Construction Review Africa

Since 1989

March 2015, Vol 26 No. 3 Africa's leading construction journal

African Ports Expand Overcoming Challenges

Kenya: Nairobi based FHG Architecture (K) Ltd Ethiopia: Meskerem Tamiru consulting and Trading plc Feature: Fitted Kitchens Opinion: Renewable energy technologies

Botswana Pula 60.00, Ethiopia Birr 140.00, Ghana Cedi 23.00, Kenya Ksh 500.00, Namibia N$ 80.00, Nigeria Naira 1,300.00 Rwanda Rwf 4,800.00,South Africa R 60.00, Tanzania Tsh 12,700.00, Uganda Ush 20,000.00, Zambia Zmk 40.00, Zimbabwe US$ 7.00

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MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes COUNTRY EDITORS Kenya - Francis Makari Uganda - Samuel Bujingo Nigeria - Boladale Ademiju South Africa - Newton Mthethwa SUB-EDITOR David Kariuki WRITERS Jimmy Swira, Thunile Alletta Nkosi Lindsay Wagner, Yvonne Andiva Erick Mongare, Hope Simuli Dorcas Kangereha

Uganda: Dan Nsalasata,Bill Collins Musaazi Botswana: Dickson Manyudza, Gerald Mazikana Ethiopia: Haimanot Tesfaye, Ruth Girma Tanzania: Tom Kiage Malawi: Anderson Fumulani

Facing expansion headwinds Africa is in need of greater capacity and efficiency in its ports in order to drive her economic growth but stumbling blocks stand in the way.

Cover Picture: The cover picture shows the busy Port of Lagos in Nigeria located in the Apapa Area. Located to the west of Lagos Island, across Lagos Harbour.

Africa's leading construction journal

African Ports Expand Overcoming Challenges

Vol 26 No. 3

South Africa: Manoko Thosago, Happy Mokoena Shepherd Mthethwa, Winnie Sentabire, Angeline Ntobeng, Nqobile Ndlovu

Since 1989

March 2015, Vol 26 No. 3

March 2015

ADVERTISING Kenya William Mutama, Fred Okoth, Frances Lagoussis (Mombasa), Trizah Njoroge, Faustine Salleh

Sea Ports in Africa

Construction Review

WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN Augustine Ombwa Frankline May

CON

12

Kenya: Nairobi based FHG Architecture (K) Ltd Ethiopia: Meskerem Tamiru consulting and Trading plc Feature: Fitted Kitchens Opinion: Renewable energy technologies

Botswana Pula 60.00, Ethiopia Birr 140.00, Ghana Cedi 23.00, Kenya Ksh 500.00, Namibia N$ 80.00, Nigeria Naira 1,300.00 Rwanda Rwf 4,800.00,South Africa R 60.00, Tanzania Tsh 12,700.00, Uganda Ush 20,000.00, Zambia Zmk 40.00, Zimbabwe US$ 7.00

REGULARS

Ghana: Samuel Hinneh

Editor's Comment 3

Zimbabwe: Cyri’l Zenda

News 4

Rwanda: Collison Lore Nigeria: Seni Bello

New Products 6

China:Weng Jie

Association News 7

The editor accepts letters and manuscripts for publication from readers all over the world.

Include your name and address as a sign of good faith although you may request your name to be withheld from publication. We reserve the right to edit any material submitted .

Send your letters to: info@constructionreviewonline.com Construction Review is published eleven times a year and is circulated to members of relevant associations, governmental bodies and other personnel in the building and construction industry as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services in Africa, the Middle and Far East. The editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Material may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in the journal. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Š All rights reserved.

Download free QR Readers from the web and Scan this code with your smart phone to access more stories on the CR website

Events 7 Corporate News 8 Pictorial 9 Guest: Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo 10 Inside Fitted Kitchens 16 Oils and Lubricants

22

Westpark Suites 24 Building Dreams by Creating Elegant, Cost-effective Buildings Commissions First Ever Wide Width Colour Coating Line in East Africa 30 Machakos Hospitality Sector Reinvigorated 31

Published by Group Africa Publishing Ltd Consolidated Bank House, 5th floor, Koinange Street, Nairobi 00100 Kenya, Tel: +020 2210133, Email: info@groupafricapublishing.com Uganda Office SMG Uganda Limited Kamukamu Plaza, Entebbe Road Kampala-Uganda, TEL: +256 774 079 804, Email: uganda@groupafricapublishing.com Uganda Agent Projects Unusual Uganda Ltd. Jemba Plaza, Luwum St. Kampala, Uganda betty@constructionreviewonline.com

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TENTS

March 2015 Volume 26 No. 3

Editor's Comment

FHG Architecture (K) Ltd

Africa looks to the sea

Building Dreams by Creating Elegant, Cost-effective Buildings

Africa’s role in maritime trade has for the most part been small by global standards but as economies continue to

Around the world, architectural firms strive to stamp their seals

boom on the continent along with discoveries of mineral

on the built environment. This is

resources, the need for deeper ports with higher capacity

something that FHG Architecture

has become more pressing.

(K) Ltd, a planning and design studio based in Nairobi, Kenya,

Several risks however still remain not least of all being

clearly understands.

26

Meskerem Tamiru Consulting and Trading plc …becoming well experienced

in observing and solving major

having huge underutilized facilities due to overcapacity as neighbouring ports race to outdo one another. In addition careful consideration of the environmental aspects and funding are key to ensure that projects don’t run behind schedule due to poor consultation with stakeholders.

problems of projects before and

Despite these challenges, both on the West and Eastern

during construction period on

coasts of Africa several ports have expansion projects

construction site and in consulting

underway or on the drawing board which promise to

offices, have encouraged her to start her own firm and transfer the

40

the need for rational thinking in order to avoid eventually

knowledge she accumulated during her professional years.

Greenhill Hotel – Village Market

alleviate costly delays and congestion a key aspect if Africa is to improve its competitiveness in the global marketplace.

33

Karibu Homes Riverview: Giving Kenyans Affordable Homes 35 Optiven out to empower people

37

Greensquare Mall to Boost Kericho’s Stature Vee Vee Enterprises ltd

Billion Group’s one-of-a-kind mall in Mthatha Smart trenching

38

39

44

Robert Barnes

46

South Africa Office College Publishers CC 1st Floor, 267 Oak Avenue, Oakfields, Randburg, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 781 4253 Fax: +27 11 781 4287 Email: southafrica@groupafricapublishing.com Ethiopia Office Haymi Advertising Services 22 Mazoria, Genet Bldg 4th Flr P.O. Box 1316 - 1110 Addis Ababa Tel: +251 118 955 855 Cell: +251 930 099 152 Email: ethiopia@groupafricapublishing.com

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Nigeria Office

Kenya Office Northwest Ventures Ltd P.O. Box 16414 Nairobi 00100 Tel: +254 20 2679809 I 2679808, 2091305 Email: kenya@groupafricapublishing.com

Ifako Ijaye Lga,Agege, Lagos.

