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6 Feature

South African Oil & Gas Alliance Changing the game South Africa is already a regional hub for the Sub-Saharan African Oil & Gas industry: the South African Oil and Gas Alliance (SAOGA) is a driving force behind this transformation.

Intertek

Testing times Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, is providing essential quality, safety, compliance and performance monitoring as part of the growing range of services it offers to clients in Africa.

[ african oil & gas ] BE Special Report

Oando Gas and Power

Networking Nigeria With a long history of service Oando Gas and Power Limited (OG&P) has emerged as Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading private sector developer of gas to both commercial and private consumers.

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Seven Energy

The inspection specialists Since 2003 AMIIS has been crafting a reputation for itself as being a leading top tier global service provider.

Powering Nigerian performance By working to capture the full gas value chain, Seven Energy is on the fast track to becoming one of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading gas suppliers.

COTCO

Starlite Aviation Group

A flight path to the future A proactive approach to growth has seen Starlite Aviation Group position itself perfectly for the years ahead.

KROHNE

Accurate measurement From an oxygen control valve in a hospital ward to a pieline from Mozambique to Zimbabwe. From filling a beaker of yoghurt to filling a supertanker with crude oil. KROHNE has the products and services for your flow and level measurement. And the experience to solve any metering problem.

AMIIS PTY LTD

SEADOG Commercial Diving School

Reaching new depths of diver safety Record numbers of students and professional divers are stabilising the company and helping it to focus more on the medical side of the business.

Bringing neighbouring nations together The multi-billion dollar Chad/ Cameroon Petroleum Development and Pipeline Project is helping to bring economic benefits and a better quality of life to some of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poorest inhabitants.

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Changing

South Africa is already a regio African Oil & Gas industry: th Alliance (SAOGA) is a driving fo Words by

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John

the game

onal hub for the Sub-Saharan he South African Oil and Gas orce behind this transformation

n Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hanlon

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SAOGA

urrently only two percent of South Africa’s primary energy needs are provided by gas. Just suppose the country turns out not to have significant gas resources of its own, it is still way behind other nations of the world in developing the most flexible, environmentally friendly (compared to coal) and widely available fuel, and way too dependent on coal. By developing its port and distribution infrastructure SA could avail itself of the benefits of a more balanced energy scenario – but in any case, it may have its own oil and gas in abundance and maybe superabundance, both offshore and onshore. Trouble is

“We may be eighth in the world for shale gas, but at the end of the day we haven’t done the practical work to determine that number” nobody is quite sure about these resources. Much more exploration is required, says Ebrahim Takolia, who was appointed to the influential post of CEO at SAOGA in September last year. Not knowing whether Oil & Gas exists in commercial quantities, he believes, makes all discussion about the industry’s future mere speculation. Takolia is well placed to take the strategic view of an industry that will drive the economic future not only of South Africa but the region as a whole. A former Deloitte executive, he led its Mining Advisory Service (DMAS). “We may be eighth in the world for shale gas, but at the end of the day we haven’t done the practical work to determine that number

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and it is the same for offshore O&G – we have some speculative numbers but nothing confirmed by detailed exploration activity.” Research suggests that a find of ten tcf or two billion barrels of oil equivalent will be a game changer for South Africa, eliminating the country’s budget deficit. “The domestic benefits in terms of the generation of local economic activity will be significant and could be used to drive a new wave of economic development, notably around power generation, liquid fuels and industry,” says Takolia. A recent EIA study says that South Africa indeed holds notable shale gas resources – its first pass estimate identified a technically recoverable resource of 485 tcf of gas in the Karoo Basin. After a government moratorium on licensing and exploration of shale resources because of environmental concerns over hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and water usage was lifted in 2012 some international companies, such as Royal Dutch Shell, submitted applications to explore the shale region. Now South Africa is in the early stages of developing its shale industry, but regulatory uncertainty and environmental concerns continue to delay exploration activity. Easing the way to a more developmentfriendly regime is one of SAOGA’s priorities under its new CEO. Another is to look outward and to become more of a regional organisation for the whole of sub-Saharan Africa. Significant discoveries in Mozambique (where investments in gas processing and support facilities are expected to exceed its GDP, which in 2013 stood at $14.6 billion), Tanzania, Angola and other countries represent a real opportunity for SAOGA members – and there is no equivalent organisation, he says, in any other sub-Saharan country with the exception of Nigeria. “South Africa is a natural hub for O&G, and a great

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SAOGA

many service and upstream companies have chosen to base themselves here. Don’t forget these companies also have a regional focus and mandate and we need to reflect that.” At the same time he wants to broaden the membership base. SAOGA started life representing the major upstream companies but now it wants to cover the value chain more effectively by encompassing the vital midstream sector – companies involved in transportation and distribution infrastructure, storage and wholesaling of hydrocarbons. “It will be a real change for our organisation and diversify our member base,” he explains. “Our new mission and vision is already reflected in our membership, which comprises global operators, field

“South Africa is a natural hub for O&G, and a great many service and upstream companies have chosen to base themselves here” service companies, engineering and procurement organisations, consulting firms and a significant number of local firms that provide support to the African Oil & Gas industry through consulting, project management, fabrication, repairs and maintenance.” For the current year, one major focus is the Ports Cluster initiative. The ports

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AMIIS have expanded significantly since bening established in 2003 and now provide services to customers in Petrochemical, Energy, Offshore, Marine, Pulp & Paper, Sugar, Aluminium, Fabrication & Manufacturing sector, Pipelines and various other Industries. We continually strive to keep abreast of new technologies to deliver our operational excellence. Collectively our management team have over 100 years of international experience. It is our aim to be the leading top tier global service provider. www. amiis.co.za

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SAOGA

“The initial opportunities will arise out of the field services and related activities in the upstream sector, but will also focus on midstream activities as the local and regional industry

at Cape Town, Saldanha Bay and Ngqura and Durban are among those that service the O&G industry, and SAOGA is a leading member of the Ports Cluster Leadership Team, with the South African ports authority TNPA, to work on greater collaboration between the principal players, the National Port Development Framework and customs and excise issues affecting the industry among other things. “There is a real opportunity for South Africa

to leverage its infrastructure, location, expertise and existing downstream industry to create permanent hubs to service the African oil and gas industry,” says Ebrahim Takolia. The promulgation of the Saldanha Bay as an industrial development zone (IDZ) by President Jacob Zuma last October will also facilitate a base for regional African field services activities related to oil and gas exploration and development. It is

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NEVER BoW oUT THE SVITZER COMMITMENT

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sVITZER salvage Africa (pty) Ltd 2nd floor, Safmarine Quay, Clocktower Precinct, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town 8001. Telephone: 021-4086710, Fax: 021-4086138.

