In The Spotlight
![The Ncwera project is expected to be completed within a year and is designed to align with key national policies, including the National Development Plan (NDP IV), Vision 2040, and Sustainable Development Plan 7. (Image source: Adobe Stock) Ncwera's_Mini_Hydro_Power_Project](/images/AdobeStock_301591263.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/AdobeStock_301591263.webp?width=787&height=399)
The Ncwera project is expected to be completed within a year and is designed to align with key national policies, including the National Development Plan (NDP IV), Vision 2040, and Sustainable Development Plan 7. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Uganda has launched the Ncwera Mini Hydro-Power Project in Mitooma District to boost rural electrification, enhance businesses, and support economic growth
Deputy speaker Thomas Tayebwa has emphasised that unreliable and costly electricity continues to hinder the potential of businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and households across Uganda
Tayebwa made these remarks while presiding over the ceremony for the Ncwera Mini Hydro-Power Project in Ruhinda North County, Mitooma District.
The project is part of the Electricity Access Scale-Up initiative spearheaded by the Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC) and is being financed through the ORIO Infrastructure Fund from the Netherlands.
Tayebwa, who also serves as the area representative, highlighted that the project would not only provide electricity to households but also create new economic opportunities.
"Farmers will be able to process their produce efficiently, small businesses will thrive, and our children will have better opportunities to study," he stated.
He praised the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development for extending key energy infrastructure to communities and urged further efforts to expand similar projects to other underserved areas.
Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa emphasized that the project aligns with the government’s goal of delivering affordable electricity to drive industrial growth and economic transformation.
"I am pleased to note that in the agreement that was signed, the tariff is 5.3 US cents per unit, which is good. We have been trying to reduce the cost of electricity and since hydropower is the cleanest source of energy, it is the cheapest," said Nankabirwa.
"We have two sub-counties that have electricity poles without electricity wires, which means people there do not have access to electricity. There has also been a lot of load shedding in the district, which has affected many businesses," Agasha noted.
"With a growing need for energy in rural areas that have limited access to the grid network, we believe that these mini-hydropower plants will service communities and spur economic development through industrialisation, which will in turn increase employment and opportunities for the growing population," Van Ettro said.
UECCC managing director, Roy Nyamutale Baguma, revealed that in addition to Mitooma District, the ORIO Mini Hydropower Project will support the implementation of eight more projects across six districts: Bushenyi, Kasese, Bundibugyo, Kabarole, Bunyangabo, and Hoima.
He further noted that upon completion, the nine mini-hydropower sites will collectively generate 6.7 megawatts and establish a 288-kilometre distribution network, significantly enhancing rural electrification.
"The project sites are located in hard-to-reach areas with challenging topography and geophysical conditions, which makes it inefficient to wheel power over long distances to such very hard-to-reach places," said Baguma.
He confirmed that the Ncwera project is expected to be completed within a year and is designed to align with key national policies, including the National Development Plan (NDP IV), Vision 2040, and Sustainable Development Plan 7.
Also read: Siemens wins award, transforms Ghana’s electricity management
Changes are underway at Moolmans, with a new look for one of Africa’s premier mining contractors
While maintaining elements of the company’s proud history within the sector, its new corporate identity and logo – revealed for the first time at the 2025 Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town – reflects the positive changes that are eagerly anticipated for the business over the coming months.
Moolmans has a solid reputation in Africa’s mining industry, with more than 70 years’ experience in different minerals and varied geographies across the continent.
“Our long-standing reputation for exceptional reliability and performance in the industry, is the cornerstone of the strong relationships we enjoy with our clients,” said Moolmans managing director, Rod Dixon.
But this reputation alone is not enough to ensure the company remains a forerunner on the continent, delivering end-to-end open-cut mining and rehabilitation excellence.
“Change is good, especially when it takes us closer to achieving our vision of being the premier mining contractor in Africa, delivering resources for a better future,” added Dixon.
In August 2024, shareholder Aveng announced that it would be exploring alternative ownership options for the tier 1 contract mining business, which would allow Moolmans to pursue focused operating and growth strategies separate from sister company, McConnell Dowell.
