In The Spotlight

MSC launches iReefer, a real-time container monitoring system for reefer cargo, enhancing shipment tracking, security, and temperature control. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has introduced iReefer, a state-of-the-art container monitoring system designed for temperature-controlled cargo
This innovation enables customers to track and oversee their refrigerated shipments in real-time, from any location worldwide.
With iReefer, users gain instant access to crucial shipment details, including location, temperature, humidity, and more. The service is accessible through myMSC, the company’s digital business platform, or via an API for seamless integration.
Customers can choose from three tailored iReefer packages based on their business needs. The entry-level option, iReefer Essential, is available at no cost and provides an overview of current and past reefer shipments, a container journey log, and analytical graphs. iReefer Pro expands on these features by offering unlimited data downloads and GPS tracking. For businesses managing large cargo volumes, iReefer Ultimate ensures direct API connectivity for streamlined data exchange. The premium packages, iReefer Pro and iReefer Ultimate, will be available starting 1 March 2025.
As a global leader in refrigerated transport, MSC moves over 1 million reefer containers annually. The company operates one of the most sophisticated reefer fleets and is supported by a team of more than 1,000 reefer specialists worldwide.
The launch of iReefer represents a key milestone in MSC’s ongoing digital transformation, aimed at enhancing shipping efficiency and providing real-time insights for supply chain optimisation. This new solution complements MSC’s existing digital portfolio, which includes MSC Smart Containers for remote dry cargo monitoring.
As part of this global initiative, MSC has integrated iReefer technology into over 210,000 reefer containers and equipped more than 500 vessels, with plans to expand deployment across its entire fleet in the coming years.
“This exciting launch highlights MSC’s unique ability to combine forward-thinking digital solutions with personalized customer care. iReefer is designed with customers in mind: we fully understand their need to closely monitor and control cargo, to facilitate planning and ensure products are delivered in pristine condition. It builds on the already high levels of care we apply to reefer cargo and takes this support to the next level,” said Giuseppe Prudente, Chief Logistics Officer of MSC and President of MEDLOG.
Digital Innovation in Cold Chain Logistics
The introduction of iReefer aligns with the rising global demand for refrigerated cargo and user-friendly digital solutions. Customers will benefit from real-time container monitoring, precise temperature control, improved security, regulatory compliance, and valuable data insights. Additionally, connected reefer containers help minimize costs by reducing spoilage, preventing damage, and lowering insurance claims.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is to invest up to US$50mn in Lagos Free Zone to support industrial growth and economic diversification in Nigeria
The funds will underpin the first phase of the 860-hectare free zone, Nigeria’s first deep-sea port-based private special economic zone, focusing on land development, industrial facilities and logistics infrastructure.
Dahlia Khalifa, IFC regional director, Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, said the investment is designed to address critical infrastructure gaps, attract local and global businesses and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
“This investment reflects IFC’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria,” said Khalifa.
“Lagos Free Zone is poised to become a transformative hub for industrial activity, driving job creation and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.”
Owned by Singapore-based Tolaram, a diversified multinational group with operations across Africa, Asia, and Europe, Lagos Free Zone is integrated with Lekki Deep Sea Port and will provide an integrated industrial ecosystem for efficient import and export operations, serving as a gateway for Nigeria’s integration into global value chains.
With Nigeria’s economy projected to grow by 3.7% by 2026, investments in infrastructure are vital to ensuring sustainable growth.
Lagos Free Zone is already home to several manufacturing brands including Kellogg’s, Dano Milk, Colgate, BASF, ADM and Tata International.
When fully occupied, the free zone is expected to create 30,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs, while contributing significantly to Nigeria’s GDP upon completion.
“We are proud to partner with Lagos Free Zone in building the infrastructure necessary to attract global and local businesses, enabling Nigeria to achieve its full economic potential,” said Khalifa.
The investment also reflects IFC’s commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on green infrastructure.
Approximately 15% of the investment is earmarked for climate-related initiatives.
“IFC’s support represents a significant and positive recognition of our vision to establish Lagos Free Zone as a world-class industrial hub,” said Adesuwa Ladoja, CEO and managing director at Lagos Free Zone Company.
