In The Spotlight
Empower and AFRIGREEN partner to fund 26 solar and battery storage systems for Justrite stores across Nigeria
AFRIGREEN Debt Impact Fund has joined forces with Empower New Energy in a new debt financing initiative that will enable the rollout of at least 26 commercial-scale solar and battery storage systems across Nigeria
The initiative will deliver more than 8,000 MWh of clean energy each year to Justrite Superstores, reducing energy costs, creating jobs, and cutting approximately 4,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
This collaboration sees AFRIGREEN—operated by RGREEN INVEST and advised by ECHOSYS INVEST—providing long-term senior debt to finance Empower’s solar energy portfolio in Nigeria. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating clean energy adoption and advancing sustainable development on the continent.
The first stage of the financing will support solar rooftop systems and battery storage units that have already been installed by Empower and its local implementation partner, Powercell, for Justrite Limited. These installations aim to deliver stable, cost-effective power while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting Nigeria’s broader renewable energy goals.
Founded in 2001, Justrite has grown from a modest outlet with just two employees into a leading Nigerian retail chain, now boasting 22 purpose-built stores, over 900 staff, and a retail footprint exceeding 20,000 square metres.
“We are excited to collaborate with Empower in delivering impactful renewable energy projects in Nigeria,” said Olivier Leruste, managing partner at ECHOSYS INVEST. “This financing exemplifies AFRIGREEN’s role in accelerating the deployment of solar energy solutions for commercial and industrial companies in Africa. Empower and Justrite are showcasing the economic and environmental benefits that solar with battery storage can bring to Nigerian businesses.”
Empower New Energy’s CEO, Terje Osmundsen, added, “This agreement with AFRIGREEN Debt Impact Fund is a significant milestone in our mission to expand access to clean energy across Africa. By supporting projects like the Justrite solar rooftops with battery storage, we are not only reducing carbon emissions but also improving energy security and lowering electricity costs for businesses.”
Justrite founder and chairman, Ayo Aderinwale, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainability. “Optimising our buildings to provide solar energy with storage is a vital part of our journey to build the most sustainable and future-proof grocery chain in Nigeria.”
Also read: Harnessing rooftop solar for global energy revolution
Trina Storage's Elementa 2 Pro – a 5.015 MWh energy storage system designed for ultra-long lifespan, superior efficiency, and maximum safety. (Image source: Trina Storage)
Trina Storage, a prominent global provider of energy storage solutions, has rolled out its newest product—the Elementa 2 Pro 5MWh energy storage system—across key markets in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa
The product launch has drawn significant attention from industry stakeholders, underscoring its high performance and further establishing Trina Storage’s capacity to support grid stability and meet varying energy requirements worldwide.
The Elementa 2 Pro builds upon the proven success of the original Elementa 2 line, introducing the latest advancements in cell technology and system architecture. It offers a high-efficiency, intelligent, and adaptable energy storage solution for a wide range of applications.
Durable, compact, and high-performance
As energy demand continues to grow and grid reliability becomes increasingly vital, efficient use of space is more critical than ever. Trina Storage has responded with the Elementa 2 Pro 5MWh, a solution designed to meet both performance and spatial challenges in modern energy infrastructure.
At the core of the system is a 314Ah cell with an industry-leading cycle life of 15,000, ensuring both durability and long-term economic value. The unit’s side-by-side and back-to-back compact configuration minimises its physical footprint, making it ideal for installations in urban and industrial settings. A noise suppression system keeps operational noise at just 70dB, addressing concerns in sensitive locations.
Advanced cooling and safety features
To maintain peak performance, the Elementa 2 Pro features a hybrid cooling system that keeps cell temperature variance within ≤2.5°C, even under extreme conditions. In colder climates, auxiliary power needs are cut by 30%, improving the system’s overall energy efficiency.
Safety is engineered into every layer of the design. The Elementa 2 Pro uses electric vehicle-grade cells, tested rigorously to ensure they meet the highest safety standards. It incorporates a three-tier electrical protection system and an emergency shutoff, providing robust safety coverage from the cabinet level to the PCS and EMS components.
