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In The Spotlight

Cat Energy Control System (ECS) portfolio. (Image source: Caterpillar)

Energy

Caterpillar introduces new Cat ECS 300 and ECS 400 for enhanced power control

Caterpillar Inc. has announced the launch of two new additions to its Cat Energy Control System (ECS) portfolio, the Cat ECS 300 and Cat ECS 400

These advanced control systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with power generation assets including generator sets, battery energy storage, and renewable energy sources. Built to deliver reliable power and improved energy efficiency, they help customers optimise energy use and reduce costs.

Introducing Cat ECS 300 and Cat ECS 400

The Cat ECS 300 offers mains and utility paralleling, allowing users to monitor and control up to four power generation assets at the same time, with or without utility involvement. This gives customers greater flexibility in how they use on-site energy, particularly during periods of high demand. It also provides reliable backup options through closed transition with soft load or unload and open transition with utility for standby use.

The Cat ECS 400 is developed for more complex microgrid environments. It can manage and control up to 32 power generation assets, making it ideal for expanding sites and those incorporating more renewable energy. By enabling greater use of sustainable power, it helps reduce fuel consumption and lower overall energy costs.

“As the energy landscape evolves and energy needs become more complex, customers are developing plans to secure power for both the near-term and the future,” said Melissa Busen, senior vice-president for Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division. “Our Cat ECS portfolio helps customers scale and future-proof their sites, as our control systems can adapt and grow alongside their changing needs.”

A comprehensive customer offering

The expansion of the ECS range reflects Caterpillar’s ongoing commitment to providing integrated, customer-focused energy solutions. These include power generation systems, remote monitoring, distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS), switchgear, controls, and expert local support. This full-package approach helps customers achieve affordable and dependable energy supply.

Expanding the Cat ECS portfolio

The ECS 300 and ECS 400 join the existing Cat ECS 100 and ECS 200, which are already in the market. The ECS 100 is designed to offer reliable control for new standby, fast-response, and prime power generator sets.

Available now

All ECS controllers are now available through Caterpillar dealers worldwide. Retrofit kits for the ECS 100 and ECS 200 are also offered. Caterpillar provides full control system customisation services, including site-specific design and hardware and software configuration.

GlobalData forecasts 1.7GW renewable growth and rising solar PV investments by 2035

Energy

Nigeria accelerates shift to renewable energy

Nigeria’s renewable energy sector offers substantial opportunities for growth, with the country aiming to raise the share of renewables in electricity generation to 23% by 2025 and 36% by 2030

As outlined in the Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP), targets for installed capacity by 2025 include 2GW from small hydropower, 500MW from solar PV, 400MW from biomass, and 40MW from wind. In line with these plans, Nigeria’s renewable power capacity is projected to reach 1.7GW by 2035, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.9% from 2024 to 2035, according to insights from GlobalData, a leading data and analytics firm.

Solar investment surge 

In its most recent publication, Nigeria Power Market Outlook to 2035, Update 2025 – Market Trends, Regulations, and Competitive Landscape, GlobalData forecasts that the country’s annual power generation will grow at a CAGR of 17.5% from 2024 to 2035, eventually reaching 1.8TWh. Within this transition, solar PV is emerging as a key area of investment. The past few years have seen a consistent rise in solar PV installations, largely spurred by the policy and objectives under the REMP.

According to Attaurrahman Ojindaram Saibasan, senior power analyst at GlobalData, “Nigeria relies heavily on thermal sources for its power generation. The nation possesses one of the largest natural gas reserves globally and the most extensive in Africa, which has led to the increasing prevalence of thermal power generation within the country.”

Despite the abundance of natural gas, a major obstacle for power producers remains the inconsistent availability of fuel, which results in significant underuse of generation assets. Following the sector’s privatisation, insufficient infrastructure hindered the creation of a reliable framework for fuel supply agreements, which are essential for securing bankable power purchase agreements.

To mitigate this challenge, Nigeria has increased its emphasis on renewable sources, particularly solar PV, to help meet rising electricity needs. As the country undergoes rapid urbanisation, household electricity demand is climbing, driven by needs such as lighting, refrigeration, cooking, entertainment, and cooling. In addition, power-intensive sectors such as textiles, cement, and food processing continue to consume large amounts of electricity.

Due to the persistent unreliability of the grid, many businesses rely heavily on petrol or diesel generators, suggesting that the actual energy demand in Nigeria is significantly higher than what is shown by grid-based data. Incorporating renewable energy along with storage systems is viewed as a practical solution to bridge this gap.