“This investment allows us to scale up the existing infrastructure to attract more foreign and local tenants while promoting sustainability and creating economic opportunities for Nigeria.”
IFC investment also aligns with Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms and the Corporation’s own strategy, including the World Bank Group’s Nigeria Country Partnership Framework (2021–2025) and its 2015 Climate Action Plan, both of which prioritise diversification, the development of competitive clusters and investments in climate-resilient infrastructure.
By addressing infrastructure bottlenecks the aim is to strengthen and unlock Nigeria’s position as a regional economic leader.
Read more: Falcon Corporation ND Western & FHN consortium partners with Lagos Free Zone

Sierra Leone, with EU and UNEP support, introduces e-kekes and solar battery-swapping stations to cut emissions and boost urban mobility. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The Environmental Protection Agency of Sierra Leone (EPA-SL) has launched the country’s first electric mobility strategy, introducing electric three-wheelers known as e-kekes
This initiative is part of a broader effort, “Supporting Sierra Leone with the Shift to Electric Mobility,” aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing urban mobility, and improving air quality, with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
As part of its goal to lower emissions, “Supporting Sierra Leone with the Shift to Electric Mobility” will establish regulatory frameworks, pilot electric three-wheelers and battery-swapping stations, and develop sustainable business models. The project prioritizes scaling up and replicating successful initiatives while implementing fiscal policies to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption across the country.
Funded by the European Union through the SOLUTIONSPlus project, the initiative commenced in 2024. It is co-financed and implemented by the national government in collaboration with UNEP, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and local stakeholders.
This effort represents a key milestone in Sierra Leone’s transition to sustainable transportation. Initially, 15 e-kekes will be deployed in the capital, Freetown, with a strong focus on gender inclusion—30% of drivers will be women as part of a test phase.
The adoption of e-kekes is expected to yield significant environmental benefits. Traditional three-wheelers consume four litres of gasoline per 100 kilometers, substantially contributing to air pollution. According to the UN, air pollution is responsible for 394,000 premature deaths annually across Africa. Transitioning to electric vehicles will help lower local pollutants, reduce pollution-related health risks in urban areas, and enhance road safety by replacing gasoline-powered three-wheelers with high-quality e-kekes.
Despite their higher initial cost—1.2 to 1.5 times that of conventional vehicles—e-kekes present a strong economic case. Feasibility studies indicate that lower operational costs and an efficient battery-swapping system make them financially viable. Additionally, e-keke drivers are projected to earn higher profits while benefiting from reduced daily rental fees of US$1.5, compared to US$5 for traditional kekes.
The initiative supports the EPA and Ministry of Transport’s broader push for electric two- and three-wheelers, which make up 10% of Sierra Leone’s vehicle fleet. These efforts aim to strengthen economic resilience by reducing fossil fuel reliance while advancing the country’s 2050 carbon neutrality goals. Moreover, the project seeks to encourage entrepreneurship in the electric vehicle sector and generate employment opportunities for young people in the industry.
“Supporting Sierra Leone with the Shift to Electric Mobility” will run until 2026, featuring innovative elements such as solar-powered battery-swapping stations to optimise operational efficiency. A comprehensive monitoring framework will evaluate vehicle performance, environmental impact, and socio-economic benefits, including how the initiative influences women's participation in the transport sector.
Also read: https://africanreview.com/transport-a-logistics/how-is-taag-angola-modernising-its-fleet
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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.

Eswatini's first privately funded hydro plant, led by EIMS Africa, will generate 13.5 MW, powering 11,000 homes and boosting renewables. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Eswatini has launched construction on its first privately funded hydroelectric power plant, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector
Led by South African renewable energy firms African Clean Energy Developments and Energy Infrastructure Management Services (EIMS Africa), the project is set to supply electricity to roughly 11,000 homes. The plant’s first power generation is anticipated by late 2026.
Hydropower investment milestone
According to Michael Wickins, chief commercial officer at EIMS Africa, the project’s procurement process dates back to 2004. Large-scale infrastructure projects of this nature typically take six to eight years to complete, and this initiative faced additional complexities as Eswatini’s first privately owned hydroelectric plant and EIMS Africa’s initial venture into hydropower.