Intelligent control and streamlined maintenance
In addition to its hardware strengths, the Elementa 2 Pro is equipped with advanced smart management features to simplify operations and cut down maintenance efforts. It offers 1:1 NTC temperature monitoring, enabling real-time oversight of individual cells and allowing for rapid anomaly detection. Its four-tier or master-slave BMS setup ensures optimal performance in parallel multi-cabinet installations.
The system also supports remote upgrades and live monitoring with a single click, reducing the need for on-site interventions and increasing O&M efficiency by up to 90%. This intelligent automation significantly lowers operating costs while enhancing reliability.
A milestone in clean energy innovation
Having earned international acclaim for the Elementa series, Trina Storage has leveraged its extensive experience from global projects to develop the Elementa 2 Pro. This latest system is tailored to meet the changing needs of the energy storage market with a solution that is both robust and forward-looking.
"The launch of the Elementa 2 Pro 5MWh system marks a significant milestone in Trina Storage's commitment to innovation and sustainability," said Wei Deng, Head of Global Product at Trina Storage. "We are confident that this advanced solution will help accelerate the global transition to clean energy."
Also read: Trinasolar advances South Africa’s energy transition
Junttan has a new-generation product line powered by Volvo Penta engines. (Image source: Volvo Penta)
Junttan has unveiled its next-generation product line with the launch of the DR5 drilling rig, marking a significant milestone in the company’s evolution
This new line is powered by Volvo Penta engines, with the DR5 being the first to integrate the high-performance Stage V / Tier 4f Volvo Penta TAD1385VE. Delivering 405 kW, this compact yet powerful engine is specifically designed for specialised equipment that requires exceptional uptime and reliability.
“For us, this is a strategic choice for the long term,” remarked Tomi Voutilainen, director of product management and engineering at Junttan. “Volvo Penta’s offering doesn’t just meet our technical needs today — it has the range, flexibility, and development paths to support where we’re going tomorrow.”
The decision to partner with Volvo Penta was made following a comprehensive evaluation process that began in 2020, as Junttan sought to equip its machinery for future job site challenges. Beyond meeting technical criteria such as extended service intervals, compact engine architecture, and adaptable power configurations, Volvo Penta stood out for its alignment in values — including a shared emphasis on transparency, responsiveness, and agility.
“This collaboration shows how Volvo Penta supports OEMs with flexible, dependable solutions,” commented Pasi Järvelä, area sales manager at Volvo Penta. “We aim to be a responsive, long-term partner that grows with our customers.”
A forward-looking partnership
Given the global and often remote nature of Junttan’s operations, the partnership with Volvo Penta offers a crucial advantage: access to a broad, reliable service network that supports ease of maintenance and continuous performance in demanding environments. The new-generation portfolio — encompassing pile driving rigs, drilling rigs, and hydraulic power packs — has been engineered to boost operational efficiency, extend maintenance intervals, and reduce overall ownership costs.
Sustainability and innovation are at the core of this alliance. The DR5 exemplifies Junttan’s forward-thinking approach, incorporating a 20-ton reduction in weight compared to earlier models and the capability to run entirely on renewable HVO fuel.
“This partnership is built to evolve,” Tomi added. “Volvo Penta’s roadmap and modular approach give us confidence that we’ll have the power solutions we need — whatever the future brings.”
Also read: Volvo Penta debuts versatile BESS for demanding sites
Edith Kikonyogo, managing director, Aggreko Africa. (Image source: Aggreko)
Africa stands at a critical juncture in its energy evolution. With rapid economic growth, a burgeoning population, and vast natural resources, the continent has immense potential, as stated by Edith Kikonyogo, managing director, Aggreko Africa
However, these opportunities are accompanied by significant energy challenges, including unreliable power access, environmental concerns, and the need for equitable energy distribution. According to Kikonyogo, these challenges require leadership grounded in innovation, collaboration, and a comprehensive understanding of the energy trilemma—the delicate balance of energy security, environmental sustainability, and energy access.
The energy trilemma involves three key dimensions:
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Energy security: Ensuring a reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted energy supply.
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Environmental sustainability: Reducing environmental harm and combating climate change.
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Energy access: Ensuring fair and inclusive availability of energy.
For Africa, resolving this trilemma is not just a goal but a necessity. The continent’s energy landscape is diverse, with aging infrastructure in urban areas, vast rural regions lacking grid access, and varied regional needs. However, these challenges also provide an opportunity to redefine Africa’s energy future.
