Construction

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

The latest Volvo wheel loaders comes with standard cutting-edge automation to simplify your workday. (Image source: Volvo CE)

If you're in the business of moving heavy materials, operating under pressure, and meeting tight project timelines, the new generation of Volvo wheel loaders is built for you.

Designed with smart, time-saving features and built-in efficiencies, these machines are all about getting more done — faster, smoother, and with less effort.

Smarter control for smoother operation

Manual operation is becoming a thing of the past. The latest Volvo wheel loaders comes with standard cutting-edge automation to simplify your workday and boost performance.

New Smart Control engine mode means you can lower fuel consumption without compromising on productivity. This intelligent feature helps you stay on top of demanding schedules. Spend less time on repetitive tasks and more on what really counts – delivering results.
Auto-Bucket Fill is a game-changer – especially in rehandling work. At the push of a button, the system automatically fills, curls, and lifts the bucket while managing the throttle for you. It’s ideal for both seasoned pros and newer operators, helping reduce fatigue, extend tire life, and keep productivity high all day long.
Load-sensing hydraulics ensure ultra-responsive handling, while automatic bucket leveling provides precise and consistent operation.

Built for performance and productivity

Whether you're working on construction sites, in quarries, or in material handling operations, time is money.

L150 & L180: Now equipped with direct lock-up shifting for faster response and more efficient power delivery. By eliminating torque converter slip, you get smoother shifting, quicker cycles, and better fuel economy – ideal for load-and-carry work.
L220 & L260: Tackle tough ground with Automatic Traction Control, which automatically engages the front axle differential lock for extra grip when you need it. It cuts wheel slip, reduces tire wear, and keeps you moving confidently through rough conditions. Automatic Traction Control is also available as an option for rear axles.
Volvo’s OptiShift technology with patented Reverse by Braking reduces cycle times, improves fuel efficiency, and increases torque output at lower speeds. That means stronger performance when and where you need it most.

Prioritising operator safety, always

Safety is non-negotiable. Volvo’s next-gen loaders come equipped with:

360° Volvo Smart View camera system
Collision Mitigation System for safer reversing
Enhanced all-around visibility with an upgraded cabin design
These innovations help keep operators and on-site teams protected, no matter how tough the conditions.

The new generation of Volvo wheel loaders includes the L150, L180, L200 High Lift, L220, and the L260. From all-round versatility to maximum lifting power, there's sure to be a model to fit your specific worksite needs.

Saint-Gobain flags infrastructure growth potential

Transport sector poised for growth in Africa

Saint Gobain has announced a new ‘Lead & Grow’ strategic plan, which envisages around €12bn (approx. US$13.95bn) in growth capex and acquisitions globally over the 2026-2030 period

With a focus on light and sustainable construction, the group says it is raising its profitable growth trajectory in the years ahead, and aims to increase its exposure to the non-residential and infrastructure sectors.

“In the current geopolitical context, Saint-Gobain benefits from the powerful operating model it has established and optimised country-by-country, based on local value chains,” said Benoit Bazin, Saint-Gobain’s chairman and CEO.

The group outlined growth plans across major developed regions, including Asia, North America and Europe, but it is also active across the African continent.

Its latest investment in Africa is a new cement plant in South Africa, opened this year to support local manufacturing and sustainability efforts.

It also dovetails with another of the group's corporate messages in priortising local manufacturing capabilities: Make it Africa, to Build Africa, or MABA.

“We will also expand into new growth markets: in infrastructure, particularly thanks to our established leading position in construction chemicals, and in non-residential, where the group holds key advantages,” added Bazin.

The widening of the group’s product offer over the past few years has opened up new opportunities in non-residential (including educational and healthcare facilities, hotels and data centres) and infrastructure (transport, energy), the company added in a statement.

In the data centre segment, it highlights solutions including focusing on speed of construction, low-carbon partitions and concrete, airflow management and improved thermal insulation.

On the infrastructure side, it said it was targeting niche areas in the bridges and tunnels segment, such as technical waterproofing, specialty admixtures, expansion and injection grouts, repair and protection mortars.

And on the airports side, it highlighted products for runway reinforcement, fire-resistant and fire safety glass, solar controlled façades, technical flooring and acoustic partitions.

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Saint-Gobain reaffirms commitment to African construction

New report showcases Liebherr’s engineering excellence

The new report highlights some of the innovations, partnerships and real-world projects that are defining Liebherr’s presence across Africa and the Middle East. (Image source: Liebherr)

Liebherr, in association with African Review and Technical Review Middle East, has launched a new report on Technological Progress in High-Risk Sectors Across Africa and the Middle East

The report examines the dynamic transformation of sectors such as mining, construction, energy, and logistics, which are evolving rapidly to meet rising demands for productivity, operational efficiency, and resilient infrastructure in increasingly complex environments.

Across Africa and the Middle East, businesses face challenges including remote project locations, extreme climates, underdeveloped infrastructure, and fluctuating regulatory and geopolitical conditions. Liebherr’s report highlights how its high-performance machinery, from earthmoving and material handling equipment to mobile and crawler cranes, mining trucks, and deep foundation solutions, is designed to operate reliably and efficiently even in the toughest conditions. The company’s focus on safety, energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and predictive maintenance ensures that clients can optimise performance while reducing operational risks.