Ghana Office Image Consortium 1st Floor, TheEcobank Building, Tesano.

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Rahma Associates B23/24, Aishetu Emoewa Plaza 196, Iju Water Works Road, Tel: 234-1-7347860 Email: nigeria@groupafricapublishing.com Rwanda Office Kolline & Hemed Inc., B.P. 3328, Kigali, Rwanda Tel: +250 03 748106 E-mail: rwanda@groupafricapublishing.com Website: www.kollinehemed.org

NEWS

Nigeria

Djibouti

Procurement for the Ibom deep seaport to kick off

A US$ 599m international airport in the pipeline

The Federal Government has

Ali-Sabieh, Djibouti this year, after the Pesident, Ismail Omar Guelleh

commenced

procurement

A new international airport worth US$ 599m is to be constructed in laid down, the first stone to see the Chinese-funded airport foundation

procedures for the Ibom deep

kick off. The new El-Hajj Hassan Gouled Airport, which is to be

seaport project in Akwa Ibom

located in Ali-Sabieh, 25 km (15 miles) south of the capital will serve

state, Nigeria. This was hinted

1.5 million passengers annually, and construction will entail setting

by the Minister of Transport,

up of runways that will cater for modern commercial jets.

Senator Idris Audu Umar in Abuja while handing over the Outline Business Case (OBC) to Messrs Felak Concept Limited and the Maritime Transport Business

Solutions

(Felak/

MTBS).

The facility will have capacity to process 100,000 tonnes of cargo per year. The whole airport construction project is anticipated to enhance the growth of the economy in the country and create more that 500 jobs for the citizens. It is expected to be completed in 2018.

Construction of a smaller 350,000-passenger airport near Seven Brothers islands is also covered in the budget. The investment is to be provided by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).

The Ibaka deep seaport was expected to be delivered by the end of 2015, but the minister said the procurement would

Uganda

Consortium to invest US$ 38m in solar power

not be started earlier given

projects

the “enormity of requirements

A 20MW solar power plant worth US$ 38m will be constructed in

involved”, adding that the time

Eastern Uganda to aid in generation of electricity in Soroti and Tororo

spent on producing the project

districts. A Ugandan-Italian consortium involving Simba Telecom

was justifiable.

and Building Energy SPA and the consortium of Access and TSK

“After that the necessary evaluation will be carried out with the transaction advisers. We have to work assiduously with the OBC document to ensure that the procurement processes

Electronica of United Arab Emirates and Spain have decided to invest in this electricity generation project in order to make power more affordable to locals. Moses Murengezi, an official in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development confirmed the news and said that this solar power generation initiative is a positive one, as it will see Uganda’s economy growing and at the same time make power affordable to citizens. The first unit is expected to be channeled to

commence as soon as possible,”

the national grid by the end of 2015. The country is joining other

he said.

East African allies that have massive solar power generation projects, the

including Kenya with its Lake Turkana Power Plant project, which

OBC document is key to the

will add 310 MW of power to the national grid and is set to commence

The

presentation

of

accomplishment of the Ibaka deep

seaport

project

as

this February.

it

shows the commitment by the government, according to the minister. He said the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the advisers had worked together to accomplish the project. The report will also be evaluated by

Infrastructure

Concession

Regulatory Commission (ICRC).

4

Solar panels

Ghana

Takoradi port expansion project to end by March 2015 Dredging of the Takoradi Port in Ghana is to be completed

by March this year so as to allow other works to begin at the Port. This was confirmed

by Captain James OwusuKoranteng, the Director of the Takoradi Port. The port dredging, which is being carried out by Nicolo Machiavelli has been ongoing since 7th January.

The port expansion project involves reclamation of a land area spanning 53,000 hectares, dredging of an access channel, and construction of a bulk terminal, and construction of oil services terminal. Meanwhile, the residing community has been engaged on safety and security matters concerning the project.

According to Captain Owusu-Koranteng, the port expansion project is budgeted to cost US$228.28m, and at the moment, 80,000 cubic meters of works has already been completed, with wall crowning and filling, to be part of the works expected to follow in the process of expanding the port.

The project is expected to last up to 2016, with a goal of opening doors of the port to bigger new generation ships and thus more cargo to foster economic growth.

The contract was awarded to Messrs Jan-de-Dul, a construction firm from Belgium to oversee the dredging works.

The port expansion project is also expected to improve the turnaround time and eliminate double handling of cargoes.

Other projects that were part of the expansion such as construction of a new oil and gas terminal were expected to be completed earlier.

March 2015

Algeria

Construction of Bellara Steel Complex to start this year

Zambia

Egypt New construction projects to boost tourism

Construction of the US$2 billion

Real estate investment company

Bellara steel complex will kick

Qatari Diar has been given a go-

off in the first quarter of this year

ahead to continue with a US$2.16

2015 in Jijel East of Algeria,

billion construction project to

the prefect of Jijel, Ali Bedrici

help boost tourism in Egypt. The

has said. The steel project will

Egyptian ministry of defence

help the country to produce 4

Solwezi Mall project gains significant progress

million tons of steel per year in

Construction of Zambia’s largest mall in Solwezi District in North-

the project. The country requires

the second phase of construction,

Western Province has gained significant grounds with compensation

companies investing in tourism

but is designed to first assist

and relocation issues now having been settled, and land for the

related projects to seek a go ahead

in producing 2 million tons of

project set aside. Construction activity would involve setting up a

from the ministry. According to

steel rebars in its first phase

multi-purpose complex that will harbor the Solwezi City Mall, and

Tourism Development Authority

before 2017 in order to meet

a three-star hotel. The mall will be constructed on a four hectares

(TDA) head Serag El-Din, the

the requirements of the local

piece of land within the old show ground, which has been allocated

project will involve construction

market of iron and steel.The steel

to the developer according to Solwezi Municipal Council assistant

of hotels, shopping malls and

complex project is set to improve

public relations manager, Thandiwe Tembo. She expressed happiness

residential homes such as villas,

Jijel economically and socially,

with the shopping mall complex because it will, apart from creating

townhouses and apartments. The

and will feature construction of

employment opportunities to the locals, also give a facelift to Solwezi.

project was earlier proposed by

a steel factory, three rolling mills

With construction expected to last for 12 months, the structures that

TDA and will be implemented

and two for reinforcing bars.

were on the site have been brought down in readiness of the project.

in the North and South Sinai.