Reconciling energy security with sustainability
Looking to the future, Africa faces significant challenges, with electricity demand expected to grow at 4% annually through 2026 (IEA). This growth, driven by urbanisation and a rapidly expanding population, outpaces the global average and presents both great potential and substantial challenges. However, Africa’s continued reliance on fossil fuels complicates the situation, requiring a delicate balance between addressing immediate energy needs and committing to sustainability.
This challenge is underscored by the African Union’s ambitious goal of reaching 300GW of renewable energy by 2030 (Nairobi Declaration). This target represents more than just a statistic; it is a transformative vision requiring an additional 32.6GW of renewable capacity each year—four times the current deployment rate. Overcoming barriers such as fragmented regulations, financing gaps, and lengthy permitting processes—which can delay projects by 12 to 18 months—is essential for progress.
To navigate these challenges and realise this vision, innovative solutions and collaborative efforts are critical. One of the key hurdles to overcome is the long time-to-market for energy projects. Delays often result from regulatory complexity, underdeveloped infrastructure, and investor risk aversion. Extending centralised grids to remote areas remains financially and logistically prohibitive, and renewable energy projects often face bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Advancing sustainability without hindering growth
While addressing these challenges, it is crucial to remember that advancing sustainability must not happen in isolation. Despite contributing less than 4% of global emissions, Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change. This stark reality necessitates pragmatic solutions, such as hybrid energy systems that combine renewable energy with transitional fuels. These systems not only provide reliable power for critical services such as healthcare and education but also reduce dependence on carbon-intensive sources, bridging the gap between development and decarbonisation.
In addition to enhancing energy security and reducing emissions, ensuring equitable and sustainable energy access is paramount. With over 600 million Africans lacking electricity, the need for solutions that provide equitable energy access is urgent. Decentralised solutions, like microgrids, are especially important in regions where extending the grid is not feasible.
However, achieving sustainable energy access requires more than just infrastructure. It requires a concerted effort to build local capacity and engage in inclusive planning. Global technology providers have a crucial role to play in removing barriers to energy access, providing tailored support to accelerate project viability and ensure operational success.
Kenya is on track to reach universal electricity access by 2030. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Kenya is on track to achieve universal electricity access within five years, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA)
It follows ambitious implementation plans and electrification using clean energy technologies that have positioned the country as a leader in the region, according to the IEA’s new Energy Policy Review of the country.
Electricity access rates rose from 37% in 2013 to 79% in 2023, with urban areas already achieving full access, the report notes.
The Last Mile Connectivity Project (LMCP), launched in 2015, has played a pivotal role in bringing electricity to 9 million people in rural areas and reducing the number of people without access by nearly half in just under a decade.
Ongoing initiatives aim to connect an additional 280,000 households across the country by the end of 2025.
The IEA report also highlights Kenya’s leadership in off-grid solar, with the country accounting for nearly three-quarters of all solar home system sales in East Africa in 2023.
These off-grid solutions have become a key part of Kenya’s electrification strategy, particularly in remote and underserved communities.
Currently, one in five households uses solar-powered mini-grids or standalone systems.
“Kenya is showing how the strategic deployment of clean energy technologies and electrification in end-use sectors can significantly improve the lives of millions of the most vulnerable people in the world,” said Mary Burce Warlick, the IEA’s deputy executive director, who launched the report with minister of energy and petroleum J Opiyo Wandayi.
The report coincides with the Kenyan government’s review of its own National Energy Policy.
According to Wandayi, the Draft National Energy Policy 2025-2034 seeks to address remaining challenges associated with energy access, affordability and security, whilst promoting clean energy solutions to cut dependence on fossil fuels and driving green industrialisation.
Low-emissions technologies now form the cornerstone of Kenya’s electricity mix, with geothermal, hydro, wind and solar sources accounting for nearly 90% of power generation.
Kenya is also home to the Lake Turkana Wind Project, the largest wind farm on the African continent, and has some of the lowest cost geothermal projects in the world.
The country has long been a pioneer in Africa for geothermal energy, which accounts for almost one-third of total electricity generation capacity.
The IEA report also underscores Kenya’s efforts to modernise and expand its electricity grid.
New regulations in 2024 open transmission and distribution networks to private investment, aiming to increase competition, reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Kenya’s power networks, however, still face high losses – estimated at 23 per cent in 2023 – due to technical issues, theft and billing problems.