A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. (Image source: Volvo)
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has announced a comprehensive update to its globally recognised articulated hauler lineup, marking the most extensive product portfolio renewal in decades
The revamped range now includes models from A25 to A60, featuring significant technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency, safety, and adaptability for future drivetrain developments. A notable addition to the lineup is the all-new A50 model, which expands customer options in the demanding hauler segment.
A new range from A25 to A60
A pioneer in the articulated hauler industry since introducing ‘Gravel Charlie’ in 1966, Volvo CE is rolling out its latest lineup in a phased global release throughout 2025. This upgrade represents a significant technological leap, incorporating a new electronic system and an in-house developed transmission that delivers fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15%, depending on the model and application. Designed with adaptability in mind, the new haulers are constructed to integrate seamlessly with future drivetrains.
Introducing the A50 model
One of the most exciting highlights of the launch is the debut of the A50 model, which enhances Volvo CE’s offering in the hauler segment. Available in selected markets, the A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. The updated haulers are engineered to lower the total cost of ownership while ensuring maximum safety and productivity, especially when combined with Volvo CE’s digital solutions such as Haul Assist with onboard weighing.
Melker Jernberg, president of Volvo CE, emphasised the company’s legacy of innovation,“For nearly 60 years we have been leading the way with our range of articulated haulers and now with today’s launch of a new range of outstanding products, including one completely new model, we prove that there are no limits to our capacity for innovation. Our customers know to expect a first-class operation when they get into one of our haulers, but that experience has just got even better with a host of cutting-edge features designed with our customers in mind.”
A circular approach to sustainability
The new range is designed to be among the most fuel-efficient hauling solutions on the market, incorporating sustainability-focused elements such as low-carbon emission steel made from recycled materials. This steel, produced using fossil-free electricity and biogas, is being integrated into the serial production of haulers at Volvo CE’s Braås site. Given that steel is a major component in Volvo CE’s products and is traditionally a significant source of carbon emissions, this material circularity initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
A step towards the future
With over 35% of its total range renewed in the past 12 months, Volvo CE is taking a decisive step towards shaping the future of construction equipment. This latest product overhaul continues the company’s long-standing tradition of setting industry benchmarks for innovation and operational excellence, just as it did in 1966. By integrating cutting-edge features and sustainable manufacturing practices, Volvo CE reinforces its leadership in the articulated hauler segment and its commitment to meeting the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry.
Also read: Volvo CE adopts low-carbon steel

Twiga oversees operations at the North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines. (Image source: Barrick Gold Corporation)
Barrick Gold Corporation has contributed over US$4.24bn to Tanzania’s economy since launching the Twiga joint venture with the government in 2019, injecting US$888mn in 2024 alone
Twiga oversees operations at the North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines.
During a media briefing, Barrick president and CEO Mark Bristow emphasised Twiga’s leadership in Tanzania’s extractive sector, highlighting job creation, local business support, and substantial community investments.
“We spent US$573mn on national suppliers and service providers last year, representing about 83% of our total spend in-country. Additionally, 75% of all our payments to suppliers and service providers went to indigenous companies, exceeding our target of 61%,” Bristow said.
Sustainable mining success?
With a strong commitment to local employment, 96% of Barrick’s 6,185-strong workforce are Tanzanian nationals, 53% of whom come from communities near the mines. The company invested over US$5mn in 2024 in potable water, healthcare, and education, bringing total community investments to US$15.8mn since Twiga’s formation in 2019.
Production guidance for Bulyanhulu and North Mara in 2024 exceeded 500,000 ounces, reinforcing the sites’ Tier One1 complex status. Additionally, both mines completed a full year without a Lost-Time Injury.
Buzwagi made significant strides in its closure plan, focusing on environmental management, water conservation, and vegetation maintenance. A Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is also progressing, attracting investor interest, with one company already obtaining Export Processing Zone registration.
The Barrick Academy, established at Buzwagi in 2024, is making significant progress in developing talent. Focused on training foremen, supervisors, and superintendents, the academy has trained 1,700 individuals to date and is set to surpass its target of 2,800 trained personnel by the end of 2025.
