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In The Spotlight

Volvo Construction Equipment introduces a redesigned generation of articulated haulers with improved performance, safety, and comfort. (Image source: Volvo CE)

Construction

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has raised the bar with its new generation of articulated haulers

This latest lineup not only updates seven existing models from the A25 to A60 class but also introduces a powerful new addition – the 45-ton A50. Designed to move more material efficiently, reduce operating costs, and tackle the toughest terrains, these next-generation haulers bring a fresh mix of innovation, durability, and operator comfort.

1. Modern redesign

The new haulers feature a sleek exterior built for both performance and endurance. A re-engineered frame and body design allow materials to be dropped further away, reducing the need for additional equipment. An optional overhung tailgate with extended arms provides a wider opening for faster dumping. Inside, operators benefit from improved comfort with customisable settings, low noise levels, extra storage, and options like a cool or heat box and premium seating. Connectivity has also been upgraded with Bluetooth, USB sockets, four speakers, and a built-in microphone.

2. Enhanced safety and visibility

A repositioned door entrance and spacious platform make access safer and easier. Added safety railings, focused lighting, and improved cab panels enhance both protection and visibility. The haulers exceed industry standards with wider wiper coverage and clearer sightlines. Optional front and rear cameras, pillar work lights, and a standard entrance camera further improve operator awareness. Windshield cleaning is safer too, with harness anchor points inside the cab.

3. Simplified servicing

Servicing is easier and less frequent, with longer intervals and improved access to critical components. Maintenance points are reachable from the ground, and daily or weekly greasing is no longer necessary thanks to 250-hour greasing intervals. Volvo’s engine oil and high-performance filters support 1,000-hour engine service intervals, cutting lifetime oil and filter usage by half.

4. Incredible performance

These haulers are engineered for power and endurance, featuring reinforced axles built to handle heavier loads and higher torque. Volvo’s exclusive drivetrain with Terrain Memory optimises traction on slippery surfaces, ensuring stability and reducing wear. Enhanced braking and retarder systems, including the Volvo engine brake, downhill speed control, and wet brakes on all wheels, further boost performance and safety.

5. Best-in-class controls

Operators can manage functions with ease through the Volvo Co-Pilot, which controls media, camera settings, climate, and machine status. A dynamic instrument cluster positioned in front of the steering wheel provides clear, real-time data. With ergonomic gear levers designed for smooth shifting and reduced strain, Volvo’s haulers deliver a superior driving experience throughout long shifts.

Volvo CE’s new articulated haulers redefine productivity and operator comfort, setting a new standard for performance in modern construction and mining operations.

Learn more about Volvo’s articulated haulers and see how they can make your workday easier and more productive.

 
 

Site geotechnical studies and piling works at Nyanza Light Metals in South Africa. (Image source: Nyanza Light Metals)

Mining

South Africa-based Nyanza Light Metals Pty Ltd (Nyanza) is to get US$75mn in funding from the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) for the development, construction and operation of an 80,000-tonnes-per-year titanium dioxide pigment manufacturing plant and supporting infrastructure within the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone
 
The aim is to boost industrialisation in Africa through local value addition to the continent’s abundant titanium mineral resources.
 
Titanium dioxide is a crucial pigment used across numerous industries, including paints and coatings, food processing, cosmetics and medical applications.
 
Manufacturers both in South Africa and across the rest of the region rely almost entirely on costly imports.
 
Nyanza’s project is intended to change this by producing titanium dioxide locally, contributing to import substitution and positioning Africa within the global titanium dioxide value chain.
 
“AfDB’s approval marks a pivotal moment, not just for Nyanza, but for Africa’s industrial future,” said Nyanza president and CEO, Donovan Chimhandamba.
 
“This endorsement affirms our mission to lead mineral beneficiation and positions Nyanza as a driver of inclusive industrialisation.”
 
Africa has long exported raw minerals, only to import back high-value finished products made from those same resources, at a premium, according to Chimhandamba.
 
“This cycle has constrained industrial growth and limited the continent’s ability to fully benefit from its natural wealth. With AfDB’s support, we are changing that by building a world-class titanium beneficiation complex to process African minerals locally for global markets.”
 
The bank’s contribution forms part of a syndicated funding package arranged by the Africa Finance Corporation and the African Export-Import Bank, serving as Initial Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners.
 