 

CrossBoundary Energy is powering the project's first sites with solar PV, battery, and generator solutions, providing 99.9% uptime while reducing fossil fuel emissions. (Image source: CrossBoundary Energy)

Energy

Sierra Leone’s first 5G network powered by renewables

Zoodlabs, a telecommunications firm headquartered in Sierra Leone, has revealed that it is leveraging renewable energy to drive the rollout of one of the country’s first 5G data networks

The announcement was made at the Digital Government Summit in Freetown.

Powering 5G sustainably?

To power the initial rollout, Zoodlabs is partnering with CrossBoundary Energy, which is supplying a hybrid energy system combining solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, battery storage, and generator backup. This setup is designed to deliver 99.9% uptime while significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, CrossBoundary Energy is financing five of the 5G towers to help fast-track deployment.

Oliver Benham, director of operations for telecom solutions at CrossBoundary Energy, said, “Our solution is designed to maximise uptime whilst increasing renewable energy penetration and minimising diesel generator usage. The effect is that telecom operators like Zoodlabs have a reliable, affordable, and cleaner way of powering their network that does not rely on utility energy supply or fossil fuels.”

The introduction of 5G is expected to substantially boost data speeds, lower latency, and increase device connectivity across the country. With broadband penetration standing at just 20.7%, this wireless solution sidesteps the need for extensive cable infrastructure and helps improve digital access for individuals and businesses in Freetown.

David Kapkima, CEO at Zoodlabs, commented, “5G is not just about faster phones—it’s a foundational technology for smart cities, autonomous vehicles, remote healthcare, and businesses that rely on IoT. CrossBoundary Energy’s specialized knowledge in solar energy solutions has enabled Zoodlabs to power this infrastructure sustainably.”

The first towers are already operational in Freetown, with plans underway to expand 5G access nationwide in the coming phases.

African Review

  • Comviva’s vision for a digitally connected future – Rajesh Chandiramani, CEO

  • New generation lithium silicate technology for supreme protection

    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. 

  • Achieving optimum concrete protection

    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.

  • Shaping the future of sustainable mining

    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.

  • Dolika Banda, Chairperson of ZCCM-IH

  • MTN Business #BusinessDoneBetter

  • Are lithium-based sealers useful for protecting concrete floors?

    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

Aerial view of Pan-Atlantic University’s main campus in Lagos. (Image source: Aed Energy)

Energy

Aed Energy pilots on-site power clean energy solution at Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos

Aed Energy has announced a new thermal battery pilot project at Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) in Lagos, which it hopes will open up new clean energy on-site power options in Nigeria and other territories

The UK-based company is a developer of next-generation thermal energy storage, with solutions to displace fossil fuel generators and accelerate clean energy access in weak-grid regions.

The pilot project tackles one of Nigeria’s critical challenges — the widespread use of fossil fuel generators across education, healthcare, manufacturing and remote infrastructure in energy-constrained markets.

Developed with PAU and a local clean energy integrator, FaithLink Ltd, the project combines rooftop solar with Aed Energy’s proprietary modular thermal battery.

The system stores renewable electricity as high-temperature heat in energy-dense composite bricks and delivers dispatchable power or industrial-grade heat for up to 24 hours, without lithium, combustion, or fragile supply chains.

PAU’s main campus consumes approximately 6,570 MWh of electricity annually, much of it currently supplied by fossil fuel generators, or gensets.

When run on diesel, this equates to over 1.8 million litres per year, the equivalent of filling nearly three-quarters of an Olympic swimming pool full of diesel, for one site alone.

“It moves our technology out of the lab and into the field, showing what’s possible when innovation is paired with local partnerships and real-world demand,” said Aed Energy’s CEO, Rayan Kassis.

“This deployment lays the foundation for clean energy systems that serve critical institutions, power industrial growth and open up new export opportunities for UK innovation.”

The MWh-scale units are designed for rapid deployment across industrial sites, microgrids, and critical infrastructure where fossil fuel gensets, remain the default for primary energy supply.

“This project’s distinction lies in its silent operation, a significant shift from the noise of diesel and gas plants,” added Dr Peter Bamkole, PAU’s deputy vice-chancellor.

Aed Energy is in discussions with investors and energy users across Africa, Europe, North America and the Middle East to develop commercial pilot deployments.

The pilot forms part of ZE-Gen’s international innovation programme, a collaborative initiative by the Carbon Trust and Innovate UK.

It forms one of six new ZE-Gen demonstrator projects funded through Innovate UK.

