Anthony Ovunda, United Nations Ambassador on promoting infrastructural development has said that local firms are key to solving Africa’s infrastructure problems.
Anthony said this in a statement he personally signed, which highlighted the potential of African companies to lead infrastructure development across the continent.
“We’re not waiting for global giants to come ‘rescue’ us. We are rising from within with talent, tools, and tested commitment,” Anthony said.
He noted that local firms are not merely taking part, but actively leading in shaping Africa’s future. The Ambassador also stressed the importance of building sustainable, people-focused projects that offer long-term value.
“Infrastructure is not just about structures. It’s about people,” Anthony stated.
Anthony, cited example of OVI Construction Company Limited, working on more than 40 infrastructure projects across eight states in Nigeria and other parts of Africa, including include solar-powered water systems in rural schools and clean energy installations in underserved areas.
He argued that the success of any project should be judged by how well it meets genuine needs and how long it lasts, rather than how much it costs.
“A paved road that floods in the rainy season is not success. A borehole without proper filtration is not access. A solar grid without maintenance is not sustainability,” the statement read.
Anthony said infrastructure must be built with care and intention to truly improve lives. He further laid out guiding principles for effective infrastructure, including partnerships across different sectors, honesty in execution, and innovation that suits local needs.
“Engineering must be sustainable, construction must be people-centred, and every project must answer a real need,” Anthony emphasised.
