Sunday, February 16, 2025

From Secretary to Community Advocate:

The Journey of Nigst at a Chinese Company

In the heart of Ethiopia’s bustling construction and development sector, one woman’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience, growth, and community impact. Nigst, the CEO’s secretary at CGCOC, reflects on her 18-year journey with the company, which has played a pivotal role in various infrastructure projects across the country. Her story not only highlights her personal growth but also sheds light on the significant contributions Chinese companies have made to local communities.

Early Beginnings

Nigst joined CGCOC at a young age, driven by ambition and a desire to make a difference. “I saw an advertisement for the position and applied,” she recalls. After successfully passing the exam, she embarked on her career journey as a secretary. However, her initial role quickly evolved into something far more challenging. Assigned as a “Right of Agent,” she was tasked with negotiating compensation agreements with local workers involved in road construction projects.

Despite these difficulties, Nigst demonstrated remarkable perseverance. When she expressed her desire to return to her original position as a secretary, her boss arranged for her to transition back to the office located 71 kilometers from Dessie.

A Supportive Work Environment

Reflecting on her early days at CGCOC, Nigst describes a supportive work culture that allowed her to thrive despite her lack of experience. “I was given a lot of responsibility,” she notes. “I learned so much from my colleagues.” Being the only Habesha in the office at that time presented its own set of challenges, but it also provided her with unique opportunities for growth and learning.

As she settled into her role, Nigst witnessed firsthand how CGCOC engaged with local communities. “During my time as a Right of Agent, I saw them implementing alternative routes and providing learning materials to students,” she recalls. The company frequently collaborated with city administrations to support educational initiatives and infrastructure improvements.

Community Impact and Development Projects

One of the most significant projects that Nigst participated in was the construction of a school in Dengola, Mekelle, in partnership with Tigray Development. “We covered the entire cost of building that school,” she proudly states.  Nigst also participated in a training program for poor women funded by CGCOC and the China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation. There are many similar activities to improve people’s livelihood .These initiatives exemplified CGCOC’s commitment to giving back to the communities where they operate.

In addition to educational projects, CGCOC has been involved in various infrastructure developments aimed at improving local living conditions. Currently, the company is focusing on water supply projects, construction initiatives, and significant developments like the Bole Industrial Park and ICT parks.

CGCOC Water Co., Ltd., established in May 2010 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of CGCOC Group Co., Ltd., has made substantial strides in addressing water supply issues in Ethiopia. The company is renowned for its commitment to providing integrated solutions within the water industry, including project implementation and management.

A Vision for Sustainable Development

Nigst emphasizes that CGCOC’s approach aligns with sustainable development goals. “The company aims to create a professional platform for the water industry while adhering to its development philosophy of ‘cooperation for fortune and innovation for development,'” she explains.

With over two hundred employees—many of whom are skilled local engineers—CGCOC is well-equipped to tackle complex projects across Africa. The company’s focus on integrating domestic resources with international standards has allowed it to pioneer Chinese technology and capital output while serving local markets effectively.

A Journey of Growth

Nigst’s journey from a young secretary to a key player within CGCOC illustrates not only her personal growth but also the company’s dedication to community development and sustainable practices. As she reflects on her experiences over nearly two decades, Nigst remains optimistic about the future.

“I believe that through our work, we can continue making a positive impact on people’s lives,” she states confidently. With ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and supporting local communities, cooperative projects are poised to play an even more significant role in Ethiopia’s development landscape.

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