As one of the first Chinese private companies to set foot in Africa, China Hyway started its journey across the continent in Angola in 2004. At the time, the country was in desperate need of reconstruction after a 27-year civil war. Hyway, with its expertise in a range of areas including infrastructure construction, mining, logistics and agriculture, arrived at the right time. 

In active response to the Belt and Road Initiative launched in 2013, the company has accelerated its expansion drive in Angola and beyond. So far, it has won over $2 billion worth of contracts for railways, roads, bridges, residences and schools, among others. It also operates a logistics network that combines railway and highway transportation and an integrated agricultural demonstration area. These programmes have injected vitality into Angola’s economic development. 

Beyond Angola, it entered the Guinea market in August 2008, and was licensed to explore iron ore in an area of 2,948 square km. In Ethiopia, it has undertaken four road projects funded by the World Bank since July 2009, and has obtained the first-class general qualification for construction. 

Pioneering local development  

One of Hyway’s crowning achievements is the Mocamedes Railway, a monumental 1,003.1-km project linking the Atlantic port of Namibe to Menongue. As one of Angola’s principal railways, this line traverses diverse terrain from arid deserts to lush rainforests, demonstrating Hyway’s capability to handle complex engineering challenges. This railway, the largest overseas project undertaken by a Chinese private company, not only enhances regional connectivity but also stimulates economic activities along its route. 

Complementing this is the Luanda Railway Branch, featuring a 15-km light rail line and five integrated hub stations. This project is pivotal in linking the Bungo Station to the new international airport in Luanda, significantly improving urban transport and accessibility. The multi-functional stations offer commercial spaces, parking facilities, and public transport connections, bringing great convenience to the people of the capital city. 

Another major milestone of Hyway in infrastructure construction is the Ongiva Water Supply Project, which involves three pumping stations, three water treatment plants, and 104 km of pipeline. As one of Angola’s major water supply projects, it significantly enhances local water access and promotes public health. 

In agriculture, the company’s 10,000-hectare agricultural park, established in 2016, embodies a comprehensive approach to modern agriculture. With a focus on large-scale agricultural production, seed development, fertiliser production, dissemination of agricultural techniques and processing of agricultural products, this park is set to provide a strong boost to Angola’s agricultural sector. The project has garnered support from the Angolan Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, as well as the Agrarian Development Support Fund, highlighting its significance in advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. 

Hyway attributes its success in Africa to its readiness to collaborate with various parties and dedication to project responsibility. By forging mutually beneficial partnerships with Chinese and African enterprises, governments, and social organisations across various sectors, including trade, logistics, agriculture, and minerals, Hyway has enhanced its market presence. Active participation in industry forums, expos and chambers of commerce, such as the China-Africa Chamber of Commerce, the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, and the Angola-China Business Forum, has facilitated valuable exchanges and cooperation opportunities. 

A typical example of Hyway’s sense of responsibility to its projects is the Mocamedes Railway Project in Angola, where the company’s proactive approach addressed challenges such as insufficient local maintenance and management. Though the project was completed and handed over a decade ago, Hyway’s leadership conducted multiple on-site inspections upon news of derailments, provided expert guidance, and ensured regular maintenance, reflecting Hyway’s dedication to responsible project execution and local development.  

Giving back to communities  

Fulfilling social responsibilities has always been on the top of Highway’s agenda, with education being a key focus. So far, the company has funded the construction of four schools across various provinces, including Namibe and Huíla. 

In 2014, with the support of the Chinese embassy in Angola, Hyway joined hands with Angola’s transportation and education authorities to launch a talent training programme, which allowed 32 outstanding Angolan youth fully funded by Hyway to study in China. It was the first time a Chinese private company cooperated with Chinese universities to provide education to African students, contributing to China-Africa economic and trade cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.  

The company also spares no effort to share its know-how in infrastructure construction, agriculture and product processing with its Angolan employees and partners. To improve the management and technical capacities of local personnel, the company worked with Chongqing City Vocational College and funded 14 engineering officials from multiple government departments in Angola to study in China. 

To boost local employment, Hyway places a strong emphasis on localisation by employing a workforce composed of over 80 percent local residents. With its diversified business operations, Hyway offers a wide range of job opportunities to the local community. Over the years, the company has created more than 4,000 jobs locally. 

To supply quality rice to the locals, the company has launched its own rice brand Emerald, which has been highly recognised by the market. The product is so popular that it is often in short supply. The company can also be counted on in times of emergency. When floods struck the Jamba and Tchamutete areas, it volunteered to repair the steel bridges damaged by flood. These efforts underscore Hyway’s commitment to responding to community needs. 

Hyway’s contributions to social welfare is largely attributable to its belief that it is not merely an entity in China-Africa economic and trade cooperation, but also an ambassador to promote mutual understanding and forge friendship with Africa. When the students it sponsors return to serve their country, they also bring back the Chinese culture, which makes them a bridge between different cultures. The local employees they hire in their bid to localise operations study and work together with their Chinese colleagues, which creates premium conditions for deepening exchanges and friendship. It is an enduring commitment of Hyway that wherever a project is built, a monument of friendship should also be erected.