Download this exclusive industry report:

Gain insights into the latest construction, mining, logistics, and infrastructure developments across Africa and the Middle East, and the trends shaping these high-risk sectors.
Access real-world case studies showing how Liebherr’s engineering excellence drives productivity and efficiency in challenging environments, from urban construction sites to remote mining operations.
Discover initiatives for workforce development and local capacity building, with training programmes and regional service centres enabling technical self-sufficiency across Africa.
Learn how advanced technologies such as telematics, autonomous systems, and intelligent fleet management improve operational visibility and decision-making.
Understand sustainability strategies, including fuel-efficient engines, partial electrification, and eco-driving initiatives, helping clients reduce emissions and meet environmental standards.
Explore partnership models that enable long-term industrial growth, strengthen supply chains, and foster innovation in both African and Middle Eastern markets.

This report provides valuable guidance for industry leaders, offering practical insights into navigating high-risk sectors with the right tools, technology, and expertise.

Don't miss out! Download the report here.

XCMG delivers 200 machines across regions

XCMG delivers 200 advanced heavy machines to West Asia and North Africa, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. (XCMG Machinery)

XCMG Machinery, a global leader in construction machinery, has reached another milestone in its international expansion by delivering a fleet of over 200 units of advanced heavy equipment to clients in West Asia and North Africa

This delivery underscores the company’s dedication to providing reliable, efficient, and sustainable solutions for construction and mining projects worldwide.

The latest shipment features XCMG's flagship models across essential equipment categories, each designed for superior performance and durability in the toughest working conditions globally:

Excavator – XE380G: Equipped with a Cummins 9L engine and 180 main pump system, the XE380G combines high productivity with low fuel consumption. Its reinforced frame, advanced filtration system capturing 99% of dust particles, and reliable cooling performance ensure durable operation even in extreme climates of up to 52°C.

Wheel Loaders – XC988H and LW700HV: The XC988H, with an 8.5-ton rated load and 5m³ bucket, is engineered for heavy-load mining applications, delivering stability and efficiency through its 250kW engine. The LW700HV features a 7.4-ton rated load with a 4.5m³ bucket and a 210kW engine, offering durability and operator comfort for demanding operations.

Dump Truck – XGA3251D5WC: Tested across 1.8 million km in over 100 working scenarios, this model ensures exceptional reliability. Its ECE R29-03 compliant cab, reinforced steel frame, and premium Weichai-Fast-Hande powertrain provide safety, strength, and transport efficiency across various terrains.

Motor Grader – GR2605: With intelligent control systems and ergonomic design, the GR2605 delivers precision grading with reduced fuel consumption. Its load-sensing hydraulics, adaptive fan system, and wet-type brake axle enhance efficiency and longevity, while the spacious cab with integrated air ducting maximises operator comfort.

“Every machine we deliver represents XCMG's dedication to quality, innovation, and customer success,” said Kang Jian, general manager of XCMG Middle East and North Africa. “With this new fleet delivery, we are once again demonstrating our ability to meet the evolving needs of global partners while contributing to more efficient, sustainable, and safe construction practices worldwide.”

As XCMG continues to broaden its global presence, the company remains committed to delivering advanced solutions that enable customers to address the challenges of modern infrastructure development and mining with confidence.

MAGNA names MMD Mineral Sizing Africa distributor

MMD installation in South Africa. (Image source: MMD, Terex)

MAGNA, the Terex brand of mobile crushing, screening and conveying equipment for large-scale operations, has named MMD Mineral Sizing Africa (MMD) as its distributor for several southern African countries

Neil McIlwaine, business line director for MAGNA, said the collaboration marks a powerful endorsement from one of the mining industry’s most respected names.

“This is more than just a new distributor announcement,” he said. “MMD is a designer, manufacturer and engineering company in its own right, with a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence and customer-first service.

“Their decision to sell, support and service our complete lineup of MAGNA equipment across southern Africa is a strong signal that our machines meet the rigorous demands of large-scale mining operations and that our commitment to customer support aligns with their own.”

With over four decades of innovation, MMD has helped shape the future of materials processing, with its tailored solutions and proprietary technologies trusted across the mining, quarrying, and recycling sectors.

From compact machines to large-scale mobile sizer stations, MMD’s expertise spans the full spectrum of operational needs for these industries.

“This is also a flagship moment as it marks the first time MMD will represent a Terex brand,” said McIlwaine.

“Their choice of MAGNA reflects a shared belief in delivering robust, quality solutions, developed specifically for customers handling larger volumes and requiring superior output performance.”

MMD has long recognised Africa as one of the world’s most important mining markets, with large-scale operations demanding high-output, reliable equipment and responsive service.

In 2004, it expanded its manufacturing footprint beyond the UK by establishing a plant in South Africa, bringing production closer to the heart of the industry.

This move was driven by demand and a commitment to better serve customers in the region.

By adding MAGNA to its portfolio, MMD is now equipped to offer a diverse and comprehensive product range to African mining operations.

MAGNA is built for scale, designed to meet the demands of high-output operations up to 1500 TPH and backed by decades of experience and the strength of Terex’s world-leading brands.

“This collaboration brings together two brands that understand the importance of performance, reliability, and customer service,” said Janis Lombard, director for MMD Mineral Sizing (Africa) Pty Limited.

“We are excited to become part of the MAGNA distribution network and look forward to supporting our customers with machinery that’s built for the biggest challenges.”

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