In The Spotlight
JUWI and JA Solar sign major supply deal for two 220MW utility-scale projects. (Image source: JUWI Renewable Energies)
JUWI Renewable Energies, a global leader in clean energy development, has signed two major solar module supply agreements with JA Solar, a top-tier global manufacturer of high-performance photovoltaic (PV) products
The agreements cover nearly 420,000 solar panels for two large-scale utility projects with a combined capacity of 220MW, supporting some of South Africa’s biggest industrial power users including Glencore, Sasol and Air Liquide.
The projects include the 100MW Sonvanger Solar Plant, being developed for Glencore in partnership with Pele Green Energy, and the 120MW Paarde Valley PV2 Project for Sasol and Air Liquide, delivered with TotalEnergies, Mulilo and Reatile Group. These developments are scheduled to go live by late 2026 and will use enough solar panels to cover more than 160 rugby fields in area.
This agreement is part of JUWI’s broader construction initiative announced earlier this year, representing more than ZAR 6 billion (US$320mn) in new-build solar PV projects. Once completed, these installations will contribute roughly 5% to South Africa’s existing solar PV capacity.
“We’re proud to work with global technology leaders like JA Solar, energy-intensive industries and independent power producers to advance South Africa’s energy transition,” said Richard Doyle, managing director of JUWI Renewable Energies.
“With the country targeting nearly 30 gigawatts of new wind and solar by 2030, and 11 GW of coal capacity scheduled for decommissioning in the near future, we need to ramp up renewable energy deployment faster than ever before if we’re going to keep the lights on. These large-scale projects also bring real carbon savings to the country’s hard-to-abate sectors, while reducing electricity costs for energy users and easing pressure on the grid.”
Aiqing Yang, executive president of JA Solar, stated, “We’re proud to partner with JUWI on these flagship projects, which reflect our shared commitment to advancing clean energy in South Africa. By supplying high-efficiency modules built for performance and reliability, we’re helping to power a more sustainable industrial future.”
Together, the two projects will produce around 672,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity every year. This output is expected to reduce approximately 625,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, the equivalent of removing more than 130,000 cars from the road, while lowering power costs for industrial users and easing strain on the national grid.
Africa is strengthening its energy regulation (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Senegal and Kenya have topped the list of Africa’s leading electricity regulators in a new report highlighting rising standards
The two countries claimed the top spots in the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) 2024 Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI), which evaluates regulatory frameworks across 43 African states.
Uganda, Liberia and Niger round out the top five performers.
Niger registered one of the biggest gains, underlining the strong impact of sustained reforms and political commitment to power sector development, the AfDB noted in a statement.
“The 2024 ERI shows that Africa’s regulators are stepping up,” said Dr Kevin Kariuki, AfDB vice-president for power, energy, climate and green growth.
“We are now seeing stronger institutions delivering real results for utilities and consumers. This shift is critical if we are to achieve Mission 300 and connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030.”
The ERI index evaluates three dimensions: regulatory governance, regulatory substance, and regulatory outcomes (ROI).
The latter category, ROI, which tracks service delivery and utility performance, recorded the most substantial improvements across the continent.
“Now in its seventh edition, the ERI shows strong momentum toward more effective, transparent and impactful regulation, with real-world results beginning to emerge,” the AfDB noted.
The report highlights “standout progress” in Kenya and Senegal in areas such as tariff reform, regulatory outcomes and utility performance.
Crucially, progress is being recorded across the continent with average scores drifting upwards in recent years, and even the lowest-ranked countries seeing imporced scores.
The ROI surged from roughly 0.40 in 2022 to 0.62 in 2024, showing that reforms are delivering tangible service improvements on the ground, the AfDB noted.
Priority areas for enhancing regulatory effectiveness include areas such as strengthening regulatory independence, enhancing accountability mechanisms, promoting transparency and predictability and improving stakeholder participation.
Wale Shonibare, director for energy financial solutions, policy and regulation at the AfDB said the ERI 2024 index tells a hopeful story.
“African countries are not just passing laws — they are implementing them. Regulators are transforming from administrative bodies into strategic institutions with measurable influence. However, challenges related to independence, financing, and enforcement persist.”
Launched in 2018, the ERI is a diagnostic and policy tool used by governments, regulators and development partners to identify gaps, track progress, and prioritise reform efforts.
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Yas Comoros secures US$27mn IFC loan to expand broadband and 5G services
Yas Comoros, a subsidiary of AXIAN Telecom, has announced a new partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to fuel the next stage of digital development across the Union of the Comoros
This collaboration will support the expansion of mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure, promoting economic advancement and greater digital inclusion throughout the islands.