Continued conversion drilling at North Mara and Bulyanhulu has replenished reserves, while exploration efforts have expanded Barrick’s footprint in the Nzega District. The company has secured over 2,000km² of new exploration areas to support long-term mineral reserve growth in Tanzania.
Twiga received multiple industry recognitions over the past year for its safety measures, employer excellence, environmental practices, and community engagement. In 2024, North Mara was named the largest economic contributor in Tanzania’s extractive industry and earned awards for occupational health and safety, corporate social responsibility, and compliance with local content regulations.
“Barrick’s work in Tanzania is a model for sustainable mining that balances economic, environmental, and social responsibility,” said Bristow. “The recognition we have received speaks to our commitment to excellence and the value we bring to our host countries.”

MSC launches iReefer, a real-time container monitoring system for reefer cargo, enhancing shipment tracking, security, and temperature control. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has introduced iReefer, a state-of-the-art container monitoring system designed for temperature-controlled cargo
This innovation enables customers to track and oversee their refrigerated shipments in real-time, from any location worldwide.
With iReefer, users gain instant access to crucial shipment details, including location, temperature, humidity, and more. The service is accessible through myMSC, the company’s digital business platform, or via an API for seamless integration.
Customers can choose from three tailored iReefer packages based on their business needs. The entry-level option, iReefer Essential, is available at no cost and provides an overview of current and past reefer shipments, a container journey log, and analytical graphs. iReefer Pro expands on these features by offering unlimited data downloads and GPS tracking. For businesses managing large cargo volumes, iReefer Ultimate ensures direct API connectivity for streamlined data exchange. The premium packages, iReefer Pro and iReefer Ultimate, will be available starting 1 March 2025.
As a global leader in refrigerated transport, MSC moves over 1 million reefer containers annually. The company operates one of the most sophisticated reefer fleets and is supported by a team of more than 1,000 reefer specialists worldwide.
The launch of iReefer represents a key milestone in MSC’s ongoing digital transformation, aimed at enhancing shipping efficiency and providing real-time insights for supply chain optimisation. This new solution complements MSC’s existing digital portfolio, which includes MSC Smart Containers for remote dry cargo monitoring.
As part of this global initiative, MSC has integrated iReefer technology into over 210,000 reefer containers and equipped more than 500 vessels, with plans to expand deployment across its entire fleet in the coming years.
“This exciting launch highlights MSC’s unique ability to combine forward-thinking digital solutions with personalized customer care. iReefer is designed with customers in mind: we fully understand their need to closely monitor and control cargo, to facilitate planning and ensure products are delivered in pristine condition. It builds on the already high levels of care we apply to reefer cargo and takes this support to the next level,” said Giuseppe Prudente, Chief Logistics Officer of MSC and President of MEDLOG.
Digital Innovation in Cold Chain Logistics
The introduction of iReefer aligns with the rising global demand for refrigerated cargo and user-friendly digital solutions. Customers will benefit from real-time container monitoring, precise temperature control, improved security, regulatory compliance, and valuable data insights. Additionally, connected reefer containers help minimize costs by reducing spoilage, preventing damage, and lowering insurance claims.
South Africa-headquartered DMA has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Saxo Australia from Saxo Bank, a leading online trading and investment specialist
DMA is a global leader in all-in-one software solutions for financial advisers and wealth managers.
As part of the acquisition and partnership, DMA will leverage Saxo Bank's platform and trading technology for clients for the Australian market.
The Johannesburg-based group will assume 80.1% ownership of Saxo's Australian business, subject to regulatory approval, with Saxo Bank retaining 19.9%.
With the transaction, Saxo's award-winning platforms, product range, competitive prices and interest rates will be complemented and strengthened by DMA's business-to-business knowhow, world-class adviser offering and track record of growth.
“We believe DMA’s platform offering will bring tangible benefits to Australian financial advisers and wealth managers, while the business will continue to focus on delivering high-touch, high-quality service for self-directed retail clients," said DMA's CEO, Richard North.
