African Railway Development and Intermodal Solutions: Mota-Engil Nigeria’s Vladislav Bystrenko on Infrastructure Investment and Community Transformation
During the panel discussion, African Railway Development and Intermodal Solutions – Outlook for African Railways with Modal Shift from Roads to Rail, at the AfDB Transport Forum 2024, Mr. Vladislav Bystrenko, CFO of Mota-Engil Nigeria, spoke about the company’s long-standing role in African infrastructure projects and the transformative impact of railway development on local communities.
Mota-Engil has been working in Africa for 78 years, contributing to numerous infrastructure projects, including railways, roads, ports, and airports. Mr. Bystrenko highlighted the company’s philosophy of “development through investment.” As a contractor focused on large-scale infrastructure projects, Mota-Engil views these developments as key drivers of growth for the continent.
Case Study: The Kano to Maradi Railway Project
Mr. Bystrenko provided a recent example of Mota-Engil’s work in Nigeria. The company is currently building the Kano to Maradi railway, a 400-kilometre rail line in northern Nigeria. Since the project began two years ago, over 2,500 people, mostly Nigerians, have been employed directly, with the total impact on local employment reaching around 3,500 to 4,000 jobs.
He noted the significant changes brought to the small city of Kazaure, where their first site camp is located. The arrival of the project transformed the city, boosting its growth and economic activity. The construction of the railway has led to the emergence of new businesses and the development of housing, schools and other infrastructure, illustrating the far-reaching economic impact that such large-scale projects can have on local communities.
Mr. Bystrenko also mentioned another example: the Lobito Corridor project, which is expected to generate 1,600 jobs and further boost the economy in its region. This external economic effect includes not just direct employment but also the growth of local industries that supply materials and services to the project, thereby fostering a more dynamic and thriving community.
Beyond the direct economic impact, Mr. Bystrenko pointed out the broader ripple effects on local economies. Infrastructure projects create demand for housing, education, and small businesses, which begin to flourish as they support the needs of the construction activities. “Houses are being built, kids are going to school, and the population is generally growing and thriving,” he observed.
Mr. Bystrenko underscored the importance of infrastructure projects, particularly railways, in transforming African communities, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth.