To this effect, a joint venture

Ms Tembo also added that the construction of the Solwezi City Mall.

Two other projects that will

between Algerian and Qatari has

is a key milestone in the development and will boost the growing

boost tourism are also being

been formed.

town since it will be a first of its kind in the area.

undertaken by Qatari Diar.

Association Partners

Kenya

- Architectural Association of Kenya - Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya - Institute of Engineers of Kenya - Association of Consulting Engineers of Kenya - Association of Professional Societies of East Africa APSEA) - Kenya Property developers Association - Institution of Surveyors of Kenya

Uganda

Institute of Surveyors of Uganda

- Association of Ethiopian Architects - Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers

Association of Consulting Engineers of

Tanzania

Ethiopia

- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors - Construction Regulation Board (CRB)

Construction Contractors Association of Ethiopia

Ghana

Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors

Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors

- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors - Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers - The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)

Namibia Namibia

Botswana

- Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)

Zimbabwe

South Africa

- ASAQS - SAICE - South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession - Khuthaza ( Women for Housing) - Concrete Manufacturers Association - Green Building council of SA - South African Property Owners Association - Master Builders South Africa

Ethiopia

approved the implementation of

- Ghana Institute of Engineers - Architects Registration Council - Ghana Institute of Surveyors - Ghana Green Builders Association - Ghana Institute of Planners - Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana

March 2015

Nigeria - Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria

- Association of Professional Women Engineers Of Nigeria - Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region - Nigeria Society of Engineers - Nigeria Institute of Architects - Building and Construction Skilled Artisans Association of Nigeria(BACSAAN) 5

PRODUCTS

Criterion launches new range of forklift trucks Criterion

Equipment

has

launched a new range of Smart TCM 2-3 T engine powered forklift trucks,

designed for

enhanced performance in all operating conditions, even harsh environments.“Smart

engine-

powered counter-balanced type forklift trucks are now available with two new types of engines to

enhance

existing

Kubota

diesel engines. A wider choice of gasoline or diesel engines provides the flexibility to meet the

diversified

requirements

performance of

industrial

Sarens performs first Boeing 737-300 lift Sarens South Africa has performed a lift of a Boeing 737-300 across the R21 highway in Kempton Park. The operation was carried out for the South African aviation company Comair, who is building a training center in which the Boeing 737-300 will be used as a real-life evacuation trainer. Being an expert in moving and lifting extraordinary loads, Sarens was asked to lift the Boeing 737-300 from its location at the OR Tambo International Airport to the Comair training center, being built on the other side of the highway. During this overnight operation, several roads including the main access route to the airport, were temporarily closed. The Boeing, with the engines removed and portions of the wings and tail clipped, weighed an initial dead weight of 25 tonnes. The length of the Boeing was 33.35m, the width 18m and a height of 5m. The equipment used in this lift was Sarens hydraulic cranes, being an LTM1400, AC500 and AC200. Lifting followed months of planning and collaboration with many stakeholders to achieve a time- and cost- effective safe solution and to minimize road closures.

trucks,” says Brenton Kemp, managing

director,

Criterion

Equipment, a wholly owned subsidiary of Invicta Holdings Limited. “Although there are no significant changes of the major truck

specifications

and

the

external appearance of this series over the previous Smart series, there have been some changes of components for improved performance.

“These new Smart concept machines have been designed and manufactured in accordance with stringent quality and safety specifications to ensure enhanced reliability and flexibility, as well as economical operation and extended service life.” Smart internal

combustion

engine

forklift trucks, which have a power-shift

transmission

and

loading capacities of 2, 2,5 and 3 T, are now available with two new types of engines – Isuzu C240 diesel engines and GCT K21 gasoline engines. The new Isuzu C240 engines have a rated output of 35.4,5/2500 kW/r.p.m, a maximum rated torque of 140/1800 Nm/r.p.m and a service weight of 4240 kg.

6

Chicago Pneumatic launches largest ever range of portable generators International construction equipment manufacturer Chicago Pneumatic has launched its largest ever range of portable generators, designed to provide a safe and stable power supply for every type of worksite. The CPPG range comes in two distinct lines. The new Pro Line includes Professional, Advanced and Advanced+ models offering powerful performance for all-day, intensive heavy-duty applications and provides different levels of functionality, depending on the needs of the user. The Standard Line contains a simple, straight forward petrol generator designed for occasional use.

Among thegenerators within the new Pro Line is the CPPG Professional model, designed for continuous usage and available either with a petrol or diesel engine. Users are protected by an optional Earth Leakage Relay (ELR) in both types of engine, while Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) is an option for the petrol-engine unit that ensures consistent electrical output. The CPPG Advanced generator, with petrol and diesel engine options, is built for intensive, all dayoperation. The generator benefits from more advanced features and additional protection to extend its life expectancy and safety, making it particularly well suited to the rigours of the rental market.

Boskalis invests in a high flow pump unit Early in October 2014, Boskalis Nederland officially commissioned the delivery of a BBA high flow pump unit of the type BA-C500S11 D711 with a very attractive efficiency of 86%.

The auto prime pump provides a capacity of 5500 m3/hour (24000 US GPM) and a maximum head of 37mwk(120 ft). The pump is driven by a modern Stage IV Volvo Penta diesel engine; the TAD1374VE. This provides a power of 375kW and delivers the lowest specific fuel consumption in its class (207 g/kWh). Exhaust gas is treated using AdBlue®. It is fully equipped with the newly developed, extremely silent and light weight canopy and its dimensions ensure that it fits into a 20 ft. container without any problems. The total weight of the pump unit is just 10.800kg!

The new BA-C500S11 has now been deployed in a first project in Muiden. The A1 highway is being widened and partially rerouted. The Boskalis Nederland employees on-site are very impressed with the pumping performance, especially with regards to the low noise emissions. Upon commissioning positive feedback abounded:“This pump unit only has to work half throttle to do the job – at 1250 rpm it provides as much capacity as the old one at 2000 rpm”. “Incredible, there’s not even any smoke from the exhaust at start-up”. “It’s amazingly quiet”.

March 2015

ASSOCIATION NEWS & EVENTS

Health and Safety in Construction 2015

African Federation for Construction Contractors’ Associations (AFCCA)

Date: 24th - 26th February, 2015 Venue: Jo'burg, South Africa Email: e nquire@iqpc.co.uk Website: www. hsconstructionafrica.com Health and Safety remains a critical challenge in the construction industry despite some efforts and positive improvements that have been achieved in the past 10 years.