"It'll be the best of Saxo and the best of DMA and we think that adds up to the marketplace's best choice for investors and partners across the entire lifecycle.”
This transition represents an expansion of an existing partnership between DMA and Saxo in South Africa, the Netherlands and the UK.
In these regions, DMA already leverages Saxo's capabilities, outsourcing the brokerage business model, managing all aspects of trade orders, execution, settlement and post-trade operations.
Saxo's open architecture means that DMA can build additional interfaces, digital services and trading experiences for Australian clients.
Currently, more than 160 wealth managers and adviser networks across Africa, Europe, and the United Kingdom use DMA to access global markets.
Specifically for the Australian market, Saxo's banking as a service (BaaS) solutions paired with DMA's software solutions will enable Australian institutional partners, such as financial advisers and asset and fund managers, to connect front, middle, and back-office functions under one solution.
Saxo will deliver the best-in-class digital investing and trading platforms, and will also provide the back-office infrastructure, from clearing and settlement to execution and custody.
This will support financial services firms to reduce back-office cost and complexity and enhance client-facing services.
The new business will retain Saxo Australia's staff, led by its CEO, Adam Smith, while looking to bolster its Australia-based workforce to ensure clients get the best investing and trading experience.
The name and brand of the new business will be determined after a transitional period, with the business to continue operating as Saxo Australia in the meantime.
The sale comes after Saxo Bank in June 2024 announced a review of strategic opportunities in the Asia-Pacific, seeking to accelerate its growth in the region.
"We will ensure a smooth transition and aim to enhance the offerings and services provided,” said Smith. “The clients of Saxo Australia will notice absolutely no disruption in service, product range, or platform access. We are very pleased to partner up with DMA and believe that this will be a game changer for Australian clients.”
Ghana-based manufacturer Mohinani Group Limited has teamed up with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to undertake the recycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) from plastic waste in Ghana and Nigeria
The initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs in both countries and help protect the region’s environment.
Under the partnership, IFC will provide a loan of US$37mn to help Mohinani Group subsidiaries Polytank Ghana Limited and Sonnex Packaging Nigeria Limited to establish PET recycling plants in Ghana and Nigeria.
Each plant will have the capacity to produce 15,000 tons of recycled PET (rPET) resins annually that will substitute virgin PET resins used to make food grade and beverage packaging containers.
Some 90% of the raw materials will be sourced from local small businesses involved in plastic collection.
“The rPET project by the Mohinani Group was born out of a vision to close the bottle-to-bottle recycling loop in Africa and the group’s dedication to advancing environmental sustainability,” said Roshan Mohinani, strategy and transformation manager for Mohinani.
“It is also inspired by our group's purpose of improving the quality of lives in Africa, as this initiative is expected to create over 4,000 jobs along the value chain in Nigeria and Ghana, thereby providing economic empowerment to a significant number of young people, particularly women.”
Combined, the new plants are expected to create more than 4,000 direct and indirect jobs across the value chain and approximately US$21mn in annual savings from imports for each country.
PET is a polymer resin of the polyester family, widely used for making containers for liquids and foods.
Using recycled plastic waste for production will prevent harmful pollutants from being released into the environment and reduce the need for virgin plastics. This will lower greenhouse gas emissions because recycled plastics have a smaller energy footprint than new plastics.
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — will provide advisory services to strengthen Mohinani’s environmental and social practices and its capacity for efficient and sustainable PET recycling operations.
The project aligns with IFC’s strategies for Ghana and Nigeria which are focused on mitigating climate change, job creation and economic transformation.
It is also consistent with the World Bank Group’s Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2025, which aims to reduce the use of virgin plastic resins and greenhouse gas emissions in the packaging materials value chain.
“IFC's partnership with Mohinani underscores our dedication to promote environmental sustainability and economic development in Ghana and Nigeria,” said Dahlia Khalifa, IFC regional director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa.
“By recycling up to 30,000 tons of PET waste annually, these new plants will protect the environment and substitute imports with locally recycled materials.”
Read more recycling news here:
Alpla enters South African PET recycling market
Continental launches sustainable tyres
CCBA encourages plastic bottle collection in Ethiopia