“What better time than now to make a change to the already strong Moolmans brand; to visually demonstrate our progressive outlook for the business and our ongoing investment in our people, premier equipment, processes and systems."
Large and diverse fleet
With substantial investment in additional equipment and cutting-edge technologies over the past few years, Moolmans has maintained one of the largest and most diverse fleets of mining equipment in Africa to suit various operational and project requirements and to tackle the most difficult terrains.
“However, delivering innovative solutions for our clients is equally dependent on harnessing the collective strengths of our people, who bring years of experience as well as new and advanced ways of thinking about mining in a world which is increasingly focused on sustainability,” said Dixon.
“Our strong new brand identity is, therefore, just as important internally because, together, we are focused on a common goal – a goal which is focused on crafting a better future for all our stakeholders and delivering prosperity wherever we operate.”
The quest for continuous improvement at Moolmans is being driven by these investments in groundbreaking technology. Things like process automation, real-time data analytics, remote operational centres and artificial intelligence are all being advanced within the business to help drive improved safety, operational and environmental performances.
“Being Africa’s premier contract miner doesn’t only mean that we deliver operational excellence, it also means that we care. We care about whether our employees are proud to work for us, whether our customers are proud to work with us and whether our communities are proud to be associated with us. We care about the environment and about building a sustainable future. We care about the way we do things. The future of mining is here, now, and we are extremely proud and excited to be part of it.”
Africa-focused data centre provider Raxio Group has announced that its 1.5MW facility in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has achieved the Tier Certification of Constructed Facility (TCCF) from Uptime Institute
The company inaugurated its state-of-the-art data centre in Kinshasa in 2024, marking the country’s largest data centre, and known as Raxio DRC1.
“Achieving the TCCF for our DRC data centre is a significant milestone for Raxio Group,” said Robert Saunders, the company’s chief technical officer.
“This certification not only demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of our team in overcoming many challenges but also reinforces our commitment to building and operating state-of-the-art data centres in emerging markets.”
It also underscores the growth and rising sophistication of Africa’s data centre network.
The Tier III certification process involved a rigorous four-day, on-site evaluation conducted by Uptime Institute engineers.
Every aspect of the DRC facility’s design and construction was tested, inspected and verified to ensure full compliance with Tier III standards.
Successfully passing every test validates that the facility has been built entirely in accordance with the approved design documents, underscoring Raxio’s technical expertise and unwavering dedication to quality, the company added in a statement.
“This prestigious certification reaffirms Raxio’s commitment to delivering world-class, reliable and high-performance data centre infrastructure across Africa,” it read.
With this latest certification, the company now boasts three Tier III certified facilities across its growing portfolio, further solidifying its reputation as a leading provider of cutting-edge data centre solutions in Africa.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of Raxio’s engineering team, whose technical leadership was instrumental in securing this certification,” the company’s statement added.
“Additionally, the project management office team played a crucial role in overseeing construction efforts, while the local technical operations team ensured the facility was ready for the Uptime Institute’s rigorous testing.”
Following the launch of its first facility in Uganda, Raxio now has a presence in Ethiopia, the DRC, Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Tanzania and Angola and is keen to expand its footprint further, with plans to build several new facilities over the next two years.
In December, Raxio announced that its facilities in Mozambique and Ethiopia had also achieved the prestigious Uptime Institute Tier III TCCF, underlining its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art, reliable and efficient data centre infrastructure across Africa.
The same month, it appointed a new chief executive, Robert Skjødt, to spearhead the company’s next phase of expansion, planning to at least double Raxio’s presence across the continent within the next three years.
“Our goal is to accelerate Africa’s digital growth responsibly,” he said on his appointment.
“By combining Raxio’s expertise in data centre development with sustainable energy practices, we can provide essential infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also preserves resources for future generations.”
Read more:
Powering the Civ1 data centre in Cote d'Ivoire
Raxio achieves Tier III facility certifications from Uptime Institute
Raxio launches Mozambique's first Tier III data centre
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In the final webinar of its African Review-hosted 2023 campaign, Convergent Group explored its modern, eco-friendly concrete solutions for African projects
Such solutions – delivered to cut maintenance costs by eliminating hazardous silicate products – were showcased by company experts in the form of Jean-Claude Biard, SEO of Convergent Group SA; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent Group SA and founder of Bondeko MB (exclusive distributor of Convergent Group in Africa); Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group (Spanish distributor for Convergent Group); and Amritpal Singh Sura, external consultant for flooring treatments, former distributor of Convergent products in the Middle East.
