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www.africanreview.com Europe €10, Ghana C1.8, Kenya Ksh200, Nigeria N330, South Africa R25, UK £7, USA $12
FINANCE POWER CONSTRUCTION MINING Increased investments in Zambia Desalination plants and pump Roll-out of Volvo’s 10-tonne Hybrid power solutions needed for SDGs by 2030 P18 units powered by PV systems P24 asphalt compactors P30 changing the industry P38
FEBRUARY 2021 African Review of Business and Technology
SUSTAINABLE MINING P44 World’s largest hydrogen truck on track
February 2021 AFCFTA P19 Opportunity or curse for Africa? Volume 57 Number 01
P16 www.africanreview.com
“The continent only needs to cultivate a cluster of real catalytic investors to YEARS mount a resilient mining investment 58 Covid-19 response.” SERVING BUSINESS IN Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa investor (Ai) AFRICA SINCE 1964 S01 ATR Feb 2021 Start_ATR - New Master Template 2016 25/01/2021 15:50 Page 2 S01 ATR Feb 2021 Start_ATR - New Master Template 2016 28/01/2021 12:34 Page 3
Editor’s Note
elcome to our February issue of African Review. In our cover story, we caught up with Anglo WAmerican and its plans on developing the world’s largest hydrogen mining haul truck as part of efforts to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, (page 44). Our economist, Moin Siddiqi, provides a comprehensive overview of the African Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCFTA) agreement, which came into being last month, and its implications in transforming Africa’s intra-regional trade capabilities. The World Bank now says intra-continental trade will increase to US$532bn in 2035, compared to US$294bn before the agreement was enforced, (page 19). Other highlights to look out for in our power and construction sections, include how a Finnish tech company is helping to produce clean water for people in Kenya through solar-powered desalination Cover picture: A Komatsu mine haul truck to be converted units (page 24), and an in-depth study of the African construction sector, with emerging markets in to using hydrogen at Mogalakwena platinum mine in Kenya and Ethiopia, looking bright for the future, (page 32). South Africa. © Anglo American Over in mining, battery metals could be the next ‘gold’ for West Africa, (page 42), and finally, we met Cover Inset: Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa investor (Ai) © Hubert Danso the experts from the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) conference, who explained why youth are paramount in providing the water solutions of the future, (page 46). Editor: Samantha Payne Email: [email protected] Samantha Payne, Editor Editorial and Design team: Mariam Ahmad, Prashanth AP, Fyna Ashwath Miriam Brtkova, Praveen CP, Manojkumar K, Nonalynka Nongrum Unique Pattnaik, Abhishek Paul, Rahul Puthenveedu, Deblina Roy Vinita Tiwari and Louise Waters Contributing editor: Martin Clark Publisher: Nick Fordham Sales Manager: Richard Rozelaar Email: [email protected] Magazine Manager: Jane Wellman Contents Tel: +44 207 834 7676 Fax: +44 207 973 0076 Email: [email protected] India TANMAY MISHRA Profile Tel: +91 98800 75908 16 Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa investor (Ai), speaks on the Email: [email protected] merits of joint public and private partnerships to drive Nigeria BOLA OLOWO much-needed investment in Africa’s mining sector at the Tel: +234 80 34349299 Email: [email protected] African Mining Forum.
UAE MURSHID MUSTAFA Tel: +971 4 448 9260 Fax: +971 4 448 9261 Trade Email: [email protected] 19 Economist Moin Siddiqi provides us with an excellent UK RICHARD ROZELAAR overview of the African Continental Free Trade Area Tel: +44 20 7834 7676 Fax: +44 20 7973 0076 P16 (AfCFTA) agreement, and what it means for increasing the Email: [email protected] continent’s intra-African trade opportunities on a level USA MICHAEL TOMASHEFSKY never seen before. Tel: +1 203 226 2882 Fax: +1 203 226 7447 Email: [email protected] Head Office: Alain Charles Publishing Ltd, University House, Power 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London SW1W 0EX, United Kingdom 25 Solar power solutions are developing at a rapid rate, Tel: +44 (0)20 7834 7676, Fax: +44 (0)20 7973 0076 making power more accessible to people in remote Middle East Regional Office: Alain Charles Middle East FZ-LLC, regions. An example of an innovative solar project can be Office L2-112, Loft Office 2, Entrance B, found in the village in Kitui County, Kenya. Solar water PO Box 502207, Dubai Media City, UAE, ATMs have been installed for people to buy clean water Tel: +971 4 448 9260, Fax: +971 4 448 9261 P25 with mobile payments. Production: Srinidhi Chikkars, Swati Gupta and Nelly Mendes E-mail: [email protected] Construction Chairman: Derek Fordham 30 Volvo Construction Equipment has rolled out the DD105 Printed by: Buxton Press and DD105 OSC asphalt compactors, which come equipped Printed in: JANUARY 2021 with Tier 3/Stage IIIA engines for emerging markets. ISSN: 0954 6782 SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mining Rates for one year (11 issues): 44 Anglo American is leading the way with the development Europe €107, Kenya KSh3400, Nigeria N6600, South Africa R460, of a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV), which is an ultra-class United Kingdom £77, US$140 mining haul truck. We look at other hybrid-powered To subscribe: visit www.africanreview.com/subscribe P30 mining trucks in progress that will help to reduce carbon For any other enquiry email [email protected] emission targets.
Water and environment 46 The Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) held a successful conference last year, addressing key issues facing the water industry in this part of the continent, among which were lessons learned from dealing with the Serving the world of business risk of exposure to coronavirus in communities. P46 S02 ATR Feb 2021 news North_ATR - New Master Template 2016 25/01/2021 15:57 Page 4
NEWS | NORTH
Arab Investment Bank drives digital strategy CEVA LOGISTICS ACQUIRES with Temenos Infinity and Payments MOROCCO’S ASTI GROUP Temenos Infinity and Temenos Payments are Following a long-term partnership spanning digital banking systems, soon to be adopted by over two decades between the two the Arab Investment Bank to improve companies, CEVA Logistics has continued its performance, drive its digital growth strategy and goal to widen its presence across Africa by
boost financial inclusion across Egypt. Adobe Stock Image Credit: acquiring the Morocco-based ASTI Group. The software aims to broaden Arab Investment In acquiring ASTI Group, CEVA Logistics Bank’s customer base and make digital payments hopes to expand its export capability, easier than ever for consumers. notably their reefer services, in co-operation Of Egypt's adult population of 67 million, 90% with its parent company the CMA CGM group of which have a mobile phone, only one in three (a shipping and logistics specialist) and has a bank account – of this, less than 6% made contractual logistics activities across digital payments in the last year. Less than 6% of Egyptian adults made digital Casablanca and the Tangier free zone, where payments in the last year. With Temenos Infinity, the bank hopes to make ASTI Group operates. its services faster and more accessible for its customers. The new system accelerates time-to-market for The new operation will be focused on new digital banking products – allowing Arab Investment Bank to offer a seamless digital experience capitalising on the current strength of across its entire product range. The system’s sophisticated analytics will also drive customer Morocco’s automotive industry, a vertical in engagement and acquisition, helping them target the most relevant potential customer bases, boosting which CEVA Logistics has already established the bank’s digital revenues five times over and cutting customer onboarding time by 75%. itself as a market leader. Temenos Payments focuses on Arab Investment Bank’s strategic growth area of boosting digital ASTI Group currently consists of almost payments, supplying the bank with a comprehensive and universal platform for efficient payments, 100 full time members of staff across two removing the need for different systems for different payment types. Streamlining the process of enabling locations. This will give CEVA Logistics extra and receiving all kinds of digital payments simplifies the operation for both the bank and its customers. capability in air, ocean, ground project Jean-Paul Mergeai, managing director for Temenos’ operations in the Middle East and Africa, logistics and customs clearance services. ASTI explained, “Internet and mobile banking are key to unlocking economic development and financial is fully certified with authorities and has a inclusion and so Temenos is proud to support Arab Investment Bank in its bold mission to improve direct EDI interface with Moroccan Customs, access to digital banking services in Egypt. The suite of Temenos products deployed by Arab Investment which will help streamline CEVA Logistics’ Bank provides an agile platform to move forward at speed with its digital ambitions. By making it Moroccan exporting and importing easier to open a bank account, receive and make digital payments, our technology is helping Arab operations. Investment Bank dramatically improve the lives of 44 million Egyptians, who currently do not have a CEVA Logistics’ CEO, Mathieu Friedberg, bank account.” explained, “The acquisition of ASTI further enhances our standing in the African market and shows our ambition for the continent as a whole. We believe there is enormous LEKELA INSTALLS FIRST TURBINE AT WEST BAKR potential across a range of freight services Lekela, the renewable power generation company that delivers utility-scale projects across Africa, has and extending the CEVA brand in its own announced the successful installation of the first turbine at its 250MW West Bakr wind project in Egypt. right in Morocco will set us on the road to The installation marks an important step in the future of the project, which began construction in further success.” February last year. In total, 96 turbines will be installed by Siemens Gamesa, with the wind farm set to Chief executive officer and founder of ASTI become fully operational later this year. Group, Ahmed Belmrah, said, “The sale of Located 30km north-west of Ras Ghareb, West Bakr Wind is part of the government’s Build, Own, ASTI to CEVA Logistics is the logical Operate (BOO) scheme. continuation of our historic partnership and The property will provide an additional 250MW of clean energy to the grid as the country strives to constitutes an important step in the strategic generate 20% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2022. The project will also prevent more than development of CEVA Logistics in both 550,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year. Morocco and Africa.”
BRIEFS
AfDB’s new deputy director general Marriott International unveils Among Africa Development Bank's new regional St. Regis Cairo
Image Credit: AfDB Image Credit: director generals and deputies is the new deputy On the banks of the Nile in the north end of director general for North Africa — Malinne Corniche, stands the new St. Regis Cairo — a 39- Blomberg. Blomberg has more than 15 years storey hotel with 286 rooms and suites, and 80 experience in development finance, joining AfDB apartments. Satya Anand, Marriott International’s in 2008, most notably leading the bank’s president for Europe and MEA said, “Egypt has operation in Egypt as country manager. historically been one of our key markets... the St. Blomberg commented, “I am very grateful for this Image Credit: Marriott Africa Image Credit: Regis Cairo is an exciting addition to our fast- AfDB has apppointed several new mandate that allows me to deepen the bank’s regional director generals and growing brand portfolio and is set to elevate deputies. partnership with its clients across North Africa.” St Regis Cairo boasts 286 rooms. Cairo’s luxury hospitality landscape.”
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EGYPT
Throughout 2020, 47 crude oil and 15 natural gas reserves were found across Egyptian territory.
Egypt’s oil and gas industry resilient
as other sectors stutter Adobe Stock Image Credit: Exploration activities are paying dividends and are key to Egypt’s oil and gas expansion, reports Robert Daniels.
fter a challenging 2020, reservoirs at a depth of 3,600-3,950 Egypt’s non-oil sectors have We look forward to the drilling of further m, the United Oil and Gas Plc has Adeteriorated as the pandemic begun spudding the ASH-3 vertical continues to wreak havoc on the well. This comes with high hopes economy. However, the oil and gas wells as part of our 2021 campaign.” after the ASH-2 production well, industry has seen a flurry of positive BRIAN LARKIN, CEO OF UNITED OIL AND GAS PLC which came onstream in 2020, has activity in the new year, following produced more than 1mn bbl to positive developments in 2020, and Mineral Resources announced a Petroleum and Mineral Resources date, with rates of 4,500bpd. which have served to spark hope for minimum investment of US$1.4bn signed the concession agreement Brian Larkin, CEO of United Oil its future security and growth. to search for petroleum and natural with Mubadala Petroleum for oil and Gas Plc, said, “It is equally As Covid-19 cases in Egypt gas. International and Egyptian and gas exploration in the block, pleasing to be back drilling in continued to rise at the end of 2020, companies including Total, Shell, which is operated by Shell. Egypt again, after the deferral of non-oil businesses witnessed a Tharwa, Chevron, Kuwait Foreign the majority of the 2020 drilling decline in operating conditions, Petroleum Exploration Company Eni discovery in the Western programme due to the low oil reflecting falls in both output and (KUFPEC), and ExxonMobil Egypt Desert price environment, and we look new orders as client demand was have signed 12 agreements to drill This fresh phase of exploration came forward to the drilling of further reduced, according to an IHS Markit in 23 separate locations across nine soon after Eni announced the wells as part of our 2021 report. The IHS Markit Egypt regions in the Mediterranean Sea, successful discovery of oil through campaign.” Purchasing Managers’ Index, a and three in the Red Sea. the Arcadia 9 well in the Western The ability of the Egyptian oil and composite gauge to provide a One such area is the North Ras Desert. Drilled on the Arcadia South gas market to buck the trend of snapshot of operating conditions, Kanayis Offshore block, located in structure, located 1.5 km south of economic decline has been reflected registered 48.2 in December, below the Herodotus Basin, which covers the main Arcadia field already in in its success with oil exploration. the 50.0 mark, indicating moderate an area of 4,550sq km, extending production, the well encountered an The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum deterioration of the non-oil sector. 5-150km from the shore with water 85 ft oil column in the Cretaceous and Mineral Resources reported in The report also noted that depths ranging from 50-3,200m. sandstones of the Alam El Bueib 3G 2020, 47 crude oil and 15 natural employment cuts accelerated at the Total is leading a consortium to formation. Following this discovery, gas reserves were found across fastest rate seen in four months. explore the block, which will consist two further development wells, Egyptian territory, which amounted While other sectors were of a 3D seismic campaign being Arcadia 10 and Arcadia 11, have to a 13% rise in the discovery of oil struggling, the Egyptian oil and gas carried out within three years. been drilled both of which also compared to the previous year. sector marked the turn of the year Also, scheduled to be explored encountering respective oil columns. While other sectors in Egypt are with a spate of positive further is the Red Sea Block 4, which The new discovery will add 10,000 struggling with the effects of the announcements, encouraging has an area estimate of 3084sq km. bpd to Eni’s gross production in the pandemic, the oil and gas industry is expansion and development. The block is located in an area Western Desert. seeking, instead, to expand adjacent to the prolific Gulf of Suez production and bolster profits, with Exploration in the basin and is owned by the South United Oil and Gas Plc a corresponding positive impact on Mediterranean and Red Sea Valley Egyptian Petroleum Holding spudding commences Egypt’s economy and its ambitions The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum Company. The Egyptian Ministry of Targeting the Alam El Bueib to become a regional energy hub. ■
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NEWS | SOUTH
Germany supports Namibia for economic STANDARD BANK PARTNERS revival of SMEs WITH SOUTH AFRICA’S MAJOR RETAILERS Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) and the Development Bank of Germany (KfW) have signed a Standard Bank Instant Money has partnered loan agreement in which KfW will provide with some of South Africa’s major retailers refinancing for DBN’s non-agricultural small and selected spaza shops; growing its business loan scheme. footprint to more than 15,000 cash out The loan scheme aims to form an integral part of points nationwide. Namibia’s Ministry of Finance’s “Economic Stimulus “Innovation and access to financial and Relief Package to Mitigate the Impact of Covid-19”. services is crucial for Standard Bank and that The interest-reduced loan amounts to is why we have expanded our retailer approximately US$30.8mn. DBN will provide the footprint to offer our customers more actual loans to non-agricultural SMEs that have options for using Instant Money, which is experienced significant losses of income as a result of The relief programme is part of the German financial designed to make transactions faster and cooperation and builds on Covid-19 related support.
the Covid-19 pandemic. The relief measure is aimed Germany - Windhoek Republic of the Federal The Embassy of Image Credit: more convenient,” said Ethel Nyembe, head at supporting cash flows and continued economic productive activities. The loans can also be used for of card and payments at Standard Bank. investing into new business areas that help strengthen the resilience of companies for future shocks. The “The full range of Instant Money products government-backed guarantee loan underscores the resolve of the Government of the Republic of ranging from our business Bulk Payments Namibia to promote access to affordable finance for SMEs, especially during these unprecedented times. solution, the personal Instant Money Wallet, “The extension of this loan facility comes as a good shot in the arm for the SME sector at this point in to Instant Money Transfer on Standard Bank time. It is complementary to the suite of support packages, extended to the SME sector as the engine of channels and retailers offers a range of economic recovery, growth, jobs and wealth creation,” stated Ipumbu Shiimi, Minister of Finance. affordable, convenient and trusted solutions The DBN forecasts that the funding offers urgent financial relief to around 200 SMEs. The DBN will for those who need to send and receive customise the loans based on individual enterprise needs. Industries such as tourism, hospitality, and money on the move,” Nyembe explained. transport and logistics, having experienced the largest loss of revenue due to lockdown-related effects This sought-after service is particularly in nationally, regionally and globally, will be prioritised. demand at month-end, during long “The highly valued support will contribute to preserving continuity of SME business activities and weekends, school breaks and holiday periods. build a foundation for recovery,” said CEO of DBN, Martin Inkumbi. Instant Money receivers are now able to Although the bank will, through its SME lending window, give its attention to start-ups, the new redeem their money at Pick n Pay, Shoprite, relief programme is part of the German financial cooperation and builds on Covid-19-related support, Usave, Checkers, House and Home, OK provided via technical cooperation implemented by GIZ, in partnership with the Ministry of furniture as well as selected spaza shops Industrialisation and Trade and Ministry of Finance, which targets start-up businesses as well as SMEs. nationwide. This is in addition to Standard Bank’s established retail partner network comprising of Spar, Game, Builders Warehouse, Cambridge Food, Rhino Cash and FAYMONVILLE DELIVERS LOW PA-X LOADER IN SA Carry and Makro. Customer CTS East from Brakpan, Gauteng has received Faymonville’s low pendle-axle PA-X loader in “We want to create a future where our South Africa. The unbeatable stroke of 600mm makes the 5-axle semi-trailer extremely off-road-capable customers can just go down the street and and the steering angle of 60° ensures high manoeuvrability when the route demands it. not be required to commute to send or The height of a special haulage convoy is decisive to clear power lines, bridges and other obstacles. With receive their money,” stated Nyembe. the low pendle-axle PA-X and its minimum loading height of only 790mm, Faymonville offers the solution to Customers that do not bank with Standard handle any challenging route sections easily. Bank are able to send money to any South The lifetime of the tyres is extended as a result and winding jobsite entrances can be mastered easily. African cell phone number from places, such Additionally, the yellow low loader with a basic width of 3,000mm has an hydraulic gooseneck, double as Spar, Game and Builders Warehouse. ramps with anti-slip rubber cover and a loading platform that can be double extended from 11,500mm up to Account holders can access Instant Money via 27,400mm. The robust chassis design also enables the transport of compact loads such as transformers. online and mobile banking, and ATMs.
BRIEFS
Caledonia expects to produce more gold in Zimbabwe Acrow helps restore transportation lifelines in Mozambique
Caledonia Mining Corporation has produced Acrow, an international bridge engineering and approximately 15,012 ounces of gold during the supply company, has provided 26 modular steel last quarter of 2020 from the Blanket Mine in bridges to Administração Nacional de Estradas Zimbabwe, the company stated in its report. The (ANE), the National Road Administration of record total gold production during 2020 was Mozambique. The bridges will be installed in rural Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: 57,899 ounces, the top end of the company’s Adobe Stock Image Credit: areas of Mozambique to restore vital revised increased guidance. transportation routes damaged by cyclones in Caledonia Mining Corporation has further stated 2019. The modular steel structures range from The company is exploring the that the gold production for 2021 is expected to be 30m to 60m in length, with each having a single potential for more gold in The modular steel structures Zimbabwe’s mining sector. between 61,000 – 67,000 ounces. range from 30m to 60m in length. 4.2m-wide traffic lane.
