Africa's role in sustainable infrastructure

Africa's quest for infrastructure development continues to open up prospects for the construction industry, particularly in rail, highway, water projects, as discussed by Sudhir Gupta, the Regional Head for West Africa at Shapoorji Pallonji, during an interview with CNBC Africa's Kenneth Igbomor at the Africa Investment Forum in Abidjan. Shapoorji Pallonji, a prominent Indian conglomerate with a rich history in infrastructure and construction, has been actively involved in the African market for over 18 years. Gupta highlighted some of their significant projects in the region, including the construction of the presidential palace in Ghana, the National Assembly in Gambia, and the Mahatma Gandhi Conference Center in Niger. He also mentioned collaborations with groups like Eirai's for projects such as the mineral terminal in San Pedro, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainable infrastructure development in Africa. When discussing the opportunities for infrastructure investments in Africa, Gupta emphasized the vast potential in West Africa. He pointed out the abundance of road bridges, urban development projects like metros in Senegal, and the advancing agricultural infrastructure, highlighting the need for investments to address the financing challenges amidst the global economic landscape. While acknowledging the presence of other international players in the African construction industry, Gupta underscored the unique role of Indian companies like Shapoorji Pallonji in contributing to the region's development. With a presence in over 30 countries across Africa, from Mauritania to South Africa, Shapoorji Pallonji has established a strong foothold and fostered relationships with various governments and local communities. Gupta expressed the company's seamless integration into the African culture and its commitment to adhering to local laws and traditions. He emphasized their focus on diverse infrastructure projects, from railway and highway developments to marine and water projects, showcasing a holistic approach to sustainable infrastructure development. Gupta elaborated on some of the key projects Shapoorji Pallonji is currently undertaking, such as the $450 million railway line project from Tema to Mapa Dan in Ghana, with plans for a second phase in discussion with the government. They are also involved in rail connectivity initiatives in Ivory Coast and water projects funded by the Indian government. Looking ahead, Gupta expressed optimism about forging new partnerships and expanding their infrastructure portfolio in the region. During the Africa Investment Forum in Abidjan, Shapoorji Pallonji engaged in discussions with various stakeholders, including the African Development Bank and Afri-Exim Bank, to explore potential deals and collaborations. Gupta reiterated the company's commitment to pursuing fruitful projects that align with their vision for sustainable infrastructure development in Africa. As Shapoorji Pallonji continues to drive progress in the construction industry, their strategic focus on infrastructure projects underscores their dedication to advancing sustainable development across the continent.