“A number of projects we were doing in the Middle East required protection,” remarked Sura. “Longevity of protection requires a system which basically impregnates and becomes a densified surface as opposed to something which is topical and lifts off due to moisture migration. I found that being exposed to Convergent, it was important to stay focused on those systems in the Middle East. Jean-Claude, Mputu and I met several times in Dubai and there was emphasis on providing systems which were affordable and still ending up having a robust, lasting longevity of product. So you are not spending money all the time in order to maintain the finishes which you have already paid for.”
Over the course of the session, the participants guided the audience through the potential of cutting-edge lithium silicate technology for enhancing the protection of concrete surfaces, maximising cost-effectiveness and meeting sustainability targets.
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In a comprehensive webinar hosted by African Review, a panel of professionals associated with Convergent Group explored new generation lithium silicate technology and why it is emerging as the optimum solution for concrete floor protection.
Robert Daniels, editor of African Review, was joined by Jean-Claude Biard, CEO of Convergent Group; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent and founder of Bondeko MB, an exclusive distributor of Convergent; Hicham Sofyani, president of Texol; Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group; and Marc Puig, commercial manager of Comace Import.
Each providing a unique angle, the panellists combined to provide a masterclass around concrete treatments and the increasing challenges around them, explaining to attendees how to choose the right formula for their requirements and touching on issues such as why lithium densifiers are better than sodium and potassium densifiers.
Throughout the session, those watching were treated to informative case studies showcasing how Convergent eco-friendly products are increasing abrasion resistance, raising ease of maintenance, and ensuring the highest quality gloss retention.
By the end of the webinar, a majority of attendees (many of which had not had much experience with Convergent) expressed their interest in using the company’s new generation lithium silicate technology with the rest indicating their desire to learn more about Convergent and its products. Watch the webinar, in full, to discover why viewers were convinced and learn more about advanced floor care solutions for your operations.
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Presenting on an African Review-hosted webinar, Martin Provencher, global industry principal for mining, metals and materials at AVEVA, explored the digital transformation of mining operations and its impact on sustainability.
“Sustainability is becoming a key aspect for mining operations,” remarked Provencher. “If we look at the latest EY research on the top ten business risks and opportunities for mining and metals globally in 2023, ESG remains at the top. Of course, most companies have environmental goals or are expected to reach a net zero emission by 2050, which is a pretty aggressive target. Many of them are targeting 30% reduction by 2030; seven years from now. So there is a lot of action that needs to take place quickly to get there. It is possible to get there, but we need to make sure we are doing this correctly.”
Fast becoming a huge part of ESG initiatives is fleet electrification where particular progress is being made in underground mines. While some countries are certainly more advanced than others here, Provencher noted that 40% of total emissions from the mining industry come from diesel trucks, making EVs a very attractive low-hanging fruit for companies to pursue.
There are, however, a number of challenges associated with bringing in electric vehicles which remains a barrier for introduction. One of the predominant reasons, is the limited range of EVs against diesel counterparts. To mitigate this, Provencher continued, data management is key and ensuring a strong grasp of real-time information coming in will show operators when machinery needs to be charged, allowing them to plan effectively for maximum efficiency on site.
Indeed, this is but a small advantage that digitalisation can bring to the mining industry as it grapples to meet ESG goals while achieving production targets. By getting a better grip of their data and using it to empower tools such as artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and machine learning, companies can achieve tangible benefits such as reduce downtime, enhance worker safety, cut operating costs and, of course, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and targets.
Through the course of the webinar, Provencher outlined this in more detail and explored AVEVA’s suite of cutting-edge software solutions, specifically designed to help mining companies make progress on their digitalisation journey and empower their operations.
Watch the full webinar, completed with detailed case studies and an insightful Q&A session.
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Convergent, in association with African Review, has held a detailed webinar exploring the usage and effectiveness of lithium silicates and densifiers over traditional methods of concrete surface management which often struggle to meet the increasing challenges posed by concrete surface management.
