In The Spotlight
Mota-Engil Africa to Upgrade Mining Equipment and Workforce Skills. (Image source: EBRD)
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a €99.1 million loan, equivalent to US$111mn, to Mota-Engil Africa to support its mining services operations in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal
Mota-Engil Africa is a leading engineering, construction and mining services company operating across the continent, with involvement in major mining and infrastructure projects.
The financing will cover the acquisition of modern equipment, working capital needs and the refinancing of recent investments at three mines in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal. The funding is intended to boost productivity, expand operational capacity and improve the sustainability of mining activities.
Replacing ageing machinery with newer, more environmentally friendly equipment is expected to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The agreement also includes a commitment by Mota-Engil Africa to invest in local workforce development. Plans include strengthening employee skills and introducing nationally accredited technical training programmes in collaboration with educational institutions in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal. The initiatives will provide participants with skills relevant to the modern mining industry, build a stronger pool of qualified workers and widen access to quality employment.
Mota-Engil Africa will also introduce targeted initiatives to increase women’s participation in the sector, focusing on recruitment, retention and career progression in technical, operational and leadership roles.
The two areas of work will receive support from a €200,000 (approx. US$224,000) technical cooperation programme provided by the EBRD through its Gender and Economic Inclusion Framework.
The EBRD began investing in sub-Saharan Africa in 2025. To date, it has committed more than €620 million (approx. US$694 million) across Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal. Its investments support private-sector development, financial institutions, infrastructure, energy, natural resources, telecommunications and agribusiness.
Expansion expected to reduce vessel turnaround times by up to 50% and enable simultaneous handling of two Post-Panamax vessels. (Image source: DP World)
Since beginning operations in 2021, DP World has invested more than US$260mn in upgrading and modernising its terminal at the Port of Luanda
Over the past five years, annual container throughput has nearly doubled, rising from 177,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to more than 350,000 TEUs. This growth has been supported by an additional 28,000m² of yard space.
To strengthen its handling capacity, DP World acquired two additional Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHCs) and an extra empty handler this year, increasing its fleet to eight MHCs. The terminal has also expanded its refrigerated container connections, increasing reefer plugs from 630 to 700.
During the inauguration of its new terminal building at the Port of Luanda, DP World announced a further US$90mn investment over the next two years. The funding will support additional infrastructure, equipment and operational improvements. Planned works include extending the quay by 222 metres and expanding the operating area by 10 hectares, raising the terminal’s design capacity to 1.2 million TEUs.
The expansion will also involve the acquisition of three Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 12 semi-automated rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes. These additions will enable the terminal to handle two Post-Panamax vessels simultaneously, strengthening Luanda’s position as a container gateway for Central Africa and a major trade hub in sub-Saharan Africa.
The project is also expected to support local employment and industrialisation, enhance export competitiveness and encourage foreign investment, while facilitating more sustainable regional trade flows.
Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and managing director, Africa, DP World, said, “The expansion of DP World Luanda is an important milestone both for Angola and for the wider region. The ability to handle larger vessels will support new shipping services and strengthen the terminal’s potential as a gateway for West and Central Africa. Our investment will improve the efficiency and sustainability of trade flows, giving customers greater reliability, shorter turnaround times and improved access to global markets, and reinforcing Angola’s prominent role within our regional and global logistics network.”
Paco Pinzon, CEO, DP World Luanda, stated, “Having our concession extended to 2051 demonstrates our long-term commitment to Angola and its future as a leading regional trade gateway. Our continued investments will create a more efficient and competitive experience for our customers, while supporting Angola’s ambitions to strengthen trade connectivity, diversify the economy and become a continental logistics hub. The expansion will benefit the entire logistics ecosystem, and we will continue to create opportunities, strengthen regional connectivity and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Angola.”
Guinea, Uganda and Egypt outline plans to expand mineral processing
Guinea-Conakry is targeting five operational alumina refineries by 2030, with three already under construction, according to Daouda Diakité, senior adviser to Guinea’s minister of mines and geology
He announced the target during a ministerial panel at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026 in Cape Town on Wednesday.
