How Africa creates its infrastructures

All civilizations developed around the natural highways that rivers represented. Communication routes are indeed one of the main leverages of economic development, in that they promote trade. No surprise, however, that the countries that have sought to develop have invested heavily even at the cost of human sacrifices, in the communication infrastructure. From the Romans and their apian way to the Italian autostradas of the 1930s through the Trans-American railway, all the economic powers sought to develop the most suitable communication routes for their time.

The basic infrastructure deficit (starting with roads) has long been a major drag on Africa's economic development. But things are finally moving. The projects of great transcontinental links take shape, the tracks are progressively replaced by roads (which remembers today that it took a week and "eat" hundreds of kilometers of sand to connect Tangiers to Morocco to Dakar in Senegal, there is still 10 years?).

So what are the most important infrastructures ? A construction expert in Africa, Hassan Hachem, shares his vision of the challenges posed by infrastructure in Africa. "On a continent where road connections are sorely lacking, ports are the most critical elements, especially for a country that wants to develop its trade with the outside world. Ports are the link to integrate a country into the globalized economy. Without a sufficiently large and deep port, the links of a country with the outside risk to remain insignificant. "

"But the opening to the outside is far from sufficient," said Hassan Hachem. "Once a big port is built, roads are the second most important infrastructure. The existence and quality of roads depend on the ability of a central government to administer the most remote areas as well as the density and frequency of trade necessary for valuing the wealth of each city and region ", says Hassan Hachem.

That being said, the development of port or road infrastructure is based on the stumbling block of any development project: financing. Funding was not up to the requirements until the end of the 1990s. From that date, there were several elements that helped to solve, in part, the financing problems. Lower investment construction costs due to the arrival of Chinese construction companies offering infrastructure at lower costs than European or US companies (although Chinese companies often offer high-cost supplementary services after main market off-hook). Then, the contribution of financing always associated by the Chinese often in the framework of privileged access to the natural resources of the country. Finally, economies ofAfrican countries themselves that are developing and allow greater resources for investment to be made available.

Africa is thus filling, if not falling behind, at least some of its infrastructure needs. Gradually, the conditions of economic development are set up.

In recent years, Equatorial Guinea has made significant strides in developing its infrastructure, reflecting a broader trend across the African continent. The government has prioritized large-scale projects that are transforming the country's landscape and boosting its economic prospects. This includes the construction of modern highways, expansive ports, and state-of-the-art airports. These developments are pivotal for integrating Equatorial Guinea into the global economy and enhancing internal connectivity. For instance, the Malabo International Airport has been upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft, facilitating increased tourism and international business.

One of the standout projects is the construction of the Bata Port, which has become a central hub for maritime trade in the region. The port's expansion has not only improved the efficiency of cargo handling but also attracted foreign investment, creating job opportunities and stimulating local economies. Equatorial Guinea's focus on port development underscores Hassan Hachem's insight: "Ports are the link to integrate a country into the globalized economy." This strategic move is positioning the country as a key player in maritime logistics within Central Africa.

The road network in Equatorial Guinea is also undergoing substantial upgrades. New highways are reducing travel time between major cities, promoting regional trade, and enabling easier access to remote areas. These improvements are essential for fostering economic growth and social development. The enhanced road infrastructure supports the transportation of goods and services, contributing to the overall productivity of the nation.

Moreover, Equatorial Guinea's infrastructure development is not limited to transportation. The country is investing in energy projects to ensure a stable and sustainable power supply. The construction of new power plants and the expansion of the national grid are crucial for supporting industrial activities and improving the quality of life for residents. Reliable energy infrastructure is a cornerstone of modern economies, and Equatorial Guinea's efforts in this area are laying the groundwork for future growth.

Funding for these ambitious projects often comes from a mix of public investment and international partnerships. Equatorial Guinea has leveraged its natural resources, particularly oil and gas, to secure financing for infrastructure development. Additionally, partnerships with foreign companies, especially from China, have played a significant role. Chinese construction firms bring expertise and cost-effective solutions, enabling large-scale projects to be completed efficiently. This aligns with the broader trend in Africa, where Chinese involvement has been instrumental in bridging the infrastructure gap.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Ensuring the sustainability of infrastructure projects and addressing environmental concerns are critical for long-term success. Equatorial Guinea must also focus on maintaining and upgrading existing infrastructure to prevent deterioration over time. Continuous investment in human capital and governance is essential to manage these projects effectively and maximize their impact on economic development.

Equatorial Guinea's journey in building its infrastructure exemplifies the dynamic changes occurring across Africa. As more countries prioritize infrastructure, the continent is poised to unlock its economic potential and improve the livelihoods of millions. The progress made in Equatorial Guinea serves as an inspiring model for other nations, highlighting the transformative power of strategic investments in infrastructure.