This is reflected by the number of injuries and fatalities that are suffered on construction sites.

According to the Construction Industry accident Development Board (cidb), 52 per cent of contractors were non-compliant to occupational health and safety legislation and regulations during 1415 site visits by the Department of Labour’s inspectors. With a disabling injury frequency rate of 0.98 per 200 000 worked hours and a fatality rate of 25.5

Date: 14th – 15th April, 2015 Venue: Southern Sun Cape Hotel Contact: Brandon@csptoday.com Website: www.csptoday.com

The Ghana minister of water resources works and housing (in white) in a group photo with AFCCA officials

The executive bureau meeting of the African Federation for Construction Contractors’ Associations (AFCCA) was held in Accra from the 29th of January 2015 to the 1st of February 2015. The event was hosted by the Association of Building and Civil Engineering of Ghana (ABCECG), a founding member of AFCCA. Other member associations who participated in the meeting weret from Morocco, Malawi, Benin, Egypt, Sudan, South Africa and Libya. The Ghanaian Minister for Water Resources, Works and Housing, Alhaji Collins Dauda at the welcome ceremony said the meeting of AFCCA for the first time in Ghana was very significant in many respect particularly as it presented the opportunity to share our problem on the role our construction industry plays in the development of our economy. He added that the meeting will enable the contractors to know how to collaborate effectively to ensure that it benefits the entire African continent. According to him, this meeting had been organized at a time when there was global attention on sub-Saharan Africa as the region with the fastest growing economy in the world offering great investment opportunity and infrastructure development. The Minister noted the meeting will forge close relationship and partnership among local and international entrepreneurs in the preparation of regional cooperation.

Powering East Africa per 100 000 workers, there is a critical need to make health and safety a priority across the entire construction value chain in order reduce injuries and fatalities. In an effort to help address the challenges facing the construction industry and reduce injuries and fatalities, Health and Safety in Construction 2015 running from 24 – 26 February 2015 in Johannesburg, South Africa will provide a platform where health and safety professionals will share best practices in dealing with health and safety challenges.

CSP Today South Africa 2015

Date: 25th - 27th March 2015 Venue: Windsor Golf and Country Club, Nairobi, Kenya Website: www.poweringeastafrica.com Powering East Africa will welcome ministers from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Zambia as well as the leading utility and regulatory companies from the region to focus on what is needed to unlock investment in transmission for regional growth and development. Efficient transmission of power will allow governments in Africa to effectively utilise the power currently generated and deliver on election promises to bring electricity to rural and urban areas. This meeting will unite international financiers, donor organisations, power developers and regional governments in a closed meeting to examine what crucial first steps must be taken to solving the transmission crisis.

March 2015

CSP Today South Africa 2015 is the leading forum to promote the deployment of concentrated solar power in South Africa.

By coming together and sharing ideas with other industry leaders you contribute to part of the solution for South Africa’s energy needs. The event has been tailored for low key exchanges with high level decision makers.

“Our ethos is quality rather than quantity and as an attendee you will be exposed to over 10 hours of face to face networking with the people you want to know.”

Financing - Examine the technical and legal criteria you must meet to reach financial close and prove your bankability to overcome increasing competition for project finance.

Regulation - Discuss key regulatory challenges with official decision makers behind the REIPPPP to simplify your path to winning projects in Window V and beyond.

Technical Excellence Get the very latest methods for streamlined plant design, construction and O&M to guarantee record breaking efficiency and a competitive LCOE. 7

CORPORATE NEWS

Firm to invest US$ 14m in Riat Hills Villas, Kenya

Advanced Panels Protect the Eighth Wonder of the World HagiaSofia, built in Constantinople almost 1,500 years ago and a landmark of global importance has been protected with an Advanced fire system. Built on the orders of Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian in 537, it was the world’s largest cathedral and a cornerstone of Christianity for nearly 1,000 years, became one of its most important mosques for almost 500 years and is now a world famous museum and a crown jewel in the history and skyline of Istanbul. As far back as the 6th Century it was called ‘the eighth wonder of the world’. It welcomes millions of visitors every year and became Turkey’s most visited tourist attraction in 2012. A recent upgrade to its fire system, installed by Advanced partner, D Sistem, saw an Advanced MxPro4 fire system installed, supporting optical smoke and air sampling detection, and a range of input and output devices. MxPro offers customers a choice of two panel ranges, four detector protocols and a completely open installer network that enjoys free complete training and support. MxPro panels can be used in single loop, single panel format or easily configured into high speed, multi-loop panels in 200 node networks covering huge areas.

Air Products celebrates completion of safe construction project in SA Air Products South Africa celebrated the delivery of a safe and injuryfree construction project when the contractors handed over the keys to the company’s R300-million air separation unit (ASU) in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) in November 2014. “In meeting our delivery commitment, we have worked hand-in-hand with the contractors to ensure stringent application of health and safety rules.

As a result, we see a project delivered within its 18-month allotted timeframe, without injury or incident, enabling us to deliver both to our customer service promise and our health and safety commitment to sending every one home safely, every day,” Air Products Corporate

A US$ 14m Swedish gated community project is underway in Riat Hills, 3km from Kisumu International Airport in Kenya.

The real estate development project, which sits on 8.5 acres of land overlooks the Lake Victoria and will include construction of 30 Swedish style villas called Riat Hill Villas. These villas comprise of two options; the Villa Gothernburg and Villa Stockholm. Each unit will consist of 4 bedrooms all ensuite houses with walk in closet, expansive roof terrace with Jacuzzi and two room staff quarters. A club house with a swimming pool will also be constructed. Fred Anderson, the founder of the Coromandele Investment Ltd, which is undertaking the new investment said that 10 units of the proposed plan have already been sold off and construction of the 10 will be complete within a year.

Façade covering on Morocco Telecom’s new headquarters The façade covering Morocco Telecom’s

new

headquarters

in Rabat is another stunning demonstration

of

comprehensive

capabilities

of

SentryGlas®.

The

the facade

construction used on the new building, designed by architects Jean Paul Viguier et Associés, Paris, comprises a double skin covering a total surface area of

11,500m2.

The

exterior

of the skin is composed of vertical shoulders mounted on a

JPRA Architects to use InterSpec for projects InterSpec Inc., the industry leading provider of construction specification software and specification writing services, is pleased to announce that it has been selected by Michiganbased JPRA Architects as lead specification consultants for their varying portfolio of largescale retail and hospitality projects. With a wide breadth of knowledge and over 35 years of experience, JPRA Architects commands these design sectors with their array of planning, architecture, interior design, lease administration and environmental graphic services.

