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Nigeria keen to utilise its gas resources to power industry

Energy

Nigeria’s power sector and other industries are set to benefit from a strategic pact that aims to accelerate the development of gas infrastructure in the West African country
 
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) together signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework aimed at promoting and improving the use of Nigeria’s gas resources within the country.
 
Under the terms of the MoU, signed on the sidelines of the just ended fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), Afreximbank and MDGIF will work together with to mobilise US$500mn over a four-year period to support midstream and downstream gas infrastructure projects.
 
The investment is structured as a blend of senior debt and equity contributions, considered under both entities’ independent mandates, with a focus on accelerating the modernisation and expansion of Nigeria’s gas sector.
 
Oluwole Adama, MDGIF executive director, said the collaboration is aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to harness Nigeria’s gas resources for industrialisation and economic growth.
 
“This partnership with Afreximbank enables MDGIF to mobilise capital, expand critical midstream and downstream infrastructure, reduce flaring, and deliver sustainable energy solutions that power industries, create jobs, and improve livelihoods across Nigeria.”
 
Kanayo Awani, executive vice president, intra-African trade and export development at Afreximbank, said it marked a “shared commitment” to accelerating Africa’s economic transformation.
 
“By combining Afreximbank’s deep expertise in trade and project finance with MDGIF’s national investment reach, we are poised to unlock new opportunities for inclusive growth and sustainable development across Nigeria and, potentially, across the West Africa sub-region.”
 
She added: “We stand ready to work with the MDGIF in advancing the development of gas infrastructure projects in Nigeria which will add value to the country’s natural resources.”
 
Key areas of collaboration Include:
 
Targeted gas infrastructure investment: Joint identification and prioritisation of eligible projects, with annual pipeline targets to ensure investment goals are met.
 
Senior debt financing: Afreximbank will consider providing direct financing and credit risk guarantees to support project finance transactions, working alongside local financial institutions.
 
Project preparatory support: Establishment of a dedicated support, either through funding or support framework, for feasibility studies, legal structuring, environmental assessments and other preparatory activities for bankable gas projects.
 
Equity financing: MDGIF will consider equity contributions to complement Afreximbank’s senior debt, enabling full capital structuring for eligible projects.
 
Promotion and advocacy: MDGIF will leverage Afreximbank’s platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair, to promote its initiatives and engage stakeholders.
 
Capacity building: Development of a structured programme to enhance MDGIF’s institutional capabilities in project structuring, risk management, and innovative financing.
 
A representative from Nigeria's Ministry of State for Petroleum Resource (Gas), noted: “Through this partnership, we are unlocking the potential to mobilise up to US$500mn over the next four years for Nigeria’s gas infrastructure. More importantly, we are creating a pipeline of bankable projects, supported by feasibility studies, project preparation, and risk-sharing mechanisms, that will accelerate the pace of investment in pipelines, processing.”
 
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Volvo CE launches Site Optimisation consultancy service. (Image source: Volvo CE)

Construction

As part of its commitment to working closer than ever before with its customers, Volvo Construction Equipment is offering Site Optimization, a new consultancy service aimed at helping customers transform operational efficiency and sustainability

Site Optimization refines operational processes across entire worksites by effectively mapping workflows and aligning material movement processes and machines, no matter what brand, to deliver peak performance. Initially targeted at customers in the quarrying sector, Volvo CE’s diverse experts help to identify strategies that boost efficiency while curbing costs and emissions.

Niklas Samuelsson, customer site performance service owner at Volvo CE, explained, “With Site Optimization, we are committed to forming deeper partnerships with our customers. Our goal is to be an invaluable extension of their team, leveraging our industry and machine knowledge together with data from our customers’ operations and our machines to help customers deliver on their ambitions and address their unique challenges.

“In today’s highly competitive market, achieving operational efficiency and sustainability are crucial. But sometimes the demands of keeping a site running efficiently day-to-day can leave little time to explore alternative solutions. With Site Optimization, we provide expert consultancy and tailored solutions for today, while planning for the future.”

Data-driven improvements

The first step with Site Optimization is for Volvo CE’s experts to undertake a thorough site assessment, mapping out processes like stockpile placement, materials handling, and the movement of machines on site to measure costs and productivity and identify any inefficiencies. Analysis of fleet utilisation provides insights into the optimal machines to use for particular tasks to improve productivity and reduce cost per ton, while individual machine use is also studied to identify potential operator training needs. This comprehensive pre-study uncovers areas for improvement.