The plan is a key component of Guinea’s Simandou 2040 strategy, which aims to move the country beyond raw mineral exports towards domestic processing and industrial development. Guinea intends to achieve annual alumina production capacity of seven to eight million tons by 2030, supported by investment in steel manufacturing, electricity generation and downstream infrastructure.
“Simandou 2040 is a strategy to shift from being a raw material exporter to developing a strong processing base that can sustain the country’s downstream sector. To achieve this, we are encouraging investment in domestic aluminum and steel production, as well as power projects that can support downstream development.,” he stated.
By building on its substantial bauxite and iron ore reserves, Guinea aims to develop domestic processing capabilities and attract investment in refining facilities, industrial infrastructure and power supply. These developments are intended to strengthen the country’s downstream industries and increase the value generated from its mineral resources.
Diakité also outlined progress towards domestic steel production associated with the Simandou iron ore project, confirming that feasibility work is nearing completion.
“The steel from Simandou has to be processed in Guinea, and we are finishing the feasibility study for that,” he added.
Guinea’s downstream development programme also extends to gold, with work progressing towards establishing a domestic gold refinery.
Uganda is pursuing a similar approach, using mineral processing to support industrialisation and regional trade. Monica Musenero Masanza, minister of energy and mineral development, said the country operates ten gold refineries that serve neighbouring East African markets.
“Rather than every nation enduring the high cost of building refineries, Uganda offers a regional solution. We allow our East African neighbors to bring gold in tax-free for toll processing, and because our operations run on excess renewable energy, the final product is truly green gold,” she stated.
In addition to gold refining, Uganda is developing its capacity to process tin to 99.9% purity and is advancing beneficiation initiatives for iron ore and phosphate. These activities are intended to supply materials for infrastructure projects and agricultural production.
“Uganda’s rapid development requires massive amounts of steel and fertilizer. With 14 companies lined up to produce steel billets from local iron ore and active plans to process our phosphate reserves, we are adding value to our minerals directly to build our infrastructure and fuel our agricultural needs,” Masanza added.
Egypt, meanwhile, is seeking to support Africa’s mineral-producing countries through logistics and infrastructure development. Its plans focus on improving links between mining sites, processing facilities and international markets.
Mohamed Zada, deputy minister for strategic industries, identified potential for cross-border investment in electricity generation, seaports and mineral transportation networks to facilitate the growth of Africa’s downstream industries.
“Egypt’s strategic location makes it a natural logistics hub. By partnering across the continent to build power plants and seaport infrastructure, we can optimize supply chains and bring Africa's finished mineral products to global markets,” he stated.
The developments discussed at AMW 2026 reflect a wider push to expand mineral refining, manufacturing and logistics capabilities across Africa. By investing in these areas, countries aim to retain more value from their mineral resources and create opportunities throughout the continent’s mining value chain.
The EC300 also supports Volvo's Dig Assist technology, which includes real-time weighing, automated digging and 360° Smart View monitoring. (Image source: Volvo CE)
Cloete’s Sand and Stone has become the first company in Southern Africa to operate Volvo Construction Equipment’s new-generation EC300 excavator
Supplied by authorised dealer Babcock, the machine introduces updated fuel-efficiency features, enhanced operator comfort and precision technologies to the Gauteng-based construction aggregates supplier.
The delivery builds on a five-year relationship between Cloete’s Sand and Stone and Babcock. The company already operates six Volvo wheel loaders and five Volvo excavators, with the latest addition extending its investment in the manufacturer’s equipment.
Proven performance drives investment
Operating across Gauteng, Cloete’s Sand and Stone selected the EC300 on the strength of its established experience with Volvo machinery. The introduction of the latest model also marks a significant milestone for the business, which has become the first in the region to put the excavator into operation.
"We've had a solid track record with Volvo in general-so stepping into the latest model made perfect sense," said Wesley Cloete, managing director. "Moving dirt is in my blood, and to be honored with the first EC300 in Africa is a proud moment. It's a privilege I'll value for a long time."
Fuel efficiency and productivity in focus
Fuel consumption remains a key consideration for aggregates businesses seeking to manage operating costs. The EC300 offers up to 15% improved fuel efficiency compared with the previous generation, providing an opportunity to reduce fuel use while maintaining the performance required for demanding earthmoving applications.