Committed to sustainability in design, JPRA Architects’ portfolio is marked by their development of destination places, including some of the country’s most renowned regional shopping centers and mixed-use complexes.

PwC reports growth in construction industry in S. Africa PwC, a professional network service provider has released a

report

that

indicates

the

good growth South Africa’s construction industry is facing at the moment, making it even more balanced in order to support infrastructure development in the country. These results were based on financial results of the country’s top 10 construction companies on the Johannesburg stock exchange (JSE). According to

PwC’s

partner

Andries

Rossouw, the country has been

Risk Manager Sue Janse van Vuuren said. Air Products broke ground

stainless-steel structure, for wind

on its site in the Coega IDZ in May 2013, and met its commitment

mitigation, bearing a curtain-

to have the plant commissioned and completed – with gas flowing to

the last three years, but this

wall made of laminated glass

has not been a hindrance as

customers – before the end of 2014. The ASU is the sixteenth such

panels. Laminate panels will help

individual companies are putting

plant to be built in this country by Air Products South Africa, and the

solve a number of functional and

more commitments to public

second to be completed and launched this year.

structural challenges.

infrastructure.

8

facing financial constraints in

March 2015

4th Effluent & Water Management Conference Date: 26th November, 2014 Venue: Nairobi Kenya, Laico Regency Hotel

Patrick Nduati Mwangi, Senior Water and Sanitation Specialist, World Bank giving his presentation at the event.

Different equipments were exhibited at the event.

Dr. Dennis D. Mwanza, Chief of Party, Sustainable Water and Sanitation in Africa (SUWASA) giving a presentation

Participants follow up a presentation.

Different organizations and companies attended the event

Participants having a light moment at break.

FBW architects and engineers Valentine’s Day Blood Drive Date:13th February, 2014 Venue: FBW Uganda office in Muyenga FBW architects and engineers this year hosted a Valentine’s Day Blood Drive on Friday, February 13th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Uganda office in Muyenga in conjunction with the Red Cross and the Nakasero Blood Bank.

Staff from FBW and the British High Commission donated blood

JPG: FBW Architects and Engineers donate blood to support Uganda blood banks

Alison Blackburne, the British High Commissioner, and Stuart Harley, FBW’s Operation’s Manager, support FBW Uganda’s blood donation efforts while Eric Olanya, Head of the British High Commission’s UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) office donates blood

Nigel Tilling, FBW’s Projects Director, donates blood while Alison Blackburne, the British High Commissioner, and Stuart Harley, FBW’s Operation’s Manager, look on

GUEST

The role of renewable energy technologies in Nigeria’s sustainable development Excerpts from Energy and sustainable development in Nigeria: the way forward, by Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo

Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo is affiliated to the Mechanical Engineering Department, Covenant University, Ota, 2023, Nigeria as a lecturer and researcher

Sustainable energy involves the provision of energy services in a sustainable manner, which in turn necessitates that energy services be provided for all people in ways that, now and in the future, are sufficient to provide the basic necessities, affordable, not detrimental to the environment, and acceptable to communities and people.

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R

enewable energy has an important role to play in meeting the future energy needs in both rural and urban areas. The development and utilization of renewable energy should be given a high priority, especially in the light of increased awareness of the adverse environmental impacts of fossil-based generation. The need for sustainable energy is rapidly increasing in the world. A widespread use of renewable energy is important for achieving sustainability in the energy sectors in both developing and industrialized countries.

Nigeria is blessed with a large amount of renewable natural resources, which, when fully developed and utilized, will lead to poverty reduction and sustainable development.

Renewable energy resources and technologies are a key component of sustainable development for the following primary reasons: • They generally cause less environmental impact than other energy sources. The implementation of renewable energy technologies will help to address the environmental concerns that emerged due to greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide (CO2), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), oxides of sulfur (SOx), and particulate matters as a result of power generation from oil, natural gas, and coal. A variety of renewable energy resources provide a flexible array of options for their use.

• They cannot be depleted. If used carefully in appropriate applications, renewable energy resources can provide a reliable and sustainable supply of

energy almost indefinitely. In contrast, fossil fuel resources are diminished by extraction and consumption.

•

They favor system decentralization and local solutions that are somewhat independent of the national network, thus enhancing the flexibility of the system and providing economic benefits to small isolated populations.

•

To seize the opportunities presented by renewable energy resources in sustainable development, Nigeria needs to establish renewable energy markets and

gradually

develop

experience

with renewable energy technologies.

The barriers and constraints to the diffusion of renewable energy should be overcome. A legal, administrative, and financing infrastructure should be established to facilitate planning and application of renewable energy projects. Government must play a useful role in promoting renewable energy technologies by initiating surveys and studies to establish their potential in both urban and rural areas.

Because

renewable

energies

are

constantly being replenished from natural resources, they have security of supply, unlike fossil fuels, which are negotiated on the international market and subject to international competition, sometimes even resulting in wars and shortages.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com March 2015

Apex Steel Supports Sustainable Construction APEX Steel Limited has emerged as a leading steel

in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Green

manufacturing company in the East African region and by

Star South Africa green building rating tools. Traditionally,

the extension in Africa. The company manufactures steel

twisted bars were used in the building construction projects.

that contributes to sustainable construction in the built environment. Due diligence has been carried to ascertain the green building rating points attainable from use of specific products from APEX Steel. Buildings have a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health and productivity.

The built environment accounts for approximately one-third

However globally twisted bars have been banned due to their inconsistency in quality. The new generation steel- namely ‘Deformed Bars’; also known as ‘Ribbed Bars’ are now being used all over the world. In Kenya Apex Steel was the pioneer in bringing to the industry deformed bars, manufacturing them

of all greenhouse gas emissions, energy, water and material

locally but to international standards. Apex Steel was the first

consumption and generates similar proportions of pollution. As

to introduce deformed bars, the first to be awarded a KEBS

concerns about sustainability in building design and operation

approval for compliance and then achieve a ‘Diamond Mark of

increase, there was a need to develop a framework for assesssing

Quality’ for conformity. The KEBS requirement in Kenya is for

and benchmarking buildings to ascertain conformity to ‘green

the Steel to have a tensile strength of Grade 460. The deformed

projects’.

WEB Limited in its effort to expand the sustainability industry in Kenya has undertaken the Manufacturer Product Declaration for APEX Steel Limited Rolling Mill Division (RMD). The prodcut review was undertaken in reference to Leadership

March 2015

bars being manufactured by Apex Steel are consistently of Grade 500+ (British Standards BS: 4449).