Smart grid solutions and better management systems are under consideration to address these losses, the report notes.
Read more:
The Warman MC range of pumps is engineered for optimal performance and reliability in challenging milling environments. (Image source: Weir Group)
Anglo American Platinum’s Mogalakwena mine in Limpopo, South Africa, sought to extend the service life of shaft sleeves in its slurry pumps. In response, Weir recommended implementing its J221 hardened shaft sleeve with a wear-resistant overlay
A trial was run on a large slurry pump at the North Concentrator to evaluate the performance of the J221 sleeve under challenging conditions involving poor-quality or contaminated flush water. The results were remarkable, with the sleeve enduring for 14,240 hours—under both routine operations and severe pump sliming—representing a nearly tenfold increase in durability compared to the standard shaft sleeve. This advancement has led to significant savings in spare parts and reduced equipment downtime.
Following the successful trial, LeRoux Esterhuyse, engineering manager at Mogalakwena North Concentrator, reported, “Excited about the trial performance of the hardened shaft sleeve; let us roll it over to all primary and secondary mill discharge Warman pumps.”
Enhanced pump durability
As a leading open-pit platinum mine, Mogalakwena is committed to maintaining low operating costs while improving plant performance. The ore processed from various Anglo American Platinum sites is handled by two facilities: the North Concentrator, operational since 2007, and the older South Concentrator.
Previously, frequent shaft sleeve replacements were required in both primary and secondary mill discharge pumps due to the high wear rate of the standard C23 sleeves. This maintenance disruption was occurring monthly and was carried out by Weir’s on-site service team. Weir has maintained a service agreement with the Mogalakwena Complex for over 14 years, with personnel stationed daily at both processing sites.
It was found that the average service life of the C23 sleeve was only 3,864 hours under normal conditions, dropping to just 1,440 hours during episodes of extensive pump sliming. Sliming typically occurs when the pressure of the gland water in the pump’s stuffing box is insufficient, allowing slurry to infiltrate the area between the shaft sleeve and the packing rings.
When this happens, the abrasive slurry rapidly erodes the sleeve surface, forming grooves that prevent effective sealing and require early replacement—negatively affecting pump availability.
Engineered for extreme wear conditions, the J221 overlay features a high concentration of tungsten carbide particles within a tough matrix. This composition offers consistent particle distribution, minimal porosity, and exceptional hardness reaching up to 70 HRC, making it highly suitable for abrasive and erosive applications.
Maersk opens a state-of-the-art warehouse in Dakar to streamline supply chains and drive regional logistics efficiency. (Image source: Maersk)
A.P. Moller – Maersk has officially opened its advanced warehousing facility in Senegal, marking a major step in expanding its integrated logistics footprint across West Africa
The new 10,000 sq m site is ideally located between the Port of Dakar and the city's industrial zone, offering close access—just 10 km—to essential logistics infrastructure, industrial operations, and consumer markets.
This strategic placement enhances distribution within Senegal and supports cross-border logistics into neighbouring West African nations, reinforcing Maersk’s goal of offering fully integrated supply chain services tailored to customer needs.
"This investment in Dakar demonstrates our long-term commitment to Senegal and the broader West African region. By establishing this modern warehouse facility, we're delivering on our promise to create seamless, integrated logistics solutions that enable our customers to optimise their supply chains and accelerate growth," commented Thomas Theeuwes, managing director for Maersk West Africa.
Smart. Sustainable. Seamless.
The facility includes 5,100 sq m of indoor storage, 7,036 pallet positions, and an additional 500 sq m of outdoor space. It supports diverse product categories such as consumer goods, electronics, fashion, and retail items.
Value-added services like labelling, packaging, palletisation, order management, distribution, and pallet customisation are also available. This comprehensive offering enables clients to entrust all cargo-related processes to Maersk, simplifying operations.
"West Africa represents a dynamic and rapidly evolving market with unique logistics challenges," continued Theeuwes. "Our customers deserve reliable, efficient warehouse solutions that connect seamlessly with transportation services. This facility directly addresses those needs and will contribute to the economic growth in the region."
