Aptech Africa has completed the installation of standalone solar PV systems across 69 schools in Sierra Leone’s Western Area, covering both urban and rural districts including Central I & II, East I–III, West I–III, Koya Rural, Waterloo Rural and Mountain Rural

The company is also responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the systems.

Designed as hybrid off-grid installations, the systems generate solar electricity during daylight hours while simultaneously charging battery storage units. During the night or periods of cloudy weather, stored battery energy ensures a continuous electricity supply without reliance on the national grid. The systems provide dependable power for lighting, computers, Wi-Fi routers and printers within school administration blocks, enabling internet connectivity and digital operations in areas lacking grid infrastructure.

Installation teams secured the solar panels on reinforced roof-mounted rail systems, while batteries and inverters were placed within protected and ventilated enclosures inside principals’ offices or school administration buildings. Each installation operates independently, supplying power solely to local school equipment such as lights, laptops, routers and printers. Electrical cabling, fuses and breakers were integrated according to industry standards, while detailed commissioning reports and maintenance documentation were prepared for every site to support future servicing requirements.

The rollout faced several logistical and environmental challenges during implementation.

Accessing remote schools, particularly within Mountain Rural and other rural districts, proved difficult due to poor road infrastructure. Teams relied on four-wheel-drive vehicles and support from local communities to transport personnel and equipment to project sites. To improve efficiency, installations were grouped geographically, allowing crews to complete several nearby schools during a single deployment. In some locations, equipment was temporarily stored at regional hubs to reduce transport delays.

Seasonal weather conditions also created interruptions. Sierra Leone’s heavy rainy season occasionally delayed rooftop installations and electrical works. Project teams adapted schedules around weather forecasts and used temporary coverings where possible to continue work safely during short rain periods. Flexible planning and additional time allocations enabled all 69 systems to be completed successfully despite these constraints.

The project is expected to deliver significant educational, economic and social benefits across participating schools and communities.

Reliable electricity now supports extended study hours, improved administration and enhanced access to digital learning tools. With continuous power for internet routers and computers, schools can connect students and staff to online educational resources and modern learning platforms. The solar systems effectively introduce digital infrastructure into previously underserved schools and 'make education more flexible and accessible by powering the technology and infrastructure needed for digital learning'.

Consistent power also helps bridge connectivity gaps in rural education. Internet routers and communications equipment can now operate independently through off-grid solar supply, ensuring reliable access for teachers and students. Devices such as laptops, mobile phones and printers can also be charged directly through the systems. International community solar initiatives have similarly identified device charging as an essential service for improving educational access.

Administrative functions within schools have also improved. Teachers and principals can now operate office equipment including fans, projectors, printers and phones without disruptions caused by unreliable electricity or fuel shortages. Stable lighting additionally supports safer environments, improved record management and better operational efficiency.

The shift from diesel generators and inconsistent grid supply is also reducing operational costs. Lower spending on fuel and electricity allows schools to redirect funds toward educational materials, maintenance and staff development. International research has shown that solar PV systems can reduce school electricity costs by between 20% and 50%. In some instances, excess power generated by schools may also be shared with nearby buildings.

Environmental gains are another major outcome of the initiative. Replacing diesel and gasoline generators with renewable solar power significantly cuts emissions and local pollution levels. Similar school electrification projects supported by UNICEF in Eritrea demonstrated reductions in carbon emissions while improving access to digital education. Over the operational life of the systems, the Freetown installations are expected to avoid substantial volumes of CO₂ emissions.

Beyond the schools themselves, the project is anticipated to strengthen community confidence in public education. Access to functioning lights, internet services and digital technology can help improve student attendance and encourage enrolment. Previous UNICEF-supported programmes found that improved school infrastructure, including solar-powered facilities, contributed to higher attendance rates among girls in rural communities.

Overall, the initiative highlights how solar PV systems can transform educational infrastructure in off-grid regions. Schools gain “improved learning environments” alongside greater access to digital tools while supporting broader sustainability and climate objectives. The project also demonstrates the wider potential for renewable energy to support connected, technology-enabled education systems throughout Sierra Leone.

INZAG has strengthened its equipment lineup with the addition of a new Liebherr LTM 1090-4.2 mobile crane

This four-axle unit enhances the capabilities of the globally active construction firm, offering a dependable and adaptable solution for complex tasks, particularly those linked to a major infrastructure development in southern Angola. The acquisition also reflects INZAG’s strategy of maintaining greater uniformity across its crane fleet. With this latest delivery, the company now operates two units of the 90-tonne model.

“Unlike crane hire companies, our aim is not to have the largest possible fleet with many different crane types, but rather a reliable all-rounder that is versatile and capable of handling both small and large lifts,” commented Lorenz Weber, procurement director at INZAG.