The Site Optimization team then creates alternative setups for the customer’s operations, employing simulations and telematics data to demonstrate potential impact on productivity, cost savings and CO₂ emissions. Clear insights are presented highlighting recommended actions and anticipated outcomes.

Delivering tangible benefits with tailored consultancy

Whether optimising existing sites or setting up new sites for peak performance, Site Optimization is intended to transform how customers work. Its data-driven insights guide decision making, ensuring operations are smooth, profitable and aligned with environmental goals, both now and in the future.

To find out more about Site Optimization and how Volvo CE can provide solutions for your applications, please visit the Volvo CE Africa website.

Integrated Pump Technology appointed Grindex distributor in West Africa, boosting dewatering support across mining operations. (Image source: Integrated Pump Technology)

Mining

Integrated Pump Technology has officially been appointed as the distributor for Grindex submersible pumps in West Africa, strengthening its presence in the region and marking another milestone for the South African-based dewatering specialist

Effective July 2025, the appointment comes after the company was recognised as the largest Grindex distributor worldwide, a distinction earned through sustained growth and performance in key African mining markets. The company already has a significant footprint across South, Central and East Africa with its Grindex electric submersible dewatering pumps and Godwin diesel-driven pump solutions. Securing distribution rights for West Africa is described as the next logical expansion.

“We see substantial opportunity in the West African market which is characterised by high rainfall and a large number of wet mining operations,” remarked Jordan Marsh, managing director of Integrated Pump Technology. “The need for reliable and efficient dewatering is continuous and we are well positioned to support customers with proven technology and deep application expertise.”

The distributorship covers all West African countries except Ghana. However, a bonded warehouse has been set up in Ghana to ensure quick turnaround and minimise lead times. The first consignment of Grindex pumps is already on its way to the facility. Marsh explains that stock selection was guided by close collaboration with mining customers across the region and a strong understanding of daily dewatering requirements.

Among the first shipment are high performance models such as the Grindex Maxi, rated at 37 kW, designed for moderate to high flow applications in both underground and surface mines. Also included is the Grindex Mega, a 90 kW unit built for the most demanding dewatering tasks, including deep level mines. Both machines have proven their reliability in Africa’s harsh mining environments, valued for their durable design, low maintenance needs and energy efficiency.

In addition to electric submersible solutions, Integrated Pump Technology will continue serving West African clients with its established range of Godwin diesel or electric driven dewatering pumps. One example, the Godwin HL150, is already in operation at an open pit mine in Senegal, providing dependable high head dewatering performance under tough site conditions.

“The Godwin and Grindex ranges give us a comprehensive dewatering portfolio to meet virtually any pumping requirement, from high volume pit dewatering to underground sump clearance,” commented Marsh. “Our approach in West Africa mirrors our successful operating model in Southern and Central Africa which includes local stockholding, rapid technical support and a strong customer-first philosophy.”

With mining operations in West Africa expanding and deepening, demand for reliable and efficient dewatering solutions is expected to grow significantly. Integrated Pump Technology’s appointment as Grindex distributor reinforces its ability to supply world class equipment backed by technical support and service excellence that mining operations can depend on.

Janus Electric partners with EVUNI in a US$3.25mn deal to deploy electric drivetrain technology across Africa’s transport sector

Logistics

Janus Electric Holdings Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EVUNI Pte Ltd, centred on a proposed A$5 million (approx. US$3.25 million) investment and the rollout of Janus’ electric drivetrain technology into Africa

Under the MoU, EVUNI will acquire up to 25 million ordinary shares at A$0.20 (approx. US$0.13) each, in staged tranches tied to binding agreements and delivery milestones. The investment is expected to bolster Janus’ balance sheet and support its international growth strategy.

The agreement also grants EVUNI exclusive rights to distribute and deploy Janus’ conversion technology across African markets. Janus has committed to supplying a minimum of 250 conversion modules annually for five years, with an option to extend for a further five years.

The partnership aims to fast-track the electrification of heavy transport fleets operating in Africa’s mining and logistics sectors, positioning Janus to expand its global footprint while enabling EVUNI to spearhead regional adoption of sustainable transport solutions.

“This partnership with EVUNI represents a major milestone in our international validation, alongside the demand from US fleet company Ability Tri-Modal’s two-truck order, supporting our long-term growth strategy,” Janus Electric CEO Ian Campbell said.

“By combining our technology with EVUNI’s regional expertise, we are well positioned to deliver sustainable, scalable electrification solutions for Africa’s heavy transport sector.

“We look forward to progressing this collaboration and delivering value to our shareholders.”