The AfDB’s support also includes US$25mn from the Africa Growing Together Fund (AGTF), a co-financing initiative between the AfDB and the People’s Bank of China.
 
A key focus of the Bank’s funding is job creation: the Nyanza project is expected to generate more than 2,400 domestic jobs during construction, around 30% of which will be reserved for women and 30% for youth, as part of efforts to reduce unemployment in South Africa.
 
“This investment reflects the African Development Bank's commitment to driving Africa’s industrial transformation and changing Africa’s narrative from a continent that is heavily dependent on raw material exports to one that is globally recognized as a prominent player in domestic value-addition to its natural resources,” said Solomon Quaynor, AfDB’s vice president for private sector, infrastructure and industrialisation.
 
“By supporting Nyanza to invest in infrastructure and local natural resources beneficiation, we are contributing to changing Africa’s old paradigm of exporting low-value raw materials while relying heavily on importing finished products; we are building an industrial economy that will create inclusive opportunities for millions of people across the continent.”
 
Read more:
 
 
 
 

The launch of Belcon Cold Store highlights Maersk’s continued focus on enhancing South Africa’s vital cold chain logistics network. (Image source: Maersk)

Logistics

Maersk, a global leader in integrated logistics, has officially inaugurated the Belcon Cold Store facility in Cape Town, marking a major milestone in its investment of over US$100mn in South Africa’s cold chain infrastructure

This strategic move reinforces Maersk’s long-term commitment to the South African economy and its dedication to supporting businesses through advanced logistics solutions.

The launch of Belcon Cold Store highlights Maersk’s continued focus on enhancing South Africa’s vital cold chain logistics network, a key pillar of the nation’s perishable exports sector. South Africa’s cold-chain exports, led by fresh produce such as citrus and table grapes, represent a significant portion of its agricultural output.

“Maersk has been invested and present in South Africa for over three decades, and our ambition has never been stronger. We are committed to building and delivering logistics solutions that create tangible value for our customers and their businesses, while contributing to South Africa's economic prosperity and the livelihoods of its people,” said Lubabalo Mtya, managing director of Maersk Southern Africa & Islands.

Addressing a critical industry challenge

South Africa’s grape industry has faced recurring issues in maintaining cold chain integrity, with delays and disruptions causing losses estimated at up to 1.5 billion Rand annually. Inconsistent performance across the cold-chain logistics market has impacted exporters of temperature-sensitive produce.

“There was a clear need to strengthen South Africa's cold chain infrastructure to minimise these losses and support the competitiveness of local exporters. The Belcon Cold Store directly addresses this critical gap in the market,” added Mtya.

Integrated solutions for reliable exports

With Belcon’s inauguration, Maersk now operates three state-of-the-art cold storage facilities in South Africa, Belcon, Cato, and PreCool. Together, they form a robust network designed to uphold an unbroken cold chain through:

  • 32,000 pallet positions

  • Strategic proximity to ports in Cape Town and Durban

  • Rail sidings and highway connections for multimodal efficiency

  • An on-site container depot for streamlined cargo handling

  • Renewable energy systems to support decarbonisation efforts

These facilities became fully operational in the second half of 2025, delivering tangible results during the citrus season by maintaining product quality and reducing waste in the supply chain.

As a leading integrated logistics provider, Maersk offers comprehensive services extending beyond ocean freight. Customers exporting perishables through its South African network benefit from end-to-end logistics solutions, including consolidation, temperature-controlled storage, customs brokerage, terminal handling, and both ocean and inland transportation.

“We are listening to our customers and implementing solutions that go beyond business as usual. This integrated approach means we're not only delivering on ocean shipping but providing our customers with complete logistics solutions that address their most pressing challenges,” remarked Mtya.

Maersk’s investment exceeding US$100mn demonstrates its confidence in South Africa’s economic potential and its dedication to strengthening the country’s agricultural and logistics sectors. By ensuring reliable temperature-controlled facilities, Maersk is enabling local exporters to reduce losses, maintain quality, and expand their reach to global markets.

The Belcon Cold Store inauguration further cements Maersk’s role as a strategic partner in South Africa’s agricultural value chain and underscores its mission to deliver logistics solutions that make a meaningful impact on the nation’s economy and communities.

African Review
Liebherr
Terrapinn Middle East FZ LLC

  • 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. 

