Allision sees rising demand for automatic transmission. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

US company Allison Transmission has expanded its service network across West Africa

It has formed a new strategic partnership with Services Machinery Trucks (SMT) Ghana, a leading service provider for Volvo Construction Equipment, Volvo Trucks, Terex, Hitachi, Dongfeng Trucks, SDLG and Dressta.

The agreement designates SMT Ghana as an Allison Authorised Dealer.

Allison Transmission designs and manufactures propulsion solutions for both commercial and defence vehicles and is a global manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty fully automatic transmission systems.

In a statement, the company said the tie-up with SMT marks a “significant step” in the growth of its African service network.

“Based in Accra since 2012, SMT Ghana’s recognised excellence in construction, transport and mining vehicles and equipment services makes the company an ideal partner for Allison,” it said in a statement.

“This partnership will enable Allison to increase the expert technical support and service it provides across the region. The company's expertise will also help ensure access to Allison Genuine Parts, Allison Approved Fluids and extended warranty coverage.”

Allison’s authorised service network now has approximately 1,600 independent distributor and dealer locations worldwide.

The company separately announced a similar expansion of its service network in Japan, reflecting what it called a “commitment to delivering global customer support and service accessibility to the increasing fielded population of customers and applications using Allison propulsion solutions" outside North America.

"Our efforts to form new channel partnerships are part of Allison's broader strategy to bolster our global service network, which is currently comprised of approximately 1,600 independent dealer and distributor locations,” said Rohan Barua, vice-president, North America sales, global channel and aftermarket at Allison Transmission.

“As we continue to see significant growth in preference for fully automatic transmissions outside North America, strengthening our service network is key to supporting our growing global customer base.”

Barua added that the new partnerships in Japan and West Africa will ensure the company delivers in an “increasing fielded population driven by growth initiatives in Allison’s outside North America on-highway, off-Highway and defence end markets.”

Allison products are commonly used in a wide variety of applications, including on-highway vehicles (distribution, refuse, construction, agriculture, fire and emergency), buses (school, transit and coach), motorhomes, off-highway vehicles and equipment (energy, mining and construction applications) and defence vehicles (tactical wheeled and tracked).

Headquartered in Indianapolis in the USA, Allison has regional headquarters in the Netherlands, China and Brazil, alongside manufacturing facilities in the USA, Hungary and India.

Archer Aviation's innovative eVTOL aircraft. (Image source: Archer Aviation)

Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement with Archer Aviation that could pave the way for an all-electric air taxi network across the region

Archer’s goal is to transform urban travel, replacing 60–90-minute commutes by car with estimated 10–20-minute electric air taxi flights that are safe, sustainable, low-noise and cost-competitive with ground transportation.

The initial deal will see the deployment of a fleet of so-called ‘Midnight’ aircraft to Africa’s largest carrier, under Archer’s ‘Launch Edition’ programme valued at up to US$30mn.

Archer’s Midnight is a piloted, four-passenger aircraft designed to perform rapid back-to-back trips with minimal charge time between flights.

The companies will work together to over time build the air taxi network, with Archer providing the airline with a team of pilots, technicians and engineers, plus backend software infrastructure and front-end booking applications.

“We are committed to pioneering advanced air mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and drive sustainable aviation in Africa,” said Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines.

“Our partnership with Archer Aviation marks an important step in bringing cutting-edge eVTOL technology to Ethiopia. Together, we aim to redefine regional travel and create new opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly transportation.”

An electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft typically uses electric power to hover, take off and land vertically.

Archer announced its Launch Edition programme in February 2025 in an effort to create a scalable commercialisation framework for safely deploying its aircraft in early adopter markets, enabling it to demonstrate the capabilities of its Midnight aircraft and drive public acceptance.

It will now work with Ethiopian Airlines and the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority to safely operationalise Midnight.

“Last month we announced Abu Dhabi Aviation as our first Launch Edition customer — today we’re following that up with our second, Ethiopian Airlines,” said Archer’s founder and CEO Adam Goldstein.

“Africa presents an untapped opportunity with regards to advanced air mobility, with a variety of compelling use cases that we’ll be exploring together, and I’m proud to be taking a big step forward alongside Ethiopian Airlines.”

As well as faster commuting, the hope is to explore other use cases as well, such as eco-tourism.

“This partnership with Ethiopian Airlines represents a transformative step in bringing sustainable and efficient air mobility solutions to Ethiopia and the broader African market,” said Alastair Curtis, Archer’s general manager for Africa.

“We’re committed to working with forward-thinking partners to unlock the potential of eVTOL technology. This is just the beginning of a new era of aviation for Africa.”