Strategic collaboration

The MoU establishes a strategic partnership for the deployment of Janus’ patented electric drivetrain conversion technology, battery swap infrastructure, and proprietary fleet management software across Africa. EVUNI will act as the exclusive distributor and licensee in the region, funding the rollout and building local operational capabilities.

Afreximbank leads US$1.35bn facility in US$4bn syndication to strengthen Dangote’s refinery operations and growth

Finance

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced the signing of a US$1.35bn financing facility for Dangote Industries Limited (DIL)

This forms part of a larger approximately US$4bn syndicated financing arrangement for DIL, Africa’s largest industrial conglomerate, with Afreximbank acting as the Mandated Lead Arranger for the syndication.

This transaction — one of the largest syndicated loans in recent African financial markets — will be used to refinance capital invested in the construction of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Complex, the world’s largest single-train refinery with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. The financing will reduce initial operational expenditures, strengthen DIL’s balance sheet, and support its ongoing growth.

Afreximbank’s contribution of US$1.35bn, the largest share among participating banks, highlights its commitment to major infrastructure projects that drive Africa’s industrialisation, energy security, and intra-African trade.

Since the refinery complex commenced operations in February 2024, Afreximbank has continued to provide financial support for crude supply and product offtake, ensuring smooth operations and reinforcing its role in Africa’s most significant refining project.

Commenting on the deal, Benedict Oramah, president & chairman of the board of directors at Afreximbank, said, “With this landmark deal, we once again demonstrate that Africa’s development can only be meaningfully financed from within. It is only when African institutions lead the way that others can follow. The journey to utilise African resources for its own economic transformation is well underway. Through the Bank’s funding support, we are enhancing the capacity of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Industries Ltd to produce and supply high quality refined petroleum products to the Nigerian market, as well as for export to the entire continent and the world. Our energy security is in sight.”

Aliko Dangote, CEO, Dangote Industries Limited, added, “Afreximbank’s contribution to this milestone financing underscores our shared vision to industrialise Africa from within. This refinancing strengthens our balance sheet and accelerates with ease the refinery’s suppy of high-quality refined petroleum products across Africa.”

The syndicated facility attracted strong interest from major African and international financial institutions, reflecting confidence in Africa’s industrial growth and in Dangote’s vision for transforming the continent.

SEW-EURODRIVE’s TrueDNA delivers integrated, high-performance drive solutions with faster lead times and extended warranties. (Image source: SEW EURODRIVE)

Manufacturing

The introduction of SEW-EURODRIVE’s TrueDNA package responds directly to challenges faced by industry when mixing components from multiple suppliers in a drive solution

Performance inconsistencies, compatibility issues and support gaps have often compromised efficiency and reliability.

By offering a complete power pack solution from a single original equipment manufacturer (OEM) comprising the highest quality components, SEW-EURODRIVE ensures every component works in perfect harmony - guaranteeing optimum performance, streamlined support for extended warranties and peace of mind.

TrueDNA from SEW-EURODRIVE, a global leader in automation and drive technology, is a fully integrated turnkey drive solution designed for maximum flexibility, performance and efficiency. Engineered to cover a wide range of power, torque and speed characteristics, it can be easily adapted to drive various equipment across multiple heavy industries.

“A major advantage of the TrueDNA package is the significant reduction in lead times,” commented Jonathan McKey, national sales and marketing manager at SEW-EURODRIVE. “Because the majority of components are stocked items, customers can typically expect delivery within six to eight weeks from date of order - a notable improvement compared to traditional sourcing processes. This means quicker access to the latest technological advancements without lengthy delays, enabling customers to start production sooner, generate revenue faster and achieve savings on shorter timelines.

Each TrueDNA solution typically includes a base plate, gearbox, coupling and motor - all precisely matched to ensure seamless compatibility and optimum operational performance. Most customers opting for TrueDNA have selected the innovative X.e series gearbox, renowned for its enhanced efficiency, durability and energy-saving features.

The drive train is pre-filled with the customer’s lubrication of choice, although SEW-EURODRIVE recommends its latest advanced oil technology which offers extended lifetime, superior lubrication
properties and improved efficiency in power transfer. With proper maintenance, customers can further reduce costs through extended oil change intervals.

“Choosing the TrueDNA package not only means acquiring cutting-edge drive technology, but also gaining additional value through extended warranties and complimentary maintenance training for end-user personnel,” McKey noted. “We are committed to ensuring optimum long term performance
and supporting our customers’ operational excellence.

With TrueDNA, SEW-EURODRIVE redefines industrial drive solutions - simplifying procurement, optimising performance and delivering a future-ready package built to meet the toughest demands of modern industry.