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NEWS | COMPETITION
Liebherr R 9800 is the world’s most efficient excavator in its class The Liebherr R 9800 Excavator is built to outperform all competitors in the ultra class World-class: The R 9800 Excavator. mining market. Weighing 800 tons, this ‘beast’ has been developed as the optimal loading tool for large scale mining operations to achieve the most demanding targets. Kanu Equipment proudly distributes all Liebherr mining, construction and earthmoving machinery across Africa and offers tailored solutions from technical advice, spare parts and logistics to highly skilled and experienced maintenance support. Now, in celebration of the successful delivery, assembly, service and support (not to mention demand) of this impressive machine into Africa, we have partnered with Liebherr to offer you a chance to win this fantastic Lego Technic prize, valued at US$500. Kanu Equipment has decided to award these phenomenal Lego sets to six lucky entrants from within the African territories that they operate in. The competition closes on 2 May, 2021 and the winners will be announced on African Review’s and Kanu Equipment Africa’s LinkedIn pages on 3 June, 2021. Simply visit www.kanuequipment.com/competition
to be entered into the draw. Kanu Equipment Image Credit:
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NEWS | WEST/CENTRAL
IFC and Kobo360 partner to pilot innovative FEDERATED COMMODITIES cooling solutions in Nigeria EXPLORES PARTNERSHIPS IFC, a member of the World Bank FOR AFRICA’S COCOA Group, in partnership with INDUSTRY Kobo360, an African digital logistics platform, announced an The CEO of Ghanaian firm, Federated open call for innovators from 360 Kobo Image Credit: Commodities, Hajia Maria Adamu-Zibo, is around the world to bring climate- ready to form international partnerships to smart, temperature-controlled take the country’s cocoa sector forward. logistics (TCL) cooling solutions to “As an affiliate company of Global Nigeria to help the country Haulage, FedCo engages in the supply of address food waste challenges, traceable and certified cocoa beans to help support its health sector, and promote sustainability in cocoa production reduce energy consumption. through community development and The TechEmerge Temperature- Temperature-controlled logistics is essential for economic development, capacity building of farmers. health and food security. Controlled Logistics Nigeria Under this programme, farmers are programme provides market access and up to US$1mn in funding to top innovators matched with trained on adult literacy and good leading Nigerian companies to jointly pilot sustainable solutions that reduce losses in cold chains, agricultural, business and social practices, strengthen access to TCL-dependent products and markets, and build commercial partnerships. which empowers them economically,” said “We are excited to support cutting-edge entrepreneurs to pilot and scale their temperature- Adamu-Zibo, in an interview with controlled logistics solutions in Nigeria, and Africa more broadly,” said IFC’s senior director of AfricaLive.net. disruptive technologies and funds, William Sonneborn. “We have diversified into the cashew “Africa's cold chain capacity faces a lack of investment in equipment for maintaining a specific market which gives us a great alternative temperature range throughout the supply chain. We’ve seen a gap in the market for shipping solutions, during the lean period of the cocoa season. specifically concerning moving deep-frozen, cold and ambient goods in a safe and temperature- Part of our community engagement drive is controlled environment. Temperature-controlled shipping is constantly evolving and our partnership getting into farm service agreements with with the IFC is a key step towards discovering the best innovations that will enable the efficient individual farmers. transport of chilled goods,” said Ike Abiakam, Kobo360’s founding partner and head of KoboCare. Adding value to our cocoa is also part of our national strategy. Value addition will help increase the value of our product, boost ANDRITZ TO SUPPLY EQUIPMENT FOR our standing in the global cocoa industry, and lead to job creation,” added Adamu-Zibo. HYDROPOWER DAM IN SENEGAL “We are looking to seal important International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order as part of a consortium with VINCI contacts in Europe and America as we seek Construction to supply electro-mechanical equipment for the new Sambangalou hydropower dam in the sustainability partnerships that will be of Senegalese region of Kédougou, bordering Guinea. mutual benefit. In Africa, we are looking at The contract for ANDRITZ is expected to be booked in the second half of 2021. The ANDRITZ scope of maybe getting partners in Ivory Coast as well supply includes the complete ‘from water-to-wire’ solution, including three Francis turbines with a total as South Africa because these are two strong output of 128MW, generators and all other equipment required. cocoa markets. We possess the knowledge as Work will begin in the first half of 2021 and is scheduled to last 48 months. At the peak of activities, the far as cocoa is concerned and an ideal partner overall site will employ up to 1,000 people recruited and trained locally. The Sambangalou hydropower plant would be someone who has the technical will enable the production of renewable energy for the benefit of the surrounding rural localities, the expertise to process on a large scale.” development of irrigation systems for agricultural land as well as the supply of drinking water for the Adamu-Zibo believes that Ghana stands to neighbouring districts. gain greatly from the AfCFTA agreement, as This new contract is a further collaboration between ANDRITZ and VINCI, demonstrating ANDRITZ’s strong long as the country improves its skill base and market position in the supply of hydropower equipment for sustainable hydroelectric infrastructure projects. makes production funding more accessible.
BRIEFS
ICTSI upgrades Cameroon terminal Starsight extends debt facility
Kribi Multipurpose Terminal, the Cameroonian subsidiary of International Container Starsight has announced Finnfund and Norfund Terminal Services Inc, has implemented the Logstar Terminal Operating System as part have increased their senior debt facility from of the company’s efforts to deliver a US$10mn to US$20mn, enabling it to continue to world-class service at the Port of deliver hybrid solar solutions to commercial and Kribi. A major step in developing the industrial customers in Nigeria and Ghana. Clients port’s infrastructure and superstructure, benefit from end-to-end service, 99% uptime Image Credit: ICTSI Image Credit: the TOS solution will facilitate guarantee, and freed capex. Tony Carr, CEO of
efficiency. MT is a deep water general Stock Thinapob/Adobe Image Credit: Starsight, said,“We’re proud of our relationship cargo facility catering to ro-ro projects Starsight has expanded to more with our partners at Finnfund and Norfund, and ICTSI's Kribi Multipurpose Terminal in Cameroon. and heavy lift cargo, oil and gas industry. than 500 sites since June 2019. value their confidence in Starsight’s team.”
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NEWS | EAST
Ethiopia and Kenya celebrate inauguration AECF SETS UP PROGRAMME of key infrastructure projects FOR GREEN COMPANIES The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, and The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF) the President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, have launched a Results Based Financing (REACT inaugurated the Hawassa-Hagere Mariam-Moyale RBF) programme to unlock new markets for Road Project and the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) clean energy companies in Kenya.
in Marsabit County, according to reports by the Adobe Stock Image Credit: The US$4mn programme, funded by Ethiopian News Agency. Swedish International Development Authority The 500km Hawassa-Hagere Mariam-Moyale (Sida) will support commercially viable Road is a key segment of the Mombasa-Nairobi- companies to establish new markets and Addis Adaba Road Corridor and the Trans-African accelerate access to clean energy for 87,000 Highway. Together with the OSBP, Ahmed claimed unserved and underserved households. that the new infrastructure represented a key Companies will be awarded funding of up milestone between the two countries and will serve The infrastructure projects are expected to increase to US$500,000 at contracting, with a flexible trade, tourism, and regional integration. to increase trade, enhance tourism, and encourage reallocation system to allow businesses that interaction between people either side of the boarder to deepen socio-economic ties. exceed their milestone targets to increase Ahmed commented, “Opportunities are now wide open for Kenyan companies to invest in energy their funding cap to US$1mn. The RBF and aviation in Ethiopia. Likewise great potential awaits Kenyan investors to explore our agro- project is expected to be implemented over a processing, textile and garment manufacturing throughout the country.” two and a half year period running from July Kenyatta noted that there remained substantial untapped trade and investment opportunities in 2021 to December 2023. both countries and urged the business community to capitalise on this new infrastructure. The “The off-grid energy sector continues to president also commended the development partners, such as the African Development Bank (AfDB) require investment if we are to make notable and the UK government for their support with these projects. progress in improving access to affordable In the last few years Ethiopia and Kenya have renewed their commitment to the LAPSSET Corridor and clean energy. We are excited to be Programme, which aims to develop regional integration and interconnectivity within the African launching the REACT RBF programme Continent, through regional infrastructure, social and economic development. Both Kenyatta and through which we seek to provide results- Ahmed said that this regional infrastructure initiative was central to unlocking the economic potential based incentives for companies that are of Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan and the entire East African region. increasing access for unserved and The two leaders concluded the ceremony by reiterating their plan to deepen trade and economic underserved communities. Energy access ties between Ethiopia and Kenya. Afterwards, they embarked on an inspection tour of the 23 Berth remains critical for a sustainable post Covid- Lamu Port Project, another development that is part of the LAPSSET Corridor Programme. 19 recovery and we see REACT RBF helping companies to withstand the Covid-19 effects, recover, and come out stronger on the other ARC POWER TO INTRODUCE SOLAR BUSINESS side,” said Victoria Sabula, CEO of AECF. The REACT RBF programme will be rolled PARKS ACROSS RWANDA out in Kenya as the country has a relatively ARC Power has announced its latest initiative that will see new solar business parks, powered by clean advanced clean energy market compared to energy generated from ARC’s scalable solar mini-grid solutions, opened across every ARC site in Rwanda. other sub-Saharan countries. The AECF The first of the parks, located in Murama in the Bugesera District, has recently opened its doors for continues to be a leader in supporting the business. Originally sporting four units, soon to expand to seven, the site will provide a home for a locally scaling up of clean energy companies in owned bakery, tailors, milling station and a welding shop. Africa, particularly in Kenya, to reach off-grid The parks will operate a ‘plug-and-pay’ business model which allows local entrepreneurs to pay for the communities and substantially increase power used, and the space they occupy at the park, at an agreed rate. ARC Power will provide any clean energy access for poor households. machinery required by the entrepreneurs on finance and charge businesses a small rental fee for each unit. Access to reliable and affordable energy is By the end of 2021, ARC Power plans to have at least 20 solar business parks up and running to power the critical for the reduction of poverty and creation of more than a hundred new businesses across Rwanda. enhancement of quality of life.
BRIEFS
Construction begins on key road network in Uganda Helium One advances Rukwa Project
At a ceremony in the Wakiso district, President Helium One Global has submitted key Yoweri Museveni launched the revamp of 21 km of environmental and social studies to help advance the Kiira-Kasangati-Matugga road network to the its aggressive exploration programme at the north of Kampala city. company’s Rukwa Project in southern Tanzania, According to the Uganda National Roads Authority an area that holds one of the largest known Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: (UNRA) the upgrades will help improve traffic flow primary helium resources in the world. within and around Kampala and Wakiso and ease The study covers an area of 310sq km in three connection to trunk roads. The road will also prospecting licenses and has been submitted to provide for bicycle lanes, pedestrian crossing, bus the National Environment Management Council of 21km road network to be upgraded A compensation survey was also near Kampala. stops, tactile paving, and solar-powered lighting. submitted with the assessment. the Tanzanian Government.
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EAST | NEWS
Kabanga Nickel to develop nickel project in Tanzania Kabanga Nickel and the government of Tanzania have signed a framework agreement to takeover and develop the Kabanga nickel project, in the Kagera region southwest of Lake Victoria. The Tanzanian government and Kabanga Nickel will form a new joint venture – the Tembo Nickel Corporation – to take over the mine, which was formerly owned by Barrick Gold and Glencore up until 2018. As part of the acquisition, Kabanga Nickel confirmed an agreement with the previous owners to acquire all project data and information from them. The nickel deposit is one of the largest in the world and, while the majority of yields will be owned by Kabanga Nickel, by law the Tanzanian government will hold a 16% stake. Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit:
The project will be run by the Tembo Nickel Corporation.
As part of the agreement, Kabanga Nickel will be granted a refinery licence to process nickel concentrate and will commission a multimetal refinery facility, capable of smelting other metals, such as copper and gold. This will allow the company to process the concentrate in the country, eliminating the need to transport it to international refineries. Once set up, the project will produce class 1 nickel and cobalt products.
LAKE TURKANA WIND POWER SIGNS PARTNERSHIP WITH CLIR RENEWABLES Clir Renewables has announced a partnership agreement with Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) to enhance LTWP’s 310MW wind farm performance tracking and support its Kenya-based team in realising potential opportunities for optimisation. Clir will analyse data from each of Lake Turkana’s 365 turbines in the context of available resource, geospatial features, and nearby turbines. Through its machine learning-driven analysis, Clir will be able to see through the ‘noise’ of resource fluctuation and identify any instances of underperformance and their causes, providing LTWP with the insights necessary to increase annual energy production, monitor asset health and manage technical financial risk. Clir’s team will further use this analysis to compare individual asset performance with insights shared with all project stakeholders via Clir’s reporting function. David O’Hare, director for Clir Europe, said, “Lake Turkana is an unique project — it is the first of this scale in Africa and has been developed to take advantage of some of the best conditions for consistent energy production. We are keen to leverage our experience to assess Lake Turkana’s performance and potential gains. We are delighted to provide access to our analytics and the team’s global expertise in support of LTWP as it realises the potential of this project and the region’s incredible resource, in terms of energy generation and resulting returns — a share of which we are delighted to see has been committed to the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, the ‘Winds of Change Foundation’.”
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EVENTS | CALENDAR
Upcoming Events Calendar 2021 24-25 FEBRUARY MARCH WEST AFRICA POWER SUMMIT 2021 1-5 2-3 Dakar, Senegal MINING INDABA VIRTUAL AFRICA ENERGY INDABA 2021 www.wafpower.com www.miningindaba.com/Home Virtual www.africaenergyindaba.com 24-26 16 6TH SOLAR TANZANIA 2021 8-9 OFF-GRID SOLUTIONS – THEIR Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania EXPANSION AND FINANCING MOZAMBIQUE GAS & POWER www.expogr.com/tanzania/solarexpo/index.php Virtual Maputo, Mozambique www.africa-energy.com/events/grid-solutions- www.africaoilandpower.com/event/mozambique- their-expansion-and-financing gas-power-2021 APRIL 14-15 23-25 15-18 INFRASTRUCTURE AFRICA SECURA NORTH AFRICA NAPEC Virtual Algiers, Algeria Algeria www.africa-energy.com/events/north-africa- www.infrastructure-africa.com www.securanorthafrica.com/en petroleum-exhibition-conference 20-23 25-26 17-18 THE 3RD POWER WEEK AFRICA 6TH AFRICA MINI GRIDS SUMMIT 6TH ARE ENERGY ACCESS Virtual 2021 INVESTMENT FORUM 2020 www.power-week.com/africa Virtual Lusaka, Zambia www.africaminigrids.com 21-22 https://eaif2020.b2match.io/ MMEC 2021 Maputo, Mozambique https://web.cvent.com/event/151688e7-2b1e- 4147-bb86-170277022143/summary
President of Botswana confirmed for Mining Indaba Virtual
Investing in African Mining Indaba (Mining explorers and junior miners; developments of Indaba), part of Hyve Group Plc, has announced infrastructure in Botswana’s Western corridor to that His Excellency, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe stimulate international investment and Masisi, President of Botswana, has confirmed to safeguarding investors through transparency and Economic Forum/Flickr deliver his presidential keynote address at the d sustainable fiscal regimes. upcoming Mining Indaba Virtual. Botswana is looking to expand its renewable H.E. Mokgweetsi Masisi will be joining the energy generation up to 15% by the end of this
already confirmed H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, Worl Image Credit: decade but given its coal reserves and the fact President of South Africa, H.E. Félix Tshisekedi, that it imports approximately 50% of energy President of the Democratic Republic of Congo from neighbouring countries it will remain (DRC) and H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of focused on domestic fossil fuels development, Sierra Leone, at Mining Indaba Virtual, which with coal on track to contribute 300MW of new will be held from 2-3 February, 2021. generation capacity and coalbed methane (CBM) The mining sector continues to be seen as the providing 250MW. backbone of Botswana’s economy, and one of Additionally, the Minerals Council South Africa the largest contributors to gross domestic Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, has entered into a strategic partnership with President of Botswana. product, with minerals comprising almost 80% of Investing in African Mining Indaba for the export earnings. Over the years, Botswana has opportunities in expansion and development of Mining Indaba Virtual. received widespread praise for the way in which the country’s coal, coal bed methane, uranium, Tebello Chabana, senior executive of public it has converted mineral rents to fiscal revenues gold and silver as well. affairs and transformation, said, “As the – combined with sound economic policies, these Building into the overall theme of Mining representative of most South African mining and have helped build infrastructure and kept the Indaba Virtual, geared towards building resilience exploration companies, the Minerals Council is economy stable. and regrowth, helping to adopt a new mindset for ideally placed to help shape the agenda, and to the African mining sector, Masisi is expected to further the purpose of Making Mining Matter.” Developing Botswana’s coal address Botswana’s mining sector development, In 2018, Botswana was the world’s second- including progress on production and volumes in For more information about the programme, visit largest diamond producer by value and volume, diamonds, gold, copper, coal and iron ore; new https://miningindaba.com/Page/mining-indaba- however, there are significant investment diamond and copper licensing opportunities for virtual
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NEWS | BUSINESS
Afreximbank sets up Africa’s digital due diligence repository
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) launched the operations of ‘MANSA’ in Cairo, a pan-African customer due diligence repository for financial institutions, corporate entities and SMEs.