To read more and to comment on this story visit

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Sea Ports in Africa Overcoming challenges

S

ea ports have for centuries been the gateway for trade and economic development the world over and Africa is no exception. Records that go as far back as the 13th Century show that the famous Moroccan scholar and traveller Ibn Battuta visited the East African coast and noted the existence of various towns which included present day Mombasa and Mogadishu that were bustling centres of commerce with trade reaching as far as India and even China.

This was before the first Portuguese and Spanish had ventured round the Cape or had set foot on the Americas in their quest to open up new trade routes and explore new lands. Today however Africa lags behind in terms of development of its ports even when you consider that the Suez Canal completed in 1869 meant that over half of the worlds seaborne traffic passes along its coastline at one point or another. Compared to the volumes recorded at the dominating port terminals across the world, 12

Africa’s leading regional port terminals lag way beyond – the Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Djibouti, Djibouti; Durban, South Africa; and Mombasa, Kenya do not appear to be major hubs on the world’s map because they record low capacities in regard to storage, maintenance and dredging capability.

“The steady increase in ship sizes in addition to growing cargo volumes has put pressure on cargo infrastructure and terminal capacities the world over, (and) in particular for African ports which have capacity constraints and poor transport infrastructure connectivity,” Danson Mungatana, the Kenya Ports Authority Chairman told a two-day East Africa Transport Infrastructure Conference held in Nairobi last August.

Most African ports are characterized by inadequate infrastructure, poor harbor maintenance and insecurity, which puts African ports out of the list of top world’s seaports.

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still a major concern in Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Ghana..

Competition for the position of preferred maritime gateway in East Africa has pitted Dar es Salaam Port in Tanzania against the Mombasa port in Kenya. Congestion at the Mombasa Port has at times caused some shippers to go to Dar es Salaam Port which is now unfortunately congested and is not efficient due to clearing issues at the custom. While the planned Standard Gauge Railway that runs from Kenya to Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi could improve the situation, it is also necessary to have the ports expanded.

In the South of Africa, ports suffer from insufficient storage spaces and long container dwell time according to the Port Management Association of Eastern & Southern Africa (PMAESA), which is a regional grouping of ports in the two regions. PMAESA also adds that the ports continue to experience increased traffic and are not well served by access infrastructure.

Capacity constraints In a US-Africa Infrastructure Conference held in Washington, D.C in October last year by the Corporate Council on Africa, Vivienne Sequeira, the council’s Director of Infrastructure said “most of the ports are at full capacity” and most panelists raised an alarm about long delays at the ports. This situation if not addressed urgently is likely to become worse since according to the African Development Bank, port throughput in Africa will rise from 265 million tonnes in 2009 to more than 2 billion tonnes in 2040, while transport volumes will increase sixto eightfold, with a particularly strong increase of up to 14 times for some landlocked countries.

When you consider that commodities entering Africa from the rest of world come by ship the current port infrastructure’s inadequacy to meet demand is of great concern and this has spurred African governments to undertake massive seaport terminals, canal and gateway construction projects in response.

Though most shipping port activity is concentrated in Egypt and South Africa, the East and West coasts of Africa do have a number of ports but capacity and efficiency is

Headwinds Critics warn on a number of issues that must be observed in order to realize expected benefits on expansion of facilities. Of the most damaging would be misplacement of priorities where projects would be undertaken but fail to achieve benefits because other projects would have been better suited instead. In addition with massive expansion of ports comes the need for government to invest additional funds to develop surrounding infrastructure. Following massive developments that have come with the new Lekki port in Nigeria for instance experts warn that the government will face environmental problems as a result of population explosion around the area if infrastructure surrounding Lekki port such as roads are not expanded within the coming two years.

Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Senior Staff Association of Communication, Corporation and Transport (SSACCTAC) has warned that deep port construction projects being undertaken across the country could be ‘wasteful ventures and jumbo projects’ and instead said that what the country needed to do was to connect existing ports to railway networks. “We don’t need any other ports, apart from the deep sea port in Lekki, rather, we need to connect the ports to rail systems so that cargo can be evacuated on time,” President of SSASTAC, NPA branch, Comrade Omeiza Jimoh Umar has said.

Kenya’s own Lamu port project may have its own issues as Tanzania and other countries have initiated similar projects. Competition among countries in regard to port activity is a reality that will dawn and may lead to low activity in some ports in the long run.

Projects such as construction of Bagamoyo Port and the Mtwara port project may not be good news since Tanzania and Kenya through the Mombasa Port have been serving

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the same landlocked countries. Kenya has been recording lower volumes from Rwanda and Burundi, while Tanzania has been recording improved volumes with time. Despite lower charges at the Mombasa Port, a survey in August last year revealed that expensive rail transport made the overall transportation of goods from Mombasa Port more expensive than transporting goods from Dar Port.

“Tanzania and Kenya are serving the same landlocked countries,” Janeth Ruzangi, manager of corporate communications for the Tanzania Ports Authority has said. “Firms are going to choose to use the facilities that will handle the goods with the most speed. It is natural that we have to work towards improving our port in order to attract these firms.” However, Kenya is seeking to counter the stiff competition by construction of deep berths at the Lamu Port but delays still continue to be a stumbling block.

Kenya’s ports are likely to loose further business from landlocked countries as Rwanda has partnered with Djibouti to facilitate the latter’s use of Port of Djibouti. In March last year, Rwanda was given a 20ha plot at the port in order to develop it, and reports indicate it could also get another 20ha if it develops the first one.

Uganda is also investing US$3b in a Bukasa Port project, an inland port expected to link to Musoma in Tanzania by water and to Port of Tanga by rail. Tanzania is planning to build a railway from Arusha to Musoma in expectation. Tanzania has also unveiled the Mwambani 14

Port and Railway Corridor (Mwaporc) expected to join the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Corridor (Tazara) and Central Corridors in opening up the northern region. It is larger than the envisioned Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (Lapsset).

Delays Like in other construction projects, delays have hit port expansion activity, and experts have warned that some planned expansions may only become pipe dreams.

Completion of the envisioned and massive Lekki port in Nigeria was temporally delayed by funding issues, which has finally pushed the completion date from 2016 to 2018.

The financial hurdle has now been overcome according to Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) Chief Finance Officer Mr. Sandeep Parasramka, and this will pave way for construction. Even the complicated funding arrangements involved in these projects might lead to more delays as concessionaires might differ from time to time, like in the case of Lekki Port project.

Port of Walvis Bay in Namibia expansion project also failed to start due to “shareholder consultations” issues, indicating that internal investor issues could also hamper port expansion in Africa. The project, which would involve reclaiming land near the current port and construction of a new container port facility on the land, is yet to commence to date but tenders for related dredging contract were to be submitted by November 24 last year.