"We are constantly monitoring fuel consumption across the business. Not doing so would be detrimental to our bottom line, so it's safe to say fuel efficiency is critical," explained Wesley Cloete.
"I was really impressed with how quick the machine was-it moves like a smaller machine but has the capability of a bigger one."
Operator comfort is another feature of the new excavator. Its redesigned cab is intended to improve the working environment and machine control, with Cloete reporting productivity benefits following its introduction.
"If your staff are more comfortable at work, you will get better productivity-and I can confirm productivity has gone up," Cloete noted.
The EC300 also supports Volvo's Dig Assist technology, which includes real-time weighing, automated digging and 360° Smart View monitoring. These functions provide operators with tools to improve digging accuracy, monitor machine activity and manage high-production work more effectively.
Dealer support strengthens the partnership
Babcock's involvement extended beyond supplying the equipment, with its team providing technical information, pricing and maintenance options during the purchasing process.
"All the relevant information I needed was provided with a quote and options within hours of my request," said Wesley Cloete. "It's still early days with the EC300, but I have trust in the brand and I'm happy with Babcock's backup service."
The delivery also highlights the role of long-term customer relationships in introducing new equipment to the South African construction market. Volvo Construction Equipment views the milestone as part of its wider commitment to bringing its latest technologies to regional customers.
"This delivery represents more than just a machine handover-it demonstrates our commitment to bringing Volvo CE's latest innovations," said Per Lorentzon, commercial manager at Volvo CE. "The Cloete's and Babcock teams exemplify the customer-focused approach that drives everything we do, and we're proud to support their continued growth with technology that delivers measurable value."
The EC300 forms part of a broader range of next-generation excavators available across Africa and the Middle East. The portfolio includes six models developed for applications spanning general construction and quarrying.
For Babcock, the delivery reflects its approach to equipment supply, combining machine selection with ongoing customer support.
"Supplying the EC300 to Cloete's Sand and Stone reflects Babcock's focus on matching customers with the right equipment and backing it with dependable support," said Lance Mannix, head of equipment Sales at Babcock. "Their investment is based on proven performance and trust in a partnership that supports their operation throughout the machine's lifecycle."
Integrated Pump Technology delivers Grindex and Godwin dewatering solutions for demanding mining applications. (Image source: Integrated Pump Technology)
Unpredictable rainfall and increasingly demanding water management requirements are putting additional pressure on mining operations across Central Africa
Integrated Pump Technology, distributor of Grindex submersible pumps and Godwin surface pumps, is addressing these challenges through application-specific pumping solutions, regional partnerships and technical support designed around the needs of local mines.
The company’s presence in Central Africa has grown alongside the expansion of the region’s mining industry, particularly in copper and gold production. Larger mining operations have increased the need for comprehensive pumping equipment, reliable aftersales services and technical expertise.
JD Nel, Godwin product manager, explained, “We have had a presence in the regions for a while now. Over the years, it expanded because of growing commodity demand, such as copper. Also, mines in Central Africa are often up to five times bigger than what we are used to in Africa. That is why we need to have a comprehensive equipment offering along with aftersales and technical support.”
Addressing changing dewatering demands
Managing water has become increasingly challenging as mining operations contend with changing rainfall patterns. According to Nel, heavier and less predictable storms can overwhelm mine water management systems, disrupting production and placing greater demands on dewatering equipment.
“The biggest challenge for the mining operations is rain and climate change. The rain is coming down on a more frequent basis, and it’s double the amount it previously was. Unforeseen rains have a huge impact on any mining operation, which can bring production to a halt.”
To address these requirements, Integrated Pump Technology provides different pumping solutions for underground and open-pit mining environments, taking into account the operating conditions and water volumes involved.
For underground applications, the company supplies Grindex electrical submersible pumps, which are used for routine dewatering in demanding mining environments. Introduced in the 1960s, the pumps have established a presence in heavy-duty applications worldwide. Their design supports operation in harsh, abrasive conditions, including continuous dewatering duties without constant operator supervision.
Open-pit mines often require a different approach, particularly when heavy rainfall results in large volumes of accumulated water. Integrated Pump Technology combines Grindex electrical pumps with Godwin self-priming diesel and electric units to address these requirements.