ANSA is a single source of became colonies, MANSA offers an the primary data required MANSA offers an opportunity to begin opportunity to begin bringing down Mfor Customer Due Diligence the borders and support the (CDD) and Know Your Customer realisation of the goals of the (KYC) checks on African entities, bringing down the borders and support the African Continental Free Trade including financial institutions, Agreement (AfCFTA).” corporates and SMEs, in accordance goals of the AfCFTA.” with best practices. The platform PROF. BENEDICT ORAMAH, PRESIDENT OF AFREXIMBANK Emperor of the Malian will also serve to address key trade- Empire related challenges facing the The platform is named after Mansa continent, including the lack of Dr. Naglaa Nozahie, governor’s to prevent various financial crimes Musa, the Emperor of the Malian market information, the high cost of advisor, African Affairs, Central Bank and related activities. This has Empire in the 1300s, who was doing business in Africa and of Egypt and Engr. Mansur Ahmed, dramatically increased the cost and responsible for opening up trade discovering African counterparties. president, Manufacturers Association complexity of satisfying Customer across Africa and believed to be the The launch of MANSA operations of Nigeria. Due Diligence and Know Your only person ever to control the flow was announced at a virtual event on Customer requirements. We have of gold between Africa and the 30 November, 2020, hosted by Solution to trade barriers created MANSA as the solution to Mediterranean. Afreximbank, that featured a panel the negative impact on Africa, such In this initial phase of discussion involving Prof. Benedict Speaking during the event, Prof. as de-risking, the withdrawal of implementation, MANSA is now Oramah, president of Afreximbank; Benedict Oramah said, “Globally, correspondent banking relationships open to African businesses to Ade Ayeyemi, group CEO of Ecobank; regulators are toughening their and cuts in trade finance and onboard their corporate profiles to Stefan Nalletamby, director – stance as well as the severity of their investment financial flows to the repository. Following an Financial Sector Development sanctions for breaches of customer Africa. In a fragmented onboarding and validation Department at the African due diligence compliance continent of 55 countries process in keeping with the Development regulations instituted that hardly traded among platform’s compliance Bank; themselves since they requirements, African entities will have their profiles listed and made available to users of the repository. ■
The MANSA platform will reduce the cost of doing business and facilitate trade between African countries. Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit:
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QUOTES
The government and energy If we want peace and The pandemic has companies have recognised development in the Sahel demonstrated that Africa’s the amazing opportunity that gas region, we must invest in infrastructure needs to prepare for “offers to change our economic agriculture“ and in social capital. In “massive calamities and reverse ambitions. The issues around particular, we must create jobs for the devastating impacts of future domestic gas and local concerns youth. The failure of national catastrophes, as this will not be will be resolved with a market economies to create conditions for the last one. We have both the driven approach. This will pave the decent incomes for rural young instruments and the determination way for the use of affordable and people poses a threat to political to make this happen. It is now high abundant gas to launch industrial stability, nurtures extremism and time to join hands to make the best and agricultural-led growth, promotes migration.” out of our infrastructure improve our trading abilities BENOÎT THIERRY development programmes.” regionally, effectively increase the IFAD representative and country director Mozambican spending power, and for Senegal revitalise our economy in a post- Image credit: ITUI Image credit: Covid environment.” Vaccines are our best hope of ending this pandemic. While all the efforts being made for successful“ immunisation campaigns are critical, without community support they can Image credit: African Energy Chamber African Energy Image credit: easily flounder. The success of any immunisation campaign hinges on the community’s trust and H.E. AMANI ABOU-ZEID acceptance. It is vital that we equip Commissioner for Infrastructure and them with the right information, Energy at the African Union Commission allay any fears and address concerns.” Globalisation and digitalisation have broken FLORIVAL MUCAVE down many barriers to better President of the Mozambique Oil & Gas “education, business opportunities Chamber and a higher quality of life for Image credit: WHO/AFROP Image credit: millions of people across sub- This partnership will be Saharan Africa. We look forward to catalytic in promoting off- the upcoming ratification of the season and higher-value African Continental Free Trade “agriculture across Togo. We are Agreement (AfCFTA), which has the thrilled to be a contributing partner potential to boost the region’s in Africa’s largest public/private global connectedness, facilitating partnership utilising smart solar the movement of people, irrigation subsidies, and in doing investments and businesses so, ensuring that sustainable across the region. There are still agriculture is both affordable and many opportunities for the region accessible to those who stand to to improve its connectedness, and gain the most.” DHL will continue to invest in the region to connect people and SAMIR IBRAHIM CEO & co-founder of SunCulture, on the improve lives.” partnership with Bboxx EDF Togo and the MATSHIDISO MOETI HENNIE HEYMANS WHO Regional Director for Africa Government of Togo CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa
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WEB SELECTION
AFRICAN REVIEW / ON THE WEB A selection of product innovations and recent service developments for African business Full information can be found on www.africanreview.com
AFRICA’S CONSTRUCTION report, South Africa’s construction of the Rumakali and Ruhudji bank-funded project has a component SECTOR TO GROW AT A industry continues to face tough times hydroelectric power plants, which will to raise awareness among target-area CAGR OF 6.4% BY 2024 amid lower investment in have capacities of 222MW and residents about reducing gender- infrastructure by government, low 358MW respectively. based violence, as well as on the business confidence and lower foreign importance of girls’ schooling to direct investment. AFDB GRANTS US$11.26MN reduce early marriage and pregnancy. FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS’ TANESCO WILL PURCHASE EDUCATION IN CHAD AKSA POWER GENERATION GREEN ENERGY FROM SIX GROWS RAPIDLY IN KENYA IPPS AND SUDAN
Image Credit: Free-Photos/Pixabay Image Credit:
East Africa has the largest number of Ian Ingalula/Pixabay Image Credit: recorded projects with 139 projects. The Girls' Education and Women's Literacy Image source: AKSA Power Generation AKSA Power Image source: The Africa construction market is andreas160578/Pixabay Image credit: Project is integrated into the government of Chad’s Interim Education Plan. The company focuses on being one of the expected to register a CAGR of 6.4% TANESCO is building other electricity top-three genset manufacturers in the world from 2019-2024, according to projects in Tanzania to support the The African Development Bank (AfDB) by 2025. Reportlinker’s “Africa Construction Tanzanian government’s policy of achieving has approved a grant of US$11.26mn Aksa Power Generation, a part of a 75% electrification rate by 2035. Market - Growth, Trends, and Forecast to the government of Chad to finance Kazancı Holding, has opened new (2020 - 2025)” report. This is because Tanzania Electric Supply Company the Girls’ Education and Women’s offices in Kenya and Sudan, a move of accruing benefits and/or (TANESCO) has completed power Literacy Project – the country’s first that is in line with the company’s advantages such as availability of purchase agreements with six AfDB grant exclusively targeting ambitious plan to grow rapidly in huge natural resources, huge independent power producers (IPPs) to women and girls. The project will be Africa. With eight offices in Africa, from investment opportunities in energy develop renewable energy projects financed from the bank’s Transition North (Algeria office) to South (South and infrastructure, cheap labour and a with a total capacity of 19.16MW. As Support Facility and will be Africa office), the company will open a fast-growing consumer market. Also, reported in Afrik21, TANESCO will buy implemented over a five-year period Senegal office soon. Aksa’s R&D there is a beneficial business 19.16MW of electricity under the by the Chadian Ministry of National facilities are located in Istanbul-Turkey environment that includes favourable supervision of the Energy and Water Education and Civic Promotion, in and Changzhou-China by employing economic development policies and Regulatory Authority (EWURA) of coordination with partners involved in the highest calibre engineers and rising commodity prices, in addition to Tanzania. Nishati Lutheran Investment the education sector, civil society developing hardware and software continued progress in the fight against is developing a 36kW hydropower organisations, and youth solutions to provide world-class high- corruption and the adoption of project at the Ijangala Falls in Makete. organisations. The Chadian quality products. Being an expert in democratic governments. As a region, Madope Hydro is implementing the government will contribute a non- synchronised projects, Aksa’s R&D East Africa has the largest number of 1.7MW Madope Hydroelectric Project monetary contribution of US$713,000 team is the first in Turkey to develop recorded projects with 139 projects. on the Madope River. Additionally, towards the programme. “This proprietary product designs and Aksa North Africa accounts for the largest Luponde Hydro is signing a PPA with enables the development of job skills is one of the first natural gas share of projects in terms of value at TANESCO for its Luponde hydroelectric and the improvement of women’s generator manufacturers in the world. 31.5% (US$148.3bn). The projects project (nine kilowatts) on the Luhololo productivity potential through literacy, Aksa meets the power requirements included are spread over 43 of Africa’s River in Njombe. Lung’ali Natural job training and the development of periodically and continuously, 54 countries. Egypt is the single Resources is implementing the income-generating activities,” said meanwhile providing its clients with a country having the most projects with Maguta hydroelectric project (1.2MW) Solomane Koné, AfDB’s deputy remote monitoring system, which 46 projects (9.5% of projects on the on the Lukosi River Falls in Kilolo. The director for Central Africa. The project provides technical control and continent) as well as the most projects six private companies will commence aims to help improve access to quality monitoring of the generators from by value at US$79.2bn (17% of the marketing their production within 18 secondary education in a safe and anywhere in the world. In addition to continent’s value), edging out South months, the source further reported. healthy school environment for 5,000 the standard product range; Aksa also Africa and Nigeria respectively. As a Meanwhile, TANESCO is building other girls as well as train 2,200 teachers manufactures tailor-made products sector, the transport sector has 186 electricity projects in Tanzania, with an and administrative officials. It is also which can ensure the specific projects, 22.7% of total project value, aim to support the Tanzanian expected to provide literacy requirements of customers. The followed by power and energy government’s policy of achieving a programmes to more than 7,500 company aims to be one of the top- projects, with a share of 24.4% of the 75% electrification rate by 2035. One women in Chad’s Hadjer Lamis, three genset manufacturers in the total project value. According to the such project includes the construction Ouaddaï and N'Djaména regions. The world by 2025.
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PROFILE | REPORT
Public and private partnerships are key to unlocking capital for successful mining projects.
How to stimulate post-Covid investment in mining exploration in Africa Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit:
Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa investor (Ai), an institutional investment platform, and chairman of AU’s Continental Business Network, talked to delegates at the Africa Mining Forum on how to attract investment in mining in Africa.
he continent’s potential to especially can better attract global through the Presidential be a global mining and domestic shareholders, as well Infrastructure Champions Initiative “Tinvestment haven cannot as innovate and assist the currently chaired by President Cyril be disputed, when Africa is home to continent’s mining sector, support Ramaphosa. 90% of the world’s platinum supply, Africa’s integration and “We think we can have something 90% of the world’s cobalt supply, competitiveness in the global Fourth like that level of leadership focus on 50% of the world's gold supply, 35% Industrial Revolution,” Danso stated. the mining sector. The African Union of the world’s uranium, 9.6% of the “First and foremost, we need to has a programme with institutional global oil output, two thirds of the appreciate that the cheapest form of investors called the 5% Agenda,
world’s manganese, and 75% of the stimulus is confidence, and the which is a commitment between HUbert Danso Image Credit: world’s coltan supply,” said ability to provide confidence and African heads of state in Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa Investor. Hubert Danso, CEO of Africa investor clear signals to the investment governments and African pension Ghana, under the leadership of (Ai) while addressing delegates at community is paramount and is and sovereign wealth funds to Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Africa Mining Forum on 16 really very important. We believe that increase their allocations in the Ghana, who is working closely with November on the topic “The Next there is a great opportunity to reset region of 5% of all assets under the Ghananian Infrastructure Smart Move: Covid-19 Recovery Plan the public-private mining leaders management to infrastructure and Investment Fund, which has now to Stimulate Investment into Mining relationship through private sector long-term assets. We believe the started to invest in the gold mining Exploration in Africa”. and presidential mining investment mining sector is ripe for sector in the country. That has Despite the continent’s huge partnerships and collaboration, and participation in that portfolio really sent a very positive signal to resources, Danso stressed less than we have seen it work effectively opportunity, and we’ve already institutional investors. We can 50% of the continent has been throughout the African Union seen a very good example from already begin to see this model geologically surveyed, and taking form in other countries on estimates that at least the same the continent. amount of resources have yet to be We feel that the continent only needs to “As a consequence the president explored today. has gained a great deal of But Africa only received less than cultivate a cluster of real catalytic confidence and support as a one third of the US$3bn global champion of the mining sector in exploration investment last year. investors to mount a strong, resilient Ghana and across the continent. But “We believe Covid-19 offers a let’s remember fundamentally unique opportunity to apply mining investment Covid-19 response.” capital markets and private equity different approaches; public and investments are capital raising private partnership models HUBERT DANSO, CEO OF AFRICA INVESTOR venues and instruments whose
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REPORT | PROFILE
investments are made through producers. We, therefore, feel that growth, and what the nature and companies and determined on their a compelling Covid-19 mining the depth of the relationship is with ability to build up a shareholder sector response to attract governments. HE Francis Gatare, CEO base and share premiums in terms investment into the mining sector at Rwanda Mines, Petroleum & Gas of equity. Investment in the sector is should be in the form of a Board (RMB), has already seen fruit very complex, competitive, and it is government partnership with local because of the leadership delivered forensically compared to global producers, premised on a four- through his own ministry, and his peers, not just African point plan to optimally increase president being a very dynamic opportunities.” investment.” leader, who understands the private
He also stressed that investors are This plan involves: /Flickr International Labour Organization Image Credit: sector. I really believe that harder to find than actual good • working with government and partnership is something that projects, which likewise are difficult local producers to expand should not be underestimated, it to discover. existing mines should be a forward looking “We feel that the continent only • assisting local producers to partnership. There is a big world out needs to cultivate a cluster of real purchase new mines there but I think with that catalytic investors to mount a strong • bringing in new joint venture partnership, and taking into account build back better, resilient mining partners to invest in that growth Nana Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana our blessed endowment, naturally has been praised as a champion of the investment Covid-19 response. The intentionally targeting and we are well ahead of most • mining sector in Ghana. reality is it is easier to secure current attracting a larger percentage of competitors around the world. We investors and local producers to the global exploration spend. private sector, wherever we are going just need to facilitate that increase and expand their He continued, “There is a strong and to invest, in whichever sector, the partnership which will unlock investment rather than secure new unique opportunity now for first conversation is with the local unprecedented levels of capital, if it investors. However, it is easier to get governments to work with local producers and local private sector to is properly cemented.” ■ new investors with the support of producers and the investment ask how they are being treated, current investors and local community in partnership. We, in the what the opportunities are for By Samantha Payne
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FINANCE | REPORT Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: Zambia: Southern Africa’s emerging impact investment market Zambia is gaining visibility and attracting increased investor interest as an emerging impact investment location in Southern Africa with continuing efforts to strengthen the country’s impact investing ecosystem underway.
he newly formed National in Zambia, raise impact investing Zambia has been working with such investors in a period of declining Advisory Board (NAB) on awareness, build local businesses to make them global growth. In Zambia, the TImpact Investing for Zambia – intermediation capacity and investment ready – guiding them interest rates are rising with the recognised by the Global Steering advocate for better impact through the process of preparing for increased indebtedness of the Group (GSG) at its annual summit in investment regulation. NAB aims to due diligence, meeting potential country. The reduced foreign 2019 – is spearheading efforts to become an influential cross-sector investors and negotiating deals. currency reserves led to a liquidity bring more investable opportunities coalition aimed at driving capital to “The vision for Zambia is that it crunch, which has had a knock-on to the table, raise investor improve lives and the environment. will emerge as a regional hub for effect in the finance sector and awareness of Zambia, build local “Zambia needs to increase the impact investment in the region – beyond. Inflation is rising and the intermediation capacity and level of investments in its impact surrounded as it is by other early Zambian Kwacha is under constant advocate for better impact sectors five-fold to US$5bn per year stage but highly potential markets, devaluation pressure. investment regulation. in order to achieve the SDGs by such as Botswana or DRC. There is a Furthermore, power is out for In partnership with the NAB, the 2030. This corresponds to 1,000 new long way to go, but the ambition is half the day, reducing many UKAid-funded organisation, investments per year when applying clear, and investors more familiar productive hours of SMEs and the Prospero Zambia, is working to the average historical deal size. This with Nairobi or Cape Town are service industry while the price of provide the financial and technical illustrates the interventions required starting to pay attention,” said NAB. fuel is expensive. The Zambian support required to bring the impact within the Zambian impact The NAB is working with private economy is small with 17 million investment revolution to Zambia. investment ecosystem,’’ said NAB. sector and government stakeholders people sharing a GDP of US$5bn. NABs have become the go-to The country is well-known for its to promote lasting change in the The mining sector accounts for resource for promoting impact copper-based raw-material impact investment ecosystem to more than 12% of that GDP, investment. By bringing together exporting economy; but economic allow more deals to be done – vital according to the World Bank. There governments, investors, asset diversification and increasing for growth of the country. is also an uneven Gini coefficient managers, intermediaries, NGOs, and investment in value addition are The Zambian impact investment (representing the wealth inequality market builders such as professional accelerating as businesses serve a market is expected to increase at a within a nation), which is very high firms, NABs are powerful change growing and urbanising population. Capital Annual Gross Rate (CAGR) of and points to a small base of agents for developing impact SMEs specialising in activities such 13% towards 2023. spenders in the country. Not economies that benefit people and as food processing, solar energy and surprising that Zambia slipped in planet. They have demonstrated their other renewables, and conservation Macro-economic challenges the global competitive index to 120 potential to unlock new sources of tourism are major players in a new Although the outlook for investment out of 141 countries. impact capital and develop national generation of Zambian businesses is positive and there are so many On top of all that, is the ongoing impact infrastructure and policies. that have successfully raised impact opportunities, the macro-economic impact of Covid-19 on investment. The launch of the NAB in Zambia finance to support business growth. situation is in a quagmire. Emerging In GSG’s new policy paper, it comes at critical time when the Over the last two years, Prospero markets are not popular with identifies three core phases: country needs more impact capital emergency, recovery and renewal. to achieve the 2030 SDGs and finance “If our objective is to stop the its Seventh National Development Zambia needs to increase the level of pandemic, we need entrepreneurial Plan (7NDP). The Africa 2030 plan for innovation to deliver vast reaching the SDG requires a investments in its impact sectors five-fold quantities of effective tests as soon minimum financing of US$500bn as humanly possible,” said GSG annually (SDGC Africa, 2019). to US$5bn per year.” chair, Sir Ronald Cohen. ■ Its purpose is to lead efforts to bring more investable opportunities NATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD By Nawa Mutumweno
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REPORT | TRADE
From 2021, AfCFTA milestone will impact Africa for years down the road The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was launched on 1 January, 2021. Economist Moin Siddiqi analyses what measures need to be adopted to make the accord a success for African countries.
The AfCFTA agreement came into effect on 1 January, 2021. Adobe Stock Image Credit: Image Credit:
he ‘pan-African’ free-trade customs union; liberalising intra- and labour and facilitating ‘value-added’ goods. zone was launched on 1 African trade in goods and services; investment; achieving Thus far, the treaty contains a TJanuary 2021, covering a resolving challenges of sustainable/inclusive development legal framework for trade in goods marketplace of 1.3bn people (60% of multiple/overlapping memberships and structural transformation; and and services, the institutional set- whom are age 25 years or younger) in regional economic communities promoting industrialisation – up, and state-to-state dispute and a gross domestic product (GDP) (RECs); enhancing competitiveness; whereby AU states not only trade in settlement provisions. The specific of US$3.4tn. Once completed, the promoting free mobility of capital commodities but also in more terms of trade liberalisation in African Continental Free Trade Area goods/services are still being (AfCFTA) will be the world’s largest negotiated. Additional protocols on economic bloc in terms of Over the medium-term, greater integration investment, competition policy, and membership (55 countries). African intellectual property rights integration is an opportunity for all across sectors means a bigger market for protection will be negotiated in countries. It could transform the phase two of the agreement. continent on the European Union businesses, financial institutions and (EU) model of closer political, Specific details security and economic integration. exporters to build new client relationships The AfCFTA aims to lower intra- The main goals of AfCFTA are regional tariffs and cover policy deepening economic ties in across borders.” areas such as trade facilitation (1) accordance with African Union (AU) and services, as well as regulatory Agenda 2063; creating a continental UNITED NATIONS ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR AFRICA measures, e.g. sanitary standards
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TRADE | REPORT
and technical barriers to trade. The reforms and capacity building milestone accord is large in scope. It among the institutions – at both will complement existing sub- The potential of AfCFTA becoming a catalyst supranational and national levels – Regional Economic Community are vital to enforce new regulations. agreements in Africa by creating a for regional development depends on real The ministries of trade and customs continent-wide regulatory agencies require training to framework. AfCFTA seeks to unify commitments to abolishing trade barriers.” effectively implement/administer eight regional blocs into a single the treaty’s obligations and problem marketplace, based on similar MOIN SIDDIQI solving. Some AU states will be structures to the Brussels-based EU tasked with implementing an Commission’s institutions. volumes up 29% by 2035. The bank Africa noted, “Sub-Saharan Africa is agreement for which they may have Under AfCFTA, tariffs on 90% of envisages intra-continental trade, in still a continent of enormous little experience. The AfCFTA also tariff-lines will be eliminated over a monetary terms, reaching US$532bn potential. Over the medium-term, requires a ‘multi-currency’ clearing five-year period (10 years for the in 2035 after the agreement is fully greater integration across these centre to facilitate cross-border least developed countries, or LDCs). implemented, compared to various sectors means a bigger transactions and to mitigate risks Starting in 2025, tariffs on an US$294bn under the non-AfCFTA market for businesses, financial from trading in several different additional 7% tariff-lines will be scenario. institutions and exporters to build regional currencies. abolished over a five-year period The treaty has the potential to new client relationships across (eight years for LDCs). Up to 3% of boost regional output and borders.” Infrastructure for tariff-lines comprising 10% of intra- productivity thanks to large resource connectivity African imports can be exempted reallocation across sectors and Stipulated obligations A ‘borderless’ Africa can become an from liberalisation until end-2030 countries. The agreement could The potential of AfCFTA becoming a enormous market, but getting there (2033 for LDCs). Non-tariff barriers increase Africa’s GDP by US$211bn – catalyst for regional development poses practical challenges, thus (2) on goods and services are with the largest gains in the service depends on real commitments to taking considerable time to reap the reduced on a Most Favoured Nation sector (US$147bn), manufacturing abolishing trade barriers; maximum benefits of AfCFTA. It status (3). Also, AfCFTA will be (US$56bn), and natural resources embracing full market requires significant policy reforms at accompanied by trade facilitation (US$17bn). Consequently, the labour liberalisation; effective treaty sub-regional levels and solid measures, complying with the Trade market would, too, benefit as the execution on the ground by tackling logistics/infrastructures across the Facilitation Agreement (4). The share of workers in labour-intensive constraints such as NTBs and border continent, which according to the treaty aims to boost intra-African manufacturing, trade services, and management procedures that African Development Bank faces a trade by 60% by 2034. public and recreational services hinder daily operations of ‘funding gap’ of between US$130bn should increase in the post- producers and traders; prudent and US$170bn a year. The African Anticipated benefits liberalisation era. economic/business-friendly policies countries also need to forge closer The World Bank calculated longer- There are tangible gains from to induce greater investment in collaboration with the private sector term economic/distributional effects intra-regional trade associated with non-traditional sectors; specific – the only viable source of capital – of AfCFTA – assuming all aspects of exploiting economies of scale in complementary measures to ensure mostly in the form of public-private the treaty are fully implemented larger markets, attracting more a smooth transition to free trade via partnerships (PPPs) and inward FDI. (which includes changes in tariffs, foreign direct investment (FDI) improved connectivity within Infrastructure connectivity offers non-trade barriers (NTBs), and trade inflows, increased competition, countries; a level playing field and the greatest scope to enhance facilitation). Under this scenario, transfer of technology and intra-regional trade remedies, such regional integration. The AfCFTA in real income in Africa would grow by managerial know-how, plus as safeguards, antidumping, and coming decades will create 7% or US$445bn and trade is economic diversification. The United countervailing duties. investment opportunities in predicted to surge – with export Nations Economic Commission for A set of comprehensive regulatory transportation, energy, and Adobe Stock Trade routes in Africa were designed for external trade rather than facilitating intra-African trade. Image Credit: Image Credit:
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REPORT | TRADE
infrastructure deficits and high trade-related transaction costs have over the decades hindered regional trade. Trade routes in Africa were designed for external trade rather than facilitating intra-African trade. Economic centres in 15 landlocked countries are located far from the closest seaport. “Policy makers in all Adobe Stock member countries, especially in transit
Image Credit: Image Credit: countries, share a critical responsibility to help overcome geographical constraints or the lack of The World Bank believes intra-African trade will reach US$532bn in 2035 economies of scale due to after the pan-African agreement is implemented. small transportation volumes. information and communication technologies, A renewed focus on the efficiency of transport among other sectors. Infrastructure upgrades lie and logistics services is long overdue,” argued at the heart of Africa’s development and growth the World Bank. agendas. New road and rail links will help In sum, presently, intra-African trade at 16% increase trade flows within the continent. Large falls well below Asia where it's almost 60% and Europe (70%). Thus, huge work lies ahead in removing many obstacles such as higher tariffs, A renewed focus on the technical barriers to trade and improving coordination of economic policies among AU efficiency of transport member states. ‘Pan-African’ cooperation is key to the ultimate success of the AfCFTA. and logistics services is Secretary-General AfCFTA, Wamkele Mene commented, “The only [post-Covid-19] long overdue.” economic recovery tool that we have collectively as Africans, is implementation of this agreement, so that trade becomes the WORLD BANK driver of Africa’s recovery.” ■
TRADE TERMS EXPLAINED Trade facilitation refers to the use of risk management and other customs and border management best practices, rights of appeal, and having information made available, among others. Non-trade barriers can be classified in three broad categories: (i) non-tariff trade measures, such as technical and sanitary/phytosanitary barriers; (ii) poor trade facilitation services, including logistics/ transformation infrastructure, border processes and customs practices; and (iii) other trade-related transaction costs, such as quotas, licenses, complex rules of origins and low credit to create or expand businesses. Most-favoured-nation status is an economic position in which a country enjoys the best trade terms given by its trading partner. That means it receives the lowest tariffs, the fewest trade barriers, and minimum import quotas (or none at all). In other words, all MFN trade partners must be treated equally. The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) entered into force on February 2017 following its ratification by two-thirds of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership. TFA covers provisions for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods, including goods in transit – hence making ‘cross-border’ trade easier, faster and cheaper.