The warehouse is equipped with a modern Warehouse Management System (WMS) and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), allowing real-time transaction tracking and better supply chain transparency through integration with customer systems.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the warehouse draws 60% of its power from solar energy and uses electric material handling vehicles. Enhanced safety measures include forklift cameras, pedestrian sensors, a robust fire protection system, and 24/7 security surveillance aligned with international and local safety standards.
This Dakar site adds to Maersk’s extensive West African facility network spanning over 100,000 sq m across eight countries—Dakar, Abidjan, Tema, Douala, Lagos, Conakry, Lome, and Cotonou—all operating under uniform HSSE protocols.
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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.
Empower and AFRIGREEN partner to fund 26 solar and battery storage systems for Justrite stores across Nigeria
AFRIGREEN Debt Impact Fund has joined forces with Empower New Energy in a new debt financing initiative that will enable the rollout of at least 26 commercial-scale solar and battery storage systems across Nigeria
The initiative will deliver more than 8,000 MWh of clean energy each year to Justrite Superstores, reducing energy costs, creating jobs, and cutting approximately 4,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
This collaboration sees AFRIGREEN—operated by RGREEN INVEST and advised by ECHOSYS INVEST—providing long-term senior debt to finance Empower’s solar energy portfolio in Nigeria. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating clean energy adoption and advancing sustainable development on the continent.
The first stage of the financing will support solar rooftop systems and battery storage units that have already been installed by Empower and its local implementation partner, Powercell, for Justrite Limited. These installations aim to deliver stable, cost-effective power while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting Nigeria’s broader renewable energy goals.
Founded in 2001, Justrite has grown from a modest outlet with just two employees into a leading Nigerian retail chain, now boasting 22 purpose-built stores, over 900 staff, and a retail footprint exceeding 20,000 square metres.
“We are excited to collaborate with Empower in delivering impactful renewable energy projects in Nigeria,” said Olivier Leruste, managing partner at ECHOSYS INVEST. “This financing exemplifies AFRIGREEN’s role in accelerating the deployment of solar energy solutions for commercial and industrial companies in Africa. Empower and Justrite are showcasing the economic and environmental benefits that solar with battery storage can bring to Nigerian businesses.”
Empower New Energy’s CEO, Terje Osmundsen, added, “This agreement with AFRIGREEN Debt Impact Fund is a significant milestone in our mission to expand access to clean energy across Africa. By supporting projects like the Justrite solar rooftops with battery storage, we are not only reducing carbon emissions but also improving energy security and lowering electricity costs for businesses.”
Justrite founder and chairman, Ayo Aderinwale, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainability. “Optimising our buildings to provide solar energy with storage is a vital part of our journey to build the most sustainable and future-proof grocery chain in Nigeria.”
Also read: Harnessing rooftop solar for global energy revolution
Trina Storage's Elementa 2 Pro – a 5.015 MWh energy storage system designed for ultra-long lifespan, superior efficiency, and maximum safety. (Image source: Trina Storage)
Edith Kikonyogo, managing director, Aggreko Africa. (Image source: Aggreko)
Junttan has a new-generation product line powered by Volvo Penta engines. (Image source: Volvo Penta)
Junttan has unveiled its next-generation product line with the launch of the DR5 drilling rig, marking a significant milestone in the company’s evolution
This new line is powered by Volvo Penta engines, with the DR5 being the first to integrate the high-performance Stage V / Tier 4f Volvo Penta TAD1385VE. Delivering 405 kW, this compact yet powerful engine is specifically designed for specialised equipment that requires exceptional uptime and reliability.
“For us, this is a strategic choice for the long term,” remarked Tomi Voutilainen, director of product management and engineering at Junttan. “Volvo Penta’s offering doesn’t just meet our technical needs today — it has the range, flexibility, and development paths to support where we’re going tomorrow.”
The decision to partner with Volvo Penta was made following a comprehensive evaluation process that began in 2020, as Junttan sought to equip its machinery for future job site challenges. Beyond meeting technical criteria such as extended service intervals, compact engine architecture, and adaptable power configurations, Volvo Penta stood out for its alignment in values — including a shared emphasis on transparency, responsiveness, and agility.
“This collaboration shows how Volvo Penta supports OEMs with flexible, dependable solutions,” commented Pasi Järvelä, area sales manager at Volvo Penta. “We aim to be a responsive, long-term partner that grows with our customers.”