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Top Stories

Grid List

Energy

Scatec’s Kenhardt hybrid solar and battery project in South Africa recognised among top six global energy initiatives. (Image source: Scatec)

Energy

Scatec’s hybrid solar and BESS Kenhardt project in the Northern Cape of South Africa has been selected by Sustainable Business COP30 as one of the top six exemplary cases for the prestigious SB COP awards, in the energy transition category
 
This recognition is a testament to the project’s remarkable achievements in environmental stewardship, renewable energy, and economic advancement. The Kenhardt project has been highlighted not only for its significant positive impact but also for its exceptional potential to be scaled and replicated on a global scale.
 
What makes this honour even more notable is that the Kenhardt project is the only African case study to be featured among the top six in the energy transition category, standing proudly alongside four projects from Brazil and one from Spain.
 
This distinction underscores the project’s importance on the international stage and shines a spotlight on Africa’s and Scatec’s innovative contributions to sustainable development.
 
Being recognised by such a respected forum as Sustainable Business COP30 reflects the dedication, expertise, and forward-thinking vision of everyone involved in the Kenhardt project. It is a moment of immense pride for Scatec and its partners, reaffirming our commitment to delivering solutions that not only benefit our communities and environment but also inspire progress across continents.
 
As we look ahead to the SB COP awards ceremony to take place in Belem during COP30, we remain committed to leading by example and sharing the lessons from Kenhardt with partners worldwide, striving towards a greener, more sustainable future for all.
 
“We are deeply honoured that the Kenhardt project has been recognised as an exemplary model of sustainable innovation. This accomplishment is a testament to the commitment of our team and the communities we support. It affirms Africa’s progress in renewable energy and highlights the importance of the global energy transition,” stated Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog.
 
“Building on the momentum from the G20 summit in Brazil last year, through to COP30 in Belem now and looking ahead to the upcoming G20 in South Africa, this recognition reflects the growing international collaboration driving sustainable development and climate leadership across continents,” Pilskog concluded.

Oando is stepping up its interest in the clean energy sector

Isuzu Motors South Africa partners with Datacentrix to implement IBM Envizi, boosting ESG data accuracy and speed. (Image source: Datacentrix)

Construction

Bobcat raising the bar with attachments (Image source: Bobcat)

Construction

Bobcat is looking to step up the productivity and versatility of its compact equipment with a range of more than 120 smart and specialised attachments and solutions

The new generation of Bobcat attachments redefines the use of compact equipment, well beyond buckets, according to Katinka Kincses, Bobcat product manager for attachments in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

“At Bobcat, we constantly invest in the development of new attachments to ensure we meet the needs of all major and even specialised applications,” said Kincses.

In the world of compact machinery, versatility is synonymous with profitability.

Bobcat, recognised worldwide for the versatility of its compact loaders, has made its line of attachments a key pillar for multiplying the applications of its compact equipment, turning them into true ‘tool carriers’, whether in construction, landscaping, agriculture, demolition, or rental, along with other applications.

With the widest range of original attachments on the market, the company not only guarantees an effective response for almost any application, but also boosts machinery sales thanks to their adaptability.

Its design department works closely with customers, developing and producing tools to meet the main demands shared by thousands of users.

Multifunction tool

The range of attachments effectively turns a single machine into a multifunctional tool.

From buckets and forks to advanced equipment such as forestry cutters, trenchers and laser graders, Bobcat attachments stand out for their ease of use, robustness, and performance. Added to this is a constant focus on quality, safety, hydraulic compatibility and automation.

“Our commitment to innovation continues with the upcoming reintroduction of our line of post-hole diggers and trenchers. These next-generation models are designed to deliver increased performance, reducing effort in demanding tasks. Additionally, an optional LED guide improves accuracy by helping operators easily position the attachment at the desired angle.”

One of the key developments has been the Attachment Control Device (ACD) system. This innovation turns each attachment into a plug-and-play device.

When connected, the machine automatically recognises the attachment and adjusts the controls and flow rates to maximise performance. This system not only reduces human error and setup times, but also extends the life of the equipment.

Another industry-leading standard is the well-known Bob-Tach quick-attach system, developed in the 1970s. Its simplicity and reliability have even led other brands to adopt it.

Many customers emphasise that it is very intuitive, convenient, easy to use and foolproof for exchanging attachments without wasting time or effort on the part of the operator.

