“Finding workers is not a problem; finding qualified workers has been a bit of an issue. Training and/or supervision is going to be required. You have to keep in mind that everything has always been very labor intensive with just minimal basic tools and with very little direction or supervision,” Smith said. “Production, schedules and quality-driven objectives are new to them. It has been a real challenge to just change the culture and the work environment.”

Many employees, who the company trains and educates, travel a great distances and earn $60 to $360 a month, Smith said. Most take tremendous pride in their work.

“They’ve been receptive to training and eager to learn. If I’m explaining something or demonstrating, I immediately draw a crowd because they want to know. I have hard workers who take pride in doing things the way we want it done, and they like to be acknowledged for their work.”

The oftentimes slow-moving governmental process, which Smith credits to “lack of organization, lack of communication and no sense of urgency,” are among the main obstacles his company faces.

“It’s almost as though they like to appear progressive and business oriented, but just don’t know how to go about achieving it,” he said. “Fortunately, our organization has a driving force with many connections to keep the wheels turning. Hard to explain, but there is a bit of a disconnect somewhere in my opinion.”

Still, Southwest International has earned the government’s confidence. The company has also been contracted by the city of Douala to build the Marché Congo shopping mall under a private investment project partnership.

“The government participates by putting up land and loan guarantees in concert with a management company we set up to ensure everyone involved does their part,” Truax said.

Southwest International also expects to chip away at the void of some 120,000 needed dormitories – a billion dollar project, according to Truax.

“Overall, the business climate has been very receptive,” Smith said. “From a personal standpoint, I have been a little taken aback by the welcome and reception I have received. They clearly go out of their way to make sure I am comfortable and that my needs are met — and they clearly appreciate my presence and input. I’m not sure you could meet more polite people than the people of West Africa. It’s left a real impression.”