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NEWS | POWER
Siemens Gamesa launches its first wind farm PARTNERSHIP FOR project in Ethiopia SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA RENEWABLES Siemens Gamesa has signed its first wind power project in Ethiopia with state-owned electricity company Enel Green Power S.p.A. (EGP), has signed an Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), strengthening its agreement with a subsidiary of Qatar leadership in Africa as the country begins to expand its Investment Authority (QIA) for a joint venture green energy capacity to meet ambitious renewable partnership aimed at financing, building and targets. operating renewable projects in sub-Saharan The 100MW Assela wind farm will be located Africa. The parties also signed an agreement between the towns of Adama and Assela, approximately whereby QIA will acquire 50% of EGP’s stake 150km south of the capital, Addis Ababa, and will in projects in operation and under Image Credit: Siemens Gamesa Image Credit: contribute to clean and affordable power for the construction in South Africa and Zambia with The wind farm will be located around 150km country’s electricity grid. south of Addis Ababa. approximately 800MW capacity. The country has set an ambitious target to supply Francesco Starace, Enel CEO and General 100% of its domestic energy demand through renewable energy by 2030. According to the African Manager, said, “Through this new Development Bank, Ethiopia has abundant resources, particularly wind, with a potential 10GW of partnership, we will combine our group’s installation capacity and having installed 324MW at present. According to a Wood Mackenzie forecast, sustainable strategy, enhanced by our around 2GW of wind power would be installed in Ethiopia by 2029. industrial expertise in business development, “Siemens Gamesa is intent on expanding its leadership across Africa, and in turn help a growing engineering and construction, as well as transition to green energy across the continent. So, we are extremely pleased to begin work in Ethiopia operation and maintenance of renewable and look forward to collaborating with both EEP and the country to continue to promote their drive to plants, with QIA’s long-term investment install more renewables and meet transformational energy targets,” said Roberto Sabalza, CEO for strategy, in line with the two companies’ Onshore Southern Europe and Africa at Siemens Gamesa. sustainability and decarbonisation targets. The wind farm will be made up of 29 SG 3.4-132 wind turbines and is expected to be commissioned We will work together to accelerate the by the start of 2023. The project will generate around 300,000MWh per year. Siemens Gamesa will creation of an extensive green energy provide full engineering, procurement, and turnkey construction. footprint in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing The Assela wind project will be financed by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs via Danida to the continued pursuit of its ambitious Business Finance (DBF) adding to a loan agreement signed between the Ethiopian Ministry of Finance goals in this sector by further harnessing the and Economic Cooperation (MoFEC) and Danske Bank A/S. region's immense renewable potential and Ethiopia has many renewable resources covering wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass, and the contributing to a more sustainable economic country aspires to be a power hub for the Horn of Africa. The country’s National Electrification development model in this part of the world.” Programme, launched in 2017, outlines a plan to reach universal access by 2025 with the help of Under the agreement, EGP will be off-grid solutions for 35% of the population. responsible for the development of each project and the joint venture has the right to invest in the projects following the successful AFDB APPROVES LOAN FOR HYDROPOWER PLANT completion of the development phase and The African Development Bank has approved a US$120mn loan to fund the construction of a receipt of any required regulatory approvals. 50MW hydropower plant in western Tanzania that will provide reliable renewable energy to At that point, the joint venture will be in households, schools, clinics and small and medium-sized enterprises in the Kigoma Region. The charge of financing and building the new Government of Tanzania will provide the remaining US$4.14mn. renewable projects. The project has several components: a run-of-the-river hydropower plant facility; a 54km, 132kV The initial portfolio consists of the 34MW transmission line that will connect to Tanzania’s national grid; a distribution network expansion Ngonye PV plant in Zambia, already in operation that includes rural electrification and last-mile connections; project management and operation, the recently-connected 148MW contract administration support; and compensation and resettlement of affected persons. Nxuba wind farm in South Africa, and four The project aligns with Tanzania’s national Development Vision 2025 and its Second Five-Year projects under construction in South Africa, Development Plan (2016/17 - 2020/21) and complements other regional initiatives. expected to start operating during 2021.
BRIEFS
Low-carbon energy collaboration Finance for African renewable energy projects The International The African Development Bank (AfDB) has Renewable Energy approved US$15mn in equity and grants from the Agency (IRENA), and the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) and African Development US$10mn from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF)
Image Credit: IRENA Image Credit: Bank (AfDB), have for African Renewable Energy Fund (AREF) II’s The signing of the agreement between IRENA and AfDB. agreed to collaborate on projects to boost low-carbon energy generation in
joint initiatives supporting investments in low-carbon energy projects. The agreement Energy Berkley Image Credit: sub-Saharan Africa. This will help small and focuses on enhancing the role of renewable energy and provides for collaboration on Achwa 2 hydropower project, medium-sized producers to add more than the AfDB’s Desert to Power Initiative, which aims to mobilise public and private funding 41MW, Uganda, developed and 800MW of hydropower, solar and wind power and constructed by Berkeley Energy, battery storage across sub-Saharan Africa. to install 10GW of solar power by 2025 in 11 countries in the Sahel region. with funding support from SEFA.
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REPORT | POWER
Off-grid power projects could modernise South Africa’s energy sector Stephen Barnes, head of Power and Infrastructure, and Rentia van Tonder, head of Power at Standard Bank Group talk on the importance of decentralised projects in supporting South Africa’s power supply.
ecentralised power projects, opportunity for thousands of small- or those that are not tied to scale renewable energy installations Dthe national grid, could play a in the months and years ahead. major role in closing South Africa’s electricity supply gap and Poised for a continent-wide modernising its energy sector. shift to decentralised power The country’s electricity crisis – as We believe that decentralised green- reflected by ongoing instances of energy solutions, which promote load-shedding, or planned power innovation as they are purpose- cuts – continues to weigh on the built, will continue to gain economy. The Council for Scientific momentum as municipalities, and Industrial Research (CSIR) mining houses and industrial firms estimates that the supply gap is seek to ensure cost certainty and currently between 5GW and 8GW. reliability of supply. Alongside Further, businesses are hydro, wing and solar, some mining contending with sharp and groups in Africa are even turning to Image Credit: Standard Bank Standard Image Credit: unpredictable increases in their hydrogen power to diversify their energy costs, and this is impacting Rentia van Tonder. Stephen Barnes electricity mixes – an indication that business confidence. clients and funders. Despite these technologies, which are becoming the fledgling hydrogen economy is But thanks in part to rapid and other challenges, as much as more affordable. Combined with the garnering more interest. declines in the cost of renewable 1.1GW of small-scale solar power has costs associated with electricity In countries such as Nigeria – energy, and advancements in battery been installed by commercial and distribution, this strengthens the where the electricity self-generation storage technologies, decentralised industrial firms to date, according to case for a shift towards market is 55% larger than the main energy solutions are now a viable the South African Photovoltaic decentralised energy across Africa. grid – we expect the country will alternative, and they could go a long Industry Association’s estimates. In addition, funding start to seriously consider pivoting way towards alleviating South When combined with battery arrangements are now being towards decentralised renewable Africa’s electricity challenges. storage technologies, these structured more appropriately. solutions as oil subsidies near an The shift in this direction has solutions ensure certainty of supply, Standard Bank is increasingly end, so as to decrease the supply already started, although it could and equally as important, they partnering with developers and shortfall and better service the large accelerate dramatically if various ensure certainty of cost. They also other key stakeholders to approach and geographically fragmented enablers can be provided to help to take the pressure off the funding and project design population. stimulate the sector. Regulatory national grid. differently so as to enable the roll- The shift to decentralised power – issues, environmental permitting, Hydro, wind and solar are out of these projects. and renewables specifically – will and grid-tie arrangements that allow currently the most attractive It has become clear that early also be boosted by the increased independent units to feed surplus technologies in Africa, which has an alignment between the developer, investor awareness of energy into the grid, remain abundance of these natural the client and the funding partner environmental, social and corporate complex issues that need to be resources. And while renewable gives rise to better technical governance (ESG) issues. addressed to truly unleash the energy units have historically only solutions and funding models. As a We believe that the addition of potential of decentralised energy. been able to provide an intermittent result, early phase alignment is more modular, decentralised energy The sector’s growth has also been supply of electricity, they will obtained, and innovation enabled. solutions could remove a major drag restricted by funding challenges, and become increasingly reliable thanks Given South Africa’s massive on the economy and help Africa to misalignment between developers, to rapid advancements in storage electricity supply gap, there is an reach its potential. ■
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POWER | SOLAR
Africa is only home to around 1% of the PV capacity installed worldwide.
Africa’s massive potential for solar PVs Africa has immense potential for photovoltaics which has barely
been utilised up until now. Wallace Mawire reports. Adobe Stock Image Credit:
pioneering spirit is spreading the end of 2019. While the use of shows that there is plenty happening total capacity of 500MW as of 2019 across the continent, with photovoltaic technology continues on the continent. Many countries and contracts were recently finalised Amany countries paving the to rise globally, almost no new solar have projects in the pipeline, some to build a solar park of the same way for ambitious photovoltaic systems are being set up in the on a significant scale, and the size in Mali. projects. This was the conclusion of sunniest regions of the earth. underlying political conditions are “Africa is on the threshold of a the Intersolar Solarize Africa Market The Intersolar Solarize Africa improving all the time. major transformation, which can Report 2020, prepared by the Market Report 2020 takes a closer For instance, Algeria is planning best be described as a kind of wave Becquerel Institute and the German look and presents an analysis of the to install photovoltaic systems with that just keeps swelling. We are Solar Association (BSW-Solar) with market in select African countries, a combined capacity of 4GW by excited to see what will come next,” support from Intersolar Europe, the for the first time including Senegal, 2024, while the end of 2019 marked says David Wedepohl, CEO of the world’s leading exhibition for the Mali, Uganda, Madagascar, Kenya the completion of Egypt’s Benban German Solar Association (BSW-Solar). solar industry. and Tunisia. The report investigates Solar Park. With a total installed The report analyses the market the various phases of the capacity of 1.5GW and six million Future solar outlook conditions in 16 African countries photovoltaics markets for 16 African photovoltaic panels, Benban is the The report presents four potential and presents multiple potential countries as well as their individual largest solar park in Africa and scenarios for the future of scenarios for the future. It was first regulatory conditions and potential among the biggest in the world. And photovoltaics in Africa. The “policy- introduced to the public at the for photovoltaic installations. It also Egypt is planning to install another driven” and “business as usual” Global Solar Council Virtual Forum, issues a clear call to utilise the 3.5GW of solar energy capacity by scenarios are based on the various which took place on October 27 and potential that already exists. 2027. Kenya has plans to set up countries’ current expansion goals 28, 2020. It is added that closer observation commercial PV installations with a and assume cumulative photovoltaic It is reported that electrification capacity of approximately 70GW by and renewable energies are at the 2030. More probable is the “solarise top of the political agenda in many Africa is on the threshold of a major Africa accelerated” scenario, which African countries. And yet, the presumes that photovoltaics in actual rates of installation in the transformation, which can be best Africa will develop broadly in the past year remained low. With same way as in other parts of the around 6.6GW, the continent is only described as a wave that keeps swelling.” world, giving 170GW of installed home to around 1% of the PV capacity by 2030. capacity installed worldwide as of DAVID WEDEPOHL, CEO OF THE GERMAN SOLAR ASSOCIATION The central assumption of the
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SOLAR | POWER
fourth scenario – the “solarize market for these grids. Clean and Water desalination and purification many challenges present in this Africa paradigm shift,” which builds reliable electricity is key to plants as well as pump units area. One example of the rise in on the current atmosphere on the improving economic and societal powered by photovoltaic systems innovative solutions for water and continent – is that the African conditions in African countries. are needed as one of the building photovoltaics in Africa can be seen markets are in some respects blocks of a safe and environmentally in Kenya. skipping over the fossil fuel age Solar and water friendly water supply. A solar-powered microgrid altogether. It combines the This year’s report also considers the The lack of clean water is thus desalination plant on the coast installed PV capacity with the potential offered by combining solar also a driving factor for supplies 25,000 people with fresh targets laid out in the Paris energy and water for the first time. photovoltaics deployment water every day. Floating Agreement. With a cumulative A billion people in Africa do not worldwide – while photovoltaics photovoltaic installations are also capacity of 600GW by 2030, this have access to clean drinking water. forms part of the solution to the already in use in parts of Africa. ■ scenario envisions Africa as a very important region in the future TOP SOLAR PV PROJECTS IN AFRICA global PV market. It is added that since half a 1) The Noor Solar Complex is a 500MW solar park 3) Benban Solar Park is Egypt’s largest PV project billion people in sub-Saharan Africa located in the municipality of Ouarzazate in the Agadir Benban solar complex. live without access to electricity, district of Morocco. It is the biggest concentrated solar this year’s report analyses the power plant project in the world. 4) GivePower built its first solar water farm in a small competitiveness of standalone local village called Kiunga in Kenya. power grids, or microgrids, for the 2) De Aar Solar Power Plant is South Africa’s biggest first time. It is estimated that Africa project, located in a town name “De Aar”, in Northern 5) The 8.5 MW power plant in Rwanda – a joint bid by makes up about half of the world Cape Province. Gigawatt Global, Norfund and Scatec Solar
Providing clean water through solar-powered desalination units in Kenya
Climate Fund Managers (CFM), a Dutch based blended finance manager, has agreed to co- finance and co-develop the installation of up to 200 desalination units in Kitui County. The systems are based on innovation by Solar Water Solutions, a Finnish water technology company that has developed a method to make clean water with solar power, with the lowest energy consumption on the market. The parties are now starting to pilot a project
that will eventually aim to provide clean water Punkka Solutions/ Konsta Solar Water Image Credit: from brackish ground water to 400,000 Kenyans by 2023. The total funding opportunity is estimated to be up to US$15mn. “We are very pleased with the initiative that will bring very clean drinking water to the rural population in Kitui County that needs it most. It is the most exciting project I have been part of in all my career,” said Emmanuel Kisangau, minister of Water in Kitui County. The units consist of a container that houses the technology, solar panels, and a ‘water ATM’ which allows people to buy high-quality water with mobile payments. The new technology enables the desalination system to operate without Solar water ATM, which allows people to buy high-quality water with mobile payments. connecting to the grid or using a set of expensive battery bank to store energy. Also, running costs that currently do not have access. We are added, “Through this partnership with CFM are close to zero thanks to solar power. excited to partner with Solar Water Solutions and locally with Kitui County and Epicenter Tarun Brahma, head of investments at CFM, and the Kitui Government to develop this Africa, we can together revolutionise access to said, “This initiative covers a major component opportunity and combine safe drinking water safe affordable water in rural Kenya. This of CI2’s investment mandate: supplying safe with a 100% renewable energy solution.” project marks a breakthrough in solar-powered drinking water with renewable energy to people Antti Pohjola, CEO of Solar Water Solutions, water infrastructure.”