Under the terms of the agreement, IFC will provide a €25 million loan (approx. US$26.75mn) to accelerate infrastructure rollouts, boost network quality, and improve inter-island connectivity. This builds on the IFC’s initial €13 million (approx. US$13.91mn) loan provided in 2019, which supported Yas Comoros’ network launch after being awarded the country’s second telecom licence. That earlier loan, IFC’s first private sector investment in Comoros, was fully repaid in June 2025.
Now undergoing rapid expansion, Yas Comoros is the fastest-growing brand within the AXIAN Telecom group. This new funding will enable the company to meet increasing demand for data services, improve service standards, and invest in advanced technologies such as 5G, fibre to the home (FTTH), and fibre to the office (FTTO), with rollout beginning in 2025.
“This loan is an opportunity not only to modernise our network but also to invest in advanced technologies from 2025, including 5G rollout, FTTH, and FTTO, and thus accelerate the digitisation of the Union of the Comoros over the next five years,” commented Christophe Oliver, CEO of Yas Comoros. “We are committed to delivering improved connectivity solutions across the board, for consumers, SMEs, corporates, and public sector institutions, in alignment with the government’s digital vision,” he continued.
“This partnership with AXIAN Telecom marks a pivotal step in IFC’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation in Comoros and across Africa. This partnership not only supports the country’s digital ambitions, but also unlocks pathways for innovation, financial inclusion, and economic opportunity for all Comorians, especially women, youth, and rural communities,” said Mehita Fanny, IFC country manager for Comoros, Eswatini, Madagascar, Mozambique and Seychelles. “Investing in digital infrastructure is central to IFC’s strategy to foster sustainable development, empower local entrepreneurs, and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.”
Commenting on the development, minister of post, communications, digital economy and transparency of Comoros, Oumouri Mmadi Hassani said, “This loan of 25 million EUR granted to Yas Comoros by the IFC represents a key milestone for the telecommunications sector in the Comoros. It will contribute to the expansion and modernization of digital infrastructures, thus providing better connectivity to our entire population, particularly in rural areas. It will also support key projects to stimulate innovation and digital inclusion, enhancing the competitiveness of our businesses and contributing to the country's digital transformation. This is a strong commitment to a sustainable digital future, which will promote economic growth and the well-being of Comorians. We are pleased about the effective involvement of the IFC, which, through this financing, contributes significantly to the development of Comoros' digital economy with unparalleled transparency.”
How the new Hilton Cotonou will look. (Image source: Hilton)
Continuing a trend among other prestige hotel groups, Hilton has announced plans to almost triple its presence on the continent to over 160 properties in the next few years
That includes several market debuts, with multiple hotels planned for Angola, as well as properties in Benin and Madagascar.
The brand currently operates 63 hotels in Africa, with more than 100 under development.
The investments underline growing confidence in Africa, and are expected to yield benefits for local construction groups and service firms, according to Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, including the creation of 18,000 jobs for locals.
“We are thrilled to announce several new hotel agreements which significantly expand our footprint in Africa, a continent brimming with potential and opportunity,” he said.
“Our development strategy underscores our commitment to supporting Africa’s hospitality sector as we partner with owners to grow our footprint, deliver exceptional stays for our customers and create jobs for local people.
In Angola, Hilton has signed up three properties – two in the capital, Luanda, as well as one in Cabinda.
It will also open its first property in Benin’s capital, Cotonou, scheduled for 2028.
Also in West Africa, it plans a to grow its Nigerian footprint with new sites set for Abuja, Kano and Ikeja, close to Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Later this year, Hilton also expects to open its first hotel in Ghana with Hilton Accra Cantonments, in partnership with High Street Development Company. The property is located in Cantonments, an upscale suburb home to embassies and high commissions.
The company also plans more hotels across northern, southern and eastern Africa, including Madagascar, another new market, where it has signed agreements to open its first two properties, one in the heart of Antananarivo and another just to the south.
“Africa offers incredible opportunities, from thriving business hubs to vibrant cultures, wildlife and natural landscapes,” said Khneisser.
“We are excited to unveil a host of new destinations building on Hilton’s legacy of hospitality across Africa for over 65 years.”
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Rolls-Royce investing Africa's long-term power future. (Image source: Rolls-Royce)
Rolls-Royce has officially opened a new headquarters and training facility in Johannesburg, South Africa, to support its Power Systems division
The new facility will support the growing fleet of Power Systems’ mtu mobile and stationary power solutions across critical sectors such as energy, technology, mining, transportation and oil and gas.