Rental industry

Rental companies are one of Bobcat's main customers. For them, the ease of attaching and operating attachments without an operator is essential.

Bobcat has responded to this demand with systems such as ACD and new features that improve the operator experience: engine-independent speed management, drift compensation and full control from a single joystick.

In addition, it has developed training tools and remote support, including QR codes on attachments, so users can easily access quick guides or tutorials without the need for direct technical assistance.

Although construction remains a key market, sectors such as landscaping, demolition and agriculture also demand an increasingly specialised range of attachments.

The group’s Attachments division represents a key element in Bobcat's expansion, fundamental for expanding applications across a wide variety of sectors and machines.

It means telehandlers are no longer limited to lifting and material handling, while excavators now perform much more than trenching.

Its wide range of attachments has become a differentiating factor for Bobcat, allowing dealers to offer the right tool to fit customer needs to carry out any task that may arise, in all sectors: including construction, demolition, road maintenance, agriculture, forestry, precision grading, beach cleaning, landscaping and others.

Read more:

Work smarter, not harder: Discover the new Volvo wheel loaders

Bobcat unveils limited-edition mini excavators

Saint-Gobain highlights infrastructure growth potential 

Turner & Townsend partners with Everstrong Capital to deliver Africa’s largest PPP road project with global best practices. (Image source: Turner & Townsend)

Volvo Construction Equipment introduces a redesigned generation of articulated haulers with improved performance, safety, and comfort. (Image source: Volvo CE)

Mining

Sandvik unveils DataDrive’31, a six-year, €80 million programme to boost mining productivity, safety, and sustainability globally. (Image source: Sandvik)

Mining

Sandvik has unveiled DataDrive’31, an ambitious technology programme designed to accelerate the digital transformation of the mining sector through data-driven innovation

The six-year initiative carries a total budget of EUR 80 million (approx. US$87.2mn). Business Finland has approved EUR 16 million (approx. US$17.4mn) in R&D funding for the first three-year phase, with the potential to allocate an additional EUR 16 million (approx. US$17.4mn) for the second phase. The remainder will be directly financed by Sandvik, reflecting its strong commitment to technological advancement and the digitalisation of mining operations. A mid-term review will take place after three years to assess progress before moving into the next stage.

DataDrive’31 aims to develop innovative data-based technologies and solutions that improve productivity, safety, and sustainability across the entire mining value chain. Its key goals include:

  • Creating new services and products by utilising and commercialising data.

  • Integrating data-driven systems into equipment, operations, and aftermarket services to deliver comprehensive digital solutions.

  • Developing predictive and prescriptive operating environments that foster smarter, safer, and more sustainable mining practices.

“DataDrive’31 is at the forefront of the technological transformation of the mining industry,” said Mats Eriksson, president, mining at Sandvik. “Business Finland’s support accelerates our planned R&D work in key technology areas and strengthens our competitiveness in global markets. The strong technological expertise of Sandvik in Finland forms the foundation for this investment. DataDrive’31 is a key driver for the growth of our mining business and demonstrates our commitment to leading the industry’s data-driven future.”

Sandvik has a long-standing tradition of significant investments in R&D, digitalisation, automation, and electrification. Building on this foundation, DataDrive’31 reinforces Sandvik’s position as a leader in mining technology, ensuring it continues to deliver innovative, future-ready solutions for customers worldwide while driving sustained industry leadership.

Construction of road to Tulu Kapi in 2025. (Image source: KEFI) 

Site geotechnical studies and piling works at Nyanza Light Metals in South Africa. (Image source: Nyanza Light Metals)

Logistics

South Africa’s transport ministry has issued requests for information to attract private sector investment in modernising the country’s rail infrastructure

Logistics

In a bid to achieve South Africa’s ambitious goal of 600 million annual rail passenger trips by 2030, the government has issued a series of Requests for Information (RFI) inviting private sector ideas and investments to modernise and expand the country’s rail system

“Participation in the RFI process will assist the organisation to gather information, innovative ideas, and solutions which will guide future Requests for Proposals for private sector investment in the passenger rail sector,” minister of transport Barbara Creecy said in Pretoria.

The RFI covers several key areas, including fare collection systems, depot management, utilisation and commercialisation of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) fibre network to improve digital connectivity. It also seeks proposals on operational resilience across the rail sector, as well as innovative insights for developing long-distance regional rapid transit.

