We are thrilled to announce that FRED Engineering has been awarded a strategic new contract by the Agence Djiboutienne des Routes (ADR) to perform the Road Safety Audit (RSA) for the South Road Corridor Construction Project (RN1/RN5/RN19). Funded by the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group, this high-stakes initiative is part of the Horn of Africa Initiative, aimed at boosting regional economic integration, logistics efficiency, and climate resilience between Djibouti and Ethiopia.
Strengthening the Djibouti-Addis Ababa Corridor
The transport sector accounts for a critical share of Djibouti’s economy, with the primary road corridors handling approximately 90% of all freight traffic to and from neighboring Ethiopia. Because these routes are heavily traveled by heavy-goods vehicles, infrastructure degradation has heightened safety risks over time.
This newly awarded project targets critical commercial segments divided into two key lots:
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Lot 1: Rehabilitation of the RN5/RN19 over a length of 23 km.
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Lot 2: Rehabilitation of the RN1, spanning 32 km from PK35+200 (Arta junction) to PK67+200 (Iskoutir).
Building on Established Success
This appointment marks an exciting milestone: it is FRED Engineering’s second project in Djibouti. Our team is already on the ground carrying out road safety audits for other lots along this exact same vital corridor. Being chosen again highlights the trust regional authorities and international financial institutions place in our specialized expertise.
Our Mission: Safe and Inclusive Place-Based Solutions
Aligned with our corporate mission, our independent audit team will implement the Safe System approach across multiple phases of the project, including design, construction, and initial operation. We will be focusing on inclusive, place-based solutions that safeguard local communities and all vulnerable road users.
Key components of our mission include:
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Comprehensive Risk Mapping: Developing detailed hazard maps and crash risk profiles across the entire corridor.
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Vulnerable User Protection: Proposing targeted safety infrastructure around schools, villages, and urban crossings (including proper signage, speed bumps, and public transport bays).
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Climate & Terrain Resilience: Assessing risks related to landslips, heavy rains, and steep grades to ensure long-term road durability and safety.
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Capacity Building: Conducting technical knowledge-transfer sessions and training for public administration officials to ensure sustainable, long-term safety management.
We are honored to continue our collaboration with the ADR and the World Bank, utilizing our specialized engineering capabilities to save lives, protect infrastructure, and support sustainable economic development across East Africa.