Convergent experts including Mputu Schmidt, CEO of Convergent; Carlos Garcia, product manager end-user solutions, construction chemicals, Spain and Portugal for the RD Group; Matteo Mozzarelli, CEO of concrete Solutions Italia; and Jean-Claude Biard, global senior executive for the Convergent Group, presented across the session.
Together, they delved into the latest cost-effective application methods for long lasting finishing of concrete that can help reduce maintenance costs and avoid unexpected repair action. In addition, they examined the advancements in technologies that can sustain increased abrasion resistant stains and ensure gloss retention to the highest quality.
As part of the webinar, the representatives explored case studies including a case in DRC where a medical centre had been constructed with a low-quality concrete floor. The customer was considering completely replacing the floor but instead, Convergent put forward a special treatment with its 244+ Pentra-Sil lithium hardener, densifier and sealer. With this solution, Convergent can increase the hardness of a surface by up to 40% and therefore saved the customer significant recuperation costs over a complete replacement. Convergent were happy to report that the solution was perfect for the facility and the customer was pleased to avoid the extra construction work that would have been required for a complete replacement.
Watch the full webinar, including more information about Convergent’s innovative solutions.
![South Africa's president Cyril Ramaphosa highlighting the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act as a game-changer in tackling load shedding and ensuring long-term energy security. (Image source: Africa Energy Chamber) Headshot_of_President_Cyril_Ramaphosa](/images/ATR%20-%2012.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/ATR - 12.webp?width=787&height=399)
South Africa's president Cyril Ramaphosa highlighting the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act as a game-changer in tackling load shedding and ensuring long-term energy security. (Image source: Africa Energy Chamber)
South Africa is entering a new chapter of energy sector reform, with President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighting the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act as a game-changer in tackling load shedding and ensuring long-term energy security
In his 2025 State of the Nation Address, he stressed the Act’s significance in restructuring the electricity market by increasing private sector participation and fostering competition in power generation.
Effective from 1 January 2025, the Act lays the groundwork for a more open electricity market, allowing multiple entities to generate and sell power. This represents a major departure from Eskom’s traditional monopoly, creating opportunities for independent power producers to enhance efficiency and accelerate energy diversification. Ramaphosa has underlined that this shift will not only boost generation capacity but also attract private sector investment into vital infrastructure, particularly transmission networks that have suffered from underinvestment and outdated technology.
Load shedding over?
South Africa’s Energy Action Plan, introduced to address the electricity crisis, has already contributed to a significant reduction in load shedding over the past year. Investments in transmission infrastructure are advancing to accommodate new renewable energy projects, while efforts to improve Eskom’s coal plant operations have intensified, with maintenance initiatives extending the life of key power stations.
Additionally, over 5,000MW of renewable capacity has been secured through the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program, with upcoming solar and wind projects set to expand supply. JUWI recently committed US$320mn to construct three solar projects with a combined capacity of 340MW in 2025, while Eskom has restored the second unit of the Koeberg nuclear power plant. Large-scale battery storage solutions are being deployed to improve grid stability—AMEA Power is developing the Gainfar and Boitekong projects, each with a capacity of 300 MW—while gas-to-power solutions are being explored to provide flexible backup capacity.
As the energy market undergoes this transformation, the upcoming Africa Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference will be a pivotal event for engaging investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. Set to take place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3, AEW will focus on attracting private investment in energy infrastructure, with an emphasis on renewables, natural gas, and critical transmission projects.
With South Africa aiming to secure US$13bn in climate finance for its Just Energy Transition, AEW will also facilitate discussions on balancing decarbonisation with energy security and economic growth. Beyond domestic implications, an improved electricity infrastructure could enhance South Africa’s ability to export power to neighbouring nations, reinforcing its role as a regional energy leader. As the country moves toward a more sustainable and investment-friendly energy landscape, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether it can finally leave load shedding behind.