By May 2025, PRASA had commissioned 35 of 40 passenger corridors, achieving 77 million audited passenger journeys annually.

“To continue on the recovery path, PRASA requires additional investment that cannot be carried by the fiscus alone. These RFIs are not tenders, they are an invitation for the market to help us design the future of rail. Together, we can rebuild confidence in public transport, open up investment opportunities, and connect South Africans to the growth we all deserve,” Creecy added during a media briefing.

As part of its modernisation drive, South Africa plans to introduce a unified tap and go ticketing system usable across trains, buses, and taxis.

“No more queues or paper tickets, just one account-based system that makes travel easier and helps us manage revenue transparently and efficiently. The private sector has an important role to play to make this a reality.

“We’re partnering with the private sector to modernise our major maintenance depots at Braamfontein and Wolmerton. This will mean faster train repairs, better reliability, and new investment in nearby areas, creating jobs and boosting local development. It is for this reason that the private sector participation is of paramount given the magnitude of this project,” Creecy said.

PRASA is deploying thousands of km of fibre optic cables as part of a new signalling system along railway lines.

“We’re opening this door for private partners to help us turn that network into a source of income, by offering broadband and digital services, while strengthening safety and real-time communication across the rail system.

“We’re planning a new generation of regional trains, faster, safer, and more frequent, connecting cities like Pretoria, Johannesburg, Polokwane, Musina, Mbombela and Durban using our existing network up to 120 kmper hour, building new 160 to 200 km per hour regional lines, and testing the water for a new 300 km per hour high-speed railway between Johannesburg and Durban,” she said.

These new routes aim to cut travel times, reduce costs, ease road congestion, and drive economic growth along connected towns.

“These regional projects are not possible without private sector partnership. Through this RFI, we’re inviting skilled private operators to lease and manage our new and old fleet under clear performance standards, keeping them safe, reliable, and on time.

“PRASA’s new blue trains, built at the Gibela factory in Nigel, are world class. We also have older yellow trains that can be repurposed for new uses,” the Minister said.

Simultaneously, the government is collaborating with manufacturers to establish South Africa as Africa’s premier train production hub, boosting jobs, local manufacturing, and exports in alignment with the African Union’s 2015 resolution.

“The rail and port freight RFI process is part of our broader Freight Logistics Roadmap, which seeks to restore efficiency, reliability, and competitiveness in the movement of goods across our economy.

“It also reflects the government’s commitment to implementing the National Rail Policy (2022), the National Ports Policy, and the Private Sector Participation Framework (2023), all of which recognise the critical role of partnerships with the private sector in revitalising our transport infrastructure,” Creecy said.

Both policies maintain public ownership of rail and port networks while encouraging private investment to boost efficiency and effectiveness.

“The RFI process is a critical step in this private sector participation journey and reflects the government’s acknowledgement of the importance of considering the rail passenger and freight logistics landscape from the perspectives of all interested and affected parties to develop effective and sustainable solutions,” the Minister said.

Powering trade through maritime corridors

The launch of Belcon Cold Store highlights Maersk’s continued focus on enhancing South Africa’s vital cold chain logistics network. (Image source: Maersk)

Finance

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

Finance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AfDB and Algeria’s Knowledge Economy Ministry partner to scale African startups and SMEs, with fresh funds and policy support

Paycorp invests in UK’s Currency Stream to accelerate FX tech growth across Africa, Asia, the Americas and Europe

Manufacturing

FLS strengthens Delmas site as a global polyurethane hub. (Image source: FLS)

Manufacturing

FLS has completed a significant upgrade to its polyurethane manufacturing facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, positioning the site as a key global hub for the production of its advanced NexGen wear-resistant material

This development forms part of a wider modernisation programme by FLS, aimed at strengthening supply chains, increasing manufacturing efficiency and enhancing
sustainability across its global footprint.

Brad Shepherd, director service line - screen and feeder consumables at FLS, said the investment at Delmas aligns with the company’s global strategy to standardise and optimise production processes.

“This is a milestone for us,” commented Shepherd. “We are integrating cutting edge technology and modern manufacturing methodologies across all our polyurethane plants, and Delmas is leading the way. The upgrade enables us to respond more quickly and reliably to customer needs across Africa, the Middle East and Europe.”