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SAOGA

“Skills development is a key national priority in South Africa and a significant portion of our resources is put into skills development and training for the O&G industry.”

in the process of becoming a Customs Control Area – the equivalent of a FTA – and will have lower corporate taxes to attract industry development. “The initial opportunities will arise out of the field services and related activities in the upstream sector, but will also focus on midstream activities, notably logistics and storage, which will develop as the local and regional industry develops,” he observes. “In fact this is already happening with the recent acquisitions of local firms by international field service companies and with many upstream and midstream

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SAOGA

exploration and field service companies setting up offices in South Africa.” Another major focus is skills development. Last year saw the launch of the SAOGA Academy, with the remit of being a hub for O&G knowledge, thought leadership and skills in Africa. “Skills development is a key national priority in South Africa and a significant portion of our resources is put into skills development and training for the O&G industry.” With the development off the West and East Coast of Africa, a critical need exists to establish a skills hub for the entire region, he adds. Potential shale gas exploration and production further emphasises the need for a coherent approach to skills development. The Academy wants to attract international training providers to South Africa to enhance the skills of the industry. During his first full year in office Takolia would dearly like to see some progress on the thorny question of legislation and regulation, a necessary prelude, he believes, to getting exploration activities off the ground. With the May general election out of the way, it may take a little while to refocus the new administration on this matter, but SAOGA will make a positive contribution to the discussion. Thus far, government policy sought to over-regulate and control this nascent industry, creating uncertainty and driving away much-needed investment in the exploration that will confirm whether South Africa has offshore and onshore O&G potential. Most people believe it has, and that this potential will be a game changer for the economy.

Learn more about South African Oil & Gas Alliance www.saoga.org.za

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Intertek

Testing times

Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, is providing essential quality, safety, compliance and performance monitoring as part of the growing range of services it offers to clients in Africa

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ntertek traces its history back nearly 130 years to a marine surveying company founded by the entrepreneur Caleb Brett in the 1890s to answer a vital need at the time - independent testing and certification of ships’ cargoes. Through a long process of amalgamation and acquisition it has since grown to become the global go-to resource for almost every industry sector. Employing more than 36,000 people at 1,000 laboratories in more than 100 countries the FTSE 100 group ensures quality, health, environmental, safety, and social accountability standards for virtually every market. It holds extensive global accreditations, recognitions, and agreements – and its expertise in overcoming regulatory, market, and supply chain hurdles is a legend. From that and its performance (delivering a first half operating profit of £152.3 million this year) it is clear that Intertek is well embedded in global markets. As African countries establish their regulatory frameworks, the continent is becoming an extremely important region to the group. Many governments have put in place stringent requirements to ensure their consumers are protected from substandard products and goods. Intertek works with governments in Africa to support such programmes. Exploration activity in Africa is increasing, particularly in Angola, Mozambique, Tanzania, Central Africa and Ghana. Ultimately, customers in these areas seek support where limited infrastructure is present.

“People don’t want ‘more stuff’ … they want to know how to use, implement and improve current systems and ways of doing things”

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Intertek

“It is not about more regulation, audits, people or equipment; it is about behaviour”

Intertek has a presence in 25 African countries, but with a dozen offices, South Africa might be called its heartland. “Industry Services is the single largest division,” says Regional Director Paulo Pereira. “We help clients to manage risk and optimise returns within the Oil and Gas, power, nuclear, mining, construction, engineering and chemical industries. In the sub-Saharan region we operate in three outstanding areas; technical inspection services, technical staffing services and asset integrity management services.” Within South Africa Intertek is already identified as the market leader within the petrochemical testing industry. However this is rapidly becoming the case throughout Africa, with state of the art laboratories based in Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Beira, Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, Luanda, Abidjan, Takoradi, Limbé and Lagos The company’s recently established oil condition monitoring laboratory in Johannesburg is staffed by leading tribology experts. Backed up by a custom-designed web portal and reporting system, this service is destined to become a key service provider to the transport and mining industries of subSaharan Africa. Environmental compliance is becoming a huge issue in this sector. “We have recently established an Environmental Division that assists clients with environmental monitoring and testing. Our Environmental division has a dedicated team which is able to assist clients with legislation compliance by recording the

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“We offer a full consulting service, from identification and analysis of needs, through to skills development, on-the-job coaching and competency assessment” impact their activities have on the environment. Our state-of-the-art environmental laboratory is based in Johannesburg and specialises in environmental testing of land, water and air.” Intertek is also working closely with industry as South Africa prepares for the introductions of biofuels.

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Having joined the team in 2005, Karin Ovari has worked across various highhazard industry disciplines providing value-based safety leadership and operational performance development interventions. Now the regional manager for Intertek Consulting & Training (IC&T) Sub-Saharan Africa she was

Intertek

given a neat compliment by one client, who said: ‘We need you to come and sprinkle your fairy dust – we don’t know what it is, but it works!’ “Thankfully with the development of our Safe Operations and Performance (SOP) framework, not only are we able to sprinkle our fairy dust, we are also able to measure it!” The petrochemical industry is notoriously high risk and consequently obsessed by safety, says Ovari. One of the aims of IC&T is to help organisations and individuals achieve their safety vision. Winning the hearts and minds of employees and co-creating a culture of safety requires visible leadership, she says. “Visible leadership is where the rubber meets the road; it is the verbs in our safety policies

and procedures. We offer a full consulting service, from identification and analysis of needs, through to skills development, on-thejob coaching and competency assessment.” But this is done with pragmatism. “People don’t want ‘more stuff’ to implement or know; they want to know how to use, implement and improve current systems and ways of doing things. At IC&T we work with organisations’ current processes and procedures to establish how they can be revitalised and made more efficient and productive!” Research suggests the single most important tool to address on-the-job performance is through the one-on-one interactions of leaders with the workforce.

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“When something goes wrong, it seems easier to write a new policy or procedure to prevent it happening again. However, most organisations have plenty (if not too many) processes, policies and procedures. What we should be doing at that stage is rather asking the tough questions about our culture of safety and how our leaders live and drive safety. It is not about more regulation, audits, people or equipment; it is about behaviour. At IC&T we help to ask those tough questions – and to get honest answers!” IC&T is now spreading its wings with the launching of a Mozambique operation. As we are constantly reporting in these pages, this is an industry that is very sensitive when it comes to safety, and Intertek helps participants to approach it as something they believe is the right thing, not because they have to or for fear of reprisal. Greg Dinkelman, Business Development Manager for Calibration and Metering Services, Sub-Saharan and West Africa, joined the team in 2012, bringing more than a decade of industry experience both in management and in the field. “We are very positive about the potential to grow the calibration and metering business across the continent,” he says. “Intertek has many services that are active in the region and our exploration and production team has identified the need for further development of our metering and calibration services.” Where products and processes are being inspected, measured or monitored, it is essential that the instrumentation being used is accurate and reliable, he adds. “The calibration process determines that the

“In 2014, we will be taking delivery of a high-specification mobile calibration unit”

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Intertek

measuring equipment is performing within specification and is fit for purpose.” Working with Intertek on calibration and metering brings increased value to its customers’ products and processes, he adds. “For example, these services are highly important for oil and gas companies to improve their measurement accuracy which ultimately reduces errors and saves money.” Over the past three years, Intertek has invested substantially in equipment and training to support upstream and downstream measurement services in Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania and Angola as well as South Africa, Dinkelman emphasises. “In 2014, we will be taking delivery of a high-specification mobile calibration unit to support the upstream and midstream industries. This will be the first of its kind for Intertek in Africa, offering clients increased scope when deciding on a service provider and keeping Intertek at the forefront of these industry services.”