Also read about JUWI's construction plan here
![A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. (Image source: Volvo) Volvo's_new_A50_model](/images/volvo-ce-unveils-002-2324x1200.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/volvo-ce-unveils-002-2324x1200.webp?width=787&height=399)
A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. (Image source: Volvo)
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has announced a comprehensive update to its globally recognised articulated hauler lineup, marking the most extensive product portfolio renewal in decades
The revamped range now includes models from A25 to A60, featuring significant technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency, safety, and adaptability for future drivetrain developments. A notable addition to the lineup is the all-new A50 model, which expands customer options in the demanding hauler segment.
A new range from A25 to A60
A pioneer in the articulated hauler industry since introducing ‘Gravel Charlie’ in 1966, Volvo CE is rolling out its latest lineup in a phased global release throughout 2025. This upgrade represents a significant technological leap, incorporating a new electronic system and an in-house developed transmission that delivers fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15%, depending on the model and application. Designed with adaptability in mind, the new haulers are constructed to integrate seamlessly with future drivetrains.
Introducing the A50 model
One of the most exciting highlights of the launch is the debut of the A50 model, which enhances Volvo CE’s offering in the hauler segment. Available in selected markets, the A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. The updated haulers are engineered to lower the total cost of ownership while ensuring maximum safety and productivity, especially when combined with Volvo CE’s digital solutions such as Haul Assist with onboard weighing.
Melker Jernberg, president of Volvo CE, emphasised the company’s legacy of innovation,“For nearly 60 years we have been leading the way with our range of articulated haulers and now with today’s launch of a new range of outstanding products, including one completely new model, we prove that there are no limits to our capacity for innovation. Our customers know to expect a first-class operation when they get into one of our haulers, but that experience has just got even better with a host of cutting-edge features designed with our customers in mind.”
A circular approach to sustainability
The new range is designed to be among the most fuel-efficient hauling solutions on the market, incorporating sustainability-focused elements such as low-carbon emission steel made from recycled materials. This steel, produced using fossil-free electricity and biogas, is being integrated into the serial production of haulers at Volvo CE’s Braås site. Given that steel is a major component in Volvo CE’s products and is traditionally a significant source of carbon emissions, this material circularity initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
A step towards the future
With over 35% of its total range renewed in the past 12 months, Volvo CE is taking a decisive step towards shaping the future of construction equipment. This latest product overhaul continues the company’s long-standing tradition of setting industry benchmarks for innovation and operational excellence, just as it did in 1966. By integrating cutting-edge features and sustainable manufacturing practices, Volvo CE reinforces its leadership in the articulated hauler segment and its commitment to meeting the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry.
Also read: Volvo CE adopts low-carbon steel
![Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s senior executive vice-president at Mining Indaba 2025. (Image source: Afreximbank Group) Image_of_Denys_Denya_delivering_a_speech_at_Afreximbank](/images/ATR.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/ATR.webp?width=787&height=399)
Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s senior executive vice-president at Mining Indaba 2025. (Image source: Afreximbank Group)
At the African Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) urged African nations to take control of their natural resources, create employment opportunities, and establish industries that foster long-term prosperity
Addressing an audience of African leaders, policymakers, mining executives, and global stakeholders, the bank emphasised the need for strategic transformation in the continent’s mining sector.
Speaking at the ministerial symposium, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s senior executive vice-president, underscored that Africa stood at a pivotal moment. He warned that the continent must choose between continuing to export its raw materials with minimal returns or implementing decisive measures to take ownership of its resources.
“While the global mining industry generated approximately US$1.7 trillion in revenue in 2023, Africa’s share of this wealth remains disproportionately low. Our continent extracts the raw materials that power the world’s industries, yet it is estimated that we retain as little as between 4% and 20% of the total value of our minerals due to minimal local processing and limited downstream development. The result? Lost economic opportunities, exposure to volatile commodity cycles and a persistent reliance on external markets for refined products derived from our own resources,” stated Denya.
“The choice is ours. The time to act is now. Let us work together: governments, financial institutions, investors, and industry players to build an Africa where mining is not just about extraction but about transformation, innovation and wealth creation,” remarked Denya.
Stronger collaboration
He highlighted that Africa possesses the necessary resources, market potential, and policy frameworks to evolve from a raw materials exporter into a globally competitive industrial powerhouse. However, he stressed that achieving this vision requires decisive action from all stakeholders. “Policymakers must implement clear, enforceable regulations that mandate local value addition and create investment-friendly environments. Private sector investors must step up with capital and technology to develop processing, refining, and manufacturing facilities.”
