Chinese companies in Ethiopia: A local perspective

As a close friend and admirer of the Chinese path to development, I often reflect on its remarkable success. I once met Zeyede Tesfaye, a person who had the opportunity to study in China on a scholarship, and I was eager to hear about his experiences. His stories were captivating and enlightening. In today's world, while many look to the East or West for inspiration, I find myself drawn to the Eastern approach to development.

The remarkable journey of Zeyede, from a scholarship recipient in China to a key employee in a Chinese company in Ethiopia, serves as a powerful testament to the positive impact of Chinese companies on Ethiopian development. His story is one of transformation, inspiration, and valuable insights that can guide Ethiopia on its path to progress.

Zeyede first encountered Chinese culture a decade ago when he received a Chinese government scholarship to study at Nankai University in Tianjin. Over the course of five years, he immersed himself in the Chinese way of life, gaining a deep understanding of the language, culture, cuisine, and social norms. This profound cultural immersion equipped Zeyede with unique insights that proved invaluable when he returned to Ethiopia and began working with the China First Highway Engineering Company CFHEC.

In his role at CFHEC, initially focused on language translation and human resources administration, observing and participating in the Chinese work culture firsthand. He noted that one of the most striking aspects of working with Chinese companies is their punctuality and dedication to project completion. This commitment to timeliness, coupled with a culture of hard work and advanced technological applications in the workplace, left a lasting impression on him.

Zeyede's experiences highlight several key elements of Chinese work culture that could serve as valuable lessons for Ethiopia: Chinese companies are renowned for their efficiency in managing and completing projects on time. This stems from meticulous planning and a strong sense of responsibility toward deadlines. Ethiopians can benefit from adopting a similar approach to project management, ensuring that timelines are adhered to and projects are delivered efficiently.

The dedication to hard work is a hallmark of Chinese culture. Zeyede emphasizes that the relentless work ethic of the Chinese, even in the face of challenges, is something Ethiopians can emulate. The focus on hard work can drive significant progress and development.

The use of technology in the workplace is another area where Chinese companies excel. By integrating advanced technological solutions, they enhance productivity and efficiency. Ethiopian companies can learn from this approach and invest in technology to streamline their operations and improve outcomes.

Chinese companies have been instrumental in creating jobs in Ethiopia, providing sustainable income for many families. This not only boosts the economy but also aids in skill development. Zeyede himself has benefited from permanent employment, enabling him to support his family sustainably. He underscores that China's rapid development over the past 50 years is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and strategic planning. Unlike Western nations that have had centuries to build their economies, China's success story is relatively recent and full of valuable lessons:

The path to success is rarely smooth. China's development journey has been marked by numerous challenges, yet their persistence has paid off. Ethiopians can draw inspiration from this and remain steadfast in the face of obstacles, understanding that progress requires resilience.

Zeyede addresses a common misconception about Chinese products. While some may complain about the quality, it's essential to recognize that China has the capability to produce world-class products for those willing to invest. For others, they offer accessible and affordable alternatives, ensuring products are available for a wide range of consumers.

Chinese government's generosity in providing scholarships to young, energetic individuals such as Zeyede demonstrates their commitment to fostering global talent. This is a valuable lesson for Ethiopia, highlighting the importance of investing in education and training for the younger generation to drive future development. His experience with Chinese companies underscores the potential benefits of adopting certain aspects of the Chinese working culture in Ethiopia. Hard work, effective time management, and resource utilization are key takeaways that can help build a robust work culture in Ethiopia.

Moreover, fostering strong bilateral relations and learning from China's development model can accelerate Ethiopia's growth. As Ethiopia continues its development journey, incorporating these lessons can ensure that the path to success is not only achievable but also sustainable.

Zeyede's journey from a scholarship recipient in China to a key employee in a Chinese company in Ethiopia highlights the profound impact of cross-cultural exchanges and the valuable lessons that can be learned. By embracing the principles of hard work, technological integration, and efficient project management, Ethiopia can look forward to a promising future of development and prosperity.