Intertek‘s services go way beyond testing. It has earned a reputation for helping its customers increase the value of their products, gain competitive advantage, develop trusted brands and minimise the adverse health and environmental impact of its products and processes. Over the coming year it will continue to extend its footprint in Africa. “A newly established lab in Johannesburg will allow our customers in the agriculture sector to enjoy the professional quality experience currently enjoyed by our petrochemical and petroleum clients,” concludes Karin Ovari.

Intertek

+27 11 028 8551 info@intertek.com @Intertek www.intertek.com

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ÂŠ Oando Plc.

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Oando Gas and Power

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ÂŠ Oando Plc.

This is a caption, hit return for another line

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Oando Gas and Power

here’s no doubt that Nigeria is on the move. With a population of 175 million it is by far the largest nation in Africa, and this year it overtook South Africa to become the largest economy in Africa too, worth more than $500 billion. No wonder it is ranked as one of the MINT group of emerging economies together with Mexico Indonesia and Turkey - the powerhouse economies of the future. As well as being the largest oil producer in Africa, Nigeria holds the largest natural gas reserves on the continent. Nigeria had an estimated 182 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven natural gas reserves as of January 2013, making it the ninth largest natural gas reserve holder in the world and the largest in Africa. It is not surprising therefore that it

the adjoining areas. Under this agreement, Gaslink became Nigeria’s premier gas utilities company. It is one of the few companies in Nigeria involved in the piping and distribution of natural gas to industrial and commercial as well as consumers. Gaslink operates a 20 year gas sale and purchase agreement (GSPA) with the Nigeria Gas Company. OG&P is the developer of Nigeria’s foremost natural gas distribution network and captive power solutions. It pioneered the private sector piping and distribution of natural gas to industrial and commercial consumers, successfully reviving private sector participation in the gas distribution business in Nigeria. With an ever-expanding pipeline grid in Lagos State, it is taking bold steps towards building sub-Saharan Africa’s

“Lagos State has reported potential savings of about $3.6 million per annum derived from the services provided by the Akute Power Plant” has been keen to develop its indigenous gas market as well as exporting it. In fact Nigeria established a Gas Master Plan in 2008 that aimed to reduce gas flaring and monetise gas resources for greater domestic use and to export regionally and internationally. However the development of a gas network goes back long before this. it was in 1988 that Gaslink was founded, originally created to promote and develop infrastructure for natural gas distribution and utilisation in industries and households in Nigeria. In 1999 Unipetrol PLC (now Oando) assigned its right to develop gas distribution infrastructure for the Greater Lagos Area to Gaslink. The franchise area spans across the seven industrial estates comprising Ikeja, Ojota, Ilupeju, Matori, Isolo, Amuwo-Odofin, Iganmu, Ijora, Apapa and

most extensive gas pipeline network. By a long way the biggest local natural gas distribution company in Nigeria, supplying cheap, reliable, efficient, safe and clean fuel to industries in the country, OG&P gas distribution coverage include over 100 kilometres of distribution pipeline system in Lagos; another 128km in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, as well as a concession award for the Port Harcourt Gas distribution franchise in River State. Today OG&P is the largest private sector gas distributor and developer of captive power solutions in Nigeria. The company pioneered gas distribution in the greater Lagos area, and is currently expanding into eastern Nigeria and pushing out its network to the fast developing manufacturing clusters around the Lagos area. To date it has completed 230 kilometres

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oilserv

Oilserv relationship with Oando Gas and Power started with the award of the following Contracts: • EPC Contracts for construction of Gas Distribution Network Systems: Phases 1B, II, III and IV. Phases 1B, II and III completed and Phase IV is On-going • EPC Contract for construction of 128km x 18-inch South-South Gas transmission pipeline system. Contract Completed • EPC Contract for construction of Akute Independent Power Plant. Contract Completed • Contract for Sectional Replacement of Leaking Gas Pipeline section of Greater Lagos Phase III Gas Distribution Network system. Contract Completed • Upgrade of Ikeja/NGC City Gate. Contract On-going www.oilservltd-ng.com

Akute Power Plant

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

of gas pipeline grid reticulation and it has as one of its main objectives the goal of linking western and northern Nigeria as well. OG&P is now well positioned to benefit from its first mover advantage and dramatically increase its customer footprint in the near term. The company’s aim is to replicate the success of the Lagos gas distribution network in other parts of Nigeria. OG&P continually looks to expand its horizons by developing unique independent power generation solutions in areas where it has existing gas infrastructure while taking advantage of synergies with the exploration and production assets controlled by its parent, Oando plc. Gas being an abundant and cheap fuel in Nigeria it clearly has a front line role in powering the country’s economic future, however it is not all about gas, which is also being exported in massive quantities - Nigeria is already the fourth largest LNG exporter in the world. Domestically the gas can be

ÂŠ Oando Plc.

Oando Gas and Power

Inside the Akute Power Plant

for approximately 72 percent diverted to generate electricity Did you know? of the total capacity of Lagos for municipal as well as for Water Corporation. Lagos State private sector projects. It was in has reported potential savings 2008 that the Akute power plant 230 of about $3.6 million per annum was incorporated. Akute Power kilometres derived from the services Limited was a project company Gas pipeline provided by the Akute Power set up to develop and operate completed Plant, whilst ensuring that a 12.15MW independent power by OG&P many Lagosians have access to plant made up of four 3MW uninterrupted supply of potable gas-fuelled engines, for Lagos $3.6 million water to their homes. Water Corporation in Akute. This Annual saving to Another OG&P subsidiary development also incorporates Lagos from Akute Alausa Power L i m i te d the construction of a 13km natural Power Plant (ALPL) arose out of a Power gas pipeline which delivers Purchasing Agreement natural gas to the facility. between Oando PLC and the The power plant has helped Lagos State Government. This publicthe Lagos Water Corporation to achieve a private Partnership project was conceived 300 percent increase in its existing capacity in response to the need for stable and cost utilisation, through the delivery of 24 hours effective electric power supply to the Lagos uninterrupted electricity supply to its two State Government Secretariat in Alausa, main water treatment plants at Iju and Ikeja and its affiliate surrounding agencies, Adiyan in Lagos State. Between them the Iju which recognised that the provision of a and Adiyan water treatment plants account

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ÂŠ Oando Plc.

Wale Tinubu, GCE, Oando PLC

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Oando Gas and Power

“Nigeria holds the largest natural gas reserves on the continent”

reliable and consistent power supply was essential to their proper functioning. Commissioned in 2013, the 10.6MW capacity plant provides power to the Secretariat using two 3.349MW GE Jenbacher J620 Reciprocating gas engines as its primary source with two 2.5MVA MTU diesel generating sets serving as backup. Gas is supplied to the plant via the Ikeja 1B pipeline network belonging to Gaslink Nigeria Limited, once again demonstrating the leveraging ability of Oando plc on its existing infrastructure to deliver quality service to its customers. With plans to expand the plant’s distribution network reaching an advanced stage, and with a BOT model and a 10 year tenure already in place, ALPL is seen as OG&P’s progressive captive power solution for a government administration that is building the framework for a better Lagos. Nigeria alone has an estimated requirement for well over 10,000 kilometres of gas pipeline to reach its main industrial clusters, says OG&P’s CEO Mobolaji Osunsanya. So far his company and others have built out less than 2,000, an indication of the huge remaining opportunity in the sector. “There is ample scope, given the right support, for this company and others to get into the game and build this grid,” he says.