Read more:

EWIA to unlock on-site-solar in Nigeria, Cameroon

Wartsila powers new 30mw Lagos gas plant

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On-site solar power growth in Africa

Construction

ArcelorMittal's new concentrator plant. (Image source: ArcelorMittal)

Construction

Liberia launches ArcelorMittal concentrator plant

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr has officially commissioned ArcelorMittal’s US$1.4bn iron ore concentrator plant at the Mt. Tokadeh mining site in Nimba County, Liberia

This facility is the centrepiece of the company’s US$1.8bn expansion programme, which brings its total investment in Liberia to approximately US$3bn — one of the most significant private sector investments in the country since the end of its civil war.

The expansion will see ArcelorMittal boost its iron ore output from 5 million tonnes per year to 20 million tonnes, while also upgrading product quality to higher-grade and higher-value iron ore.

Initially launched in 2012, the concentrator project was put on hold during the Ebola outbreak in 2014. Construction resumed in 2021, incorporating modernised technology and updated engineering.

Full operations at the plant are expected to begin later this month.

“This level of investment is a testament to the growing confidence in the security and wellbeing of our state, and in the positive direction of our investment climate,” said Boakai.

The development has already created over 5,000 jobs during construction and is projected to result in 1,000 permanent roles, along with broader economic gains for the country, he added.

In addition to the concentrator, the wider expansion includes significant infrastructure investments. These include an upgraded railway line from Tokadeh to Buchanan, a new pier at the Port of Buchanan, and enhanced materials handling systems.

President Boakai called on ArcelorMittal to continue progressing with further investment pledges, including railway expansion, port upgrades, and power plant development.

“These projects are essential to deepening Liberia’s integration into global value chains and unlocking long-term benefits for our people,” the president added.

ArcelorMittal executive chairman Lakshmi Mittal was present in Liberia for the inauguration ceremony.

“This state-of-the-art concentrator guarantees the long-term future of mining in Liberia,” he said. “It will quadruple our capabilities from 5 million tonnes to 20 million tonnes, continue to provide jobs for thousands of Liberians and make an important contribution to Liberia’s economic prosperity.”

New models offer advanced compaction, efficiency and digital integration features. (Image source: Wirtgen Group)

Volvo CE machines prove superior in Gulf trials, showcasing productivity, safety, and fuel efficiency gains. (Image source: Volvo CE)

Mining

Condra hoists and overhead crane. (Image source: Condra)

Mining

Condra to expand agent network in Africa after Tanzania crane deal

South Africa’s Condra has received a succession of recent orders for overhead cranes and other lifting equipment that will be deployed across Africa and beyond, as it moves to expand its agent reach across the continent

Among them is an unpack-and-go machine whose shipping containers will become the crane’s gantry, following a deal struck with the company’s agent in Tanzania, Lynx Supply and Services.

The design of this five-ton double-girder crane — a one-off currently under manufacture for mine maintenance — makes use of the two 12-metre delivery containers as gantry supports.

After hoist, crab, girders, end-carriages and other components have been unpacked for assembly, an installation team will position the containers exactly 9.8 metres apart, then bolt rails to their tops to form the gantry.

Lynx, which will carry out the installation and commissioning work, also placed additional orders for wheel blocks, miscellaneous spare parts and a separate 10-ton, 10-metre-span single-girder gantry crane for an unnamed mining house.

Condra’s sub-Saharan agent network also includes Integrated Engineering Services in Zambia, Integrated Engineering Services in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Namcranes in Namibia and KL Cranes in Botswana.

Management is identifying additional potential agents in Ghana, Mozambique and Kenya, the company said in an update.

Other recent orders received by Condra in sub-Saharan Africa include a 10-ton portal crane for a maintenance application in Ghana.

The design of this crane overcomes floor loading limitations by spreading the machine mass across multiple nylon-treaded wheels at the base of the portal’s supporting legs.

The Ghanaian portal machine is linked to two further crane orders from the same customer, one of them for installation in Saudi Arabia.

Condra noted that it had also received enquiries from Chile and Peru, where the company is reestablishing agency relationships adversely affected by the Coronavirus pandemic.

“Service proximity and availability must be carefully considered alongside purchase price if losses due to downtime are not to negate and even exceed the initial savings of an attractive price,” said a Condra spokesman.

“Condra has long and strong relationships with agents across sub-Saharan Africa to deliver the necessary rapid response time on service calls. Our Johannesburg spares division will deliver parts anywhere in Africa in five days or less, minimising production losses due to crane downtime. In South Africa we deliver in a maximum of 48 hours.”