Pump selection depends on the conditions at each site, including the availability of power and the volume of water that needs to be removed. As Nel explained, “The selection of a suitable pump depends on a few factors that need to be kept in mind such as power availability and volumes of water.”
Local partnerships support operational continuity
Access to equipment, spare parts and technical assistance is particularly important for mines operating in remote locations. Integrated Pump Technology works with local distributors to provide support closer to customers and help maintain the availability of essential dewatering equipment.
In Zambia, Integrated Engineering Services maintains pump and spare-parts stocks and operates a fully equipped workshop. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the company is represented by Congo Pump Solutions. Both partners provide daily on-site assistance to mining operations.
Nel highlights the importance of this local expertise: “Our local partners understand a mining operation and our product offering. This ensures that we can change the pump out or select the correct pump for a specific application, which adds value towards the mining operations,”
Beyond equipment supply and replacement, the company also investigates pump failures to determine whether the equipment is appropriate for the conditions in which it operates. Examining the application helps identify potential causes of failure and supports more suitable equipment selection.
“There should be a reason why a pump fails. So, we’ll go and have a look at the application to ensure that the pump is the correct pump for that specific application.”
Expanding regional support
Integrated Pump Technology plans to increase its personnel and extend its presence across Central Africa as mining activity and dewatering requirements continue to evolve.
By combining Grindex and Godwin pumping equipment with local distributor networks and application-focused technical support, the company aims to help mining operators manage water more effectively. Its approach places emphasis not only on supplying pumps, but also on understanding site-specific conditions, responding to operational problems and selecting equipment suited to the demands of each application.
Kamoa-Kakula moves to cleaner energy supply (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The ramp up of on-site solar power facilities in September reduced on-site diesel generator consumption at the Kamoa-Kakula mine site in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by approximately 40%, Ivanhoe Mines reported in an October update
It follows the extension of Kamoa-Kakula’s on-site hybrid solar power facilities, integrated with battery energy storage (BESS), which are now fully operational, supplying 60 MW of continuous baseload power to mining operations (Ivanhoe Mines expands solar power at Kamoa-Kakula)
“At the end of the second quarter, approximately 50% of on-site diesel consumption was consumed by the on-site back-up diesel-powered generators,” Ivanhoe Mines said in an 8th October update.
It also added that the generators are more reliable than grid power for maintaining pumping operations across the complex.
A huge dewatering operation at the mine site involving multiple submersible pumps from China’s Hefei Hengda Jianghai Pump Co. Ltd, required power from a separate, dedicated 20 MW generator, primarily to minimise disruption risk from the electrical grid.
With the on-site hybrid solar facility now complete, and dewatering activities now at an advanced stage, the reliance on the backup diesel generators is expected to decrease significantly.
The Kamoa-Kakula hybrid solar facility ramped up to full capacity on September 23.
“Compared with July, on-site generator diesel consumption fell by 40% in September,” Ivanhoe Mines reported.
“Diesel consumption is expected to fall further in the fourth quarter.”
Metal Shark 38 Defiant patrol boat (Image source: Metal Shark)
US-based boatbuilder Metal Shark is to supply new coast guard vessels for Cameroon
The Louisiana company has been awarded two US Coast Guard Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts to produce patrol boats for the maritime forces of Cameroon, as well as the Republic of Georgia.
Each contract includes a Metal Shark 38 Defiant patrol boat, transport trailer, spare-parts package and operator training, with the vessels to be constructed at Metal Shark’s yard in Jeanerette, Louisiana.
“These awards mark Metal Shark’s entry into two new markets while delivering new capabilities that will modernise the maritime fleets of Cameroon and Georgia,” said Metal Shark’s senior vice president of international business development, Henry Irizarry.
The welded-aluminium 38 Defiant is a proven patrol vessel designed to support coastal patrol, maritime interdiction, port security, search and rescue and other security missions.
Initially proven in service with the US Navy and US Coast Guard, the boat now works across 70 countries in Africa and other locations in Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
The vessel combines high-speed performance and responsive manoeuvrability with Metal Shark’s signature Defiant-series pilothouse, which provides enhanced visibility and all-weather crew protection, and can be configured with multiple propulsion systems.