Beyond lifting performance, the company placed strong emphasis on safety and operational efficiency when selecting the crane. The four-axle configuration ensures excellent mobility while supporting cost-effective operations. Its adjustable axle load system enables smooth transportation across international routes and allows for flexible use on both highways and project sites. Additionally, integrated features such as ECOdrive and ECOmode contribute to lower fuel usage and reduced noise levels, supporting both operator comfort and environmental considerations.

First deployment in Angola requires flexibility

The crane’s first assignment will be in Angola, where INZAG is preparing for a major road infrastructure project. “With this new addition to our fleet, we are preparing for the start of a 146-kilometre road construction project in Angola,” explained Leandro Fernandez, managing director at INZAG.

The development focuses on upgrading the EN 140/295 national road, connecting the municipalities of Caiundo and Savate. Due to the remote nature of the site in southern Angola, relying on local crane rental services is not feasible.

“For this project, we needed a multifunctional crane that can be mobilised quickly, is flexible on site and can also be replaced during the operation – should that become necessary,” reported Weber.

The crane’s strong lifting performance and extended working radius made it particularly suited to the project’s demands.

“We will be using the new Liebherr crane primarily during the mobilisation phase, including for setting up camps and facilities, as well as for unloading and logistics tasks. It will also support operations at bitumen and precast plants, as well as the installation of box culverts,” remarked Fernandez.

Long-standing partnership and quality focus

INZAG continues to prioritise premium equipment and stringent quality standards across its operations. Many of its projects are supported by export financing from the German Federal Government, where the integration of German-engineered technology is a key requirement. The choice of Liebherr aligns with an established partnership between the two organisations.

“In addition to the machine itself, customer service, spare parts availability and technical support play a decisive role for us – requirements that Liebherr fulfils,” summarised Fernandez.

INZAG Germany GmbH specialises in delivering large-scale infrastructure developments across sub-Saharan Africa. Employing around 500 people, the company undertakes projects spanning road construction, water systems, energy infrastructure and port development. “We are currently active in Angola, Ghana and Uganda, among other places, combining European engineering expertise with extensive project experience in challenging markets,” said Weber. The company also provides export and trade services, facilitating connections between European OEMs and clients across Africa.

As mining operations push for higher throughput, longer equipment life, and tighter environmental control, the design of transfer points is emerging as a critical factor in overall materials handling efficiency

No longer viewed as a minor component, chute systems are now recognised for their direct influence on plant performance.

According to Dewald Tintinger, technical director at Weba Chute Systems, inadequately designed transfer points can significantly disrupt operations, affecting material flow, belt loading, dust levels, spillage, and the wear rate of downstream equipment.

“A transfer point should never be treated as a static piece of infrastructure,” commented Tintinger. “It is an engineered flow control solution that plays a direct role in throughput stability, maintenance intervals and overall plant reliability.”

He explains that in modern processing environments, transfer points are increasingly being treated as vital control nodes within the entire materials handling system. Poorly managed material movement between conveyors, crushers, screens, or stockpiles can quickly escalate into broader operational challenges.

“Inconsistent flow patterns can lead to uneven belt loading, mistracking, excessive dust and spillage, and accelerated wear on liners, idlers and conveyor belts,” he explained. “These issues inevitably translate into increased maintenance requirements and, in many cases, costly production interruptions.”

Tintinger highlights that successful chute design starts with a thorough assessment of the material itself and the operating conditions. Variables such as particle size distribution, moisture levels, bulk density, abrasiveness, and cohesiveness all influence how materials behave during transfer.

“There is no one-size-fits-all solution,” he said. “Every application must be engineered around the specific flow behaviour of the material as well as the plant’s throughput requirements and space constraints.”

A central design objective is to ensure accurate and stable loading onto the receiving conveyor. If the material trajectory or discharge speed is not properly controlled, it can lead to uneven distribution, causing belt damage, excessive wear on idlers, and reduced conveyor efficiency.

“Correct belt loading is fundamental to conveyor health,” remarked Tintinger. “By controlling the flow path and discharge velocity of the material, we can significantly reduce wear and improve the overall reliability of the conveying system.”

He further notes that well-engineered transfer points also contribute to environmental compliance and workplace safety. By managing dust and spillage at the source, operations can maintain cleaner sites, minimise hazards, and reduce environmental impact.

“Dust and spillage are not simply housekeeping issues; they are often symptoms of poor flow management,” he commented. “By engineering the transfer point correctly, these risks can be mitigated at source rather than managed downstream.”

As mining companies continue to focus on maximising uptime and operational efficiency, transfer point design is shifting from a reactive maintenance issue to a proactive engineering priority.

“Ultimately, every transfer point must support predictable, controlled and efficient material flow,” Tintinger concluded. “When this is achieved, the benefits are seen across the plant in reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs and improved throughput performance.”