A forward-looking partnership
Given the global and often remote nature of Junttan’s operations, the partnership with Volvo Penta offers a crucial advantage: access to a broad, reliable service network that supports ease of maintenance and continuous performance in demanding environments. The new-generation portfolio — encompassing pile driving rigs, drilling rigs, and hydraulic power packs — has been engineered to boost operational efficiency, extend maintenance intervals, and reduce overall ownership costs.
Sustainability and innovation are at the core of this alliance. The DR5 exemplifies Junttan’s forward-thinking approach, incorporating a 20-ton reduction in weight compared to earlier models and the capability to run entirely on renewable HVO fuel.
“This partnership is built to evolve,” Tomi added. “Volvo Penta’s roadmap and modular approach give us confidence that we’ll have the power solutions we need — whatever the future brings.”
Also read: Volvo Penta debuts versatile BESS for demanding sites
Eritrea seeks to bolster water security. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Raubex Building selects Potain MCT 185 tower crane for key housing project, backed by strong local equipment support. (Image source: Manitowoc)
Africa an early adopter of FLS rail-running conveyors. (Image source: FLS)
An African mine will be among the first adopters of innovative Rail-Running Conveyor (RRC) technology, commercialised by FLS in collaboration with Australia’s University of Newcastle
“Designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption, improve safety and cut capital and operating expenditure, Rail-Running Conveyors are a game changer for mines which must rely on extended conveying distances to move material,” said Martin Lurie, FLS global product line manager for RRC.
He said any mine that carries substantial tonnages over 500 metres to 1,000 metres can achieve higher efficiencies using the technology.
“The first full-scale operational system will be commissioned in southern Africa in mid-2025,” he said.
“It is designed to carry 5,000mtph of copper ore over a 3.25 km run, and is expected to save approximately US$1mn each year in power costs when compared to a conventional trough conveyor.”
Other mines around the globe are set to follow. A second system, destined for the same mining customer at a mine in the Americas, will carry around 13,000 mtph, delivering significant power savings and safety improvements, according to Lurie.
He said the energy losses incurred by an RRC can be anything between one-fifth to one-tenth of those experienced by traditional trough and pipe conveyor systems respectively.
“The friction losses on a conventional long-distance conveyor largely determine the power capacity that must be installed, the size of the structures required and the downtime incurred to maintain and replace pulleys and drives. Reducing these energy losses therefore has a positive knock-on effect on the costs of a range of other aspects.”
Customers achieve savings on the scope of the conveyor equipment itself, the cut-and-fill civils requirements, the volumes of concrete used, the strength of the belt and the number of drive stations necessary, he noted.
Due to the lower tension acting on the conveyor belt, a lower rating of belt is possible, while faster speeds and a deeper trough also mean that a narrower belt may suffice for the same throughput. Importantly, the rating of the drives does not need to be as high.
“Where a 6 MW drive may be specified for a conventional conveyor, for instance, this technology may allow a 2 MW drive to be installed,” he said. “This then has further positive impacts on the ratings required for motors, transformers, E-houses and power supply.”
The head and the tail of an RRC remain the same as in traditional systems, he added, with the rail-running section making up the bulk of the distance. The basic mode of transport is steel-wheel-on-steel-rail instead of a belt running over idlers. This fundamental difference is what cuts energy consumption so drastically.
The system uses small carriages to carry the belt and these are automatically exchanged at maintenance houses when required. Lurie said this removes the safety risks associated with personnel changing out idlers along the length of the conveyor. Having fewer transfer points also has a safety benefit as these can be sources of injury during maintenance as well as health threats from dust exposure.
The RRC system has been a decade in development, he added, drawing heavily on two established technologies — underground mining rail technology and overland conveyor systems.
The FLS and University of Newcastle developers believe the RRC innovation marks a paradigm shift for conveyor systems, not only in terms of energy saving and carbon footprint reduction but also in terms of the distance a conveyor can travel and the challenging terrain through which it can operate.
Thanks largely to the way the belt sits stationary in the cradle, an RRC can negotiate tighter curves and can also climb steeper angles without the material on the belt rolling back and spilling, Luried noted.
“Our straightforward calculations of the potential impact on existing mining operations shows unprecedented savings resulting from this system,” he said.
“One study, for instance, investigated the benefits for a customer who has to move material over 15 km between the pit and the plant. Where seven conveyors were currently required we could do the same job with three, while consuming only a quarter of the energy.”