Read more: 

Single crane solution for Ngwadini dam

Second Condra crane for Tongaat Hulett

Condra celebrates Sands crane order

FLS enhances African mill liner capacity through Pretoria-based SSRE acquisition to support mining services

Perenti and JV partner secure five-year underground mining deal with Endeavour Mining in Burkina Faso

Logistics

Entrance to Tatu City Special Economic Zone in Kenya. (Image source: Emirates Logistics)

Logistics

Emirates Logistics' new hub in Kenya’s Tatu City

Emirates Logistics has announced its expansion into Kenya, with plans to build a state-of-the-art logistics facility at Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ), just outside Nairobi

The company said in a statement that the facility will support the growth of its clients across sub-Saharan Africa.

“We are proud to strengthen our presence in Kenya with our expansion to Tatu City, reinforcing Emirates Logistics’ global footprint of comprehensive logistics capabilities," said Steven van der Vliet, chief commercial officer, Emirates Logistics.

“This new strategic facility is part of our broader commitment to offering world-class infrastructure in key growth markets,” he added.

“Being located at the heart of Kenya's economic engine allows us to deliver flexible, seamless and tailor-made logistics solutions that empower both our existing and new customers to thrive.”

Construction of the new logistics facility will begin this year, adding to Emirates Logistics' global presence spanning 15 countries and a worldwide network of agents.

Within Africa, the company operates owned warehousing, offices, and transport fleets in Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, as well the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Malaysia, outside the continent.

“Tatu City warmly welcomes Emirates Logistics to its new home in Kenya, where it will thrive in a conducive business environment,” said George Kapanadze, group chief financial officer at Rendeavour, the owner and developer of Tatu City SEZ.

Rendeavour is now Africa's largest new city builder, with developments for individuals and businesses across the continent, including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“As a mixed-use Special Economic Zone, we specialise in attracting foreign direct investment to Kenya in an infrastructure-ready location that offers the services and amenities global investors like Emirates Logistics demand, including housing, retail, schools, parks, and recreation,” remarked Kapanadze.

Tatu City is Rendeavour's flagship development in Kenya and already welcomes 25,000 people daily, who live, work and study within its thriving community.

The city hosts over 100 businesses, including Heineken, Cold Solutions, CCI Global, Dormans, FullCare, Kärcher, CKL, Naivas, NCBA, Grit Real Estate Income Group, Hewatele, Freight Forwarders Solutions, Tamarind Group, ADvTECH, Friendship Group, Bakels, Novis, and Davis & Shirtliff.

Firms in the SEZ benefit from a range of incentives, including a 10% corporate tax rate for the first 10 years and 15% for the following 10 years, compared to the standard 30%.

Businesses also enjoy VAT zero-rating on goods and services and exemptions on import duty and stamp duty.

Read more: 

Elevating African trade with air cargo

Kenya's largest call centre opens in Tatu City

The groundwork for growth

Wabtec and Rio Tinto SimFer reveal new locomotive to support Guinea’s largest mining infrastructure project. (Image source: Wabtec)

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Finance

Building more sustainable housing in South Africa

Finance

Nedbank commits to more sustainable housing

In a boost for South Africa’s construction sector, Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) is to accelerate its funding for affordable homes after securing a US$200mn loan from IFC, the World Bank’s private finance arm

IFC will provide Nedbank CIB with a senior loan of US$200mn to further scale lending to what it called ‘green buildings developers’ in South Africa’s residential, commercial, industrial and retail property sectors.

The partnership will help bridge the country’s housing deficit and support the transition to a lower-carbon economy, IFC noted in a statement.

Each building will be certified through IFC’s Excellence in Design for Greener Efficiencies (EDGE) or equivalent standard for energy and water efficiency and for the use of more sustainable construction materials.

At least half of all funds allocated to new residential developments will target the affordable housing segment.

IFC was also an investor in Nedbank CIB’s green bond issue of 2021, providing funding to support EDGE (or equivalent standard) certified buildings in the country.

“Under the bond, Nedbank CIB was able to deliver 1,790 EDGE-certified units, including 1,305 affordable homes,” said Vanessa Murray, divisional executive, property finance at Nedbank CIB.

“The new facility allows us to scale this impact even further, expanding the reach to other real estate segments and aligning with global green building standards while addressing the country’s housing and infrastructure needs.”

Murray said another example of the bond’s impact is illustrated by the creation of the bank’s in-house EDGE expert team, the only one of its kind in an African financial institution.

With IFC support, it has trained 21 Nedbank CIB staff and 21 clients, which enabled the certification of landmark projects such as the Mall of Africa, the largest EDGE-certified retail centre in the world.

“We are proud to partner with Nedbank CIB to expand certified green buildings in South Africa, including for affordable housing,” said Claudia Conceiçao, IFC’s regional director for Southern Africa.