Standard Chartered and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have announced a new risk sharing facility aimed at strengthening supply chains across Africa

The partnership will introduce supply chain finance solutions in eight markets – Ivory Coast, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia – supporting companies in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing.

The facility aims to help ensure suppliers get faster payments, freeing up working capital to improve production, pay wages and hire.

The risk-sharing facility will cover up to US$300mn in supply chain and trade finance assets originated by Standard Chartered in Africa.

It comprises a range of underlying supply chain financing instruments – such as payables finance, receivables discounting and pre-shipment finance programmes – to help smaller firms get paid earlier, reduce the cost of working capital, and invest in growth.

“This US$300mn facility with IFC underscores our shared commitment to strengthening Africa's supply chains and enabling sustainable business growth,” said Dalu Ajene, chief executive and head of coverage, Standard Chartered Africa.

“As a super-connector bank with deep expertise across key trade corridors linking Africa to Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, we are uniquely positioned to channel capital and innovation into the real economy. By expanding access to supply chain finance, we are helping African companies unlock liquidity, manage risk, and invest with confidence.”

Ajene said the collaboration unites Standard Chartered’s cross-border expertise with IFC’s development mandate to empower businesses – from major corporations to smaller local suppliers – “to engage more actively in regional and global trade, fostering job creation and promoting inclusive growth.”

IFC will provide guarantees for up to US$150mn from its own account, with US$100mn committed as the first tranche under the scheme, to support transactions in both US dollars and selected local currencies.

Over the next three years, the partnership is projected to enable about US$1.9bn in supply chain finance transactions, providing access to finance for firms across Africa.

It aims to support more than 500 suppliers, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in both domestic and global value chains, with the potential to indirectly benefit over 1 million farmers.

“Supply chain finance is among the fastest ways to narrow the growing finance gap that businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, are facing in emerging economies,” said Mohamed Gouled, IFC’s vice president, products & clients.

“By partnering with Standard Chartered to support companies at the center of strategic value chains, we can unlock much-needed working capital at scale for businesses across Africa, including smaller firms and farmers, making supply chains more competitive and boosting job creation.”

According to IFC, global demand for supply chain finance has surged – in 2025, the estimated volume reached about US$2.7trn, showing an 8% increase year-on-year.

Yet supply chain finance has not scaled at the same pace in emerging markets, it says, especially in lower income and fragile contexts, largely because commercial banks tend to focus on developed markets.

Read more:

AFC green bond to boost Ivorian solar sector

New trade finance facility for Angolan firms

Vantage Capital, Greenpoint funding to boost SolarAfrica

At the heart of IVECO’s industrial operations is its Madrid facility, the only manufacturing site in Spain dedicated to heavy-duty industrial vehicles

The plant produces the company’s complete heavy truck range for international markets including Italy, Germany, Spain and Turkey.

Covering 374,000 m², the facility is built around a 1 km main assembly line and is capable of delivering close to 40,000 different vehicle configurations. With 267 core models and more than 2,800 customisation options available, production is designed around highly specific customer demands. On average, the same truck configuration is assembled just three times annually.

“Every truck we build is essentially a one-off, custom-made to meet specific requirements,” commented José Manuel Jaquotot, director of IVECO’s Madrid and Valladolid plants.

“Each vehicle has a unique identifier that allows us to track it from cab production in Valladolid to final assembly in Madrid, ensuring full traceability and quality.”

Manufacturing operations at the Madrid site rely on a flexible and tightly coordinated production system supported by automation and intelligent logistics. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) transport units across the line, enabling takt times to shift according to the complexity of each build while maintaining uninterrupted workflow across the plant.

Truck cabs arrive from the IVECO Valladolid Plant already painted and welded before being fully equipped in Madrid with dashboards, seats, bunks and airbags. The dashboard assembly process alone includes more than 100 electrical checks and is managed on a separate production line because of its technical complexity.

A major milestone in the process is the integration of the chassis and cab, commonly referred to as the “marriage” stage. Once combined, the vehicle progresses through the fitting of exterior parts, wheel installation and a series of final inspections. These include leak detection, geometry calibration and full functional testing before completion.

The site’s workforce remains central to its operational success. More than 2,700 employees support production activities, bringing the expertise and adaptability required to manage constant product evolution. During 2025, the plant successfully introduced ten new launches.

Sustainability also plays a defining role across operations. The Madrid facility operates entirely on renewable electricity and, in 2025, recycled almost 90% of the water used throughout production processes. Alongside the Valladolid plant, the site forms part of Iveco Group’s broader sustainability strategy and participates in a solar self-consumption initiative with Edison Next Spain, a project expected to help prevent around 500 tons of CO₂ emissions every year.

IVECO’s focus on decarbonisation extends beyond the vehicles themselves to the manufacturing ecosystem behind them. The Madrid plant reflects this broader ambition by combining advanced production technologies, large-scale customisation and sustainable industrial practices in one integrated operation.