Yet, it is not always about the money; it is about what we can do to get the people and the country to the next level.
For more than five decades, Tjongalanga Suriname N.V. has established a solid reputation as one of the most professional and trustworthy road construction companies in the country. Its high-quality standards, timely execution, and personable approach contribute to Suriname’s development, one road at a time.
That is the story of Mr. Kees van der Lee, who was born and raised in the Netherlands and came to Suriname in 1966 as a specialist in constructing asphalt roads. His journey in Suriname led him to Tjongalanga Suriname N.V., where he soon rose to ownership and embarked on a relentless mission to revive and grow the company. He turned it into one of the top road construction firms. This same work ethic continues to accompany Tjongalanga Suriname N.V. until the family legacy has been passed on to the second generation to Mr. Dave Van Der Lee, its current CEO.
In 2005, Dave started following in his father’s footsteps. It’s an amazing journey to do this with his father, and with all their expertise and guidance, they catapulted the company to higher standards and achievement.
Dave Van Der Lee says, “My father is a humble man; he worked hard every day, and that's how he basically ended up constructing numerous roads in Suriname. Every project he did, he finished, and he engraved in me the value of always being on time, finishing under budget and communicating directly with the clients whenever necessary, whether it's because there's a problem or simply because the job demands a hands-on approach to be successful and it is not always about the money.”
Tjongalanga evolved from a struggling company to a reputable contractor, winning significant road construction projects. It gained the trust of Suriname’s Ministry of Public Works, Staatsolie, the European Union, and private clients. It offers services and products promoting sustainable economic development and job creation. Its mission is to strengthen the local economy by providing innovative solutions and support to entrepreneurs and businesses. Services include market analysis, business planning, investment consulting, and funding advice.
One of the difficulties working in Suriname has been the several economic crises that it has gone through in recent decades. In dire circumstances, Tjongalanga has always supported the government by financing several major road projects in the country. Thus, today, the company stands strong with 125 personnel and staff. It also boasts almost 100 asphalt and construction machinery with two asphalt plants (one of which is state-of-the-art) and a full portfolio of specialized services, including road construction, building, and civil engineering works. Currently, Tjongalanga has major contracts in its portfolio. These range from new/rehabilitation road-building projects in several districts in Suriname to land development projects, among many others.
Yet this is only the beginning. Tjongalanga foresees a surge in infrastructure projects, including roads, as the government prioritizes attracting foreign investment and fostering public-private partnerships amid upcoming oil and gas investments. Such advancements are set to boost both the company’s and the country's development.
Tjongalanga faces challenges in its operations and growth due to the volatile economic climate in Suriname, fluctuating commodity prices, and competition from local and international contractors. Resource allocation issues and bureaucratic hurdles can delay project timelines, affecting efficiency and profitability. The company navigates these challenges while maintaining its commitment to quality and safety. It aims to expand its portfolio by exploring sustainable construction practices, aligning with global trends, and appealing to clients and investors.
With no time to waste, the company is future-proofing itself by certifying its staff, upgrading its machinery, and controlling its finances. Above all, it is committed to maintaining the reliability and professionalism that have made it the reputable and esteemed company it is today. As Van Der Lee says: “Tjongalanga is not only a company, is our home, and through the work we do we help others become more connected, making their lives and homes better too.”
De name Tjongalanga means in Swahili, “The rising sun”