Chris Allard, Metal Shark’s CEO, said the awards demonstrate growing international demand for capable, proven and supportable patrol platforms.
“Metal Shark is well positioned to meet that demand, and we remain focused on expanding our global reach, entering new markets, and delivering long-term value to the United States and its partner nations.”
The vessels and associated support packages will help Cameroon strengthen maritime law-enforcement capabilities, protect territorial waters and critical infrastructure, and respond more effectively to any evolving regional security challenges.
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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.
Kamoa-Kakula moves to cleaner energy supply (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The ramp up of on-site solar power facilities in September reduced on-site diesel generator consumption at the Kamoa-Kakula mine site in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by approximately 40%, Ivanhoe Mines reported in an October update
It follows the extension of Kamoa-Kakula’s on-site hybrid solar power facilities, integrated with battery energy storage (BESS), which are now fully operational, supplying 60 MW of continuous baseload power to mining operations (Ivanhoe Mines expands solar power at Kamoa-Kakula)
“At the end of the second quarter, approximately 50% of on-site diesel consumption was consumed by the on-site back-up diesel-powered generators,” Ivanhoe Mines said in an 8th October update.
It also added that the generators are more reliable than grid power for maintaining pumping operations across the complex.
A huge dewatering operation at the mine site involving multiple submersible pumps from China’s Hefei Hengda Jianghai Pump Co. Ltd, required power from a separate, dedicated 20 MW generator, primarily to minimise disruption risk from the electrical grid.
With the on-site hybrid solar facility now complete, and dewatering activities now at an advanced stage, the reliance on the backup diesel generators is expected to decrease significantly.
The Kamoa-Kakula hybrid solar facility ramped up to full capacity on September 23.
“Compared with July, on-site generator diesel consumption fell by 40% in September,” Ivanhoe Mines reported.
“Diesel consumption is expected to fall further in the fourth quarter.”
Power plant in the desert (Image source: Himoinsa)
GE Vernova 9E turbine technology (Image source: GE Vernova)
Rwanda study assesses market for green building materials. (Image source: GGGI)
The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and AFD Group / Expertise France, working with the Government of Rwanda through the Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) and Rwanda Public Procurement Authority (RPPA), have completed a market readiness study examining the availability, affordability and supply of selected green building materials and equipment in Rwanda
The Market Study on Rwanda’s Green Building Materials and Equipment Market was validated on 24 September 2026 at an event attended by representatives from government, the construction and engineering sectors, academia and other stakeholders.
The study is expected to support the development of green technical specifications for selected products and contribute to the implementation of Rwanda’s Green Building Minimum Compliance Standards.
Assessing Rwanda’s green construction market
Following stakeholder consultations, three products widely used in Rwanda’s construction sector were selected for detailed market readiness analysis.
The assessment examined market demand, lifecycle costs and supply chains, providing evidence on existing market conditions as well as the opportunities and constraints affecting the availability and uptake of sustainable construction solutions.
Caroline Raes, GGGI Africa’s deputy regional director for quality of delivery and country representative for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s efforts to promote green building and the partnership with AFD Group / Expertise France.
“The transition to greener construction requires more than standards and policies. It also requires markets that can provide accessible, affordable and reliable green solutions. This study helps connect Rwanda’s policy ambition with the market conditions needed for implementation, supporting a more sustainable built environment and contributing to the country’s broader transition to a green economy.” Said Caroline.
Green procurement and construction
The study was undertaken under the Green Public Financial Management (PFM) technical assistance programme, funded by Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and implemented by Expertise France.
The programme supports Rwanda’s efforts to incorporate environmental and climate considerations into public financial management and public spending.
As part of the programme, Expertise France commissioned GGGI Rwanda to conduct the market study. Its findings are intended to provide evidence-based insights for green procurement guidelines and support the development of Rwanda’s green construction ecosystem.
Anthea Manasseh, AFD Country Director for Rwanda, said:
“Sustainable public procurement can help turn public spending into a driver of market transformation. By strengthening the evidence base on green construction materials and equipment, this study provides practical information that can help public institutions make more informed procurement decisions while creating opportunities for more sustainable solutions and local market development.”
