On September 17, the first cubic meter of concrete was successfully poured for Pier Abutment 13 of the Mtentu Bridge in South Africa, marking the bridge's official entry into main structure construction, with all schedule milestones now in a tense countdown.

　　The first concrete pouring site for the Mtentu Bridge project in South Africa. Photo courtesy of China Communications Construction Company South Africa.

　　The Mtentu Bridge project in South Africa is a key project of China Communications Construction Company in South Africa and an important part of the Belt and Road Initiative. As one of the controlling works of South Africa's N2 toll highway "Wild Coast Program," once completed, the bridge will become one of South Africa's economic engines for decades, holding great significance for South Africa's macroeconomy and national livelihood, and has attracted much attention from the President of South Africa and all sectors of society.

　　The bridge deck at the midspan of the main bridge is 220 meters above the valley floor, and the main span is 260 meters, making it the continuous rigid-frame bridge with the largest span and highest piers in Africa. At the same time, the 66-meter concrete beam incremental launching technique adopted by the bridge is also the largest span of its kind in Africa.

　　Since entering the site in 2023, with support from all parties, the project team has overcome numerous difficulties, making great efforts in construction organization, concrete mix design, local labor management, and safety and environmental protection, quickly adapting to the local model and laying a solid foundation for high-quality contract performance.