“As we approach our 25 year in South Africa, this new facility is a clear signal of our confidence in Africa’s growth and our commitment to being closer to our customers,” said Cobus Van Schalkwyk, director global mining and managing director, Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa.
Located in a specially adapted facility spanning approximately 6,000 sq m, the new site consolidates core functions into a central hub, including service coordination, spare parts storage, logistics and technical training.
It complements Rolls-Royce’s existing footprint in South Africa, with mtu engine rebuild capability, and finance and logistics functions located in Cape Town.
“By bringing support services, technical training and parts availability together under one roof, we’re building the capabilities that matter most to our partners across the continent,” said an Schalkwyk.
“This investment also supports our strategy to further localise operations, reduce lead times, and strengthen supply chain resilience — critical advantages for customers operating in remote or fast-paced environments.”
The new training centre is designed to support between 100 and 150 trainees annually with a wide range of training engines, including mtu 2000 and 4000 series, used for power generation, mining and rail applications.
Trainees will benefit from access to advanced tooling and use simulation equipment for electronic training.
The centre will deliver certified practical and theoretical training, equipping customers and partners from across Africa with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to support a wide range of applications and industries.
The new facility, operated by Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa, also features dedicated capacity for the engineering and assembly of repower modules, enabling the replacement of engines in mining haul trucks and excavators with more suitable mtu power solutions.
This will allow customers to select upgrade options tailored to specific operational needs, the company added in a statement.
“With a strong focus on system resilience, the regional subsidiary Rolls-Royce Solutions Africa is committed to delivering robust, fit-for-purpose solutions designed to perform in the demanding and often harsh operating environments across the continent,” the statement noted.
Read more:
Schneider Electric opens Africa's first innovation hub in Johannesburg
Africa's first rice straw MDF production facility powered by mtu gas gensets
Rolls-Royce and SMH give new life to retired Kenya Railways locomotives
Delivering up to 630W output and 23.3% efficiency, the module incorporates a low-voltage, high-string design, making it compatible with widely used inverters. (Image source: Trinasolar)
With more than 1 GW of solar technology delivered in South Africa over the past year, Trinasolar has reaffirmed its role as a key contributor to Africa’s clean energy movement by returning to the Africa Energy Forum (AEF)
At this year’s gathering in Cape Town, the company is showcasing its latest solar and battery storage solutions built to endure Africa’s environmental extremes and meet evolving grid challenges.
“As the energy crisis and climate volatility continue to impact South Africa and the broader African region, Trinasolar is focused on delivering real solutions that enable long-term energy security,” said Vincent Wu, global sales vice-president and MEA MU head at Trinasolar. “Our high-efficiency PV modules and advanced energy storage systems are engineered to meet the challenging realities on the ground. Through our presence at AEF, we’re reinforcing our commitment to supporting Africa’s transition to a greener, more stable energy future; one built on innovation, resilience, and strategic collaboration.”
The centrepiece of Trinasolar’s exhibition is the debut of the Vertex N 630W (NED19RC.20), an ultra-reliable solar module designed for Africa’s demanding conditions. Built with enhanced structural integrity, corrosion-resistant features, and dust protection, the module boasts an industry-leading 55 mm hail resistance rating, more than twice the standard. It is also certified for fire safety and engineered for performance in environments with high levels of salt, ammonia, and sand.
Delivering up to 630W output and 23.3% efficiency, the module incorporates a low-voltage, high-string design, making it compatible with widely used inverters. This configuration reduces system costs and simplifies installation—particularly valuable for commercial and utility-scale projects.
“We’re seeing strong momentum across the region, especially in the commercial, industrial, and utility-scale sectors where innovation and ease of installation matter,” said Zaheer Khan, regional director for South Africa, Trinasolar MEA. “Installers and partners are drawn to solutions like the Vertex N 630W, not just for its performance, but because it addresses real operational challenges in tough environments.
“In just the past year, Trinasolar has delivered over a gigawatt of technology solar equipment in South Africa alone,” Khan added. “It’s a milestone that reflects our growing footprint, trusted relationships, and long-term commitment to the region. And we’re just getting started.”
Trinasolar’s African offering includes solar modules, energy storage, floating PV solutions, and smart tracking systems—developed to meet diverse energy requirements with an emphasis on quality, adaptability, and system integration. With offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town and a Durban-based warehouse maintaining 10–20MW of stock for fast delivery, the company is well-equipped to support project deployment across the region. It is also expanding its commercial presence in key markets including Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, and others.