Oando Gas and Power

234-1-2601290-9 info@oandoplc.com www.oandoplc.com

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Seven E

Powering Nigeria

By working to capture the full gas value to becoming one of Niger

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Energy

an performance

e chain, Seven Energy is on the fast track riaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading gas suppliers

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n indigenous Nigerian oil and gas exploration, development, production and distribution company with assets and interests centred on two core areas in the northwest and southeast of the Niger Delta, Seven Energy’s vision is to solidify itself as the leading supplier of gas to the domestic market for power generation and industrial consumption. Headquartered in Lagos and in London, England, the company has an upstream reserves and resources base of more than 350 MMboe, midstream processing and distributing capacity of 200 MMcfpd, and long-term gas sales agreements in place to supply over one trillion cubic feet of gas to its domestic market. Seven Energy’s business model is designed to capture the full value chain from upstream appraisal, development and production, to ownership of processing and distribution infrastructure and marketing to end users. This model is supported by the company’s experienced management team, high standards of corporate governance and social responsibility, and is underpinned by a robust capital structure. The company’s strategy has been to acquire controlling interests in low cost, undeveloped gas fields with clear near-term monetisation opportunities, while at the same time working

“The company’s strategy has been to acquire controlling interests in low cost, undeveloped gas fields with clear near-term monetisation opportunities”

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Seven Energy

“Seven Energy has progressed towards achieving their objectives through the acquisition of substantial interests in the undeveloped Uquo and Stubb Creek Fields” to secure long-term offtake agreements with credit worthy customers, and to build and operate processing and distribution infrastructure in strategic locations. To date, Seven Energy has progressed towards achieving these objectives through the acquisition of substantial interests in the undeveloped Uquo and Stubb Creek Fields. Production from these fields will be processed and transported to market through processing facilities and pipelines that are owned and controlled by Seven Energy. In addition, Seven Energy’s Strategic Alliance Agreement with NPDC has provided access to mature producing oil and gas fields in OMLs 4, 38 and 41 with substantial upside potential. Seven Energy’s portfolio of oil and gas assets and interests are known to be relatively low geologic risk fields with significant resource potential. In the northwest Niger Delta, Seven Energy has entered into a Strategic Alliance Agreement with NPDC in respect of OMLs 4, 38 and 41, and also has an interest in the Matsogo Field. OMLs 4, 38 and 41 comprise five producing fields. In 2012, the average gross production from OMLs 4, 38 and 41 was 33,400 bopd. A successful well work over and drilling programme that is ongoing on the fields, as well as the inclusion of the Okporhuru field which came on stream in May 2013, added 4,000 bopd of production.

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EVOMEC Global Services Limited

****CREATING FRESH IMPACT

EVOMEC Global Services Limited is a leading Nigeria Company with High Class Technology in Pipeline Engineering, Soil Improvement, Environmental Engineering, Coast and Harbour Engineering; to include Dredging, Shoreline Protection, Piling and Earthwork (Filling and Land Reclamation). info@evoemclimited.com www.evomeclimited.com

Seven Energy

A substantial development programme is ongoing across the area with some ten new wells being drilled and six existing wells being re-entered during 2013. The early success of this programme has reaffirmed both the effectiveness of the work programme itself and the quality of the reservoirs with the operator aiming for production of 100,000 bopd by 2016. Meanwhile, in the south east Niger Delta, Seven Energy has interests in the Uquo Field and the Stubb Creek Field. The Uquo Field was first discovered by Shell in 1958, and in the time since five wells have been drilled, all of which have encountered hydrocarbons, with the most recent well having been drilled in 2008. In 2010, the Uquo-3 and Uquo-2 wells were re-entered, tested and confirmed to have very good reservoir characteristics with high porosity and permeability. In 2013, the Uquo-4 well was re-entered and re-completed and also confirmed the excellent characteristics of the reservoir. When it comes to Seven Energy’s midstream activities, responsibilities in this field fall to its gas marketing, processing and distribution business Accugas. The Accugas

“The Uquo Field was first discovered by Shell in 1958, and in the time since five wells have been drilled”

EVOMEC GLOBAL SERVICES Ltd EVOMEC carries out its activity in the Geo technics field and is one of the few companies in the world that covers the entire range of existing excavation, drilling and soil treatment systems. EVOMEC also work in various fields of engineering such as Civil, Infrastructure, Road Construction, Architectural, Mechanical and Pipeline Construction. EVOMEC Global Services Limited has added to its achievements some of the modern construction and innovative dry earth moving and amphibious equipment with complete safety gadgets. We also have been licensed to work in the downstream sector of the economy. We believe in using updated technologies and ensure safety in all of our operations. We combine technical ingenuity and creativity, which has won us key roles

in some landmark projects including but not limited to shoreline protection, dredging, marine and civil engineering. For this reason we are very conscious of the quality, safety and durability of our services and its commercial integrity as well as customer satisfaction. Our broad range of services also spread into specialized oil and gas services, pipeline construction, industrial maintenance and the likes. We have set and are setting new standards in terms of efficiency, productivity, reliability, accuracy and outreach, educating the general public through media publications, thereby ensuring greater awareness on basic construction and Engineering services. www.evomeclimited.com

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Whitehall Management Limited is an independent project-management organization providing specialized housing & maintenance solutions. With our team of highly qualified personnel, we provide good and efficiently serviced residential and commercial locations to our customers. We provide an array of multi-site maintenance, repair services and workmanship at reasonable prices. Our focus has been to minimize clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in-house burden by providing increased customer service and convenience. We work together with our customers to gain a thorough understanding of their specific needs and then adapt our services accordingly. www.whitehallmanagement.net

Whitehall Management...providing specialized accomodation logistics services

Seven Energy

Whitehall Management Ltd Our scope of management & servicing activities include the following: Bill Payment, Book keeping and Financial Reporting • We will manage the payment of all utility bills charged to the property covering electricity supply satellite TV subscriptions, water supply, internet access, staff wages, and swimming pool maintenance, custodial services including waste management, se wage disposal and pest control. • A monthly service charge summary reflecting all previous month’s chargeable activities on the property on a cash basis will be made available. We will scrutinize bills for accuracy and handle the resolution of billing discrepancies. A detailed period ending or full year financial summary will be presented based on the term of the lease.

business model has two core components, the first being the processing and distribution of gas from the upstream activities of its affiliates, and the other being the processing, distributing and marketing gas for upstream partners and third parties. With spare capacity built into its processing and distribution infrastructure, Accugas is capable of providing a long-term supply of gas to additional offtake entities for power generation and lower cost fuel for local industry. This is leading to an influx of inward investment opportunities for gas-based enterprises in the south east Niger Delta and Accugas is working closely with those partners to help them realise their projects. Nigeria continues to possess huge economic potential, which is trapped in its vast gas resources. Nevertheless, domestic

Scheduled Maintenance • Fixture & Appliance installation & Repair www.whitehallmanagement.net

“With spare capacity built into its processing and distribution infrastructure, Accugas is capable of providing a long-term supply of gas to additional offtake entities for power generation and lower cost fuel for local industry”

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quick Nigeria ltd

Nigeria’s clearing & forwarding specialists Founded in 1997, Quicka Nigeria Limited has through a combination of prudent Management, attention to detail and the employment of a dedicated and highly experienced workforce, grown to become the leading indigenous Clearing & Forwarding agent in Nigeria. Quicka Nigeria is the premier indigenous Clearing and Forwarding agent, strategically located in the heart of Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Industry, Port Harcourt. A dedicated team of professionals ensures world class and competitive service. From Form M management, Temporary Imports, Bonded warehousing to Clearing & Forwarding. Quicka offers tailor made logistics solutions to many Oil & Gas Service Companies.