Rwanda’s green building standards
The market assessment builds on Rwanda’s existing efforts to improve sustainability in the built environment.
In 2019, the Government of Rwanda, through RHA, developed the Rwanda Green Building Minimum Compliance System (GBMCS), with technical support from GGGI and other partners.
The system establishes environmental performance indicators covering energy and water efficiency, environmental protection, indoor environmental quality and green innovation.
Jimmy Christian Byukusenge, director general of the Rwanda Public Procurement Authority, said, “Every public procurement decision is an opportunity to advance Rwanda’s sustainability agenda while maximizing value for public resources. By integrating national and international sustainability standards and adopting life-cycle cost analysis, we can move beyond the lowest upfront price to consider long-term economic, environmental, and social value. This strategic approach ensures that public procurement delivers greater efficiency, responsible resource utilization, and sustainable development outcomes for present and future generations.”
Building Rwanda’s sustainable construction market
Alphonse Rukaburandekwe, director general of the Rwanda Housing Authority, called for greater collaboration between the government and private sector to translate Rwanda’s sustainable construction policies into practical solutions at scale.
He said Rwanda has established an important policy direction for sustainable construction, but strengthening the market and institutional systems needed to implement these commitments is now a priority.
Rukaburandekwe also highlighted the potential for sustainable construction to support local industry development, employment, innovation and the Made in Rwanda agenda, while maintaining required quality and performance standards.
“For green building standards to translate into practice, the market must be able to provide the materials, equipment and technical solutions required to meet them,” stated Rukaburandekwe.
The study also addresses practical barriers to scaling green construction in Rwanda, including limited awareness of green materials, concerns about upfront costs, local production capacity and market availability.
By connecting market evidence with sustainable procurement, the initiative is expected to strengthen the conditions required for wider adoption of green building materials, equipment and solutions in Rwanda.
The EC300 also supports Volvo's Dig Assist technology, which includes real-time weighing, automated digging and 360° Smart View monitoring. (Image source: Volvo CE)
Condra overhead cranes installed in a factory environment (Image source: Condra)
Mota-Engil Africa to Upgrade Mining Equipment and Workforce Skills. (Image source: EBRD)
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a €99.1 million loan, equivalent to US$111mn, to Mota-Engil Africa to support its mining services operations in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal
Mota-Engil Africa is a leading engineering, construction and mining services company operating across the continent, with involvement in major mining and infrastructure projects.
The financing will cover the acquisition of modern equipment, working capital needs and the refinancing of recent investments at three mines in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal. The funding is intended to boost productivity, expand operational capacity and improve the sustainability of mining activities.
Replacing ageing machinery with newer, more environmentally friendly equipment is expected to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The agreement also includes a commitment by Mota-Engil Africa to invest in local workforce development. Plans include strengthening employee skills and introducing nationally accredited technical training programmes in collaboration with educational institutions in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal. The initiatives will provide participants with skills relevant to the modern mining industry, build a stronger pool of qualified workers and widen access to quality employment.
Mota-Engil Africa will also introduce targeted initiatives to increase women’s participation in the sector, focusing on recruitment, retention and career progression in technical, operational and leadership roles.
The two areas of work will receive support from a €200,000 (approx. US$224,000) technical cooperation programme provided by the EBRD through its Gender and Economic Inclusion Framework.
The EBRD began investing in sub-Saharan Africa in 2025. To date, it has committed more than €620 million (approx. US$694 million) across Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal. Its investments support private-sector development, financial institutions, infrastructure, energy, natural resources, telecommunications and agribusiness.
Real-time tyre data can boost mining operations (Image source: Michelin)
Volvo Mining to target global mining sector (Image source: Volvo Group)
Global trade grows as Sub-saharan Africa records 11% rise
Global goods trade grew faster in the first half of 2026 than in any half-year over the past 15 years, apart from the exceptional rebound following the Covid pandemic
Demand for products used to build artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, including semiconductors and data-transmission equipment, was a major contributor to the increase. According to WTO and OECD analysis, AI-enabling goods accounted for 42% of goods trade growth in 2025, rising to 76% in the first quarter of 2026.