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DP World selects Mota-Engil for Banana Port development. (Image source: DP World)

DP World, a global leader in trade and logistics, has appointed Mota-Engil, a highly experienced construction firm, to spearhead the development of the Banana Port

This crucial project will enhance the DRC’s role as a major trade hub, modernising infrastructure, lowering business costs, and strengthening economic self-sufficiency.

Situated in Kongo Central province along the Atlantic coast, the Banana Port represents a significant investment in the country’s trade infrastructure. As the DRC’s only maritime gateway for containerised cargo, it will streamline trade operations, consolidate administrative and customs procedures, and provide the government with greater oversight of foreign trade activities.

Transforming DRC trade 

The project will be developed in multiple phases. The first phase will include a 600-meter quay, storage facilities spanning 30 hectares, and a handling capacity of 450,000 TEUs per year, capable of accommodating the world’s largest vessels. The second phase will extend the quay wall by more than two kilometres. DP World is leading the investment in partnership with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor.

The port’s construction will involve numerous companies, including local businesses, and generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, creating new opportunities for Congolese workers and enterprises. As the DRC’s first fully equipped deep-sea port, it will reduce transportation costs, improve trade efficiency, and support industries such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Mota-Engil, a prominent engineering and construction company with decades of experience in large-scale infrastructure projects, brings its expertise in port development, transportation, and logistics. With a strong track record across Africa, the company has successfully delivered transformative projects that drive economic expansion and regional connectivity. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and top-tier quality aligns with DP World’s vision for the Banana Port.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted the significance of this project, “The Banana Port is a transformative project that will reshape the trade and logistics landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo. By partnering with Mota-Engil, we are ensuring that this world-class infrastructure is built to the highest standards, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for the Congolese people. DP World remains committed to delivering a world-class port that empowers the people of the DRC. This project will transform trade, create jobs, and strengthen the country's economy for generations to come.”

By joining forces with Mota-Engil, DP World reinforces its dedication to providing high-quality infrastructure that supports the DRC’s long-term economic growth and improves the livelihoods of millions of Congolese citizens.

Also read: Dangote to build Nigeria’s biggest port

Yutong unveils the new D14 bus. (Image source: Yutong Bus)

China’s Yutong Bus has revealed its next-generation D14 coach for the Africa market at a launch in Tanzania

In a statement, the company said the new D14 bus offers both space and design upgrades on previous models available for the Africa market, where it has been operating for over two decades.

In that time, Yutong has established a network across the continent, building a sales and service network in nearly 50 countries and selling a total of almost 22,000 buses.

Yutong's previous generation of front-engine buses has earned a strong reputation for reliability, with some vehicles exceeding 1 million km while maintaining stable performance.

“One Tanzanian transport company saw rapid growth after introducing Yutong buses, expanding its fleet from just a few vehicles to over 50,” a Yutong statement read on 20 March.

Several local transport operators have emphasised that they prioritise product value and reliability, it noted.

“Even when lower-priced alternatives are available, they ultimately choose Yutong for its superior quality and dependable performance.”

Building on the success of the D14 launch in Tanzania, Yutong is set to expand its reach across Africa.

“This move underscores Yutong's dedication to delivering reliable, high-performance transportation solutions that are meticulously designed to cater to the evolving needs of Africa's passenger transport sector.

The extended body of the new D14 design accommodates up to 77 passengers without sacrificing comfort, boosting both efficiency and revenue potential for operators.

The redesigned compartment is 40% larger than the previous generation, now capable of holding 15.5 cubic metres, addressing the need for increased storage space in passenger transport vehicles.

LED front and rear headlights offer a lifespan of 50,000 hours while consuming just 30W of power, reducing heat output and ensuring safer nighttime driving.

Inside the D14 cabin, comfort and convenience take centre stage with the driver's area featuring an upgraded dashboard, extra storage and a fully air-suspended seat for enhanced long-haul support.

The D14 also prioritises performance and durability, Yutong noted, offering up to 410 hp for exceptional capability across diverse terrains and long distances.

“Built to withstand Africa's challenging road conditions, the D14 features advanced anti-corrosion technology for high temperatures and dust,” the company stated.

“Its structure is built for two million km, or 20 years, with a high-strength, 700 MPa steel frame three times stronger than standard steel, ensuring maximum passenger protection in rollovers."

Yutong’s buses are also supported by an extensive service network across the continent, which includes 80 authorised service stations, 116 on-site customer support locations, and over 10 mobile service teams.

Additionally, it has spare parts distribution centres in Tanzania and South Africa, enabling fast and efficient parts procurement and emergency dispatch for neighbouring countries.

“For example, Yutong's self-operated service station in Tanzania spans 2,600 square metres and is purpose-built to uphold the highest service standards. To date, it has served approximately 200 clients and handled around 1,451 vehicle service cases. With an inventory of over 500 critical spare parts, the facility ensures timely and reliable support for local operators.”

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