Inside Central Africa’s First Modular Office Project

A significant development in African construction unfolded on 5 January, when China International Marine Containers (CIMC) dispatched the inaugural phase of its Office Building Project destined for Yaoundé's Bastos District in Cameroon.

The project could mark a watershed moment for Central Africa, introducing modular construction methodologies to a region where such techniques have never been deployed.

The first batch of prefabricated modules departed from CIMC Modular Building Systems' (MBS) primary manufacturing facility in Xinhui, Jiangmen.

The shipment undertook an extensive intermodal voyage spanning multiple continents.

From the South China Sea, the cargo will pass through the Strait of Malacca before entering the Indian Ocean. The route then curves southward along Africa's eastern seaboard, navigating around the Cape of Good Hope and proceeding northward to reach Central African ports. Following arrival, ground transportation will convey the units to their final destination in Cameroon's capital city.

The complete journey is projected to require approximately 60 days.

During the dispatch ceremony, Irwin Wang, Assistant General Manager of CIMC MBS and Deputy General Manager of both the CIMC Architectural Design Institute and CIMC Construction, stated: "The project represents a successful combination of CIMC's internal strengths.

"It demonstrates high-efficiency resource coordination across research and development, manufacturing, logistics and construction, poised to set a new benchmark in international markets."

Factory production ensures quality control

A distinguishing element of this initiative is that the modules reached more than 90% completion within the factory setting prior to port departure.

The transition from conventional "on-site" construction to "off-site" fabrication could deliver precision and quality assurance that traditional methodologies struggle to achieve.

The Xinhui facility's production workflow encompasses five essential phases. Structural steel fabrication forms the foundation, with each module built upon a robust steel framework designed to satisfy stringent international construction standards and support multi-storey structural loads, distinguishing these permanent buildings from temporary flat-pack alternatives.

Parallel fitting-out occurs simultaneously as groundwork progresses in Cameroon, with the Chinese factory installing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems within module walls. This stage achieves 100% completion of flooring, tiling and interior painting.

Bespoke amenities follow the principle of "International Quality, Local Care," incorporating facilities such as prayer rooms and nursing spaces into the factory design to honour Cameroonian cultural practices.

Smart system integration equips each unit with pre-installed intelligent building technology, including climate management and security monitoring systems. All components undergo in-factory testing to ensure immediate functionality upon installation.

The external facade represents a distinctive aspect of CIMC's approach, with curtain walls attached during manufacturing. This process could ensure the completed structure presents a contemporary, permanent appearance, eliminating the industrial aesthetic typically associated with container-based construction. 

Transforming Bastos District infrastructure

Situated within Yaoundé's distinguished Bastos District, the development encompasses approximately 3,000 m² and adheres to regional permanent construction regulations. The building comprises 78 modular components manufactured to rigorous global standards.

Anticipated for completion during the second half of 2026, the project features a construction schedule exceeding 50% faster than conventional building methods. Upon operation, the facility will accommodate nearly 200 personnel, offering contemporary office spaces, conference facilities and catering amenities.

The initiative arrives as Central Africa's economic corridor experiences significant growth. With finance, technology and commerce sectors concentrating in Cameroon, demand for premium office accommodation has intensified beyond what traditional construction can efficiently provide regarding delivery speed and environmental impact.

By executing 90% of construction within a controlled factory environment, CIMC could substantially diminish on-site waste generation, noise pollution and airborne particulates.

According to Victor Zhu, Head of CIMC Modular Building Systems, the project establishes groundwork for expanded operations throughout the Global South.

The development builds upon CIMC's African experience, following modular hotel installations in Djibouti during 2018 and 2021. As the continent faces annual urban population increases exceeding ten million residents, CIMC is progressing from an "exploration" phase toward a "pioneering" position.

"This reflects not only the trust local clients place in CIMC's brand and technology but also our core competitiveness in cost control and refined operations," Victor says.

As the modules continue their voyage around the Cape of Good Hope, CIMC MBS advances its "China Construction" standard, seeking to introduce environmentally conscious, efficient solutions into global urban development.