Over the last ten years, Trinasolar has helped shape South Africa’s solar sector by supporting large-scale utilities, driving C&I adoption, and contributing to decentralisation and renewable energy growth. As the continent’s transition gathers pace, the company remains committed to scaling integrated systems, building local capacity, and partnering with governments, utilities, and private stakeholders to ensure lasting energy resilience.
Midrand-based facility showcases smart, sustainable solutions for Africa’s digital energy transition. (Image source: Schneider Electric)
Schneider Electric, a global frontrunner in energy management and automation, and a widely recognised sustainability champion, has inaugurated its inaugural innovation hub in Africa
This marks a key development in the company’s broader investment strategy across the continent. Situated within Schneider Electric’s new English-speaking headquarters in Midrand, Johannesburg, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art features.
Now part of a global network of over 40 innovation hubs, the new Johannesburg site is designed to demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainability and digital transformation to customers, partners, and stakeholders across Africa.
The innovation hub offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to engage with Schneider Electric’s integrated technologies spanning core sectors such as energy, buildings, industry, data centres, and, power infrastructure.
“We are building an ecosystem that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and relevance to the African context; one that values local talent, fosters local partnerships, and drives local solutions. The innovation hub enables us to create a truly dynamic experience that embodies Schneider Electric’s purpose: enabling all to maximise energy and resources while bridging progress and sustainability," commented Canninah Dladla, cluster president for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric.
"Indeed, Africa holds immense potential, and this hub is designed to help our customers and partners unlock it through digitalisation, innovation, and collaboration."
Interactive and sector-specific experiences
The hub provides a guided and bespoke experience for each visitor, beginning with Schneider Electric’s story, told through an interactive touchscreen, and transitioning into a deeper look at the company’s end-to-end offerings.
Visitors explore multiple customised zones, such as:
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The Software Portfolio, with AVEVA Operations Control, eTAP, and EcoStruxure software.
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Industrial Automation, featuring real conveyor systems and EcoStruxure Plant and Machine tables with smart devices and sensors.
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Building Management, showcasing building control options for lighting, HVAC, access, and room automation.
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Power and Grid, with low/medium voltage equipment, SF₆-free AirSet switchgear, protection relays, and microgrid systems.
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Secure Power, including a live data centre room with UPS systems.
The space is modular and dynamic to align with Schneider Electric’s innovation hub standards, ensuring that the most recent technologies and solutions are always on display.
Partners, consultants, and system integrators can also pre-book the venue to tailor the set-up to specific client needs or industry verticals. It is supported by dedicated innovation hub managers and an operations specialist, with plans to expand visitor engagement through the company’s global innovation hub Ambassador Programme.
A model for sustainable operations
Located within Schneider Electric’s newly built headquarters, the innovation hub also reflects the company’s commitment to eco-friendly building practices.
Compared to its previous facility, the new site offers significant sustainability improvements:
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20% smaller physical footprint
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37% monthly reduction in energy usage
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34% decrease in water consumption
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32 tonnes of CO₂ emissions saved each month
Further enhancing its environmental footprint, the facility incorporates a 200 kWp rooftop solar array, reducing carbon emissions by 15 tonnes monthly. Plans are underway to integrate a full microgrid with battery energy storage (BESS), further reinforcing Schneider Electric’s sustainability ethos.
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In the final webinar of its African Review-hosted 2023 campaign, Convergent Group explored its modern, eco-friendly concrete solutions for African projects
Such solutions – delivered to cut maintenance costs by eliminating hazardous silicate products – were showcased by company experts in the form of Jean-Claude Biard, SEO of Convergent Group SA; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent Group SA and founder of Bondeko MB (exclusive distributor of Convergent Group in Africa); Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group (Spanish distributor for Convergent Group); and Amritpal Singh Sura, external consultant for flooring treatments, former distributor of Convergent products in the Middle East.
“A number of projects we were doing in the Middle East required protection,” remarked Sura. “Longevity of protection requires a system which basically impregnates and becomes a densified surface as opposed to something which is topical and lifts off due to moisture migration. I found that being exposed to Convergent, it was important to stay focused on those systems in the Middle East. Jean-Claude, Mputu and I met several times in Dubai and there was emphasis on providing systems which were affordable and still ending up having a robust, lasting longevity of product. So you are not spending money all the time in order to maintain the finishes which you have already paid for.”