These findings appear in the latest edition of the DHL Globalization Tracker, released by DHL and New York University's Stern School of Business. Drawing on more than 30 million data points, the report examines international flows of trade, capital, information and people. Previously known as the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker, the publication has adopted its new name for this edition.
AI buildout boosts global trade
The expansion of AI infrastructure is increasing demand for specialised equipment and strengthening cross-border supply chains.
"The biggest story in global trade right now is AI, not tariffs," said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. "Every AI query ultimately depends on logistics. Chips, networking equipment and the many other goods behind this technology must be in the right place at the right time. DHL connects the businesses and markets behind these complex supply chains. Whenever innovation creates new trade flows, our global network helps keep them moving."
Global effects of Iran war and tariffs remain limited
The war involving Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted important trade routes, although the effects remained concentrated in economies dependent on the waterway. In the first five months of 2026, trade value fell by 37% in Saudi Arabia and 7% in the United Arab Emirates compared with the same period in 2025.
US tariffs reached their highest levels in decades, but their global impact remained limited. The US accounted for 13% of world imports in recent years, with approximately half of those imports exempt from tariff increases as of August 2026. Most countries avoided broad retaliatory measures, with many pursuing new trade agreements to secure access to alternative markets.
Global trade outlook improves through 2029
Global goods trade is projected to grow by an average of 3.4% annually through 2029, compared with the 2.7% annual growth rate recorded over the previous decade.
"The surprise is not only that global trade kept growing through new tariffs and the Iran war," said Prof. Steven A. Altman, Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalization at NYU Stern's Center for the Future of Management. "The outlook is now stronger than it was before either shock. This reminds us to look beyond the most visible disruptions and recognize the deeper reasons why trade remains so resilient. The AI trade boom highlights the demand for goods and services that can only be provided efficiently when specialized producers work together across countries. It also shows how companies continually adapt to keep trade moving through disruptions and policy shifts."
US-China trade links weaken without a global split
Trade and investment ties between the US and China have weakened considerably, but the shift has not resulted in a broader division of the global economy into rival blocs. Trade between the two countries accounted for 3.5% of world goods trade at its peak in 2015, falling to 1.6% during the first five months of 2026. Their share of international business investment was even smaller, at less than 1%.
Meanwhile, close US allies have largely maintained their economic relationships with China, challenging the idea that the two countries' decoupling is dividing the global economy into competing blocs.
Direct trade figures also understate US reliance on China. Goods imported into the US from other countries increasingly contain Chinese materials and components. When these indirect imports are included, US reliance on China had declined only slightly through 2024, the latest year for which data were available.
Sub-saharan Africa records strong trade growth
Sub-Saharan Africa's trade value increased by 11% in the first five months of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, despite higher tariffs, geopolitical tensions and disruptions to major trade routes. This followed a period in which the region recorded the world's fastest trade value growth during the first six months of 2025.
"The narrative around Africa often focuses on challenges. What this data shows is that trade across the region continues to grow, even amid geopolitical uncertainty and market disruption. That's a strong signal of the resilience of African businesses and the growing connections between African markets and the rest of the world. The next step is making sure more SMEs can access those opportunities and grow beyond their home markets," said Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa.
Globalisation reaches a new record
The report measures globalization through international flows of trade, capital, information and people, using a scale from 0%, representing no cross-border flows, to 100%, where borders and distance have no impact.
Globalisation reached a record level of 25.8% in 2025, supported partly by AI-related trade and investment. All four categories of international flows contributed to the record. Information flows remained the most globalized, followed by capital and trade, while people flows remained the least globalized.
About the DHL Globalization Tracker
The DHL Globalization Tracker is a report and interactive website providing regular updates on globalization and international trade. It complements the DHL Globalization Report, published regularly since 2011.
Drawing on more than 25 public, private and academic sources, the Tracker analyses over 30 million data points covering international flows of trade, capital, information and people. Its interactive charts allow users to explore trends by region, geopolitical alignment and individual country, with options to download data and charts for offline analysis.