The centrepiece of the upgrade is the introduction of purpose-built infrastructure to produce NexGen screen media - a polyurethane material developed by FLS to deliver extended wear life, reduced maintenance and improved operational efficiency. In on-site trials, screen panels made from NexGen have demonstrated up to three times the wear life of conventional rubber and polyurethane products, making it a gamechanger for industries that rely on high performance screening solutions.

Warren Walker, head of global manufacturing - polyurethane operations at FLS, explained that Delmas is the first of the company’s five global polyurethane plants to complete this transition. “We have installed new, latest generation polyurethane machines, precision tooling and dedicated preheating ovens for inserts,” he said. “This allows us to significantly increase our output while ensuring consistent quality.”

The facility now includes two trommel screen media stations and three screen media stations, each tailored to produce NexGen products. One of the standout technologies introduced is a programmable auto- calibrating polyurethane machine capable of adjusting material hardness to suit
specific applications.

“The flexibility to produce varying hardness levels is critical,” Walker noted. “It means we can tailor our screen media precisely to the customer’s application, ensuring optimum performance and longevity.”

To complement this, a high capacity polyurethane machine capable of pouring up to 42 kg per minute is in operation at the facility. This system is particularly suited to applications requiring large volume pours, such as flotation spare parts and vertical mill components.

The Delmas facility already benefited from a significant upgrade in 2019, when a state-of-the-art six-axis machining centre was introduced for tooling precision, along with robotic welding systems for manufacturing screen media panel inserts and a CNC controlled spiral welding machine to produce wedge wire products. The latest round of investments builds on this foundation and brings the facility to the forefront of global polyurethane production capability.

Energy efficiency was a key consideration in the new layout and equipment design. “We have incorporated smart energy saving features like individual temperature control on each casting table station,” Walker remarked. “This avoids the need to heat large surface areas unnecessarily and contributes to our carbon reduction goals.”

Further supporting these goals is the installation of 300 kW of solar generation capacity at the Delmas site, completed in 2024. Plans are already in place to expand this by another 500 kW in 2026, along with the integration of a battery energy storage system (BESS), enabling greater energy independence and resilience.

FLS’s offering from Delmas extends beyond screen media manufacturing. The facility is equipped to handle the complete fabrication of vibrating screens, from raw material processing and in-house machining to assembly and factory acceptance testing. This vertical integration allows the company to deliver customised solutions with tighter control over quality and lead times.

Shepherd emphasises that FLS operates both as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and a screen media specialist, supplying screen panels for all types and brands of vibrating screens, feeders and trommel screens.

“We don’t just supply products,” he said. “We work closely with our customers through our network of on-the-ground specialists to assess site conditions and select the best screening media for their specific needs.”

He notes that many older processing plants are treating materials that differ from their original design specifications. In these cases, screen efficiency can often only be improved by optimising the screen media. “This is where NexGen makes a real difference,” Shepherd commented. “Combined with the correct aperture design, it allows customers to get more life and better performance from their screens.”

Unlike injection-moulded polyurethane, which can compromise the structural integrity of screen panels, FLS’s proprietary process retains superior mechanical properties, resulting in a tougher more durable product. “We have never used injection moulding because it reduces the quality of the end product,” Shepherd explained. “Our process delivers a product that stands up to the toughest operating conditions and offers lasting value.”

Walker adds that the expansion at Delmas not only supports FLS’s global operations but also contributes meaningfully to the South African economy. “Our commitment to local manufacturing is evident in the scale of our investment and the jobs we have created,” he said. “We have expanded our workforce, prioritised local recruitment and significantly grown our apprenticeship programme.”

A strong focus has also been placed on developing female artisans. In 2024, six women from the local community were recruited into a three year trade apprenticeship programme, receiving training in welding, fitting and boilermaking.

“Our investment during a period of economic uncertainty underlines FLS’s long term commitment to South Africa and to our customers in the broader EMEA region,” said Walker. “We are not just building products – we are building skills, opportunities and partnerships that will power sustainable growth for years to come.”

the partnership aims to accelerate the transformation of West Africa’s manufacturing landscape. (Image source: RusselSmith)

Brady Corporation empowers panel builders with durable, compliant, and efficient labelling systems for electrical clarity. (Image source: Brady Corporation)

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