Over the course of the session, the participants guided the audience through the potential of cutting-edge lithium silicate technology for enhancing the protection of concrete surfaces, maximising cost-effectiveness and meeting sustainability targets.
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In a comprehensive webinar hosted by African Review, a panel of professionals associated with Convergent Group explored new generation lithium silicate technology and why it is emerging as the optimum solution for concrete floor protection.
Robert Daniels, editor of African Review, was joined by Jean-Claude Biard, CEO of Convergent Group; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent and founder of Bondeko MB, an exclusive distributor of Convergent; Hicham Sofyani, president of Texol; Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group; and Marc Puig, commercial manager of Comace Import.
Each providing a unique angle, the panellists combined to provide a masterclass around concrete treatments and the increasing challenges around them, explaining to attendees how to choose the right formula for their requirements and touching on issues such as why lithium densifiers are better than sodium and potassium densifiers.
Throughout the session, those watching were treated to informative case studies showcasing how Convergent eco-friendly products are increasing abrasion resistance, raising ease of maintenance, and ensuring the highest quality gloss retention.
By the end of the webinar, a majority of attendees (many of which had not had much experience with Convergent) expressed their interest in using the company’s new generation lithium silicate technology with the rest indicating their desire to learn more about Convergent and its products. Watch the webinar, in full, to discover why viewers were convinced and learn more about advanced floor care solutions for your operations.
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Presenting on an African Review-hosted webinar, Martin Provencher, global industry principal for mining, metals and materials at AVEVA, explored the digital transformation of mining operations and its impact on sustainability.
“Sustainability is becoming a key aspect for mining operations,” remarked Provencher. “If we look at the latest EY research on the top ten business risks and opportunities for mining and metals globally in 2023, ESG remains at the top. Of course, most companies have environmental goals or are expected to reach a net zero emission by 2050, which is a pretty aggressive target. Many of them are targeting 30% reduction by 2030; seven years from now. So there is a lot of action that needs to take place quickly to get there. It is possible to get there, but we need to make sure we are doing this correctly.”
Fast becoming a huge part of ESG initiatives is fleet electrification where particular progress is being made in underground mines. While some countries are certainly more advanced than others here, Provencher noted that 40% of total emissions from the mining industry come from diesel trucks, making EVs a very attractive low-hanging fruit for companies to pursue.
There are, however, a number of challenges associated with bringing in electric vehicles which remains a barrier for introduction. One of the predominant reasons, is the limited range of EVs against diesel counterparts. To mitigate this, Provencher continued, data management is key and ensuring a strong grasp of real-time information coming in will show operators when machinery needs to be charged, allowing them to plan effectively for maximum efficiency on site.
Indeed, this is but a small advantage that digitalisation can bring to the mining industry as it grapples to meet ESG goals while achieving production targets. By getting a better grip of their data and using it to empower tools such as artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and machine learning, companies can achieve tangible benefits such as reduce downtime, enhance worker safety, cut operating costs and, of course, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and targets.
Through the course of the webinar, Provencher outlined this in more detail and explored AVEVA’s suite of cutting-edge software solutions, specifically designed to help mining companies make progress on their digitalisation journey and empower their operations.
Watch the full webinar, completed with detailed case studies and an insightful Q&A session.
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Convergent, in association with African Review, has held a detailed webinar exploring the usage and effectiveness of lithium silicates and densifiers over traditional methods of concrete surface management which often struggle to meet the increasing challenges posed by concrete surface management.
Convergent experts including Mputu Schmidt, CEO of Convergent; Carlos Garcia, product manager end-user solutions, construction chemicals, Spain and Portugal for the RD Group; Matteo Mozzarelli, CEO of concrete Solutions Italia; and Jean-Claude Biard, global senior executive for the Convergent Group, presented across the session.
Together, they delved into the latest cost-effective application methods for long lasting finishing of concrete that can help reduce maintenance costs and avoid unexpected repair action. In addition, they examined the advancements in technologies that can sustain increased abrasion resistant stains and ensure gloss retention to the highest quality.
As part of the webinar, the representatives explored case studies including a case in DRC where a medical centre had been constructed with a low-quality concrete floor. The customer was considering completely replacing the floor but instead, Convergent put forward a special treatment with its 244+ Pentra-Sil lithium hardener, densifier and sealer. With this solution, Convergent can increase the hardness of a surface by up to 40% and therefore saved the customer significant recuperation costs over a complete replacement. Convergent were happy to report that the solution was perfect for the facility and the customer was pleased to avoid the extra construction work that would have been required for a complete replacement.
Watch the full webinar, including more information about Convergent’s innovative solutions.