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The Warman MC range of pumps is engineered for optimal performance and reliability in challenging milling environments. (Image source: Weir Group)
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Cargo ships in Durban South Africa
A new report exploring southern Africa’s logistics sector suggests that supply chain investments and improved infrastructure could boost intra-regional trade by as much as 50% over the coming five years
As trade corridors expand and the demand for sustainable supply chain solutions grows, the report, by Reload Logistics, points to a promising future for the region, with trade also surging on the back of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA).
The report — Unlocking Southern Africa’s Trade Potential in 2025 and Beyond — projects that by 2030, the ACFTA will boost intra-African trade by over 50%, creating new commodity flows while regional infrastructure investments address network gaps.
It also sheds light on the transformative trends shaping infrastructure, trade integration and digital innovation that are driving southern Africa’s logistics landscape.
Satellite tracking, for example, has reduced cargo theft by 40% along high-risk mining corridors by identifying unauthorised stops and route deviation.
Similarly, port congestion algorithms are assisting bulk carriers in predicting optimal loading windows, reducing demurrage costs at major ports and terminals across southern Africa by up to 20%.
Key insights from the report include:
Critical minerals driving growth: Southern Africa provides around 30% of the world’s critical minerals for electric vehicles, including cobalt and copper, contributing to the transition towards cleaner energy.
Strategic infrastructure investments: The Kasomeno-Mwenda Road Project is removing over 300 km from Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Tanzania routes, while the Dar es Salaam Maritime Gateway Project plans to double port capacity to 30 million tons by 2030.
Technological transformation: Technological logistics solutions have improved route optimisation by up to 15%.
Sustainability imperatives: By 2030, demand for green logistics could reach approximately US$350bn globally, with exporters increasingly adopting lower-carbon transport options.
Transformative trade corridors: Port developments at Dar es Salaam, Durban, Walvis Bay and Beira are enhancing efficiencies and opening cross-border opportunities.
“Southern Africa’s logistics sector is at a pivotal turning point, shaped by rising trade activity, major infrastructure investments and the growing demand for efficiency,” the report noted.
“With the region’s economy expected to grow by 4.2% in the coming years — driven by commodity exports and transport network improvements — producers, traders and manufacturers must adapt to an increasingly dynamic and interconnected environment.”
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Ghana International Bank (GHIB) has signed a trade finance facility worth US$50mn to boost intra-Africa business across a number of sub-Saharan markets
The funding package covers Sierra Leone, Liberia, The Gambia, Benin, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania.
It is supported by British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution.
Under a Master Risk Participation Agreement (MPRA), the US$50mn package will enable GHIB to support more businesses and facilitate trade flows in the target countries.
It addresses the general lack of credit appetite for frontier markets in Africa for reasons including high risk perception and comparatively lower volumes.“
At GHIB we believe our success over the last 65 years is rooted in a deep understanding of African risk,” said Dean Adansi, GHIB’s CEO.
“This partnership with British International Investment represents a viable path through which we can structure partnerships that leverage this deep knowledge of risk into profitable and impactful transactions.”
Increased trade finance can also enable local firms to import the commodities and equipment they need to sustain and grow their businesses.
The collaboration leverages GHIB’s extensive network and track record in trade finance and allows BII to engage in a partnership that addresses the expanding trade finance gap in African markets, especially under challenging economic conditions.
BII’s involvement brings essential foreign exchange dollar liquidity, critical for the import of key goods to GHIB’s operating markets.
“With this deal, we are employing a structure that uses our deep knowledge and access of the market, harnessed together with the superior scale and capacity of BII,” said Adansi.
“Together, we are bringing this to support and expand opportunity in these emerging markets enabling real GDP growth. Our research indicates that each dollar of trade unlocks about US$1.3 into the GDP of our markets. We will work to make this deal a success, as it will open the way for more liquidity injections into the market.”
BII’s country director for Ghana, Kwabena Asante-Poku, said many African countries have faced challenging economic conditions in recent years that have impacted growth and livelihoods.
“Trade remains a key driver of growth for African economies especially in frontier markets like Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia. Enhancing the flow of trade credit and financial intermediation to these markets will ensure access to essential goods and services which in turn drives sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” said Asante-Poku.
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