Septa Energy utilized Quicka’s 16,000m2 storage, Bonded Facility and 250m2 Office space to service it’s UQUO Gas Pipeline Project. “Septa benefited immensely from having such a close working relationship with their Logistics partner” said Mr. Bassam Dina, Managing Director, Quicka Nigeria.

dominicwaldron@quickaltd.com bassamina@quickaltd.com www.quickaltd.com

QUICK NIGERIA LTD CLEARING & FORWARDING • Licensed to Operate in Onne Oil & Gas Free Zone • Freight Agency

99, Rivoc Road, Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt, Nigeria

• Oil & Gas Sector specialists • Customs Bonded Warehousing

bassamdina@quickaltd.com + 234 (0) 803 400 7749 / dominicwaldron@quickaltd.com + 234 (0) 805 666 9990

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Seven Energy

utilisation of this gas remains low, with the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources estimating that in 2011 it only made up twelve percent of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total energy usage. It is however Seven Energyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s belief that we are now on the cusp of seeing Nigerian gas demand experience unprecedented growth. With this in mind, the company has not only made considerable efforts to expand its assets and operations, but also to ensure that corporate responsibility remains a primary focus for Seven Energy. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to corporate responsibility can be categorised into six areas, which are considered of equal importance to its operations in Nigeria. These areas are stakeholder relations, Nigeria content, its

workforce, security, health and safety, and the environment. It is the desire of the company to deliver value to Nigeria by being a local partner, committed to significantly increase hitherto unharnessed gas supply to the power sector, which curbs wastage and reduces negative impact on the environment, whilst creating economic benefits for all stakeholders.

Seven Energy

+234 1 277 0600 info@sevenenergy.com www.sevenenergy.com

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ACCURATE MEASUREMENT KROHNE From an oxygen control valve in a hospital ward to a pieline from Mozambique to Zimbabwe. From filling a beaker of yoghurt to filling a supertanker with crude oil. KROHNE has the products and services for your flow and level measurement. And the experience to solve any metering problem

ROHNE is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of solutions in industrial process instrumentation. With almost a century of experience in measurement and control our solutions provide the accuracy needed to ensure perfect production with minimal losses and maximum output. Such high accuracy meeting all international and national standards is the basis for precise and trusted billing between seller and buyer. In high turnover industries such as petroleum products, even a slight drop in accuracy of only 0.1% can add up to millions of losses from a single pipeline. In fact, KROHNE continuously employs state of the art technology to keep our customers ahead of the game.

have pipeline leak and theft detection / localisation to protect the environment and minimise losses. At KROHNE we consistently ensure our product, systems and services meet or exceed the requirements and expectations of our customers. We actively pursue everimproving quality through programs that enable each employee to do their job right the first time and every time. The KROHNE portfolio includes:

Products for custody transfer Liquids: Ultrasonics and Coriolis; Gas: Ultrasonics and Coriolis; Mass: Coriolis; Wet gas: Venturi; Well-water injection: Electromagnetic; Provers: Uni- / bi-directional, small volume, mobile, tank, master meter.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;KROHNE has been serving the industry in South Africa since 1967â&#x20AC;? We design and supply products, systems, and engineering services to the measurement and control sectors of diverse industries. These include mining, chemicals, petrochemicals, water, wastewater, food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, oil and natural gas, power plants, pulp and paper, the increasingly important LNG industry and many more. Our systems are turnkey, consisting of metering runs with all the instrumentation including flowmeters, pressure, temperature, analysis. We supply the required flow computers and supervisories, as well as calibration, proving and validation to ensure that your measurement stays consistent for years on end. From the manufacturer to consumer we provide blending, loading and offloading, and for important transport routes we

Process instrumentation for measurement and control Variable area, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, mass, vortex, temperature, pressure, water analysis.

Systems Liquid, gas, wet-gas and condensate; skids, flow computing, supervisories, analyser management, loading-offloading, leak detection and localisation.

KroHne

salesza@krohne.com www.za.krohne.com

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Bringing neighbouring nations together COTCO The multi-billion dollar Chad/Cameroon Petroleum Development and Pipeline Project is helping to bring economic benefits and a better quality of life to some of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poorest inhabitants

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Oil tanker

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COTCO

andlocked within north-central Africa, Chad is among the world’s poorest countries, hindered by its desert climate and the fact that it has been ravaged by various civil wars during thirty of its forty years of independence. For decades the country suffered from a lack of economic investment, leaving it with one of the continents poorest infrastructure networks and a large majority of its adult population living below the poverty line. In more recent years however there have been several positive steps taken by a handful of regional and multinational companies to bring much needed work and development to Chad, and indeed to other surrounding countries.

Ownership of the project comes in the form of a three-company oil consortium made up of ExxonMobil, which owns a 40 percent interest, and Petronas Malaysia and Chevron, which hold 35 percent and 25 percent stakes respectively. Furthermore, the governments of Chad and Cameroon hold a combined three percent stake in the pipeline portion of the project. A s well as conduc ting oilfield development and production on behalf of the consortium, ExxonMobil also provides project management services to pipeline companies Tchad Oil Transportation Company (TOTCO) and Cameroon Oil Transportation Company (COTCO). Both TOTCO and COTCO are responsible for pipeline activities in their home countries.

“Comprising some 300 oil wells that have been drilled in Chad’s south-western region, it is among the largest public/private development projects being carried out on the continent” One such step has been the development of the Chad/C ameroon Petroleum Development and Pipeline Project. A $3.7 billion undertaking, comprising some 300 oil wells that have been drilled in Chad’s south-western region, it is among the largest public/private development projects being carried out on the continent. The oil extracted from Chad is subsequently transported via a 640 mile underground pipeline, through neighbouring Cameroon, to an offshore export loading facility based eleven kilometres off the latter’s coast. The pipeline was completed, and first oil achieved, in July 2003, roughly one year ahead of schedule, with revenues beginning to accrue later that same year.

The Chad/C ameroon Petroleum Development and Pipeline Project is expected to generate, and in a number of cases has already generated, significant benefits for both Chad and Cameroon over its lifetime. For Chad, the consortium estimates revenues in excess of $2 billion to be accrued from a combination of royalties, taxes and other sources over its 25 year existence. Meanwhile, Cameroon can expect to see revenues from transit fees and taxes of up to $500 million coming into the country’s coffers. Both of these estimates have since been supported by research conducted by the World Bank. During the project ’s three-year construction phase it provided employment to more than 13,000 people from Chad and

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Reducing risk Improving safety Increasing efficiency

caverton aviation cameroon

Leading provider of premium aviation support services in sub-Saharan Africa Caverton Helicopters Ltd (CHL) was established in Nigeria, on September 2002 as an aviation logistics support company and forms part of the Caverton Offshore Support Group. Caverton Aviation Cameroon is a subsidiary of CHL and has positioned itself in Cameroon to provide safe, quality and efficient aviation support solutions for its clients in Cameroon.