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AFRICAN UTILITY WEEK | REPORT
Eskom’s initiatives & the African energy transition African Utility Week and POWERGEN Africa Agenda 2020 was launched on the 24 November with a keynote interview featuring Andre de Ruyter, group chief executive at Eskom South Africa. Robert Daniels reports.
uring African Utility Week, Andre de Ruyter, group chief Dexecutive at Eskom South Africa was questioned about how
Eskom was going to deal with the Clarion Events Image Credit: energy transition after several troubled years for the company. Ruyter acknowledged the organisation’s issues with corruption, mismanagement and electricity theft and outlined five short term key focus areas that the company was pursuing. These were returning to operation stability by catching up on maintenance, with aims to substantially reduce the risk of load shedding by September 2021; addressing the income statement; harmonising the balance sheet; restructuring the company into three separate legal divisions of generation, transmission and distribution by December 2021; and combating legacy capture and corruption in the Andre de Ruyter speaking at African Utility Week and POWERGEN Africa. hopes of turning around the low morale of his employees. incredibly promising and would effective tariffs which will make it Africa alone. Understandably jobs in The chief executive also pave the way for more partnership investable.” this sector will be lost, 2,000 highlighted his belief that Eskom opportunities. Both Pinsley and Hodson were employees have been let go by Eskom needed to embrace the energy Actis has invested around US$2bn impressed with ESKOM’s new just recently, but the JET office had been transition and proposed that his in 12 South African projects energy transition (JET) office, the established to ensure these concerns plans for future projects were producing more than 1GW in wind first of its kind in South Africa, to were recognised and properly concentrated on adapting current and solar power. address the legitimate concerns of addressed. Additionally, Carter-Brown infrastructure into new cleaner Hodson praised Ruyter’s emphasis workers and investors embedded in said at least 35,000 new jobs would facilities. He noted that a on reflective tariffs which he the coal industry. be created in emerging industries like benchmark study in the USA believed were the key to achieving The transition to renewable energy gas, wind and PV. repurposed a coal fired power investment and sustainability. He is only growing momentum and the The panel stressed that despite station into natural gas and said, “While they have segmented coal industry will be increasingly left Covid-19, Africa was still heading in estimated that there was a cost the business, it’s the fact they are behind with 10.5GW to be the right direction but needs saving of 30-35% as opposed to heading towards reasonable cost- decommissioned by 2030 in South continued determination and constructing a new greenfield gas greater clarity within the sector to fired power station. drive the energy transition, as A panel featuring Lisa Pinsley, Eskom has started to do. Continued director of energy at Actis, Simon It’s the fact Eskom are heading towards public and private emphasis on this Hodson, CEO of Gridworks Partners, development will lead to and Clinton Carter-Brown, energy reasonable cost-effective tariffs which will sustainable energy which will centre manager at the Council for hopefully tackle the 680 million Scientific and Industrial Research, make it investable.” people currently suffering from welcomed Ruyter’s comments and electrical poverty across the said Eskom’s new initiatives were SIMON HODSON, CEO OF GRIDWORKS continent. ■
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SOLUTIONS | POWER
ROLLS-ROYCE UNVEILS MTU GAS ENGINE SERIES 500 FOR POWER GENERATION
Rolls-Royce has launched the new MTU Series meaning that the engines can be converted to 500 gas gensets for the industrial and utility hydrogen operation at a later date. sector, in addition to other applications. With a All gensets are equipped as standard with the power range of 250 to 550kW and peak flexible MTU module control system (MMC), a efficiencies of up to 42.6%, the gas gensets offer control system that can be customised to a climate-friendly and economical solution. perform all important functions required for Gas gensets and cogeneration plants can be continuous monitoring and control of a ordered on the basis of six-cylinder in-line complete customer solution. engines as well as eight and 12-cylinder V- Rolls-Royce offers a portfolio of energy engines for the 50 Hz market. In cogeneration, systems that contribute to decarbonisation from
when electricity and heat are generated, Rolls-Royce Image Credit: simple storage solutions to complex microgrids efficiencies of around 90% can be achieved. In A wide range of variants: 6R, 8V, 12V versions deliver that intelligently combine battery storage with outputs from 250 to 550kW. the 60 Hz market, the units will be introduced renewable energies and diesel or gas gensets. A from mid-2021. explains Andreas Görtz, vice president power microgrid solution that combines heat and "With the 500 series, we are offering our generation, at Rolls-Royce Power Systems. power from a gas genset, such as the MTU Series customers state-of-the-art products with which The products will initially be offered for 500 with photovoltaics and a battery storage they are equipped for the future in terms of operation with natural gas, and from mid 2021 system can cut energy costs by over 40% efficiency and environmental friendliness," also for biogas. The 500 series is H2-ready, compared to a conventional system.
KOHLER-SDMO’s new diesel-powered gensets FPT INDUSTRIAL POWERS “SUSTAINABLE TRUCK OF KOHLER-SDMO has expanded the top end of the KD Series with the rollout of THE YEAR 2021” new models 4000kVA and 4500kVA FPT Industrial powers the “Sustainable Truck of (50Hz) / 3500kW and 4000kW (60Hz), the Year 2021” in the tractor category, the IVECO based on a strong worldwide market S-WAY NP 460 in LNG version. The winning response. truck is equipped with the latest generation of In late 2016, KOHLER-SDMO FPT Industrial’s Cursor 13 Natural Gas engine for
unveiled an entirely new range of KOHLER-SDMO Image Credit: commercial vehicles on the market. large diesel industrial generators up This six-cylinder engine ensures the IVECO S- to 2800kVA (50Hz) / 2500kW (60Hz), WAY NP 460 a maximum power of 338 kW/460 powered by a newly designed Hp at 1,900 rpm and torque of 2,000 Nm at 1,100 platform of KOHLER diesel engines, rpm and diesel-like performance. represented by the K135 and K175 engine KD103V20 engine. The engine design not only provides reliability families. The range was subsequently extended to and a longer product lifecycle, but it is also the 3500kVA (50Hz) / 3250kW (60Hz) in 2018. The new generators are designed to deliver extreme only natural gas engine with 1,600km autonomy durability and ultimate reliability in a variety of emergency and prime applications. and the new reference in consumption with 4.12 Brad Meissner and Cédric Briand, product managers at KOHLER , said, “With a 4500KVA / 4000kW km per kg of gas. Natural Gas (NG) is currently generator, KOHLER can now offer customers the largest and most power-dense standby generator the most viable and low-cost sustainable in the marketplace.” solution, with FPT Industrial leading this segment Developed by the company’s global team of engineers, the new KD Series up to 4500kVA and with more than 55,000 engines sold worldwide. 4000kW gensets incorporate a powerful and sophisticated K175 diesel engine – the KD 103 litre, They can run on biomethane, bringing emissions 20-cylinder model. From a design perspective, KOHLER kept many of the engine components the down to almost zero. same as the KD Series predecessors including the control system, fuel system, and cooling system. Cursor 13 NG uses stoichiometric combustion The modular design of the KD103V20-powered generator sets is a bit larger than its V16 and V12 and multipoint sequential injection, ensuring counterparts and delivers unprecedented power density and unrivaled performance. The better fuel consumption and lower noise than generators are equipped with the APM802 controller that ties the entire diesel. It can run on 100% CNG, LNG or system together for a seamless customer experience. biomethane and delivers fuel cost savings versus The APM802 control unit provides enhanced diesel of up to 30-35%. To comply with performance and monitoring features, such as (+/-.25%) emissions standards Euro VI Step D, this model voltage regulation, relies on a simple three-way catalyst, without expanded inputs exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The Cursor 13 and outputs, a NG is an alternative with low climate impact for 12 inch colour long haul operations since it has been developed touchscreen, and to meet high demands on performance and low the ability to operating costs. parallel as The Sustainable Truck of the Year award
KD4500 genset. KOHLER-SDMO Image Credit: many as 32 was created by specialised Italian magazine generator sets. Vado e Torno.
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NEWS | TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES
HYVA NORTH WEST AFRICA PROVIDES 12 TITAN HOOKLOADERS TO WASTE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER
Hyva North West Africa has completed a sale of 12 Titan hookloaders to a global waste solutions provider serving businesses and municipalities with waste and environmental management solutions in several cities in Morocco. Hyva’s 26t hookloader’s favourable dead weight and its high lifting capacity is ideal for picking up the loaded compactor unit for discharging the garbage by hydraulic tipping. The operator needed an efficient and reliable container handling solution for transportation to the transfer station or waste disposal site. The hookloaders were equipped with a fully automated sequence control lift system which helps to save time and can increase productivity The Titan hookloaders. and safety, benefiting the customer’s fleet operation. The fleet is fully Hyva Image Credit: supported by Hyva’s local and regional customer service team in Casablanca, which is also home to dedicated regional installation repair compactors and transfer station equipment – to waste handling projects. and technical application engineering teams. The local office is able to This is a great success story for Hyva North West Africa.” respond quickly to aftermarket needs and stocked spares to assist its Hyva, a leading global provider of innovative and efficient customers and end-user. transportation solutions for the commercial vehicle and environment Youssef Hachama from Hyva Maroc, commented, “This is a sizeable services industries, has been serving and supporting customers in all parts order from a global company for an important waste handling project in of the world for more than 40 years. It offers full one-stop solutions for Morocco. The number of engineers on the road and our application customers’ transport lifting and container handling equipment needs, that support team make a big difference to us; we are more reliable and able are designed for their durability, efficiency, and reliability. to provide a better-quality service to our customers. In addition to the Titan hookloaders, known for their efficiency and reliability, are just supply of hookloaders, it has allowed us to remind the market of Hyva’s one of a range of Hyva solutions – container handling, waste management, capability to supply other related equipment – cranes, skiploaders, mobile cranes and tipping solutions – available to customers in North West Africa.
FAYMONVILLE MODULES USED TO TRANSPORT ENGINES FROM GHANA PORTS TO NIGER
Ghanaian heavy haulage specialist MONPE Heavy Haulage has transported The convoy on the road in six power engines from Ghana ports to Niger, over a total distance of Ghana. around 1,285km, on trailers from Faymonville. Two 10-axle combinations type twin tyre ModulMAX with gooseneck were chosen to transport two engines at a time. As there were six of them in total, the complete job was handled successfully three times. Peter Everett, owner of MONPE Heavy Haulage, trusted in Faymonville support and knowledge for these jobs. He said, “Their load simulation software allows to determine the best positioning of the cargo for ideal load distribution. And the technical set- up of the twin tyre modular axle lines is made for this kind of task.” The Faymonville Image Credit: complete turnkey organisation of the project was handled by major journey in an astonishing average of only 23 days. logistics player DB Schenker, who charged MONPE with the on-road Everett commented, “We appreciate the premium product quality. Our transport from the port to the job site. twin tyre ModulMAX modular fleet was able to handle even the most The journey started at the major Ghanaian seaports Tema and difficult route sections. The 650mm stroke of the pendle-axles managed Takoradi, where the engines, each weighing 219 tons, arrived by ship to cross very rough road segments with huge potholes and even some from CAT Germany, for onward transportation to their final destination at flooded areas, while still ensuring the stability of the convoy and cargo at a power plant station near Niger’s capital city of Niamey. Border crossings, all times. The necessary transport safety was guaranteed thanks to bridge structures and small village roads needed to be analysed and permanent optimal ground contact. properly prepared for and countless electric lines and other obstacles “My staff appreciates the gentle vehicle handling. The modular vehicle needed to be moved in order to guarantee a safe passage of the heavy- solutions by Faymonville are absolutely made for the most challenging haul convoys, which passed through four different countries, from Ghana conditions. We experienced the perfect example of that.” through Togo and Benin, and finally to Niger. Besides overcoming the Faymonville’s footprint and market penetration on the continent have generally rough road and climate conditions on this trip, the MONPE team grown consistently over the years, making it an important pillar in their also managed to meet the numerous Covid-19 requirements in the worldwide network. Besides modular trailers, semi-trailers, extendable respective areas. flatdecks, dollies and further specialised solutions from Faymonville help Despite all these challenges, the team managed to complete each to move machinery and project cargo safely and successfully in Africa.
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CONSTRUCTION | NEWS
ADF approves loan for Uganda road projects DP WORLD TO DEVELOP The African Development Fund (ADF), NEW PORT IN SENEGAL the concessional lending arm of the African Development Bank group, has Dubai port operator DP World and the approved a loan of US$71.5mn to pave Government of Senegal have signed sections of two roads in south western agreements for the development of a 600ha Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: Uganda, a project expected to boost deep water port at Ndayane, to include a livelihoods, school attendance and rural 300ha container terminal, approximately connectivity. 50km from the existing port and near the The loan represents roughly 86% of international airport. The new port, the project’s total costs, with the representing DP World’s biggest port government of Uganda funding the investment in Africa to date, will reinforce remaining US$11.9mn. Dakar’s role as a major logistics hub and The central element of the project is gateway to West and North West Africa. to upgrade and pave 34km of the The first phase of the project will see an Kabale-Lake Bunyonyi-Kabeho circuit investment by DP World Dakar of US$837mn, and the Kisoro-Mgahinga Park Gates which will make it the single largest private road, as well as build two roadside The Uganda project is expected to boost livelihoods, school sector investment in the history of Senegal, attendance and rural connectivity. markets, farm produce holding facilities and is expected to be followed by a second and four ferry landing sites on Lake Bunyonyi. phase of investment of US$290mn. The funds will also underwrite the provision of two ferries with navigational aids and the provision Phase one will include a new container of technical assistance to the government to strengthen road safety regulations and support terminal with 840m of quay and a new 5km implementation of inland water transport aspects of the project. The project also makes provision for marine channel designed to handle 366m relocation and compensation of those affected. vessels and capable of handling the largest The intervention’s complementary approach – blending investment in road renewal with investment container vessels in the world. Phase two will in farming and other infrastructure – aims to increase market access for farm produce, increase create 410m of additional container quay productivity in a rural part of the country, and strengthen social welfare. and a further dredging of the marine Expected outcomes include improved tourism earnings, higher farm gate prices for commodities, channel to handle 400m vessels. increased school enrolment, and stronger hospital attendance in the project area. DP World is also planning to develop a “This innovative and integrated infrastructure development project is poised to increase market special economic zone next to the Port of development, widen business opportunities and scale up food productivity, enhancing income levels Ndayane to further strengthen the in south western Uganda,” said Amadou Oumarou, the bank’s director of Infrastructure and Urban attractiveness of Senegal to foreign investors, Development. looking at the Ecowas region. Cheikh Kante, Minister of State and Special Envoy to the President, said, “The CHINA APPROVES LOAN FOR NIGERIA GAS PIPELINE development of the new port at Ndayane will enable Senegal to maintain its position as Nigeria’s Federal Government has announced that China has approved a US$2.6bn loan from the Bank of the maritime gateway to the region and play China and Sinosure, a Chinese export credit organisation, for the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas a significant contribution towards the Pipeline project. This will fund 85% of the project cost, with the remaining 15% to be provided through realisation of H.E. Maky Sall’s vision for an equity from the Federal Government. emerging Senegal.” The pipeline, which is reported to be 15% complete, will transport natural gas from Ajaokuta, in Kogi Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group State to Kano State, as part of the Trans Nigeria Gas Pipeline. When completed, the project will enable the chairman and CEO of DP World, said, “The injection of 2.2 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day (scf/d) of gas into the domestic market and new port will create jobs, attract new foreign facilitate an additional power generation capacity of 3,600MW. Construction commenced in July 2020. direct investment to the country, and enable Mele Kyari, group managing director at Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) announced that new trading opportunities that bring about the project is set to be delivered on schedule to the agreed budget. economic diversification.”
BRIEFS
Sinoboom launches boom lift New driver’s cab introduced
Sinoboom announced the launch of the hybrid Manitowoc has introduced a state-of-the-art articulating boom lift AB18HJ at bauma CHINA driver’s cab “cab2020” on all Grove three-axle all-
Image Credit: Sinoboom Image Credit: 2020. It provides lower emissions, reduced fuel terrain cranes, the GMK3050-3, GMK3060-2 and Image Credit: Manitowoc Image Credit: consumption and up to one week’s operation from GMK3060L-1. The cab2020 sets new standards in a single charge and full fuel tank. Other new comfort and ergonomics for crane operators, products on display included the TB20J Plus and meets the latest crash-test requirements in Europe TB28J Plus from the Plus series of telescopic and is ECE R29-3 approved. It shares the same boom lifts, which feature heavyweight load compactness as the predecessor carrier cabins capacity. Further heavy-load boom lifts from the but offers an enhanced interior, improved The Sinoboom booth at bauma The Manitowoc cab offers CHINA 2020. Plus series will be launched in due course. improved ergonomics. ergonomics and feeling of space.
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MACHINERY | REPORT
Volvo CE rolls out 10-tonne asphalt compactors The DD105 and DD105 OSC asphalt compactors from Volvo Construction Equipment now come equipped with Tier 3/Stage IIIA engines for emerging markets.
Ergonomically positioned controls and joystick offers effortless maneuverability. Image Credit: Volvo CE Volvo Image Credit:
hanks to the integration of a prides itself on designing machines levels of noise and vibrations within provide a view down the edge of the Tier 3/Stage IIIA engine, the with the operator in mind. The the cab for a smooth and quiet ride. asphalt – increasing safety and TDD105 and oscillatory variant company makes some of the most Safety and ease of operation are rolling precision. DD105 OSC double drum comfortable – and therefore enhanced by the expansive front compactors are now available in productive – machines in the windshield which maximises the Smart technology, efficient emerging markets. These fuel- industry and the DD105/DD105 OSC view down to the drum and spray compaction efficient and productive machines is no exception. bars. The structural pillar supporting The 10-tonne compactors come are equipped with an 86.3kW Tier The ergonomically positioned the roof is located at the rear of the fitted with a 1,680 mm wide drum 3/Stage IIIA engine that controls and joystick guarantee cab, meaning the three front glass whose unique design halves the automatically adjusts output effortless maneuverability, while the panels provide operators with an power needed to start the vibration according to jobsite requirements, efficient climate system also helps entirely unobstructed view of the system with no compromise on delivering power only when needed. keep the operator comfortable. The road. When working close to productivity. This reduces the Other smart features include Eco rear-mounted engine combined obstacles, the fully adjustable operator’s exposure to machine mode, which cuts fuel consumption with a curved front glass panel and operator station can rotate, and vibration while also ensuring a by up to 30% without affecting padded floor contributes to low slide to the side of the cab to easily smoother finished mat. performance, and an auto-idle Fitted with the flexibility of the function that reduces engine speed Volvo oscillation technology – which when the roller is stopped. The rear-mounted engine combined with a eliminates vertical vibrations – the DD105 OSC offers high compaction Comfortably productive curved front glass panel and padded floor performance while producing a non- These robust machines are built to damaging oscillation movement. work hard but that does not mean contributes to low level of noise and vibrations This transfers less stress to the they cannot be comfortable. Volvo surrounding surface, enabling Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) within the cab for a smooth and quiet ride.” compaction in more delicate
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REPORT | MACHINERY
KEY SPECIFICATIONS EWR130E DD105 DD105 OSC Fitted with the flexibility of Volvo’s oscillation Operating weight (Cab) kg 10 400 10 178 technology, which eliminates vertical Weight @ front drum kg 5149 5161 Weight rear drum kg 5251 5017 vibrations, the DD105 OSC offers high Drum width mm 1 680 Nominal amplitude (low/high) mm 0.45 / 0.86 compaction performance while producing a Tangential amplitude (OSC) mm 1.37 non-damaging oscillation movement.” Vibration frequency (low/high) Hz 40 / 50
Oscillation frequency Hz 39 minimum. Moreover, the tank’s low checkpoints are unobstructed. Engine Volvo D3.8E positioning affords the machine a When it is time to leave the jobsite Rated power at installed speed 86.3 kW at 2,600 rpm low center of gravity for excellent and load into the truck, operators stability and can be quickly and can rely on the Anti-Slip Control to Overall length mm 4 650 easily refilled at ground level. avoid damaging the pavement. Overall height (top of Cab) mm 3 000 The double drum compactors are To further optimise machine Overall width mm 1 838 designed for simple servicing and availability, customers can use maintenance. The swing-up hood CareTrack, the Volvo telematics application areas, such as bridges, Furthermore, the two water pumps provides complete access to the system, to access a wide range of over pipes and close to residential alternate during normal operation. engine and hydraulic components machine monitoring information areas. Additionally, when In the rare event of a pump for efficient service inspections. designed to save time and money. compacting against a cold joint, the malfunctioning, a constant flow of Using a single key, technicians can When additional support is needed, risk of damaging the cold surface is water to the drum surface is access exterior service hatches, the extensive Volvo dealer network reduced, and the material can be automatically retained. The large while fuses and relays are safely is on hand to provide advice and more effectively compressed to seal 740 litre water tank allows for stored in the cab. With ground-level solutions, which can help customers and protect the surface. The increased refill intervals, also access to the engine, radiator, towards achieving their business oscillatory movement of the drum helping to keep downtime to a battery, and filters, daily goals and objectives. ■ can also improve surface smoothness, by re-aligning the material. To account for the increased wear on the drum surface, the Volvo DD105 OSC roller has a hardened, abrasion-resistant alloy steel drum shell, which increases longevity. Also helping operators to achieve a high mat quality in less time is the Compact Assist function. Powered by the Volvo Co-Pilot display, Compact Assist provides access to a set of work-enhancing apps – including pass mapping and temperature mapping – which provide real-time insight into the work being undertaken. With easy access to clear and detailed data, the operator can eliminate any damaging over- compaction and ensure complete coverage of the working area.
