport.

Despite the busy highway, Julius Berger has deployed its expertise to ensure minimal disruption to traffic flow.

Site Manager Vodounou Blaise highlighted the complexities of the project, emphasizing the need to identify and relocate buried network cables before construction can begin.

He also acknowledged the challenges posed by seasonal weather changes.

“We are now working on drainage, putting slabs on the adjoining Road 9, and changing interlocking stones on the road pavement in preparation for asphalt laying,” explained Blaise.

He emphasised the smooth collaboration with local communities, facilitated by a dedicated government liaison engineer.

Meanwhile, at Julius Berger’s workshop in Cotonou, workers are busy with diverse installations, while the Asphalt plant in Calavi is nearing completion.

Workshop Supervisor Mr. Noal Lacey revealed that the plant, with a capacity of 200 tonnes per hour, is expected to be operational soon.

Beyond the construction itself, Julius Berger is promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment in Benin.

Project head Christoph Fierrens highlighted the company’s commitment to equal opportunity and ethnic diversity, with workers hailing from Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, and Benin.

“We are encouraging people from Benin North, conscious of ethnic diversities and how we treat our women,” said Fierrens.

“We promote teamwork and collaboration, fostering a strong sense of unity among our diverse workforce.”

To meet project deadlines, Julius Berger is committed to completing Roads 9 and 10 and key aspects of the Asphalt plant within the year.

The company is also engaged in various other projects in Cotonou, including the demolition of pavements and retaining walls and surveying network infrastructure.

Julius Berger’s commitment to quality construction and a diverse workforce is setting a positive example in Benin, contributing to the development of the West African port city.