The following are services currently offered by Caverton Aviation Cameroon: • Offshore & Onshore Logistics (Helicopters & Fixed-Wing) • Private Charters (inc. Air Tours & Aerial Photography) • Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Services • Approved service center for Agusta Westland helicopters in Africa

T: +237 99890604, +234 01 270 5656 E: enquiries@caverton-helicopters.com www.caverton-helicopters.com

COTCO

Cameroon, a large percentage of whom were previously unskilled yet received training from the operators which in turn helped them to prepare for future job opportunities. At the same time, over $740 million in procurement fees has gone to support local contractors tasked with various responsibilities including truck transportation, civil works, vehicle maintenance and food catering. Since construction began more than $3 billion has been spent on goods and services from local businesses, with almost $2 billion spent in Chad and over $1 billion in Cameroon. Despite construction having been completed in 2003 the project’s operators have continued to prioritise the engagement of local and international supply partners to manage important activities and responsibilities across the operation. Cameroon for its part obtains its project revenue primarily through transit fees earned from the use of the export pipeline system which intakes Chad’s oil at the Mbére River where the Chadian portion of the pipeline ends. The Cameroonian portion of the export

Caverton Helicopters Cameroon Oil Transport Company S.A, COTCO, contracted Caverton Helicopters Limited in March 2012, to provide one DHC6-300 Twin Otter Airplane for the provision of passengers transfer and pipeline patrol within Cameroon and Chad. This contract is operated by CHL’s subsidiary, Caverton Aviation Cameroon (CAC), which was set up for the purpose of this contract and also to fill the gap in the market for aviation service providers in Cameroon CAC maintains a hangar facility located in Zone Aviation Legere, Ancien Aeroport, Douala which is the base of its operations. The company carries out its aircraft maintenance, flight following and passenger processing from the facility. The company is also able to provide tailor-made aviation logistics solutions to its clients in order to fulfil their requirements with safety always at the forefront of its operations. www.caverton-helicopters.com

Chad/Cameroon – Doba Basin

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inspired Your weekly digest of business news and views

www.bus-ex.com We conceive, we study, we counsel and we achieve.

E.F EYENGA & Fils SARL • Civil engineering • Equipment maintenance • Area Monitoring • Equipment and material supplying • Trade Telephone: 00237 33191973 Email: eyengaetfils@yahoo.fr www.eyengaetfils.com

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

pipeline system then transports Chad’s oil to the Marine Terminal located offshore from the seaside town of Kribi. Although Cameroon has no ownership share of Chad’s oil, it does have an ownership share in the pipeline system. As highlighted by this particular project, and indeed numerous others throughout the world, ExxonMobil and all of the companyies that it works alongside share a commitment to investing in the countries in which it operates. In Chad and Cameroon, ExxonMobil have spearheaded and supported a variety of initiatives, one of which is the Economic Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs. This program provided microcredit funding and training for more than 80 traditional women’s cooperatives in the oilfield area, thus increasing the incomes of 1,600 women in the cooperatives by an average of 75 percent.

COTCO

Community development

â&#x20AC;&#x153;ExxonMobil and all of the companies that it works alongside share a commitment to investing in the countries in which it operatesâ&#x20AC;? Major malaria prevention and treatment programs remain in place in Chad and Cameroon, with millions in funding from the ExxonMobil Foundation. During the construction phase of the project alone, the Roll Back Malaria program distributed nearly 75,000 anti-mosquito bed nets in partnership with the World Health Organization and the health ministries of Chad and Cameroon. Meanwhile, project funding, along with contractor donations and community compensation micro development projects,

has enabled the construction of 130 community schools, as well as 95 water wells to provide safe drinking water in villages.

COTCO

75039-2298 info@exxonmobil.com @exxonmobil www.exxonmobil.com

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AMIIS PTY LTD

The inspection specialists Since 2003 AMIIS has been crafting a reputation for itself as being a leading top tier global service provider

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

eliability, quality, safety and customer satisfaction are synonymous with Associated Marine and Industrial Inspection Services (AMIIS), and underline the group’s activities. Established in 2003, AMIIS have expanded significantly and now provide services to customers in the petrochemical, energy, offshore, marine, pulp and paper, sugar, aluminium, fabrication and manufacturing sectors, pipelines and various other industries. A 100 percent BEE compliant organisation, AMIIS continues to strive to keep abreast of new technologies to deliver its operational excellence. Collectively the company’s management team have over 100 years of international experience and it is the aim of all those that work for AMIIS to see it

Testing, Magnetic Particular Testing, Dye Penetrant Testing and Holiday. Each comes with its own unique advantages and limitations, yet by providing all of the above the company is able to select the right solution for each customer. Meanwhile, in the field of Advanced NDT, AMIIS’ products and solutions include the Internal Rotary Inspection System (IRIS), Tank Floor Mappers, Positive Material Identification (PMI) tools and LO-RAD Gamma-Ray technology. AMIIS Heat Treatment services cover gas heat, electric heat and furnace heat treatments. AMIIS prides itself on being able to offer the highest quality high velocity gas units for refractories dry out and curing, temporary furnaces, post weld heat treatment of large fabrications and gas heating works. The latter of

“AMIIS constantly endeavours to exceed the requirements of each and every one of its clients” recognised as being the leading top tier global service provider. AMIIS sets the highest standard with regard to quality and constantly endeavours to meet or exceed the requirements of each and every one of its clients. The company’s employees each take individual responsibility for ensuring that the high standards that AMIIS has come to be known for are upheld on a daily basis. The safety of its staff, the personnel of its clients and any other party is of paramount importance for AMIIS. As such it provides and maintains safe and healthy working conditions using equipment, systems and providing the necessary information, instruction and training. Services provided by the company include Conventional NDT, Advanced NDT, Heat Treatment and Inspection services. When it comes to Conventional NDT, AMIIS provides its customers with Radiographic Testing, Ultrasonic

these have been provided for a range of clients including Chevron, Engen Refinery, Sapref Refinery, Exxaro, Trident Refractory Specialists and many others. Furthermore, AMIIS’ Inspection services include welding procedures, welder qualifications and providing inspection personnel to those clients that require them. The information that the company provides assists its clients with decisions and programs which include Risk Based Inspection (RBI), Asset Integrity Management (AIM), Plant Corrosion Monitoring Systems (PCMS) and Shutdown/ Turnaround Planning. amiis

+27 (31) 461 1057 amiis@amiis.co.za www. amiis.co.za

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A flight path to the future Starlite Aviation Group A combination of its first-class track record and its proactive approach to future growth has seen Starlite Aviation Group position itself perfectly for the opportunities that East Africa will have to offer in the years ahead

[ African BE Special reportBE Weekly [Oil Issue & Gas 83 ]

Starlite currently operates 11 Puma helicopters

ub-Saharan Africa is recognised as one of the world’s fastest growing regions and within it exists some of the continent’s fastest growing countries including Mozambique, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. It is in these countries that large gas and oil finds are helping to push annual growth rates above ten percent per annum, a trend expected to continue this decade. With such growth prevalent across the region it comes as no surprise to see both established and new businesses locally and