Unrivaled uptime The Volvo DD105 and DD105 OSC both feature an automatic water spraying system with triple filtration that provides uniform coverage and variable flow, as well as helping The 10-tonne compactors come prevent material pick-up. fitted with a 1,680mm wide drum. Image Credit: Volvo CE Volvo Image Credit:
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CONSTRUCTION | REPORT
On the rebound: Construction market looks to a better year Cautious optimism for Africa’s construction sector hints at a recovery in 2021, though perennial issues such as limited access to finance remain. Martin Clark reports.
here is no denying the South Africa construction sector has been Even in South Africa, there are Tthrough a rough time amid the similar hopes of a rebound, Covid-19 crisis, though its effects although it is facing other tests too. reach far beyond Africa. The chaos About three quarters of those Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: surrounding the pandemic and surveyed expect either a strong or induced lockdowns has engulfed slight increase in activity during pretty much the whole world to 2021, or at least for the market to some degree and yet there is still be stable. Those who viewed the reason for cautious optimism market slipping further back are in a
moving into 2021. Africa and the Middle East experienced the shallowest growth downturns last year. small minority. According to industry research, With lack of financial funding again almost half of companies expect to the pandemic played out. In Egypt, struck. While lack of access to cited as the number one block on see growth return in key markets like for example, nearly all expect better finance remains the number one business, it may well be that banks Egypt in the coming year. Prospects things this year in terms of growth, challenge for firms, there is again and other financial institutions have in some of sub-Saharan Africa’s big or at the very least, a more stable significant hope that a rebound is just as vital a role to play in facilitating emerging markets, such as Ethiopia market. Economic growth was coming in 2021. Roughly two-thirds any recovery. The consensus view of and Kenya, also look bright. flagged as the single most important think Ethiopia’s construction market industry professionals seems to be Yet it remains very much an determinant for driving new will see either a strong or slight backed by other findings too. unstable market - that’s the business opportunities. increase in activity, or at least be Back in November, Fitch consensus view in ‘The Voice of the more stable compared to the Solutions also reported that global Construction Industry Outlook’, an East Africa previous year. construction industry activity looked ongoing research project launched Some of Africa’s brightest prospects set for a rebound in 2021, after last by events organiser The Big 5 in would appear to be the major West Africa year’s contraction in 2020. partnership with GRS Research & markets of eastern Africa. The likes On the other side of the continent, It noted that Africa and the Strategy. of Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania West Africa’s biggest economy, Middle East experienced the The project asked more than were performing well before the Nigeria, is experiencing a similar shallowest growth downturns last 3,000 construction industry tumultuous events of 2020, situation. Again, the vast majority of year compared to other regions, the professionals what 2021 had in store attracting investment and recording industry professionals see better result of relatively muted outbreaks across the major markets of Africa strong economic growth. things ahead than in 2020. of confirmed Covid-19 cases and and the Middle East. The results In Kenya, there is anticipation that According to the research, almost a other market-specific factors that were mixed but it is possible to see this year will see an uptick in activity. third anticipate a strong increase in allowed for a recovery in activity some clear daylight returning as the Over 70% of industry professionals activity of over 15% or more, which levels even in late 2020. This new year dawns. see either an increase in activity over would mark an impressive rebound comparatively modest impact In many of sub-Saharan’s Africa’s the past year, or at least a more after the events of the past year. perhaps means we should expect a big markets - South Africa, Nigeria, stable market, compared to 2020. Just over a quarter of respondents more gradual recovery, especially in Kenya and Ethiopia - the primary Around a quarter expect to see a said they expected to see a slight southern Africa, which is likely to challenge was no different to usual: further decline in activity. increase in construction activity, of underperform its regional lack of access to financial funding. Easily the biggest challenge facing up to 15%. A further 22.7% said they counterparts through a much longer Other key challenges noted included this market is access to funding. At anticipated the Nigerian market to forecast period through to 2029. finding new projects, strong the same time, resurgent economic remain more or less stable this year. A key drag on southern African competition, collection of payments, growth and a rising population are As always, the primary challenge for markets, noted Fitch Solutions, is as well as lingering travel seen as important drivers for future Nigerian building companies and the heightened exchange rate risk, restrictions. However, these did not construction activity. It is a similar their suppliers is access to finance, present in Angola, Zambia, and sway opinion that is essentially situation in neighbouring Ethiopia, though other concerns include South Africa, which will serve to strongly optimistic for 2021 which had likewise recorded strong strong competition and sourcing reduce their attractiveness for compared to the previous year as growth up until the pandemic new projects. foreign investment. ■
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CONSTRUCTION | SOLUTIONS
LINTEC & LINNHOFF LAUNCHES MOBILEMIX ASPHALT MIXING PLANT SOLUTION
Lintec & Linnhoff, a global manufacturer and distributor of leading-edge solutions for the Reliable asphalt mixing production of asphalt and concrete materials, plant solution. has launched the MobileMix Asphalt Mixing Plant. This is a highly mobile solution suitable for short-term projects or projects in remote locations that require constant relocations.
Advantages: • Quick mobilisation and demobilisation with four basic mobile modules on chassis designed to conform to standard road haulage.
• Energy saving, powered by a double screening Lintec & Linnhoff Image Credit: drum technology that eliminates the need for • Batch mixing system equipped with load cells • Plug-and-play convenience with quick couple hot elevator and vibrating screens. to ensure precision and quality of hot mix cables and rigorous pre-shipment testing. • Fast set-up and dismantling with hydraulic asphalt. • Reliable performance from the combination powerpack unit, without heavy cranes and • Environment friendly with pollution control of cutting-edge technology and high-quality heavy-concrete foundations. unit utilising an ambient-air cleaning system. materials and components.
CONCRETE WIND TURBINE New Bobcat mini-excavators and loaders on TOWERS GET CHRYSO city demolition TREATMENT In wind farms all over South Africa’s Eastern Demolishing a building in the centre of Milan requires specific prerogatives. The work must be Cape and Western Cape provinces, CHRYSO carried out with surgical care, without damaging the adjacent buildings and without disturbing the Southern Africa is adding value to the precast residents, in full compliance with environmental and safety regulations. concrete segments used to construct the 100m This was certainly the case for the interior demolition in a prestigious five-storey building in the tall wind turbine towers. heart of Milan. To carry out this delicate work, the contractor, Seli Manutenzioni Generali Srl of The average concrete turbine tower comprises Monza, chose to purchase a fleet of five new Bobcat compact machines comprising two E17z mini- 18 precast segments, each with a height of excavators, an E10z mini-excavator and two S70 skid-steer loaders. between 18 to 20m and a diameter of between Thanks to their small dimensions and low weights, the three Bobcat mini-excavators, equipped 600mm and two metres. In the manufacture of with breakers and other attachments, easily dealt with the precision demolition of the floors and these precast elements, the production speed and other structures to make way for new stairwells and lift shafts. One of the E17z mini-excavators was segment uniformity are essential. This demands also used in the top-down mode to demolish the roof to create new floor levels for the building. high early strengths to ensure fast erection, while The two S70 skid-steer loaders were used to complete the process by handling and removing giving the towers an ability to withstand debris, unloading it into self-tipping bins, which in turn were moved with a crane. demanding fatigue loads. Wind turbines must also The five compact Bobcat machines involved in the work inside the building were able to work be able to perform in some of the country’s comfortably even in the tightest spaces, where bulkier machines would not have been able to harshest working environments, making durability manoeuvre properly. a key requirement for the concrete mixes used in For Seli, the brand of choice for the machines to carry out this important demolition work was precast units. Bobcat. “We chose to purchase Bobcat skid-steer loaders and mini-excavators as we consider them The CHRYSO Fluid Premia range of to be extremely high performing and reliable,” said Ivano Perego. plasticisers facilitates workability retention of between 30 and 45 minutes while achieving high Bobcat’s E17z mini-excavator in early strengths. These early strengths allow for action at the Milan demolition site. the fast erection of the towers owing to the quick turnaround time as the mould release and pre- stressing release can be done earlier. The CHRYSO Fluid Premia range maintains consistency in the manufacturing of reinforced concrete components, reducing the sensitivity of concrete to variations in water content. Plastic shrinkage cracking and plastic settlement cracking can occasionally penetrate deep into a precast unit. Applying a curing compound from the CHRYSO Cure Range to the precast segments can reduce the incidence of shrinkage cracks. Image Credit: Bobcat Image Credit:
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SOLUTIONS | CONSTRUCTION
GROVE GMK5250L’S EASY MOBILITY DELIVERS PRECISE LIFTS
A Grove GMK5250L all-terrain crane configured with a 91m boom was chosen to lift and place metal structures to form the roof of a machinery warehouse at a mining facility in the Peruvian Andes.
Given the constricted workspace at the site, the 250-tonne capacity Grove Image Credit: mobile crane was the suitable solution for the job, allowing other vehicles to still be able to use the same road where the crane was positioned. It was imperative the Grove crane could move out of the way at short notice, so that operations at the facility could continue without interruption. “Our approach was for the team to be able to leave the work area when refinery vehicles needed to use the same access lane where the GMK5250L Grove GMK5250L would be positioned,” said Carlos Villacorta Canessa, general manager at all-terrain crane. ETAC Peru, which supplied the crane for the project. “The work had to be carefully planned and executed, given we needed to account for the time it was possible thanks to the GMK5250L’s 50° jib offset, compared to the usual took to assemble and dismantle the crane. The GMK5250L performed 40°, which helps the crane reach further over obstacles. flawlessly, and we were able to complete the job exactly as planned.” Similarly, the crane’s compact build allowed it to work at the confined Another challenge the crane helped operators overcome was moving the jobsite with relative ease. The GMK5250L boasts 13.7m of chassis length, roof segments — some weighing up to 1.2 tonne — over massive oil tanks 7.8m of maximum outrigger width and five outrigger positions. It was at the site, lifting and placing the parts over a 64m radius. The operation configured with a 70m main boom and a 21m swingaway jib, totaling 91m.
Lorban TP chooses Liebherr R 945 for LEICA-READY FACTORY KIT performance, flexibility and comfort FOR DOOSAN DX255LC-5 EXCAVATOR Lorban TP deals with the extraction and loading of limestone at the Carrières du Bassin de la Sambre (C.B.S.). These quarries produce 600,000 tonnes of limestone granulate annually for Leica Geosystems and Doosan have announced industry, construction and civil engineering. the release of a new Leica-ready factory kit for Lorban TP was looking for a high-performance machine with short loading cycle times. The the Doosan DX255LC-5 excavator with the new excavator was required to operate a hydraulic hammer, to break up the the rock, as well as a semi-automated excavator functionality. shovel to load it into the dump trucks. The company chose the new Liebherr Generation 8 R 945 Leica Geosystems introduced semi-automatic crawler excavator to replace a Generation 6 R 946. The Generation 8 range of crawler excavators functionality for excavators which offers part or comprises seven models and was launched at Bauma Munich in 2019. The R 945 is the replacement full automation of the boom, bucket, tilt bucket or model for the Generation 6 R 950 SME. These machines put a new architectural concept into tilt rotator. application that has enabled optimised operating performance, comfort, ergonomics and safety. Together with other automated features, such The R 945 achieves higher outputs than the old R 946, and has an engine output of 220kW as iXE CoPilot and Automatic Tool Recognition, compared to the 200kW of its predecessor. The average fuel consumption is 28.5 litres per hour. operators are able to work with less fatigue and a The engine efficiency of the Generation 8 excavators meets the European standard of Exhaust Gas higher working comfort while digging, and Stage V. The transition to idling and the start-up are controlled automatically. reduce operational costs. The R 945 crawler excavator is equipped with an HDR bucket with a 2.5 cu m capacity for loading the granules into the dump trucks and can be fitted with a hydraulic hammer for crushing 2D and 3D machine control ready kit with the rock. The machine was perfectly adapted to the company's requirements. It is equipped with a semi-auto functionality for Doosan 6.15m long SME monobloc jib with SWA 66 hydraulic quick change system. The stability and excavators dynamics of the excavator enable loading cycle times to be shortened, thus increasing production To meet the increasing demand for machine output. A loading cycle takes between 14 and 15 seconds. The time required to load an articulated guidance systems from excavator customers, dumper truck in the 30-tonne class is one minute and 20 seconds in seven cycles. Doosan is introducing a new ready kit for the Leica iXE2 2D andiXE3 3D excavator machine control solution, which enables tilt bucket or tilt Increased productivity with a new Generation 8 excavator from Liebherr. rotator automation for Doosan's popular DX255LC-5 25.5 tonne crawler excavator. Thanks to the collaboration between Doosan and Leica Geosystems, the new factory kit enables customers to order Doosan's wheeled and crawler excavators pre-configured to be ready for the installation of Leica 2D and 3D machine control systems. The Leica-ready kit includes all the components needed to install the new semi-automatic functionality for the DX255LC-5 excavator directly from Doosan's
Image Credit: Liebherr Image Credit: factory through Doosan Smart Solutions.
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NEWS | MINING
Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed for Mining EQUATORIAL GUINEA Indaba Virtual DRAFTS RECOVERY PLAN His Excellency, Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Tasked with helping the Central African oil Africa, has confirmed he will deliver the presidential producer to overcome the challenges of the keynote address at the Mining Indaba Virtual show Covid-19 pandemic and the 2020 slump in from 2 to 3 February. oil prices, the Ministry of Mines and Following last year’s announcements, Ramaphosa Hydrocarbons (MMH) of Equatorial Guinea will be joining President of the Democratic Republic has drafted a 100-day plan to push the oil of Congo (DRC), H.E. Félix Tshisekedi and President and mining sectors forward and offer of Sierra Leone H.E. Julius Maada Bio at the event. economic growth. Ten months ago, the World Health Organisation The two ongoing main projects in the (WHO) declared a global pandemic, in which South country’s overarching plan to create a
Africa has been praised for its hard lockdowns, GovernmentZA/FlickrImage Credit: natural gas driven downstream mega hub at ensuring the virus was contained. Almost all industries Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa. Punta Europa seem to be on track. The were disrupted and shutdown, including the mining backfill project meant to feed gas from the operations within the country, excluding those supplying coal to power generator, Eskom. Alen field to the hub is 85% concluded, while Mining Indaba Virtual geared towards helping the industry build resilience and regrowth, while the Punta Europa modular refinery is 90% adopting a new mindset. Ramaphosa will take to the online stage to discuss South Africa, the mining concluded, according to an MMH evaluation economy and the way forward for the country, including opportunities for international investment in report. gold and PGMS, progress on the country’s response to the global pandemic and ultimately, provide an In a push to increase the contribution of update on South Africa’s power generation and supporting independent generation for mining operators. the mining sector to GDP, the MMH has As the world starts to recover from the global pandemic, the South African Chamber of Commerce strived for clarity and reform in recent and Industry (SACCI) will remark on the government’s plan to gradually reopen particular economic months. A new delimitation of the mining sectors, while continuing to diminish the Covid-19 virus. regions to be explored has been concluded, The mining industry was one of the first to reopen, as it represents 8% of the country’s GDP and up which should streamline the signing of new to 60% of South Africa’s exports. Many of the large mining operators helped combat the virus by contracts with private sector players. developing their own health and safety regimes, and worked closely with the government to transform The Niefang mineral processing plant has facilities to help control the rise of Covid-19 cases. been moving forward and is 80% concluded, This, coupled with the South African National Development Plan (NDP), the industry is set to help while the preliminary studies for the rebuild a capable state. The booming natural resources sector will be the key driver in the recovery construction of a mineral refinery in Kogo from the pandemic while eliminating poverty and reducing inequality through significant job creation. are also near completion. A number of programmes were deployed to help local communities as well as open BOTSWANA GOVERNMENT RENEWS KAROWE opportunities for entrepreneurs. Among others, a programme to support start-ups MINING LICENCE TILL 2046 within the MMH is being implemented, while Lucara Diamond Corp and Lucara Botswana (Proprietary) announced that Botswana's Minister of Mineral a miner’s support programme, a fishing Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security, Lefoko M Moag has approved the application to renew sector support programme and a new mining Mining Licence No 2008/6L in respect of its AK06 (Karowe) Mine. school are also being established. The renewal was effective from 4 January, 2021 for a period of 25 years, securing Lucara’s mining rights Additionally, the MMH has drafted and until 2046, and marks a critical step in the formal sanction of the Karowe underground expansion project. concluded a new onshore drilling plan as Eira Thomas, president and CEO at Lucara Diamond Corp, said, “The receipt of our mining licence renewal well as preliminary studies to identify targets and extension to 2046 is an important milestone for the Karowe underground expansion project, paving the in its continental basins. Negotiations with way for the completion of a supplemental debt financing and full project sanction later this year.” Cameroon for the joint development of the The Karowe underground expansion project continued to advance in 2020 under a revised US$22mn Yoyo-Yolanda cross-border gas field have budget in response to Covid-19. also been reactivated.
BRIEFS Shanta Gold announces new appointment Aton optimistic about Egypt’s mining future
Shanta Gold, the East Africa-focused gold Mark Campbell, president and CEO at Aton producer, developer and explorer, has announced Resources Inc, is optimistic about the company’s the appointment of Yuri Dobrotin as group plan for Egypt in 2021 . exploration manager, which came into effect at the “The year 2020 brought positive developments, beginning of last month. Dobrotin is a global both for Aton and for Egypt, but it brought some expert in gold exploration with 35 years’ unexpected challenges. Instead of letting those experience. He joins Shanta Gold from Barrick challenges become distractions, we focused on Image Credit: Adobe Stock Image Credit: Gold where he was a senior district geologist in Adobe Stock Image Credit: getting back to work as soon as possible in 2021,” Dobrotin was involved in the Tanzania. He was previously the geology manager added Campbell. Aton focuses on mineral discovery of the high grade West The minerals sector in Egypt is Kenya Project. at Acacia Mining’s Kenyan operations. showing signs of development. exploration projects in the Eastern Desert of Egypt.
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MINING | NEWS
Cora Gold announces start of drilling SEEQUENT UNVEILS DIGITAL programme in southern Mali TWIN TOOLKIT UPDATES Cora Gold, the West African gold company, is pleased to Geoscience software company Seequent has announce the commencement of a drilling programme revealed major updates to its mining across its Yanfolila Project Area in southern Mali. portfolio, which are focused on improving This follows previous positive drilling results within a user productivity to solve their geoscience
25km radius of the Hummingbird Resources Yanfolila Gold Gold Cora Image Credit: challenges and further enable connectivity Mine. and collaboration between users and their Some 5,000m of Air Core drilling is planned across three stakeholders. permits at the Yanfolila Project Area: Tagan; Tékélédougou; Included in this major release are updates and Farassaba III. to Leapfrog Geo for 3D geological modelling Bert Monro, CEO, said, “We are excited to be heading back and visualisation, Leapfrog Edge for resource with the drill rig to permits in the Yanfolila Project Area modelling, and cloud-based Seequent where we have historically had some very strong results, Central for model management and generally in shallow oxides. These results are further collaboration. encouraged when you consider the proximity to an operating The releases, which represent Seequent’s Yanfolila Project Area, West Mali. gold mine. We look forward to releasing the results as we biggest update to its mining portfolio in receive them.” more than a decade, include technologies Cora continues to advance a portfolio of projects located in two world class gold regions in Mali and that will ensure a smooth and seamless Senegal in West Africa, namely the Yanfolila Gold Belt and the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier gold belt. This transition to Seequent Evo, its new ecosystem is in addition to its flagship Sanankoro Gold Discovery, which this year received a US$21mn mandate to of hybrid cloud and desktop solutions. fund its future development as a highly profitable standalone oxide mine. Seequent’s chief technology officer, James During H1 2020, exploration included the use of Cora’s owned and operated rotary air blast (RAB) Lawton, said, “As projects become complex, drill rig at the Tagan permit within the Yanfolila Project Area. Panning of the RAB samples provided a organisations are generating greater semi-quantitative evaluation technique for identifying primary gold bearing structures. The amounts of data. We want to enable combination of visible gold with quartz veining, observed in RAB samples, points to the presence of organisations in their digital transformation primary gold structures, with lengths exceeding 800m. journey and enhance productivity.”
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MINING | REPORT
Transforming the energy landscape The rise of hybrid power solutions and microgrids is transforming the energy supply picture for cities, and at many of Africa’s big mines, helping to trim costs and reduce environmental footprint. Martin Clark reports.