Denya called for a fundamental shift in Africa’s approach to mining, advocating for investment in refining, smelting, and advanced manufacturing rather than just extraction. “We must move beyond extraction and invest in refining, smelting and advanced manufacturing. African nations must increase local processing capacity for minerals such as bauxite, lithium, cobalt and iron ore,” Denya continued.
He also stressed the importance of regional cooperation, noting that no single country can develop a complete mining value chain in isolation. He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key mechanism for strengthening intra-African mineral value chains and fostering cross-border collaboration. Additionally, he emphasised the need for capital investment in mining-related infrastructure, technology transfer, and workforce development.
“Our mining policies must also prioritise environmental, social and governance standards, ensuring that mining benefits communities rather than displacing them,” he added. He argued that such an approach would generate millions of skilled jobs for Africa’s youth, reduce dependence on volatile international markets, and boost intra-African trade.
Reaffirming Afreximbank’s commitment to Africa’s mining sector, Denya revealed that the bank had approved over US$1bn in financing for mining and mineral sector projects over the past three years. This includes funding for a bauxite processing plant in Guinea, support for the expansion of a manganese processing plant in Gabon, and working capital financing for a diamond company in Botswana.
Among other significant initiatives, Afreximbank is backing a petrochemical fertiliser plant in Angola, a titanium dioxide pigment plant in South Africa, and a feasibility study for a limestone processing plant in Malawi.
Denya also highlighted the role of the US$10bn AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, managed by Afreximbank’s investment arm, FEDA, in supporting businesses and countries adapting to the new trade regime. He noted that the bank’s efforts to harmonize standards and implement the Africa Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme would ease cross-border movement of minerals and mining equipment, addressing logistical challenges.
Additionally, Afreximbank is leveraging digital solutions such as the Africa Trade Gateway and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System to enhance market access and streamline transactions. These tools aim to maximise Africa’s mineral wealth for industrialisation, value addition, and economic resilience.
Denya also underscored Afreximbank’s efforts to overcome infrastructure limitations that impede industrial growth. He highlighted the bank’s collaboration with development partners in expanding industrial parks and special economic zones (SEZs).
One of the most groundbreaking initiatives under this framework is the DRC/Zambia Electric Vehicle Battery Manufacturing Special Economic Zones. This project is positioning Africa as a key player in the global energy transition by establishing battery precursor SEZs, enhancing the two nations’ competitiveness in the battery electric vehicle value chain.
![TAAG Angola Airlines enhances fleet with Boeing 787-9, improving long-haul operations across Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock) TAAG_Angola_Airlines_expands_fleet](/images/ATR%2082101367.webp#joomlaImage://local-images/ATR 82101367.webp?width=787&height=399)
TAAG Angola Airlines enhances fleet with Boeing 787-9, improving long-haul operations across Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Boeing has delivered the first of four 787 Dreamliner aircraft to TAAG Angola Airlines, marking the introduction of the airline’s new livery
The 787-9, along with upcoming deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jets, will support the airline's fleet modernization and long-haul expansion, enhancing Angola's connectivity for both travelers and trade with the industry's most advanced commercial aircraft.
The first 787 Dreamliner, leased from AerCap, arrived in Luanda ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, coinciding with nearly 50 years since TAAG Angola received its inaugural Boeing 737-200.
“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our ageing widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”
Currently, TAAG Angola Airlines operates five 777-300ERs, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, serving 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and China. The addition of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the airline to expand its long-haul operations, with plans to launch new routes to Europe and explore opportunities in Asia and North America.
“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”
TAAG Angola Airlines ordered the 787 Dreamliner in 2023 as a cornerstone of its modernisation strategy. Known for its cutting-edge technologies, fuel efficiency, and superior passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner achieves up to 25% reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the aircraft it replaces.
In tandem with the delivery of its first 787 Dreamliner, TAAG Angola Airlines is collaborating with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reductions related to blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) via a book-and-claim process. Distributors will ensure that the SAF, available through these purchased certificates, reaches nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.
Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook estimates that Africa will require 1,170 new airplanes over the next 20 years. Boeing has been the backbone of Africa’s commercial aviation fleet for over 75 years, with more than 60 airlines operating nearly 500 Boeing aircraft across the continent, representing almost 70% of the regional airplane market.
In another news read: Lobito Atlantic Railway strengthens transport capacity
South Africa-headquartered DMA has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Saxo Australia from Saxo Bank, a leading online trading and investment specialist
DMA is a global leader in all-in-one software solutions for financial advisers and wealth managers.
As part of the acquisition and partnership, DMA will leverage Saxo Bank's platform and trading technology for clients for the Australian market.
The Johannesburg-based group will assume 80.1% ownership of Saxo's Australian business, subject to regulatory approval, with Saxo Bank retaining 19.9%.
With the transaction, Saxo's award-winning platforms, product range, competitive prices and interest rates will be complemented and strengthened by DMA's business-to-business knowhow, world-class adviser offering and track record of growth.
“We believe DMA’s platform offering will bring tangible benefits to Australian financial advisers and wealth managers, while the business will continue to focus on delivering high-touch, high-quality service for self-directed retail clients," said DMA's CEO, Richard North.
"It'll be the best of Saxo and the best of DMA and we think that adds up to the marketplace's best choice for investors and partners across the entire lifecycle.”
This transition represents an expansion of an existing partnership between DMA and Saxo in South Africa, the Netherlands and the UK.
In these regions, DMA already leverages Saxo's capabilities, outsourcing the brokerage business model, managing all aspects of trade orders, execution, settlement and post-trade operations.
Saxo's open architecture means that DMA can build additional interfaces, digital services and trading experiences for Australian clients.
Currently, more than 160 wealth managers and adviser networks across Africa, Europe, and the United Kingdom use DMA to access global markets.
Specifically for the Australian market, Saxo's banking as a service (BaaS) solutions paired with DMA's software solutions will enable Australian institutional partners, such as financial advisers and asset and fund managers, to connect front, middle, and back-office functions under one solution.
Saxo will deliver the best-in-class digital investing and trading platforms, and will also provide the back-office infrastructure, from clearing and settlement to execution and custody.
This will support financial services firms to reduce back-office cost and complexity and enhance client-facing services.
The new business will retain Saxo Australia's staff, led by its CEO, Adam Smith, while looking to bolster its Australia-based workforce to ensure clients get the best investing and trading experience.
The name and brand of the new business will be determined after a transitional period, with the business to continue operating as Saxo Australia in the meantime.
The sale comes after Saxo Bank in June 2024 announced a review of strategic opportunities in the Asia-Pacific, seeking to accelerate its growth in the region.
"We will ensure a smooth transition and aim to enhance the offerings and services provided,” said Smith. “The clients of Saxo Australia will notice absolutely no disruption in service, product range, or platform access. We are very pleased to partner up with DMA and believe that this will be a game changer for Australian clients.”
ArcelorMittal has taken the decision to wind down its Longs Business in light of sustained challenges
According to the company, issues around weak economy growth, high logistics and energy costs and an influx of low-cost steel imports (particularly from China) have left the Longs Business unsustainable. As a result, despite long consultations with government and stakeholders to find viable solutions to maintain the business, the decision was made to transition the Longs Business into care and maintenance. As such, steel production is anticipated to cease by late January 2025 with the remaining production processes to be wound down in Q1 2025.
“It is with deep regret that we must take this difficult decision,” said CEO Kobus Verster. “Over the past year, our employees and dedicated management team have shown remarkable commitment and resilience in the face of serious uncertainty. Unfortunately, despite everyone's best efforts, including significant engagement with stakeholders, the structural challenges in the Longs Business were not resolved. While this outcome is deeply disappointing, especially given the economic challenges facing South Africa, we remain focused on securing a sustainable future for the remaining operations.”
The company has estimated that approximately 3,500 direct and indirect jobs will be affected by this change with a broader economic effect on induced jobs.
Despite this setback, Verster made clear the company’s commitment to long-term sustainability and competitiveness, with a focus on improving the Flats Business. ArcelorMittal South Africa will focus on re-establishing itself as a champion of innovative, export-driven, steel-based industrialisation for South Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and other key geographies.