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Other delays are likely to come from disagreement between stakeholders and related court cases. The Kenya Ports Authority chairman Mr. Danson Mungatana was last year September quoted as saying that the authority could incur massive losses if controversy surrounding identification of landowners for compensation was not ended soon. “Governments that are party to this project signed an agreement with the contractor for the job to start [in September] but this cannot happen because the various government agencies cannot agree on the list of landowners to be compensated,” he said. The project is yet to start off, with politics being at the center of controversy.

Even in Egypt where a project to construct a second canal to increase the capacity of the Suez, the spectre of delay looms both due to time as well as financial constraints. Dredging at the Suez Canal finally kicked off with 50 Egyptian companies expecting to undertake the US$4b project in an year’s time, using 4500 pieces of equipment. However, Haitham Awad, an engineering professor at Alexandria University alleges that costs are likely to skyrocket. This has been supported by the reports that water was found at the drilling sites within days of starting the project, and this means more financial input and time are necessary to succeed with the dredging.

“The cost of drilling underwater will exceed 10 times the cost of drilling in dry lands. The drilling site chosen was 400 meters from the Suez Canal, but it would have been better to choose a site between 8 and 10 kilometers (5

to 6.2 miles) away from the old canal,” Awad said. The project carries this challenge, amidst another one of lack of economic feasibility studies.

Industry experts have warned that the adventure by South Africa’s Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT) to invest 71% of its US$2.8b planned investment may be a pipe dream and overly optimistic. Port expansion by TPT is expected to open opportunities as a result of growing demand. Zeph Ndlovu, general Manager of KwaZuluNatal operations at TPT said “The challenge at the moment is to avail capacity before demand rises. We are unlocking that ahead of time.” TPT owns 16 cargo terminals across the seven ports in the country. Expansion of the port in Durban has already faced opposition from the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance that is alleging negative social and environmental costs related to the project. The large resistance for a project that would lead to sub-Saharan Africa’s largest port is also coming up because it will involve mass displacement of families.

Yes port expansions will come with their benefits however, there is a need to avoid the pitfalls of misplacement of priorities, delays due to funding, probable harmful effects where neighboring countries have similar port expansion projects underway and internal issues such as proper planning and politics that could deter development.

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Fitted Kitchens

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By Yvonne Andiva he kitchen is one if not the most important rooms in any home in order for it to function effectively.

It is truly the heart of the home, everyone wants a beautiful, functional place where the family can gather and enjoy one another’s company. Kitchens have become places where an array of activities takes place apart from the traditional cooking. The society has also evolved to a point where man is more attracted to things that will assure them of comfort, tranquility, efficiency, affordability and also style. This has informed the move by home owners to look for property that comes with a fitted kitchen. This is the type of kitchen that has furniture and appliances fitted into the walls of the room. Furniture may range from cupboards, storage shelves where one can store their food items or pans, customized counter tops and cabinets designed to enclose appliances.

The kitchen remodel project is always near the top of the priority list to make one’s house the home they always dreamed of having, and has one of the highest returns on investment an individual will ever make on their home.

There are many things to consider as the home owner formulates their plans. Every piece in a fitted kitchen is carefully selected and specifically positioned to make 16

sure that everything blends in perfectly. Each kitchen has been built and designed to fit individual needs. The size of the family and their budget is taken into consideration by architects when designing a home.

Durability We need to look beyond beautiful kitchen furnishings that are ephemeral and focus on durable furnishings that will give the cookroom the endearing effect. The quality of a fitted kitchen thus does matter considering the fact that one does not want to be constantly spending on maintenance or repair.

Space Tangible and intangible considerations of space planning are very important. Substantial considerations are to be taken when it comes to space and your kitchen. They may be lifestyle requirements, building regulations, kitchen standards and most importantly, your budget.

All the space in the kitchen can be organized to meet the needs of modern life from concealed pull out pantries to open drawers. Everything can be carefully organized to conveniently maximize practicality.

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When delivered goods are damaged This may occur during the transportation of the kitchen from the supplier’s stores to your home. They may also be damaged straight from the stores meaning that the supplier did not take into consideration the quality of the goods they were delivering. In such situations the customer is advised to get a refund or a change of goods that meet their needs.

If the fitted kitchen has not been fitted correctly, it is their right to ask the architect or the designer to make changes which will in turn give the customer what they had originally desired when designing the kitchen. There are homes which don’t have walls that are strong enough for a kitchen to be fitted into. All is not lost. Free standing Kitchen is the sole option for walls that are not strong enough to withstand the pressure of a fitted kitchen and those which are not perfectly straight. The type of units is for people who do not want to be restricted to one look, and be compelled to endure it for many years. The units are not stuck to the wall, so it is easy to access behind and beneath the units if one needs to clean.

Budget When one is budgeting for a new kitchen for their home or if they are renovation their old one, they should choose one that fits within their budget. Most people think that the most expensive is always the best. However this is not always true. Less expensive kitchens may do as long as one looks for quality products. Sometimes it is not a requirement to buy a whole fitted kitchen. What one can do is replace the old items one at a time ensuring that they blend in with one another to bring about uniformity.

A costly bespoke design will give you flexibility for pieces to match your specification, but cheaper units work just as well providing they’re installed properly. One should also remember that apart from buying the kitchen, they are also to pay for the installation of the same in their homes.

Julius Blum GmbH Fittings manufacturer Julius Blum has ranked amongst Austria’s TOP TEN patent applicants for years. The company’s innovative force has made Blum the market leader in the fittings branch, and kitchen users all over the world are inspired by Blum products which bring enhanced user convenience to the entire home.Blum strives to achieve perfect motion with all its fittings solutions. Blum products make opening and closing furniture a mesmerizing experience and increase the quality of motion and user convenience throughout the home in particular in kitchens. Consistent developments and innovative force are required to achieve this goal.

Blum stands for innovation, dedicated employees and convincing products and services.

Design Every manufacture has designs that are unique to them.

However, there are generally three types of design which one can say is standard for all of them. These are modern and classic or country depending on what the supplier calls them. Whichever design one chooses, it should be able to be in sync with the rest of the home to bring out a uniformed theme. Buying fitted kitchens has its share of challenges which can be overcome if one takes all precaution when doing a transaction.

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Julius Blum GmbH is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of furniture fittings. The company’s main business segments are lift, hinge, box and runner systems.

The product range is rounded off by services which support customers’ activities in the fields of marketing and logistics. Blum’s innovative products and convenient services are backed up by many years of development, the great know-how of dedicated employees and continuous efforts to identify customer needs along the entire value added chain from kitchen manufacturers, sellers and fitters to end users (i.e. kitchen buyers). The insights gained from this research are incorporated into the development of new products which are beautiful to look at and practical to use.