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Metal Shark 38 Defiant patrol boat (Image source: Metal Shark)
Africa can still thrive amid global geopolitical upheaval (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Africa has an opportunity to convert geopolitical tensions and shifting global trade patterns into a catalyst for industrialisation and long-term economic resilience, according to a new Afreximbank report
Leveraging Geopolitics for Trade and Industrialisation in Global Africa examines trade and economic developments across the continent and globally, and outlines strategies for African nations to benefit from supply chain realignments and changing geopolitical dynamics.
“Africa stands at a critical juncture,” said Dr Yemi Kale, group chief economist and managing director of research and trade intelligence at Afreximbank.
“Geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation are reshaping global trade patterns, but they also present a historic opportunity for the continent. By strategically leveraging these shifts, Africa can build a more resilient, competitive and inclusive economic future.”
Despite a challenging global backdrop, the report highlights Africa’s strong recent economic performance.
While global economic growth slowed to 3.4% in 2025 and is projected to ease further to 3.1% in 2026, Africa’s real GDP growth accelerated from 3.4% in 2024 to 4.5% in 2025, outperforming the global average.
Africa’s merchandise trade also expanded by 6.1% to approximately US$1.5 trillion, while aggregate inflation fell significantly from 21.6% in 2024 to 13.1% in 2025.
According to Afreximbank, these gains reflect improved macroeconomic management, ongoing policy reforms and the role of development finance institutions in supporting economic stability.
However, the report warns that significant structural challenges remain.
Africa’s trade finance gap is estimated at approximately US$74bn in 2025, limiting the continent’s ability to fully capitalise on trade and industrial opportunities.
The situation is compounded by foreign exchange constraints and a continued decline in correspondent banking relationships.
The report also notes that evolving shipping routes and persistent disruptions in global logistics networks are increasing freight costs and extending delivery times, particularly for economies dependent on imported inputs and external markets.
To strengthen resilience, Afreximbank identifies accelerated implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), expansion of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and reforms to the global financial architecture as key priorities.
The report notes that stronger industrial ecosystems, increased intra-African trade and sustained financial support will be critical if the continent is to transform geopolitical disruption into sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
“It is imperative for the continent to act decisively to strengthen regional value chains, deepen industrial capacity, expand access to trade finance, and accelerate continental integration,” said Kale, adding that Africa “cannot afford to delay.”
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African mobility group Spiro has signed a partnership with Yadea to scale accessible and sustainable electric transport across the continent
The partnership comes as Spiro accelerates its next phase of growth and expansion across Africa following its latest US$270mn funding round, which included investment from NewTrails Capital, a Chinese fund.
Yadea, founded in China, is the world's leading manufacturer of electric two-wheelers, with more than 100 million vehicles sold worldwide in over 100 countries and 10 exclusive production facilities globally.
Under the agreement, Yadea will supply electric two-wheelers and related EV products tailored to Spiro’s expanding regional markets, while Spiro will integrate the vehicles into its proprietary battery-swapping and energy infrastructure.
The companies will also co-develop customised two-wheeler platforms engineered specifically for local road conditions and commercial utility across Africa.
“Africa’s shift to electric mobility is accelerating and this partnership helps us meet that demand at scale,” said Anant Badjatya, CEO of Spiro.
“By bringing together Yadea’s manufacturing strength with Spiro’s electric mobility ecosystem and operating experience across Africa, we are compressing the timeline to clean transport — helping thousands more riders switch to affordable EVs faster and multiplying our climate impact across the continent.”
Spiro already boasts an operational network and battery-swapping ecosystem across seven countries.
Together, the companies aim to build a scalable, commercially sustainable EV framework serving millions of commercial fleet operators, delivery services, logistics providers, and daily commuters in Africa’s fastest-growing mobility markets.
“Our strategic partnership with Yadea…opens fantastic opportunities to jointly pioneer the next era of electric mobility in emerging markets”, said Gagan Gupta, Spiro’s founder.
Wang Jiazhong, senior vice president of Yadea Technology Group, said Africa represents a huge frontier for zero-emission transport.
“Our mission to reduce carbon emissions has reached a powerful milestone through this partnership with Spiro. Together, we are combining global innovation with local infrastructure to deliver scalable and sustainable mobility solutions that serve millions of riders and transform Africa’s urban transit.”
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