JUWI and JA Solar sign major supply deal for two 220MW utility-scale projects. (Image source: JUWI Renewable Energies)
JUWI Renewable Energies, a global leader in clean energy development, has signed two major solar module supply agreements with JA Solar, a top-tier global manufacturer of high-performance photovoltaic (PV) products
The agreements cover nearly 420,000 solar panels for two large-scale utility projects with a combined capacity of 220MW, supporting some of South Africa’s biggest industrial power users including Glencore, Sasol and Air Liquide.
The projects include the 100MW Sonvanger Solar Plant, being developed for Glencore in partnership with Pele Green Energy, and the 120MW Paarde Valley PV2 Project for Sasol and Air Liquide, delivered with TotalEnergies, Mulilo and Reatile Group. These developments are scheduled to go live by late 2026 and will use enough solar panels to cover more than 160 rugby fields in area.
This agreement is part of JUWI’s broader construction initiative announced earlier this year, representing more than ZAR 6 billion (US$320mn) in new-build solar PV projects. Once completed, these installations will contribute roughly 5% to South Africa’s existing solar PV capacity.
“We’re proud to work with global technology leaders like JA Solar, energy-intensive industries and independent power producers to advance South Africa’s energy transition,” said Richard Doyle, managing director of JUWI Renewable Energies.
“With the country targeting nearly 30 gigawatts of new wind and solar by 2030, and 11 GW of coal capacity scheduled for decommissioning in the near future, we need to ramp up renewable energy deployment faster than ever before if we’re going to keep the lights on. These large-scale projects also bring real carbon savings to the country’s hard-to-abate sectors, while reducing electricity costs for energy users and easing pressure on the grid.”
Aiqing Yang, executive president of JA Solar, stated, “We’re proud to partner with JUWI on these flagship projects, which reflect our shared commitment to advancing clean energy in South Africa. By supplying high-efficiency modules built for performance and reliability, we’re helping to power a more sustainable industrial future.”
Together, the two projects will produce around 672,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity every year. This output is expected to reduce approximately 625,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, the equivalent of removing more than 130,000 cars from the road, while lowering power costs for industrial users and easing strain on the national grid.
Africa is strengthening its energy regulation (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Off-grid power a thriving market in Africa
Summa keen on Africa construction market
Turkish construction group Summa Turizm Yatirimciligi (Summa) has secured additional funding to help develop various construction projects in Senegal and across sub-Saharan Africa
The company has secured €50mn (US$58mn) in financing from the World Bank’s IFC to develop tourism and urban infrastructure projects across the continent in support of job creation and economic growth.
“We are pleased to have IFC’s support for Summa’s hotel and real estate developments in Senegal and across Africa,” said Selim Bora, chairman of Summa.
“We see this partnership as a foundation for broader collaboration in key sectors such as transportation, sports infrastructure, tourism and energy — areas vital to the region’s sustainable development and economic growth — whereas Summa possesses a deep reservoir of expertise and a strong track record of delivery.”
The loan agreement will help Summa with its working capital and cover capital expenditure needs for construction projects in select countries across Africa.
Established in 1989, Summa’s main focus today is Africa, working across a range of industry sectors and projects including airports, stadiums, hotels, industrial buildings and facilities.
It also works in the construction of motorways, dams, and other infrastructure networks, such as power transmission lines, pipelines, and land reclamation projects.
Current projects include Osvaldo Vieria International Airport in Guinea Bissau and, in the hospitality sector, the new Courtyard Diamniadio hotel in Senegal.
“This investment demonstrates IFC’s commitment to supporting tourism and other urban infrastructure development in African markets,” said Ethiopis Tafara, IFC’s regional vice president for Africa, noting that “these types of investments are essential for driving sustainable economic growth and regional development.”
The combined projects across the region are expected to create more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2029, while Summa’s operations as a whole will lead to US$225mn in economic value through direct, indirect, and induced effects, the IFC said in a statement.
Read more:
Hilton to triple Africa hotel portfolio
Robust hotels sector growth boosts construction
Liberia inaugurates Arcelormittal concentrator plant
Chinese contractors complete Tanzania's John Magufuli bridge
How the new Hilton Cotonou will look. (Image source: Hilton)
ArcelorMittal's new concentrator plant. (Image source: ArcelorMittal)
Condra hoists and overhead crane. (Image source: Condra)
South Africa’s Condra has received a succession of recent orders for overhead cranes and other lifting equipment that will be deployed across Africa and beyond, as it moves to expand its agent reach across the continent
Among them is an unpack-and-go machine whose shipping containers will become the crane’s gantry, following a deal struck with the company’s agent in Tanzania, Lynx Supply and Services.
