In the heart of Ethiopia’s bustling construction industry, Fikre Alebachew stands out as a key figure driving significant change and development. As the Deputy General Manager at IFH Engineering PLC, a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Fikre has dedicated over 25 years to transforming the landscape of infrastructure in Ethiopia. His journey reflects not only personal ambition but also a broader commitment to enhancing the nation’s economic and social fabric through strategic construction projects.
Early Career and Major Projects
Fikre’s professional journey began with a focus on engineering, where he quickly established himself as a leader in the field. Upon joining IFH Engineering, he played a pivotal role in completing the Addis Ababa Ring Road project, spanning phases one to three. This monumental project not only improved transportation within the city but also laid the groundwork for future developments.
Under his leadership, IFH Engineering has successfully completed over 50 projects in Addis Ababa alone, with a total value exceeding 15 billion birr.
Community Impact and Social Responsibility
Fikre emphasizes that the projects undertaken by IFH Engineering are not just about building infrastructure; they are about fostering community development. “The roads we construct connect different communities,” he explains. “In one project, we provided free road access to local residents, and in others, we have supplied water to schools and even donated ambulances to health centers.”
The company collaborates closely with city administrations, providing essential materials like sand and cement to help build houses for those in need. This commitment to social responsibility reflects Fikre’s belief that construction should serve a greater purpose beyond mere profit.
Long-standing Relationship with the Great Race
Fikre’s partnership with the Great Race, an initiative promoting road safety and community engagement through running events, spans two decades. “Our responsibility here is to sponsor these events,” he says. The races take place on roads constructed by IFH Engineering, reinforcing their commitment to creating safe transportation networks.
His connection with the Great Race dates back over 45 years to his childhood when he witnessed the construction of the Worota-Woldiya road. This early exposure to infrastructure projects ignited his passion for engineering and set him on his current path.
Working with Chinese Companies
Fikre’s experience working with CCCC has been transformative for both him and the Ethiopian construction sector. He describes working with Chinese companies as akin to being part of a large family. “The work environment is collaborative; you are encouraged to participate fully because of your motivation for the job,” he explains.
However, he acknowledges that challenges exist, particularly regarding environmental management and cultural misunderstandings between local and Chinese staff. Despite these hurdles, Fikre believes that collaboration has significantly improved capacity building within Ethiopia’s construction industry.
Capacity Building and Professional Development
Reflecting on his career, Fikre notes that the establishment of Chinese companies like CCCC has elevated local contractors’ capabilities. “We have learned a lot from working alongside these firms,” he says. “Many contractors have reached new heights today due to shared knowledge and experience.”
IFH Engineering has been instrumental in transferring professional knowledge to local workers, helping them develop skills necessary for successful project execution. Fikre asserts that this capacity-building approach is essential for sustaining growth in Ethiopia’s construction sector.
Celebrating Two Decades of Impact
As IFH Engineering celebrates its 20th anniversary in Ethiopia, Fikre highlights the company’s achievements in improving infrastructure across the country. The firm has been involved in several high-profile projects, including the Addis Ababa Ring Road and various road upgrades at Bole International Airport.
The company recently sponsored the 2022 IFH Relay Races to commemorate its two decades of service. These races not only foster team-building among participants but also raise awareness about road safety—a cause close to Fikre’s heart.
Challenges Facing the Construction Sector
Despite significant progress, challenges remain within Ethiopia’s construction industry. Rising costs of materials, regulatory hurdles, and competition from foreign contractors pose ongoing threats to local businesses. Fikre emphasizes that addressing these issues requires collaboration between government entities and private stakeholders.
“The government needs to create an environment conducive to local contractor growth,” he states. “We must work together to ensure that policies support rather than hinder our progress.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Fikre envisions a construction sector that not only meets immediate infrastructure needs but also contributes to long-term economic stability. He advocates for sustainable practices that prioritize environmental protection while enhancing community welfare.
“We need to focus on building not just roads but also relationships,” he asserts. “By fostering collaboration among all stakeholders—government agencies, private companies, and communities—we can create a brighter future for Ethiopia.”
Fikre Alebachew’s journey through Ethiopia’s construction landscape exemplifies dedication to both professional excellence and social responsibility. As Deputy General Manager at IFH Engineering PLC, he continues to drive positive change through strategic projects that benefit communities across Ethiopia.
His commitment to capacity building, collaboration with international partners, and community engagement positions him as a key player in shaping the future of Ethiopia’s infrastructure development. As challenges persist within the sector, Fikre remains optimistic about the potential for growth and innovation driven by collective efforts among all stakeholders involved in Ethiopia’s construction industry.