Wärtsilä builds paths towards a 100% renewable energy future. Image Credit: Wärtsilä . Image Credit:
he average gold, copper or an interruption to network supply. As well as ticking all the right The off-grid mine is looking to
diamond mine gulps huge But the evolution of new environmental boxes, there is the reduce energy costs, CO2 emissions Tamounts of energy. renewable technologies, such as potential to reduce overall energy and boost power reliability with an Powering this industry has long solar and wind energy, is having a spend − always high on the priority energy plant that integrates a host been a challenge, especially in areas disruptive effect on traditional list for any mine boss. of innovative features, combining where there is no reliable electricity mining power solutions. both solar and heavy fuel oil (HFO) − commonplace for remote areas in Growing pressures to meet Fekola mine engines. Africa, where mines are often environmental targets are further Perhaps one of the best examples is Finland’s Wärtsilä has designed located. fuelling the transformation. Mali’s Fekola gold mine. and engineered a cutting-edge Even where it is possible to hook It has resulted in a host of hybrid Canada’s B2Gold, the operator, 15MWh energy storage system based up to the national grid, operators power plants grouping traditional won two sustainable mining awards on the company’s GEMS energy have wanted the security of large thermal-based gensets, with grid at the end of last year for its work in management solution. It had earlier diesel generating sets (gensets) to supply alongside clean energy West Africa, where it pioneering the completed a similar project for a underpin production in the event of alternatives. use of hybrid power. gold mine in Burkina Faso.
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REPORT | MINING
The mine operator is also approximately 2.3 million litres and building a 30MW solar PV plant to associated power generation fuel add to an existing 64MW of thermal costs by 10% in the first year alone. The new power station will deliver capacity with the help of Suntrace While it is great from an and BayWa r.e. environmental standpoint, it is also cost-effective, environmentally friendly, Work was delayed on the driven by good financial sense. US$38mn project by Covid-19, but Indeed, others too are taking on capital efficient power and long-term remobilisation of the Fekola solar the commitment to responsible plant construction group began in mining by investing in new hybrid electricity cost savings of up to 40%.” mid-September, the company energy systems. RESOLUTE MINING reported at the end of last year. Resolute Mining is currently The target date for completion of building a solar HFO hybrid modular the solar plant is currently the end power station at its Syama mine in US$0.23/kWh to US$0.26/kWh limited capital outlay from Resolute of the first quarter of 2021, subject Mali, in partnership with Aggreko, depending on diesel prices. Mining, under an innovative 16-year to potential Covid restrictions which had been providing and “The new power station will deal structure. affecting the workforce and site operating a 28MW diesel power deliver cost-effective, Stage one of the scheme will support. plant on the site. environmentally friendly, capital comprise three 10 MW thermal In an October update, the mining efficient power and long-term Wärtsilä modular blocks plus a Hybrid plants firm said commissioning of the electricity cost savings of up to 40% 10MW battery storage system, that It is not the first time the Canadian battery storage system and first while reducing carbon emissions by will provide spinning reserve miner has pioneered in this area engine is expected to be completed approximately 20%,” it added. displacement and balance sudden though, after building a combined soon, with the engines shipped via jumps in load. 24MW solar/HFO hybrid for its the port of Abidjan in Côte d'Ivoire. Aggreko advances The second stage will consist of Otjikoto gold mine in Namibia in At current fuel oil prices, the The new Syama plant is being the installation of an additional 2018. projected cost of energy remains funded and operated by Aggreko, 10MW Wärtsilä modular block in Changing the power plant to an below US$0.15 per kilowatt hour with 2022 and the addition of 20MW HFO solar hybrid plant meant cutting (kWh), the company said – the current solar PV power in 2023. Otjikoto’s HFO consumption by cost of energy at Syama ranges from Like mining firms, power companies too are having to adapt to the times, where technology opens new doors and environmental concerns close off others. Aggreko recently launched a solar rentals business to complement its traditional work in thermal-based power. A world- leader in mobile, modular power, temperature control and energy services, it can now provide from 1MW PV to clients wherever required. The solution is optimised for weak or off-grid applications – such as mine sites – and delivers clean energy innovation without long- term financial or technical commitment. The first installation was at the Granny Smith gold mine in Western
Wärtsilä Australia, in which a new hybrid system is powered by more than 23,000 solar panels, supported by a Image Credit: Image Credit: 2MW/1 MWh battery system on top of Aggreko’s existing 27MW gas-fired power station. This set up is expected to reduce The Wärtsilä modular block is a pre-fabricated, modularly configurated and expandable enclosure for sustainable power generation. the mine’s overall fuel consumption by up to 13%. ■
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SOLUTIONS | POWER
The new Cat DE400 GC diesel generator. Image Credit: Caterpillar Image Credit:
Caterpillar announces standby power solutions for the global electrical contractor market The 31 new models of Cat GC diesel generator sets have been launched worldwide, available for 50 Hz and 60 Hz applications.
he new Cat GC diesel generator enterprises and office buildings. generator sets are configured with Every Cat GC diesel generator set sets have been designed to “The electrical contractor market an optimised mix of common includes Caterpillar’s standard two- Tsimplify the specification is responsible for commissioning the features that deliver Caterpillar’s year warranty for standby power process and substantially reduce largest share of standby power renowned performance and solutions, while a suite of additional quotation and delivery times while solutions for small- to medium-sized excellent customer value with a extended service coverage options is also helping to meet the tight budget standby applications,” said Jason minimal footprint. available. They can be equipped with requirements of the vast majority of Kaiser, vice president of Caterpillar Cat Connect Remote Asset stationary standby power Electric Power. “We have specifically The Cat GC generator range Monitoring, which provides data applications in the 50-60 Hz power configured the Cat GC generator sets The new models join the current visualisation, reporting and alerts range. Select models with commonly with electrical contractors in mind, range of eight Cat GC generator set that are globally accessible through a specified power outputs and and we have now designed a models from 250 kW to 600 kW for web interface. configurations are stocked at larger product that offers Caterpillar’s 60 Hz applications in North America, Caterpillar offers product support Cat dealer locations for immediate renowned performance at an as well as the 1100 kVA model for 50 globally, with parts and service pickup and delivery. exceptional value.” Hz applications in Europe, Asia available through the Cat authorised Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. service and dealer network. ■ Optimal performance Features included: Powered by field-proven Cat engines • 11 with power ratings from 33 to and offering support from the global 400 kVA for 50 Hz applications Cat dealer network, the Cat GC globally We have now designed a product that generator sets are ideal for most • 11 from 40 to 200 kW for 60 Hz offers Caterpillar’s renowned performance standard small- to medium-sized applications in North America standby applications, such as health • Nine from 30 to 175 kW for 60 Hz at an exceptional value.” clinics, manufacturing, agriculture applications outside North America. facilities, municipal infrastructure, Designed and manufactured to JASON KAISER, VICE PRESIDENT OF CATERPILLAR ELECTRIC wastewater treatment plants and Caterpillar’s standards for efficiency, POWER other utilities, commercial reliability and productivity, Cat GC
40 AFRICAN REVIEW OF BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY | FEBRUARY 2021 www.africanreview.com S11 ATR Feb 2021 News Mining_ATR - New Master Template 2016 25/01/2021 16:07 Page 41
REPORT | POWER
The future of energy for Independent Power Producers Aytek Yuksel, content marketing leader for Power Systems at Cummins, outlines the importance of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) accommodating the growing demand for installed electrical capacity over the next two decades, and reveals five key insights every IPP needs to know going forward.
he International Energy be interpreted as decreasing the Agency annually has released value of additional electricity Tits World Energy Outlook, with production as the solar PV installed the aim of deepening our capacity increases (according to understanding of the future of Hirth), unless there is enough Image Credit: Cummins Image Credit: energy. This report is over 800 pages installed base of energy storage long and looks at the themes batteries to redeploy electricity around the future of energy. Here produced for another time of the are five key insights from the report day. While offshore wind becomes every IPP should know when it the star performer when it comes to comes to the future of energy: scalability, thanks to its high average annual capacity factor. Electricity use grows faster Offshore wind’s annual average than energy demand capacity factor is already Demand for energy is forecast to The world’s electrical installed electrical capacity needs to grow comparable to gas-fired power by 80% from 2018 to 2040. grow 1% a year until 2040, while plants in many regions and better electricity use is forecast to grow traditional power plants and positioned to find the fuels to fulfil than other variable renewables. twice as fast. This increased demand interconnections continue to be the this need. On the renewables side, This means the growth in installed for electricity will strengthen its key levers to deliver flexibility, gas- Africa is solar-rich, yet only less than base in offshore wind would not position as the second most popular fired generation grows across most 1% of the world’s installed solar result in a diminishing value of choice of energy in final regions. The expanding availability capacity is in Africa, offering vast electricity output. consumption, challenging oil’s of natural gas and its relatively opportunities for power producers. position at the top. A mix of cheaper price fosters this growth. When it comes to low-carbon fuels, Battery storage technologies technologies will fuel this transition, IPPs bring to life the solutions to Africa has benefited from recent will become an integral part where solar photovoltaic (PV) and address the increasing demand for discoveries of gas deposits. In fact, of energy infrastructure wind will take the lead. By 2040, energy and electricity. 40% of global gas discoveries from Energy-storage batteries are more of our electricity will be 2010 to 2018 were in Africa. projected to be the rising star in through renewable sources than Africa offers vast building our energy infrastructure, fossil fuels. opportunities for power There are two sides of the thanks to advancements in battery producers scalability story for technologies and decreasing costs. It Demand for power Demand for electricity generation is renewables is estimated there will be a forty- infrastructure flexibility forecast to grow in Africa faster than The installed base of PV has grown fold increase in battery storage grows faster than the any other region. A mix of factors, over recent years and is forecast to capacity by 2040, faster than almost demand for electricity including over half a billion people account for more installed capacity every other mainstream technology. Renewable technologies bring to join the continent’s urban than any other energy source by Increased use of energy-storage astonishing benefits in terms of zero population, increased access to 2040. Meanwhile, scaling up solar batteries will impact how we carbon emissions, but also introduce electricity and expanding mineral PV results in more electricity manage the intermittent nature of the challenge of flexibility. The extraction activities, drive this produced around the same time of solar and wind. Scaling up solar PV continually increasing share of demand. Africa is also well- the day in a given region. This could results in producing more electricity renewables in our energy around the same time of the day in infrastructure translates into an a given region and could reduce the increasing share of variable Demand for electricity generation is value of additional electricity electricity generation. Meanwhile, production. Meanwhile, both solar consumers are increasingly using forecast to grow in Africa faster than any PV and batteries could address this electricity for cooling and to fuel challenge. While the addition of their cars, changing the electricity other region.” batteries increases the levelised cost demand profile. A combination of of electricity (LCOE), the LCOE for these two results in an increased AYTEK YUKSEL, CONTENT MARKETING LEADER FOR POWER solar PV and batteries is forecast to need for power-system flexibility. As SYSTEMS AT CUMMINS be competitive with fossil fuels. ■
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MINING | REPORT
Battery metals: The new gold for West Africa? As part of the Africa Mining Forum 2020 Alfonso Tejerina, executive director at Global Business Reports, hosted a panel discussing how West Africa could benefit from the growing battery market. By Robert Daniels.
est Africa is famous for its gold production, providing Wmore than 8% of the world’s supply. It is where the majority of mining infrastructure in the region is focused and is Adobe Stock Image Credit: dominant in attracting foreign projects and investment. In the shadow of this industry, it can be difficult for mining projects focused on other materials to generate attention and receive adequate funding, but this needs to change, according to George Arhin, partner and west market mining leader at PwC. He explained to fellow panellists at the Africa Mining Forum, held on 16-20 November, how West Africa cannot only depend on one resource, economic diversity was key, and the battery market presented an excellent opportunity for expansion outside of gold. In 2019, the battery metal market was worth US$14.8bn, and is The panellists discussed whether projected to hold an accumulative the future of West African mining growth of 2.4% over the next few lay outside gold. years, which is driven by continued emphasis on emission reduction and electrical vehicles. increase 2.4 times, and nickel and fiscal stability. good example where there are As George Heppel, senior analyst lithium 3.3 times, respectively. Bernard Michael Aylward, CEO of established bureaucratic channels. at the CRU, explained to the panel, Africa, especially west African Kodal Minerals, who also joined the Despite the recent coup, good economic turmoil, high consumer countries, have the potential to tap panel, outlined the need for a good relations have been maintained debt, potential austerity plans and into this growing market and legal framework and strong and the project is still moving risk of unemployment in the wake demand as they have an abundance government support to achieve forward. Other west African of the pandemic could have stalled of such resources. However, to do this. He cited Mali, where Kodal countries are following this this growth dramatically, but this this, there needs to be investment Minerals are awaiting approval for example, and the panel believed was not the case. Instead countries and potential financiers to ensure a new facility at Bougouni, as a this will be fundamental to and companies renewed their exploiting this market and reaping climate change aspirations. the economic benefits. In his closing statement, Ahrin Green agenda There is a future for Africa in the battery provided an uplifting tone by Central to these green targets is saying, “There is a future for Africa electrical transportation, which metal market, but there is a bigger future in the battery metal market, but means batteries and their there is a bigger future for West component elements will remain in for West Africa.” Africa. We are looking forward to high demand for the foreseeable GEORGE AHRIN, PARTNER AND WEST MARKET MINING LEADER working together and bringing future. Heppel suggested that the these untapped resources to global demand for cobalt could AT PWC benefit Africa.” ■
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TELEHANDLERS | CONSTRUCTION
Bobcat launches new generation rotary telehandler range Bobcat has collaborated with Magni TH of Italy to launch an expanded line of new generation rotary telehandlers for markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
Bobcat has announced a new generation rotary telehandler range for African markets.
he new Bobcat rotary December, 2020. This was a telehandler range includes ten continuation of the 'Next TStage V compliant models for is Now' strategy
the European market, with lifting presented for the Bobcat Image Credit: heights from 18 to 39 metres and first time in EMEA lifting capacities from 4 to 7 tonnes. and Russia/CIS at a These are complemented by another previous online four Stage III. A engine powered event in October models aimed at the Middle East, 2020, where Bobcat Africa and Russia/CIS regions with launched 48 lifting heights from 18 to 25 metres products in 12 and lifting capacities from 4 to 6 tonne. different categories. Olivier Traccucci, Bobcat • Large windows for optimal five different pages. Navigating Telehandler senior product Unbeatable cab experience visibility between these pages is extremely manager, said, “Our new rotary As in all Bobcat products, operator • ROPS/FOPS certification easy and intuitive using the touch telehandler range offers an comfort is a prerequisite in the new • An easily adjustable steering screen or the jog shuttle. expanded model selection and rotary telehandlers, and the column increased lifting heights and lifting innovative patented design of the • A comfortable, fully adjustable Attachment versatility capacities. The new range offers cab is key to working safely on site, seat. In Bobcat rotary telehandlers, cutting-edge technology that providing: In the cab, all Bobcat rotary attachments are almost as continues the theme of reinvention • A fully pressurised environment telehandlers are equipped with a important as the machine itself, as that is at the core of our ‘Next is • 100% air filtration large, bright touchscreen display they provide the versatility needed Now’ philosophy. As a result, they • Heating and air conditioning with intuitive machine controls. on site. The attachments are usually offer enhanced 360° performance to (except TR40.180) Machine settings are managed over forks (supplied as standard), crane create the ultimate tools for even jibs, winches or jib winches, man the most complex site handling jobs. platforms and buckets. A big choice of over 20 attachments The new range offers cutting-edge and various options also ensures Bobcat naming scheme that working at height has never technology that continues the theme of Taking the TR60.250 model as an been so versatile, efficient, example, Bobcat rotary telehandlers comfortable and safe.” reinvention that is at the core of Bobcat’s are named, according to the product Available to order now with some line [(T)elescopic (R)otary], lift capacity of the machines already delivered in ‘Next is Now’ philosophy.” (6.0 tonne) and lift height (25m). Europe, the new rotary telehandler In MEA and Russia, the range range from Bobcat was introduced OLIVIER TRACCUCCI, BOBCAT TELEHANDLER SENIOR PRODUCT comprises the TR40.180, TR50.210, at an online launch event held on 2 MANAGER TR60.210 and TR60.250 models. ■
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MINING | TRUCKS
World’s largest hydrogen mining truck in progress As the mining industry takes strides towards becoming more sustainable, Anglo American is leading the way, with its plans to develop the world’s first hydrogen-powered mining haul truck. Samantha Payne reports.
nglo American hit the “We are extremely pleased to be An example of a mine haul headlines two years ago when partnering with ENGIE and we look truck that will be converted Ait announced it would be to using hydrogen. forward to developing and developing the world’s first implementing this step-change hydrogen-powered truck as part of technology. the company’s innovative “This is part of our plan to create FutureSmart Mining programme and a smart energy mix that moves us vision towards operating a carbon- closer towards our carbon and neutral mine. energy targets for 2030 and, It will be a Fuel Cell Electric ultimately, our vision of operating a Vehicle (FCEV), an ultra-class mining carbon-neutral mine.” haul truck, a first of of its kind, built Michele Azalbert, CEO of ENGIE’s
to help Anglo American meet its Anglo American Image Credit: hydrogen business, added, “The target to reduce global greenhouse solution aims to help decarbonise gas emissions by 30% by 2030. the mining sector. Anglo American’s Speaking to African Review, an global footprint and its journey to Anglo American spokesman operational carbon neutrality are said,“The [FCEV] project is aligned with ENGIE’s strategy to progressing well, and we are develop large-scale integrated currently building the electrolyser to hydrogen solutions in local and produce hydrogen on site, which generated is divided between 800 during the second half of 2021, after global markets.” will support the hydrogen electric kW of fuel cells and a 1.1 MWh which the trucks are expected to be Meanwhile truck giant BELAZ is ultra-class haul truck.” battery to provide a peak power of deployed at other Anglo American reportedly developing an all battery- The trial first began in 2019, but over 2 MW, according to reports. operations. This could include more powered truck in the 90t class, the pilot project was delayed due to An added bonus is that the than 400 of Anglo American’s giant based on its 7558 base model. When the coronavirus pandemic. It is now battery system will be able to mining haul trucks being converted built, it will be the world’s largest all back on track, with the ‘first motion’ recover energy as the haul truck to using hydrogen fuel. battery mining vehicle. of the hydrogen-powered truck being travels downhill through ENGIE, a leading global energy Other hybrid trucks in retrofitted with eight Ballard regenerative breaking, and night and energy services company, has development includes Weichai’s FCveloCity®-HD 100 kW modules in time storage of fuel will be available collaborated with Anglo American 200t hydrogen fuel cell battery- 2021, with the first hydrogen expected as the electroyser plant will be on the project by providing the powered mining truck, which will be in the second quarter of the year. producing more fuel than the truck’s hydrogen generation solutions coming off the factory line in the A giant Komatsu 291 t 930E truck daily demand, maximising hydrogen while Anglo American is developing second half of this year, following a will be stripped of its diesel engine usage. the truck. successful pilot in 2019 in and fitted instead with the hydrogen The converted trucks are partnership with CRRC Yongji. fuel cell modules and lithium-ion Testing programme expected to perform better than E-mining is reportedly developing battery system, which is controlled After the hydrogen modules have diesel-run trucks while providing a 100t all battery model, using a by a voltage power distribution unit. been placed in the pilot truck, there cleaner air, less noise and lower Komatsu HD605-7 truck. The battery system is being will be a testing and validation maintenance costs. The global mining machinery supplied by Williams Advanced programme at Anglo American’s On the announcement of the market size is projected to reach Engineering (WAE), which was platinum group metals open-pit partnership, Tony O’Neill, Technical US$36.2bn by 2025, from an announced in February last year. mine in Mogalakwena, South Africa Director of Anglo American, said, estimated value of US$29bn in 2020, Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser is at a CAGR of 4.5%, with electric delivering the 3.5 MW electrolyser. machinery, in particular, driving this The electrolyser, which uses The solution aims to help decarbonise the market growth, according to report: electricity to split water into Mining Machinery Market by hydrogen and oxygen, can mining sector.” Category, Application, Propulsion, reportedly produce up to 1,000kg of Power Output, Electric Machinery, hydrogen per day. MICHELE AZALBERT, CEO OF ENGIE’S HYDROGEN BUSINESS Autonomous Machinery and Region – The combination of power Global Forecast to 2025. ■
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MINING | SOLUTIONS
LARGEST SCREENS BUILT BY WEIR MINERALS AFRICA HEAD TO NIGERIAN MINE
Two of the largest screens built by Weir Minerals 43/97) screens for this project were built upon Africa are being designed and manufactured in the designs of the Weir Minerals existing screens South Africa as part of a process solution for an range. These large machines measure 4,3 metre iron ore mine in Nigeria. wide and 9,7 metre long and can process 1,750 According to Tiisetso Masekwameng, general tonnes per hour. manager comminution at Weir Minerals Africa, “The customer’s production requirements
the flowsheet accepted by the customer includes demanded this considerable size, so we Africa Minerals Weir Image Credit: equipment for screening, washing, and grinding optimised the design by minimising mass supplied by Weir Minerals. without compromising structural integrity,” said “Within our scope of work are the two largest Hunter. “We conducted extensive finite element Enduron double-deck banana screens built by analysis (FEA) on the whole machine but focused Tiisetso Masekwameng, general manager Weir Minerals,” said Masekwameng. “This is on the main structural elements, ensuring that comminution, and Steven Hunter, technology group leader separation at Weir Minerals Africa. made possible by the depth of design expertise the units were fit-for-purpose while still being in our Separation Technology Group, an eight- light enough to be driven by the exciters.” force, these units will drive the screens at a strong team conducting research and development.” Nonetheless, the size of the units still stroke of 9,4 mm and a gravitational force of 4,6 Steven Hunter, separation technology group demanded the design and manufacture of Weir G. The research and manufacturing teams leader at Weir Minerals Africa, says the two 51- Minerals Africa’s largest exciter yet – the contributed to the development and testing of tonne Enduron double-deck banana (DBHG Enduron LTX 10. With 120 tonnes of excitation the Enduron LTX 10 exciters.