The design of this five-ton double-girder crane — a one-off currently under manufacture for mine maintenance — makes use of the two 12-metre delivery containers as gantry supports.
After hoist, crab, girders, end-carriages and other components have been unpacked for assembly, an installation team will position the containers exactly 9.8 metres apart, then bolt rails to their tops to form the gantry.
Lynx, which will carry out the installation and commissioning work, also placed additional orders for wheel blocks, miscellaneous spare parts and a separate 10-ton, 10-metre-span single-girder gantry crane for an unnamed mining house.
Condra’s sub-Saharan agent network also includes Integrated Engineering Services in Zambia, Integrated Engineering Services in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Namcranes in Namibia and KL Cranes in Botswana.
Management is identifying additional potential agents in Ghana, Mozambique and Kenya, the company said in an update.
Other recent orders received by Condra in sub-Saharan Africa include a 10-ton portal crane for a maintenance application in Ghana.
The design of this crane overcomes floor loading limitations by spreading the machine mass across multiple nylon-treaded wheels at the base of the portal’s supporting legs.
The Ghanaian portal machine is linked to two further crane orders from the same customer, one of them for installation in Saudi Arabia.
Condra noted that it had also received enquiries from Chile and Peru, where the company is reestablishing agency relationships adversely affected by the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Service proximity and availability must be carefully considered alongside purchase price if losses due to downtime are not to negate and even exceed the initial savings of an attractive price,” said a Condra spokesman.
“Condra has long and strong relationships with agents across sub-Saharan Africa to deliver the necessary rapid response time on service calls. Our Johannesburg spares division will deliver parts anywhere in Africa in five days or less, minimising production losses due to crane downtime. In South Africa we deliver in a maximum of 48 hours.”
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Single crane solution for Ngwadini dam
FLS enhances African mill liner capacity through Pretoria-based SSRE acquisition to support mining services
Perenti and JV partner secure five-year underground mining deal with Endeavour Mining in Burkina Faso
Entrance to Tatu City Special Economic Zone in Kenya. (Image source: Emirates Logistics)
Emirates Logistics has announced its expansion into Kenya, with plans to build a state-of-the-art logistics facility at Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ), just outside Nairobi
The company said in a statement that the facility will support the growth of its clients across sub-Saharan Africa.
“We are proud to strengthen our presence in Kenya with our expansion to Tatu City, reinforcing Emirates Logistics’ global footprint of comprehensive logistics capabilities," said Steven van der Vliet, chief commercial officer, Emirates Logistics.
“This new strategic facility is part of our broader commitment to offering world-class infrastructure in key growth markets,” he added.
“Being located at the heart of Kenya's economic engine allows us to deliver flexible, seamless and tailor-made logistics solutions that empower both our existing and new customers to thrive.”
Construction of the new logistics facility will begin this year, adding to Emirates Logistics' global presence spanning 15 countries and a worldwide network of agents.
Within Africa, the company operates owned warehousing, offices, and transport fleets in Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, as well the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Malaysia, outside the continent.
“Tatu City warmly welcomes Emirates Logistics to its new home in Kenya, where it will thrive in a conducive business environment,” said George Kapanadze, group chief financial officer at Rendeavour, the owner and developer of Tatu City SEZ.
Rendeavour is now Africa's largest new city builder, with developments for individuals and businesses across the continent, including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“As a mixed-use Special Economic Zone, we specialise in attracting foreign direct investment to Kenya in an infrastructure-ready location that offers the services and amenities global investors like Emirates Logistics demand, including housing, retail, schools, parks, and recreation,” remarked Kapanadze.
Tatu City is Rendeavour's flagship development in Kenya and already welcomes 25,000 people daily, who live, work and study within its thriving community.
The city hosts over 100 businesses, including Heineken, Cold Solutions, CCI Global, Dormans, FullCare, Kärcher, CKL, Naivas, NCBA, Grit Real Estate Income Group, Hewatele, Freight Forwarders Solutions, Tamarind Group, ADvTECH, Friendship Group, Bakels, Novis, and Davis & Shirtliff.
Firms in the SEZ benefit from a range of incentives, including a 10% corporate tax rate for the first 10 years and 15% for the following 10 years, compared to the standard 30%.
Businesses also enjoy VAT zero-rating on goods and services and exemptions on import duty and stamp duty.