“This collaboration drives South Africa’s shift to a low-carbon economy while improving lives and communities.”

South Africa aims to reduce its GHG emissions by 42% by 2025 and reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with green buildings designated as a major part of the solution to meet targets.

Globally, conventional buildings account for nearly 40% of energy-related GHG emissions.

Also read: Standard Bank IFC to support sustainable housing construction

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The MoU will boost coverage for the agricultural sector, starting in Zambia

Manufacturing

SEW-EURODRIVE’s headquarters boasts unrivalled stockholding capacity, ensuring rapid response and reliable supply across Africa. (Image source: SEW-EURODRIVE)

Manufacturing

Africa footprint grows as SEW-EURODRIVE builds technical base

Momentum continues to grow behind the ambitious plans of SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa to become a leading force in the continent’s industrial gearbox business, drives and automation solutions according to managing director Raymond Obermeyer

“Building on years of planning and proactive investment, we are successfully rolling out our ‘African Strategy’ plans to get closer to customers all over the continent,” commented Obermeyer. “To do this effectively, we are continuing to strengthen our foundation of technical capability and expertise.”

With a firm footprint in many southern African countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia, the company is extending its reach northwards into the likes of Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Mauritania and Morocco. At its 26,000 m2 headquarters in Aeroton near Johannesburg, which the company occupied in 2022, work has already begun on expanding its footprint by building a second adjacent facility.

“This service centre will further support our expansion of sales, support, engineering and training capabilities,” said Obermeyer.  

He points out that many local gearbox users face the challenge of inadequate support for products being sold onto the market, and highlights that SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa focuses on being well equipped to service and repair all its products.

“As one of the few gearbox OEMs in the country with advanced design and engineering infrastructure, we can also make use of our group’s world class facilities in Germany,” he explains. “This even allows us to service and repair the products of other OEMs – and to the same high standard as the original item.”

The new SEW-EURODRIVE service centre facility in Aeroton will house the company’s existing industrial gearbox repairs division as well as an expanded Drive Academy – which trains staff and customers. Other capabilities to be brought in-house include base plate fabrication and sand blasting, and new equipment will include robotic welders, five-axis gear cutting machines and heavy cranage.

SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa is also pursuing its growth plans through finding new markets, a drive which is supported by the group’s wide and expanding range of products and solutions. In 2025, the group has already launched 16 new products, says Obermeyer, as it pushes boundaries in fields such as industrial gears, geared motors, electronics and artificial intelligence.

“This reflects the innovative approach and the research and development capability that is opening up opportunities in existing and new markets,” he says. “At SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa, we understand the importance of keeping up our investments in Africa, positioning ourselves for a leadership position.”

Construction on the expansions for the new SEW-EURODRIVE service centre began in November 2024 and the facility will be operational by the end of 2025. Obermeyer says that customers can look forward to the facility further raising the service bar for the industry from 2026.

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The webinar emphasised practical applications

On-site solar power growth in Africa

SANY expands genset support for Africa’s industrial power resilience. (Image source: SANY)

Cat Energy Control System (ECS) portfolio. (Image source: Caterpillar)

Mini grids to drive energy access in Sierra Leone

ArcelorMittal's new concentrator plant. (Image source: ArcelorMittal)

GlobalData forecasts 1.7GW renewable growth and rising solar PV investments by 2035

CrossBoundary Energy is powering the project's first sites with solar PV, battery, and generator solutions, providing 99.9% uptime while reducing fossil fuel emissions. (Image source: CrossBoundary Energy)

New models offer advanced compaction, efficiency and digital integration features. (Image source: Wirtgen Group)

Turning cocoa waste into energy

Vertiv introduces CoolChip CDU range to boost AI, HPC cooling across EMEA data centres. (Image source: Vertiv)

Volvo CE machines prove superior in Gulf trials, showcasing productivity, safety, and fuel efficiency gains. (Image source: Volvo CE)

Entrance to Tatu City Special Economic Zone in Kenya. (Image source: Emirates Logistics)

Scatec has been named preferred bidder for a 123 MW/492 MWh battery energy storage project in South Africa’s Free State Province. (Image source: Scatec)

The Ndabakazi Intermodal Interchange will go a long way to ease traffic and reduce road accidents. (Image source: SANRAL)

Africa's largest wind farm. (Image credit: AMEA Power)

Tanzania’s John MagaIfuli Bridge. (Image credit: Tanzania Invest)

Wabtec and Rio Tinto SimFer reveal new locomotive to support Guinea’s largest mining infrastructure project. (Image source: Wabtec)

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