Absolute material control key in mill feed KWATANI GROWS ITS BASE Mill feed transfer points and scrubber feed chutes are traditionally considered high wear and high OF SCREENING SOLUTIONS maintenance installations. However, Alwin Nienaber, technical director at Weba Chute Systems, As leading vibrating screens and feeders says by engineering the transfer point to ensure the correct control of material feed into the mill or specialist Kwatani has transitioned from scrubber it is possible to significantly reduce wear and tear, and consequently maintenance. equipment supplier to solutions provider, it has Nienaber explains that the transfer point into the mill or scrubber is critical with problems often attracted customers from well beyond South arising due to the nature of this application. “This area of the plant is subjected to high velocity, Africa and even outside Africa. which can cause excessive wear and tear and is linked directly to the speed of material being According to Kwatani general manager sales transferred through the chute.” and service, Jan Schoepflin, the company’s Large quantities of water required for the milling process are fed with the material into a mill or strong in-house expertise and design capability — scrubber chute. In ball mill applications, steel balls are also fed through the chute into the mill combined with the world-class manufacturing itself. Traditionally, mills are lined with either cast high chrome, manganese or rubber liners, and quality it consistently achieves — ensures its even though mill feed chutes may have similar lining materials applied, these are not always solutions deliver optimal performance at the sufficiently robust to counter the excessive wear caused by uncontrolled discharge of materials. lowest possible lifecycle costs. “Another challenge in this application is the interface between the stationary chute and the “Our orders show our customer base in rotating mill,” said Nienaber. “Uncontrolled discharge of bulk materials and water will escalate the Southern Africa remains strong, while there is cost of maintenance, and could result in other related problems, all of which could add up to growing recognition of our cost-effective offerings unnecessary expenditure and added aggravations for the engineers concerned.” in West Africa, East Africa and North Africa,” said Weba Chute Systems & Solutions has decades of experience in assessing individual applications Schoepflin. “At the same time, orders from and providing a solution that will meet the operating parameters and contribute to achieving the countries like Canada and Russia indicate that our lowest cost per ton for the mine. markets abroad continue to grow.” Kwatani remains the market leader in the supply and servicing of vibrating screens and feeders on iron ore and manganese mines in South Africa’s Northern Cape province. It also counts platinum, coal, diamond and gold mines in its customer base. Its West African orders have been mainly to gold mines, and there is growing potential for gold mining in East Africa, he said. By controlling product flow in the Weba chute, Over its four decades of operation, Kwatani the high wear rates has produced about 16,000 custom-designed traditionally experienced screens, and is building on average 30 to 40 in a mill feed spout can be significantly reduced. units a month in its ISO 9001:2015 certified facility close to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. “Our reputation has been built on prioritising what our customers need, and doing business with integrity and trust,” Schoepflin said. Image Credit: Weba Chute Systems Weba Image Credit:
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WISA 2020 | REPORT
WISA 2020 calls for trust in youth for solutions The inclusion of youth professionals in the water sector was a major theme as the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) Conference and Exhibition 2020 came to a close on 10 December. Robert Daniels and Samantha Payne report.
The WISA Conference and Exhibition was held online for the first time in its history. Image Credit: WISA Image Credit:
uring the WISA 2020 closing young people involved in the struggling to make its way into were benefiting, leaving others ceremony, Neil Louw, deputy decision-making process. Why not ground level solutions. behind. This problem is enhanced Dlead of the Gauteng have a panel and committee and There are also hundreds of by continued high levels of Committee of the Young Water take young people under their wing graduates struggling to find corruption within the sector and Professionals, and Marlene Van Der and get them involved in the employment in the water industry, while change is starting to manifest, Merwe-Botha, chair of the technical decision-making?” with many companies reluctant to it remains a recurring issue. committee for WISA 2020, both The two speakers then employ them, believing they lack To incorporate these together, acknowledged the excellent role addressed other key lessons that had practical experience. More Louw suggested that the industry that young professionals play in the emerged from WISA 2020. Many collaboration between the industry had to turn government regulation water sector, but said they were participants had mentioned ‘African and universities would result in from one of ‘reaction’ to one of unappreciated, and should be problems require African solutions’; cutting-edge research being used to ‘proaction’; to implement these involved in decison-making and a phrase that recognised the solve water issues within South innovative ideas and take hold of creating solutions. increased need for innovation and Africa and address the lack of skills rigorous planning so that South Louw said, “At the moment it is collaboration within the South within the industry. Africa is prepared for the next new problems but old solutions. We African water sector. There is a Louw noted the worrying trend crisis, rather than struggle with it need solutions from fresh minds plethora of ‘ivory tower that the innovative solutions that when it comes. that have grown up in a digital age university research’ being are being developed, were failing to Merwe-Botha concluded, “Let’s who can approach problems from produced, (as was showcased in make their way to smaller ensure the hard work of WISA 2020 different angles. Young people also several student presentations municipalities, instead only larger, does not go undone. From our side, bring diversity and this can only throughout WISA 2020), but it is better financed water providers WISA will formulate a research benefit the sector and the country, paper to produce solutions and put bringing new ideas and new visions, them forward to South African which we need.” WISA will formulate a research paper to leadership. We will attempt to He added that while young water establish leadership positions for professionals have repeatedly produce solutions and put them forward to young professionals to get their proved their capabilities, as many of voice through. Let’s keep them had done across WISA 2020, South African leadership.” committed and keep supporting they need to be shown more trust at this sector. Let’s get organised, higher levels. NEIL LOUW, DEPUTY LEAD OF THE GAUTENG COMMITTEE OF keep our hands on deck and keep He pointed out, “We need to get THE YOUNG WATER PROFESSIONALS sharing knowledge.” ■
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REPORT | WISA 2020
OTHER WISA 2020 HIGHLIGHTS Managing drought: Cape Town
As part of the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) Conference and Exhibition 2020, a talk was held on the lessons learned from the
recent Cape Town drought. Adobe Stock Image Credit: After consecutively experiencing three of its driest wet seasons on record between 2015 and 2018, Cape Town suffered in 2019 an acutely damaging drought which saw water storage levels drop to close to 20%. There had been similar occasions of dry periods in the past few centuries, but this disaster was particularly severe and raised questions about the city’s planning and maintenance. Lloyd Fisher-Jeffes, engineer at Zutari, guided attendees through the evaluation process after the drought, which featured validation models to investigate which components of the system required updating and an extended scenario analysis by generating synthetic future rainfall. Storm water harvesting was put forward at WISA 2020 as a possible way to expand water production sources. From their research, it was clear that climate change was set to have the future. Instead attention should restrictions occur.” followed by attempts to build out of a drastic effect on the future of be focused on proper, data driven Following this, John Okedi, senior drought, but in this case water supply for Cape Town, with planning to implement long-term lecturer at the university of Cape comprehensible information was the city starting to plan for the most augmentation; maintenance, Town, presented his research, relayed to the public about the severe scenario of around 23% monitoring and management; and, arguing for the expansion of water water systems’ management. With decrease in water yield. particularly, the clear communication production sources such as storm good understanding, ineffective of the insurance of water supply. water harvesting. The lecturer short-term projects can be Lessons learned On the final point, Fisher-Jeffes argued that there was lots of avoided, water restrictive solutions From the experiences of the 2015 stated, “You need to ensure water to existing infrastructure and facilities are followed, and then more drought and the subsequent a high concentration of people, but which could be used for storm water effective long-term solutions can be investigations, Fisher-Jeffes identified this can lead to agriculture storage and harvesting to increase sought after. the key lessons learned which can be becoming more readily restricted. If water yields. For instance, in the The panellists concluded with the taken forward to offset drought in the climate change drops yield, Zeekoe catchment area, out of 61 continuing progression of climate future. He noted that short-term agriculture is affected first. It is storm water ponds, 70% were largely change, whereby droughts are likely solutions such as building out of a paramount to ensure stakeholders dry through the year and were to become more of a threat than drought offer little more than doing know how and when they will get therefore available for storage for ever before. It is therefore of nothing, and often lead to the restricted. Everyone needs to know storm water harvesting. upmost importance to learn the creation of costly and inefficient about the insurance and supply Following their presentations, the lessons of examples like Cape Town facilities that must be maintained in policy to avoid difficulties when panel then joined in a discussion on and implement a well-planned, water demand and addressed well-maintained and effective water questions from the audience. Key system; to make opportunities, such You need to ensure water to a high for both speakers was the as with storm water harvesting to importance of correct and clear bolster water yields; and ensure concentration of people, but this can lead to communication between the there is clear communication with industry and the public. Okedi the system to ensure, if there is a agriculture becoming more readily restricted.” noted that with the recent Cape need to implement restrictions, Town experience a good example panic and ineffective coping LLOYD FISHER-JEFFES, ENGINEER AT ZUTARI was set. Usually there is mass panic solutions are avoided.
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WISA 2020 | REPORT
MANAGING COVID-19 AND OTHER PANDEMICS WITH EFFECTIVE WATER RESOURCES Dr Eunice Ubomba-Jaswa, research Rebuilding manager at the Water Research Ubomba-Jaswa also said that there Commission in South Africa, spoke had to be regulation of onsite Adobe Stock at WISA 2020 about the key role the sanitation options, which had to be water sector can play in dealing with safe, affordable and reliable. Covid-19 and future pandemics. Image Credit: “Infrastructures have already In her presentation, Covid-19 was deteriorated so rebuilding has to described as a “threat multiplier’’ for occur, so it’s important the services existing pressures, drivers and we provide in the value chain for threats to water resources, much water and sanitation are reliable.” like climate change. She added water sensitive urban She said strengthening water design (WSD) as a tool was central to security was essential for preventing managing the quality and quantity and combatting future pandemics. of water during a pandemic. As part of South Africa’s In Africa, in peri-urban densely immediate response to Covid-19, the populated informal settlements, Department of Water and Sanitation there was no access to adequate ensured water supplies were rolled water and sanitisation and social When Covid-19 broke out in South Africa, the authorities made sure there were out to the provinces so that everyone distancing was highly unlikely. In enough water supplies rolled out across the provinces. had access to a constant supply of this case WSD could be used as a water, especially in drought areas to populace does not have supply to hygiene. This is the first line of tool to help design new cities so prevent the excerbation of water water and good quality water, how defence for future pandemics. We overcrowding does not occur in the insecurity, caused by the demand do they cope with a pandemic? It know washing your hands future and create ‘liveable cities’. for handwashing. became a political priority. properly, maintaining good hygiene She warned there might be future “We can all agree governments “The most important thing during and sanitation is the best practice pandemics due to deforestation, around the world had to come Covid-19 and possible future when there has been a risk of climate change, and humans together and face this issue. If your pandemics is water sanitation and exposure to the virus.” encroaching into animal areas.
Combatting water pollution
As part of WISA 2020, focus was different sites around the area Boksburg Lake of management plans are all shifted to water pollution and how before testing them for 12 PHEs. Masawi used the Boksburg Lake, a critical steps to rehabilitate a water remedying this requires a Her data revealed that the surface popular attraction for visitors, process which should be carried collaborative community effort. water had consistently low levels of local or further afield, that has out by relevant local authorities, Gladys Belle, student at the oxygen, higher levels of turbidity been deteriorating for a number of but Masawi noted that this would Central University of Technology, and a high concentration of arsenic, years, as a case study. Direct all be in vain if these were not discussed her research on water cobalt, iron and copper, all of which sewage discharge into the lake has complimented by awareness pollution by presenting her PhD can be potentially dangerous to rendered the smell almost raising. Providing information to study investigating the local wildlife and human health. unbearable so that recreational local businesses and inhabitants contamination of surface water by This led Belle to conclude that use has been restricted, and based will ensure that they are more gold mining. This industrial mining activities in the Matjhabeng on a 2010-2016 survey silt build up likely to comply with relevant process produces gold mine area are a major source of PHEs and is continuing so that it would take bylaws and be capable of holding tailings; a mixture of waste rock call for the immediate remediation no more than 50 years for the lake relevant authorities and water extracted together with gold ore to mitigate levels of pollution in the to silt up completely. There are a users to account. which can contain potentially area. It also serves as a stark number of options open to Masawi concluded, “Water harmful elements (PHEs) such as warning of the damaging effects rehabilitate the site, such as the resource management requires all lead, mercury and arsenic. that industrial activities can have on installation of aerators to hands on deck. The rehabilitation If these minerals get into water local water sources. oxygenate the lake, all with of the Boksburg Lake requires sources through rainfall, runoff On the same day, Ndomupei different financial obligations, but collaboration at all levels including and wind, they can cause damage Masawi, senior environmental Masawi stated that all of these the community, with the relevant to native aquatic life and humans scientist at SRK Consulting, gave her could only work with the departments of the Ekurhuleni that are exposed to it. presentation on the rehabilitation combined contribution from all Metropolitan Municipality and the Taking the Matjhabeng mining process of water resources, levels of the community. Department of Water and area as a case study, Belle took discussing how to remedy pollution Enforcement of bylaws, water Sanitation acting as the guiding surface water samples from 15 if it does climb too high. quality monitoring, development and enforcing authority.”
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SOLUTIONS | WATER
GILKES INVESTS IN NEXT GENERATION MACHINING CAPABILITY
Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon, which delivers single Gilkes source solutions to the small hydropower and high horsepower engine market, is delighted to showcase its latest investment in next-generation Image Credit: machining capability. Hydropower turbine runners are traditionally cast and polished by hand: a laborious task taking hundreds of man hours. Recent years has seen Gilkes purchase these runners from specialist machine shops, adding high precision and repeatability, but at a significant cost. The challenge set by Rebecca Sandham, Gilkes’ head of operations, was to install the capacity to fully machine a hydropower turbine runner from a solid billet of material. With an overall project investment of £1.3mn The addition of a five-axis machine tool strengthens Gilkes current in-house machining capability. (US$1.7mn) approved by the board of Gilkes, Mazak installed and commissioned an INTEGREX E-1250V/8S 5-axis machine tool in early March 2020 with the project team wholly committed to delivering a fully machined Pelton runner to a hydro scheme by January 2021. Partnering with Mazak, Brown & Holmes, Nikken, Iscar, SolidCAM and VERICUT the team encountered many challenges along the way, the greatest of these being to have the ability to completely machine the runner without the need to finish off hard to reach elements with sub-contract spark erosion. With Mazak’s innovative technology, Brown and Holmes workholding, Nikken and Iscar tooling skills and Gilkes’ production engineering talent supported by SolidCAM and VERICUT, the Gilkes' new machine and a runner being manufactured. team met this challenge with a solution that saves the need for sub-contract spark erosion levels and enabling Gilkes to continue to be Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon is a privately owned, reducing lead times and cost. highly competitive in the global market. internationally established manufacturing business As well as onshoring a complex and high Sandham said, “This new machining addition based in the UK, employing around 200 people. value component back to the UK, the project fully complements Gilkes’ manufacturing Specialists in hydropower and pumping systems also moved the Gilkes team into new areas of strategy and helps nurture our engineering since 1856, Gilkes now exports to more than 85 expertise including 3D scanning, laser skills, capabilities and knowledge. The entire countries around the world. The company have measurement, tool optimisation and real-time project team has worked tirelessly to deliver this supplied over 6,800 hydroelectric turbines sensing. The addition of a five-axis machine tool project. Their enthusiasm, talent and worldwide, and supply engine cooling pumps to strengthens Gilkes current in-house machining determination has inspired many young the world’s top engine manufacturers, including capability, significantly increasing productivity engineers on our shop floor.” Caterpillar, Cummins and GE Transportation.
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IT | OPINION
Customers demand greater digital engagement from Communication Service Providers (CSPs) Communication service providers need to transform IT systems and their approach to customer experience, to meet the growing need of customers in Africa, writes George Fraser, VP: customer business executive-Africa at Amdocs.
he Covid-19 pandemic is accelerating the worldwide and in Africa must embark on move to digital, as large proportions of the transformation journeys – centred on the cloud Tpopulation have continued to work, learn and the agility this brings – by implementing and be entertained remotely, while others have AI-driven operations focused on continuous
trialled services such as remote health care for Amdocs Image Credit: improvement. This will allow them to stay one the first time. These were amongst the findings of step ahead, with full automation. a recent Amdocs survey of 1,000 US consumers. A company that successfully transformed its The results draw many clear parallels with customer experience is Indonesia-based mobile Africa’s reality, with connectivity constraints telecommunications services operator, XL. With a providing a key exception. view to increasing its in-store conversion rate and Driven by digital giants, such as Apple, Amazon empowering agents to deliver personalised and Facebook, industries across Africa are racing services with targeted offers, a sales-on-tablet to digitalise their operations. The objective is to application was introduced, which offered a match their customers’ expectations for real-time, unique user design that allowed for guided agent personalised and guided experiences in their experiences and significantly improved channel of choice, as they have become personalisation. accustomed to from these players. Agents felt empowered to approach customers For communications service providers looking with more confidence and could convert care to enable a simple, intelligence-driven and issues into upsell opportunities more easily. In streamlined experience, many are starting with addition, the average handling time was reduced their current offerings and looking for ways to and the overall process of dealing with the George Fraser. add value. Establishing partnerships and customer, bills and related interactions simplified. collaborating with players in adjacent industries In the Philippines, telecommunications provide the most obvious opportunities. services provider Globe, also introduced a One of the most prominent US examples is Service providers in sales-via-tablet application, as well as an omni- Waze, Google’s social GPS navigation app, which channel solution that was initiated for its retail embedded Spotify and Apple Music to enable its Africa must embark on channel and expanded to incorporate its contact users to play music in their car without leaving centre and self-service channels. This was aimed the original app. In the service bundling area, transformation journeys.” at simplifying the retail store experience, African customers’ expectations continue to GEORGE FRASER, improving agent experience and helping to increase as they demand the power to select the monetise the digital economy. bundle, device and music of their choice – on VP: CUSTOMER BUSINESS , Globe’s journey to digital resulted in a 60% demand and with one click. Digital catalogues EXECUTIVE-AFRICA, AMDOCS improvement in average handling time – from 60 with embedded features, as well as the ability to minutes to 25 minutes; a 90% satisfaction rate merge with third-party catalogues offer significant unassisted channels where customers can easily amongst store agents; the condensing of a potential, allowing carriers to, for example, sell self-serve, consume and manage their account complex re-contracting; an error rate reduction of connectivity bundles, with Netflix on top and autonomously. Moreover, the highly competitive around three to four times; and the quick launch Amazon gaming miles added as a giveaway. African landscape makes speed and agility crucial, of new bundles and offers. including the need to rapidly adapt and bring By adopting similar approaches, communication A mindset change: prioritising digital solutions to market to meet ever-changing service providers in Africa can improve engagement, The ability to exceed consumers’ expectations consumer demands. build customer loyalty, promote the adoption of demands that service providers adopt a digital- To enable these new experiences and support unassisted channels and ultimately, become first mindset; that is, promoting the adoption of complex business operations, service providers customer experience leaders in the industry. ■
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