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

internationally, flocking to the area in the hope of using their own unique skills to procure new clients and contracts. One such business is the Starlite Aviation Group. “In addition to the work we have been carrying out over the last year in Namibia on the west coast of the continent, we have been making positive strides towards taking on additional contracts along the east coast,” explains Commercial Director, Dimmie De Milander. “During December 2013 and January 2014, we had

Starlite Aviation Group

“During December 2013 and January 2014, we had three helicopters operating on two different contracts in Madagascar”

three helicopters operating on two different contracts in Madagascar. We now intend on continuing to leverage the positive work we are doing on behalf of the offshore industry and the utilities market across Africa’s more prosperous regions.” Established in South Africa in 1999, Starlite has experienced phenomenal growth to become a multi-faceted aviation business offering a range of helicopter services on a worldwide basis. Such services include relief contract work, oil and gas, passenger

[ African BE Special reportBE Weekly [Oil Issue & Gas 83 ]

and cargo transport, helicopter sales and charter, maintenance and pilot training. De Milander has been with the group since August 2007 and in that time has become an expert at what drives business and growth in the African markets in which Starlite operates. “Without doubt, the success of numerous gas and oil campaigns off the coasts of Mozambique, Tanzania and Kenya have contributed significantly towards the economic expansion of the region,” he continues. “Virtually the entire east coast of Africa is fixed for long term growth, primarily due the higher quality of seismic data being collected

across the region, the oil and gas reserves that continue to be found, advances in deep water drilling and of course the presence of stable governments. Accordingly, we have made considerable efforts to follow this growth, by acquiring both our Air Service Licence and Aircraft Operating Certificate in Tanzania, and establishing a permanent base for our operations in Dar es Salaam in order to improve our services to existing and potential clients in the country. Furthermore, we have formed a strategic alliance in Kenya with a local fixed wing operator, a partnership that puts us in a strong position to expand here as well.”

“Our philosophy has always been that, regardless of race, culture or creed, we remain ever mindful of those in need”

A donation we made to Jodi Jackson dance academy

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

Starlite Aviation Group

The Bell 412 reliably performs in the most extreme climates on the planet every day

There is no question that Starlite possesses the vast majority of the intangibles needed to prosper in East Africa. The group’s standard of operations is at the level it needs to be. Safety and quality standards, of paramount importance to Starlite, have been audited by regulatory bodies, and its helicopter fleet is comparable to any of its competitors. Nevertheless, a trend is emerging off the coasts of Mozambique, Tanzania and Kenya that up until now posed a challenge, and that is the fact that oil companies are being driven further out to sea to lay claim to vast deposits of oil and gas. This situation resulted in Starlite looking at expanding its fleet by investing in helicopters capable of travelling further offshore. It is closer to home, however, that one will find what De Milander refers to as the crown jewel of the group, that being its International Aviation Training Academy. Since 2003, Starlite Training operated from its base at Virginia Airport, ten kilometres

north of Durban, South Africa. In June 2011 the group relocated to what is now its primary training base in Mossel Bay, South Africa, on the Mossel Bay Air Field. The latter offers the perfect terrain and yearround good weather to provide future pilots with value-added training services. The Training Academy offers training for helicopter aircrew, maintenance personnel and operational support staff to a level of competence commensurate with leading military and aviation safety standards. “Today our Academy is responsible for training the vast majority of sub-equatorial African air forces and police divisions,” De Milander says. “The Academy has trained pilots from the South African Air Force, the Botswana Police Air Wing, the Kenyan Police, Army and Air Force pilots, and the Namibian Police, as well as 19 students from Transnet and many civilians. Furthermore, we are in the process of finalising talks with Tanzanian clients and entering into fresh discussions with our

[ African BE Special reportBE Weekly [Oil Issue & Gas 83 ]

“While the success of the Training Academy is apparent, perhaps a less well publicised facet of the Starlite Group is its work with local communities and charities” partners in the UAE, whose Special Forces Pilots we have trained in the past. Needless to say, this area of the business is booming at present, and we put that down to the simple fact that we provide a consistently exceptional standard of training that is at the very least on par with any other provider globally.” He continues, saying: “The Training Academy expanded its training to include

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

a Fixed Wing Division, upgraded its fleet to include the Robinson R66, purchased to provide single turbine conversions. Furthermore, it introduced the Guimbal Cabri G2, to the training fleet and was the launch customer for Africa, of this stylish, safe, technologically advanced and comfortable helicopter for Africa. Always one step ahead of the market, the Academy took delivery

Starlite Aviation Group

A view from the cockpit indicates the type of conditions Starlite operate in

of the JAR/EASA/SACAA approved Elite Evolution S723T FNPT II MCC simulator, based on the Eurocopter, AS-335 Twin Engine Helicopter. The fixed wing equivalent will be delivered in April 2014.” While the success of the Training Academy is apparent, perhaps a less well publicised facet of the Starlite Group is its work with local communities and charities. De Milander is personally involved in outreach programmes, having completed a 500 kilometre cycle challenge back in October 2013 in order to raise money for PATCH – The Centre for Abused Women and Children. He was also instrumental in Starlite’s monetary contribution to the Jodi Jackson School of Dance in Cape Town. Starlite plays an active role in the Reach for a Dream

Foundation, turning the dreams of flying, of terminally ill patients, into a reality. Starlite supports and gives monetary contributions to the ‘Toy Story’ fund, Agro Bio (Pty) Ltd, a fund providing farming equipment and infrastructure support to farming projects and the Seed of Hope feeding scheme. “Our philosophy has always been that, regardless of race, culture or creed, we remain ever mindful of those in need. If a community is seen to be struggling Starlite provides support and endeavours to do the very best to help,” De Milander enthuses. “The types of projects we have provided support to over the years have been extremely varied and have included supporting a foster care home in Durban, the development of young rugby players from poor backgrounds and

[ African BE Special reportBE Weekly [Oil Issue & Gas 83 ]

Did you know? Starlite Aviation Group is a privately owned company made up of a select group of aviation experts. The Starlite fleet includes: PUMA  SA 330 J PUMA  Eurocopter EC120  Eurocopter EC130

Starlite Aviation will soon be operating three Bell 412’s on contract

“We are currently working tirelessly to secure multi-year contracts with clients working offshore in the oil and gas industry”

donating money for equipment and gear for a local ballet school. Each project is deemed important and we take great pride in supporting the communities in which we serve, as best we can.” Regarding Starlite’s business plans for 2014, the focus and strategy revolves around expanding operations to gain an even greater foothold in Africa’s more promising regions. Starlite recently purchased and was the launch customer of the new Airbus AS333 C1e.