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Building more sustainable housing in South Africa
In a boost for South Africa’s construction sector, Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) is to accelerate its funding for affordable homes after securing a US$200mn loan from IFC, the World Bank’s private finance arm
IFC will provide Nedbank CIB with a senior loan of US$200mn to further scale lending to what it called ‘green buildings developers’ in South Africa’s residential, commercial, industrial and retail property sectors.
The partnership will help bridge the country’s housing deficit and support the transition to a lower-carbon economy, IFC noted in a statement.
Each building will be certified through IFC’s Excellence in Design for Greener Efficiencies (EDGE) or equivalent standard for energy and water efficiency and for the use of more sustainable construction materials.
At least half of all funds allocated to new residential developments will target the affordable housing segment.
IFC was also an investor in Nedbank CIB’s green bond issue of 2021, providing funding to support EDGE (or equivalent standard) certified buildings in the country.
“Under the bond, Nedbank CIB was able to deliver 1,790 EDGE-certified units, including 1,305 affordable homes,” said Vanessa Murray, divisional executive, property finance at Nedbank CIB.
“The new facility allows us to scale this impact even further, expanding the reach to other real estate segments and aligning with global green building standards while addressing the country’s housing and infrastructure needs.”
Murray said another example of the bond’s impact is illustrated by the creation of the bank’s in-house EDGE expert team, the only one of its kind in an African financial institution.
With IFC support, it has trained 21 Nedbank CIB staff and 21 clients, which enabled the certification of landmark projects such as the Mall of Africa, the largest EDGE-certified retail centre in the world.
“We are proud to partner with Nedbank CIB to expand certified green buildings in South Africa, including for affordable housing,” said Claudia Conceiçao, IFC’s regional director for Southern Africa.
“This collaboration drives South Africa’s shift to a low-carbon economy while improving lives and communities.”
South Africa aims to reduce its GHG emissions by 42% by 2025 and reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with green buildings designated as a major part of the solution to meet targets.
Globally, conventional buildings account for nearly 40% of energy-related GHG emissions.
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Groundbreaking begins at Kiswishi City SEZ. (Image credit: Rendeavour)
Initial site work has begun on the construction of a new US$50mn Pepsi bottling plant and a Congo Petrol fuel depot at Kiswishi City Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Lubumbashi
It represents the first private SEZ in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and is being developed by Rendeavour, which describes itself as ‘Africa’s new city builder’.
The SEZ project is being supported by American, British, New Zealand and Norwegian investors.
US, British and Congolese government officials took part in a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction work, alongside executives from PepsiCo (Varun Beverages), Congo Petrol, and Rendeavour.
Preston Mendenhall, group chief operating officer of Rendeavour, said the company’s investment in Kiswishi City SEZ represents “something profound” for the DRC.
“Rather than extracting resources from the landscape, we are literally adding to it, in the form of high-quality infrastructure – power, water, roads, and internet. We are building a mixed-use, mixed-income, inclusive, and environmentally friendly entirely new city for Congolese.”
It is hoped the investments at Kiswishi City SEZ will eventually create thousands of jobs and expand the PepsiCo brand in the DRC’s fast-growing Haut-Katanga Province.
Developed by India's Varun Beverages, Pepsi's largest bottler outside the USA, the facility sits on 15 hectares (37 acres) of land at Kiswishi City SEZ.
Congo Petrol, a distributor and licensee of Kenya's Dalbit Petroleum, will develop a state-of-the-art 8,000 cubic metre petroleum products storage and warehousing facility sitting on seven hectares (17 acres), enhancing its capacity to efficiently serve the growing demand in the region.
Other businesses at Kiswishi City SEZ also include Queen Energy, Zindua Investment, SDG Afrique, Congo Mineral Services and Congolese Analytical Laboratory.
Phase one of Kiswishi's residential estate, Kimia, is 98% sold out.
“Rendeavour and Kiswishi City SEZ — with their American, British, New Zealand and Norwegian shareholders — add tremendous value to our economy by investing in critical infrastructure and well-organised new cities,” said Jean-Marie Kanda, senior advisor to the president of DRC.
“Rendeavour deserves appreciation for the confidence and momentum it has given to the Congolese industrial sector.”
Rendeavour also boasts similar mixed-use cities in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Zambia that have catalysed billions of dollars in foreign and domestic investment, creating thousands of jobs for young Africans.
“Thank you to the investors who believe in the long term,” said Lucy Tamlyn, US Ambassador to the DRC. “Kiswishi City SEZ is very much a long-term investment that requires a lot of faith, confidence, and support.”
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