Visiting product manufacturers is another innovation. "For some products, sealing samples doesn't guarantee good quality," Zeng explained. "So, we visited factories and inspected their production lines, production capacity, technology and reputation. Then we chose the best ones." The project's door suppliers went through this scrutiny.

Showrooms were created for several areas of the complex. "The relevant staff from the [Chinese and African] sides met at the showrooms, making sure the design, style and materials met the standards," he said.

African participation was prioritized, according to Shinkaiye. "The Chinese side gave us the drawings at the very beginning," he said. "We discussed various aspects of the project with Chinese officials. Wherever any changes needed to be made, we gave them our suggestions. We also selected the furniture together. From the very beginning to the very end, we worked hand-in-hand."

For Zeng, the arrangement was logical. "Because of differences in culture and aesthetics, we must respect their choices," he said. "They are the users."

When it came to materials, Zeng said, if the Chinese products met international standards, those were the ones used. If not, foreign equivalents were brought in - as was the case with decorative stones imported from Spain.

The complex also features environmentally-friendly design concepts and energy-saving technology. The AU is an active participant in the United Nations Climate Change Conference, and it's hoped the headquarters will be model of clean energy and energy efficiency. 

"Most of the offices are not equipped with air conditioners since the structure was designed to reduce direct exposure to ultraviolet rays," said Zeng. Other green utilities like drip irrigation and solar lighting are also part of the set-up.

Maintenance is a priority in aid projects, and the Chinese were prepared for this. 

The AU conference center is equipped with hi-tech integrated systems for sound and lighting. The outfit is very high-end, even though this has been a problematic choice in the past.

"We used the best quality products, so that they won't be easily damaged," explained Zeng. "During the installation we had the African technical staff join so that they could understand how [the set-up] is installed and operated. This is what we hadn't done before on previous aid projects."

There will be a two-year transitional period once the headquarters opens its doors. The current 30-member Chinese technical groups will start training African staff on-site. "If it's needed, we will organize trips for the African technical staff to visit Chinese manufacturers," said Zeng. "We want to ensure the conference center runs smoothly."

The headquarters has yet to encounter any problems. An initial quality inspection and visit by AU Commission members both went smoothly.

"The speed of the project construction and its quality are really incredible!" exclaimed Erastus Mwencha, who is the commission's deputy chairperson. "The new headquarters is a symbol of our friendship and cooperation."

Still, noted Shinkaiye, "the completion of the project doesn't mean the end of our cooperation. We hope the Chinese will continue to collaborate with us to make the headquarters fully [operational]."