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ROBINSON  Robinson R22 Beta II  Robinson R44 Raven I  Robinson R44 Raven II  Turbine Helicopter R66 BELL Bell 206B Jetranger  Bell 407  Bell 212  Bell 412 

The initial order of two of the aircraft has since been increased. This is part of Starlite Aviation’s fleet renewal and expansion program, with the rotorcraft joining an extensive helicopter fleet that currently includes twelve Airbus Helicopters SA330 Pumas. The AS332 C1e offers versatility across a full range of utility missions, especially in hotand-high environments, as well as missions requiring a small footprint while delivering a significant lift capability such as the vertical

Starlite Aviation Group

The SA 330 J PUMA on deck

replenishment of ships and other offshore and onshore work. Included in its standard equipment list is the four-axis autopilot and associated automatic flight control system from Airbus Helicopters’ EC225 Super Puma helicopter, which provides flight envelope protection, unrivalled precision, and stability in even the harshest operating conditions. If equipment or systems are required beyond the baseline definition, additional customisation can be provided by Airbus Helicopters and its wholly-owned Vector Aerospace Company, or the network of subsidiaries and approved partners. “We are currently working tirelessly to secure multi-year contracts with clients working offshore in the oil and gas industry, in regions in Africa, which is an achievable goal with our existing fleet of aircraft. De Milander concludes. “At the same time we are proactive in pre-planning in our area

of expertise in operations, by training our crew, technicians and maintenance staff on a new model of aircraft for the group, the AgustaWestland AW139. By providing training in the early stages, Starlite is ensuring that we create a situation where we have the finance available and manpower in place, for the purchase and operation of said aircraft. Furthermore, that will ensure that its integration into our fleet will be a rapid, efficient and smooth transition. This is just another example of how we are always looking to position ourselves perfectly for the next stage in our development.”

Starlite Aviation Group

 +27 (0) 31 571 6600  dimmied@starliteaviation.com www.starliteaviation.com

[ African BE Special reportBE Weekly [Oil Issue & Gas 83 ]

[ Issue 83 ] BE Weekly

Reaching new depths of diver safety SEADOG Commercial Diving School South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SEADOG Commercial Diving School is attracting record numbers of students and professional divers. As Managing Director Bridget Thomson discusses, this is stabilising the company and helping it to focus more on the medical side of the business

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n the time since we last spoke towards the end of 2012 attendance at our Diving School has increased by around 40 percent,” states Bridget Thomson, Managing Director of SEADOG Commercial Diving School. “This increase sees us today operating at maximum capacity, which for a business that has been around for a relatively short period of time is extremely good news indeed.” Established in January 2010, SEADOG is a training centre for the oil and gas industry, specialising in fields that include commercial diving, supervision and diver medic training. Situated within Saldanha Bay, SEADOG’s location allows trainees to develop under realistic conditions where the quiet waters of the bay provide the perfect introduction to learner divers before they enter the open ocean. Committed to providing quality, progressive education, using outcomebased skills training, SEADOG promotes student-centred learning. This structure ensures that those individuals trained by the school demonstrate competency through a combination of knowledge, understanding and skills that encourage good performance and safe working practices. “Rather than positioning ourselves as just a training provider, we have always prided ourselves in how we work closely with the

“Rather than positioning ourselves as just a training provider, we have always prided ourselves in how we work closely with the industry”

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

SEADOG Commercial Diving School. Training provider for the Oil & Gas industry worldwide

SEADOG Commercial Diving School

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industry,” Thomson continues. “This level of participation, together with our visibility and consistent approach towards health and safety, particularly in the oil and gas sector, is the primary driver behind the growth we are experiencing. The latter trend has seen divers coming from a multitude of locations to attain or upgrade their tickets for offshore diving recognised under the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) Code of Practice.” The increase in the number of different nationalities visiting SEADOG’s Diving School has also allowed the company’s own

instructors to develop a deeper understanding of the differing needs and requirements of individuals working in a variety of operational areas. This in turn helps to enhance the growth and cultural awareness of the company itself. “Certainly I think the growth we have experienced has helped enhance our own training capabilities, particularly on the medical side of the business,” Thomson says. “Today we are far more aware of the different stresses encountered in different environments when unforeseen incidents occur. Obviously certain countries will always

“Certainly I think the growth we have experienced has helped enhance our own training capabilities, particularly on the medical side of the business”

C-DOC South Africa & Thailand Training centres for IMCA DMT and Refresher training

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

credit: Mohammed Rashad Photography

SEADOG Commercial Diving School

Sunset over Saldanha Bay from SEADOG Commercial Diving School, South Africa

have unique problems; however I feel that our own development means our instructors are more flexible and able to meet individual student needs.” The medical side of the business, or the Commercial Diving and Offshore Consultancy (C-DOC) to give it its proper title, is one that has always been close to Thomson’s heart, seeing as it is where she started herself, back in 1999. The role of C-DOC is to assist the commercial diving industry to embark on a program increasing the health and safety of members in diving operations and to ensure an easily accessible service for education, training, development and consultation in diving health and safety by establishing a network that the design strategy may be measurable to evaluate trends and successes in the field for future decision making. “C-DOC and my own personal experience have always given SEADOG a very solid foundation, and indeed a strong reputation, to build upon,” Thomson enthuses. “What I want

to do now, especially now that I see the Diving School thriving in the hands of our instructors, is turn more attention to promoting C-DOC.” The company’s diver medic training is already well known throughout the oil and gas sector and Thomson has spent the last year helping further to spread this reputation by travelling to Asia and its oil and gas hubs. Here she has been working with the SSS Recompression Chamber Network in order to make high quality training more accessible to companies within the region. “There is so much we can offer our clients from a medical perspective,” Thomson highlights. “One such offering is something that we are very excited about, and proud to present is the new DMAC kit. Designed with divers (DMT’s) for divers, and facilitated by the C-DOC Occupational Health and Safety Crew.” Developed in line with the 16 years of experience that Thomson has had working with divers, the C-DOC Modular DMAC 015 kit is systematically packed to allow quick and

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C-DOC DMAC 015 Medical Kit designed with divers for divers

[ African Oil & Gas ] BE Special report

SEADOG Commercial Diving School

“With C-DOC, our immediate aim is to strengthen our core service by making it more accessible not just to our local markets, but also to the larger, multi-national oil and gas companies”

easy access to equipment in the unforeseen event of an accident. The C-DOC medical kit has been carefully divided into three modules and a reflective rescue jacket to ensure optimal usage by the diver who is not a trained health care professional. The bag itself can then be opened up into an emergency stretcher. The stretcher width is compatible with that of the bilge plates and trunkings of a chamber allowing for quick and efficient transfer under pressure. “With C-DOC, our immediate aim is to strengthen our core service by making it more accessible not just to our local markets, but also to the larger, multi-national oil and gas companies,” Thomson says. “This will bring us in line with the oil and gas producer’s (OGP) goal to assist in the development of a strong safety culture and to pursue IMCA’s goals to encourage the sharing of experience, ideas and aspirations. Meanwhile, from a training perspective we are tailoring our training to focus on step-by-step methods that will help divers in their time of need, regardless of their location.” With the Diving School catering for a record number of divers, a trend that Thomson naturally hopes will continue, her plans for the year ahead for C-DOC are understandably at the forefront of her mind. “I truly hope that

C-DOC DMAC 015 Medical Kit designed by the C-DOC Occupational Health and Safety Team

when we speak a year from now C-DOC will have been approached by IMCA, OGP and some of the big oil and gas companies, and medical directors to integrate all these great training scenarios and standards to identify opportunities for improved performance and raise awareness of occupational health and safety in diving operations. That for me would be very exciting - to actually see the work of my company actually filter down through oil and gas companies and to see it having a hugely positive impact on all those that risk their lives under the sea.”

SEADOG Commercial Diving School

+27 (0) 22 714 0222 info@divingschool.co.za www.divingschool.co.za www.c-doc.co.za

BE Special report [ African Oil & Gas ]

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