The family-owned company has seven plants in Vorarlberg which all have state-of-the art workplaces and high-tech production facilities. Blum has been able to

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assert and maintain its position as a reliable supplier to furniture manufacturers and as an innovative leader of the fittings branch thanks to consistent developments in R&D for many years.

“We apply for patents to protect all our latest developments which are designed to meet our customers’ existing and future needs. We’ve been ranked amongst Austria’s best patent applicants for many years. This also bears testimony to our innovative force,” says Jürgen Wilke who is in charge of industrial property rights at Blum. Some 6,400 employees work all over the world today to perfect the motion of Blum’s fittings systems.

Their efforts all focus on the needs of end users. Thanks to continuous dialogue with customers all over the world, Blum comes up with new and innovative product ideas which offer utmost user convenience and make furniture beautiful inside and outside. Blum’s fittings systems excel throughout the home in terms of well-thought-out functions, outstanding design and long service life. Over the years, Blum’s products have won many awards both for product quality and beautiful design. Blum has 27 subsidiaries and agencies. Its products are supplied to more than 100 markets all over the world. Blum is also actively represented in several African countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia.

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Toncelli CUCINE S.r.l From the great Italian cabinet-making tradition to the contemporary tailor made kitchens of today: Toncelli began its journey at the dawn of the 60’s, in the traditional heart of Tuscan wood craft. Today the company is projected into the future with a professionalism reinforced through technology. The aim is the same: to retain their identity.

Founded by the brothers Fernando, Aldo and Vasco, the company is today run by the second generation, with Lorenzo Toncelli as CEO and commercial director and Tommaso Toncelli as art director, Toncelli represents a superb example of a family company able to evolve without compromise, better able to focus on their uniqueness, based on the ability to produce a custom made product, through meticulous attention to detail, of sizes and designs that are truly Italian. In one word, Toncelli is a dynamic business, able to satisfy the needs of each customer, delivering incomparable quality that is both unique and advanced. Essential is of high quality composition, fashion conscious, with balance and style. It is characterized by primary geometric and linear designs, enriched with advanced home automation systems capable of transforming the kitchen into a highly innovative and versatile arena. The doors are completely finished in Spanish Emperador Dark.

Dark Emperador is a dark brown chocolate marble, with fine grain and irregular crossed lighter veins. The occasional marks of “calcite� in cream color enhance its beauty. To guarantee a better functionality and lightness, the marble is structured on glass supports in minimal thickness. The cabinet structures are in a bronze finish, sides and accessories are in black. Between the special elements is highlighted the sliding top that completely hides the washing and cooking areas. Thanks to its contemporary design, Essential can be positioned as normal in the kitchen, but will be equally at home in open spaces and living areas.

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March 2015

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KITCHEN FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

Keeping kitchen fire at bay Advanced Fire Suppression Technologies is an industry leader in fire protection solutions in the sub Saharan African region. The company’s Product Manager illustrates the efficacy of Advanced Fire Suppression Technologies’ products in protecting kitchens from fire accidents, saving companies billions in potential damage to valuable assets.

A

dvanced Fire Suppression Technologies, after being founded, began dealing solely in the fire protection solutions and secured the official sole distributorship of TYCO International safety products in Southern Africa. The TYCO Group needs no introduction in the Fire Protection sector, as the largest fire protection group in the world of providing fire protection needs since 1939. Amongst others, it is renowned for the ANSUL product, which dominates the kitchen sector in the three main purchasing groups.

The chances are that,either you are familiar with the ANSUL brand, but maybe just in the mining sector, or you are not familiar with this product at all, but find yourself in the fire industry.

stainless steel, which, in return, gains the respect of the aesthetic parts of any kitchen.

Why the products are suitable Normally, the first step when selecting a fire system to protect your assets is to perform a hazard analysis, and identify the equipment to be protected. This is where Ansul Kitchen systems have made it really easy to get surety that all is protected. It has numerous incentives, not only for the three main purchasing groups - The Kitchen Hood Fabricator and Kitchen Supply House, the A/E Consultants and Fire departments – but also the end user.

Critical procurement information Mainly, the following information is critical to companies that procure the kitchen systems:

Product demand trends Currently, there is no official occupational health and safety legislation in Southern-Africa making it mandatory to have a Kitchen Suppression system in your commercial kitchen. There is, however, an increase in interest in products, as demonstrated by sales have more than doubled over the last 3 years. And we, as a company, cannot be more proud to be seen as part of this rapid growing business in Southern Africa.

1.

Internationally approved Ansul kitchen systems comply with most of the international approvals and listings –UL300, ULC, MEA, ABS and CE

2.

Available systems There are two types of systems to choose from.First is the R102 which has an Agent only as a Flameknockdown, simultaneously forming a thick blanket to prevent re-flashes. Then is thePiranha System, where the Agent is dispersed first as the main flame retardant and then water will follow, making the Piranha system not only 15 times faster than a normal single agent wet system, but also requires 60% less Agent.

3.

Manual and automatic options All systems are manual and automatic, unlessotherwise stated by the client. Systems can be designed according to a specific floor layout, however, the most popular is to put an overlapping system in place, that will give coverage anywhere underneath the canopy the system is installed on. All systems have a five year limited warranty.

1. Free standing and mechanically operated The Ansul Kitchen Suppression systemis completely free standing and mechanically operated. It can house electrical and gas shut-off valves to shut down appliances, sound alarms and fulfill various other uses.

2. Quick detection and suppression The heart of Ansul Restaurant systems lies in their ability to quickly detect and suppress fires.They are designed in such a way that the complete canopy with the plenum area and ducting are protected. The R102 and Piranha Ansul Kitchen systems use advanced extinguishing agents to ensure rapid flame knockdown and vapour securement. Cooling these high efficiency appliances after initial flame knockdown is critical to eliminate a re-flash and minimising restaurant downtime.

3. Agent with neutral PH The other aspect that makes the product suitable is that its agent consists of pretty much a neutral PH, not only contributing to the safety and environmental aspect, but also leaving stainless appliances and equipment to be free of corrosion when cleaned and maintained according to the Ansul Kitchen Fire Suppression System manual.

4. Aesthetically appealing The other fantastic part is that the whole system is made of 20

Caution Without singling anyone out, when advised to invest in kitchen fire systems, organisations are always quick to point that the reason they have insurance is to cover them in the event of a fire accident. But what they overlookis the irretrievable downtime incurred whilst repairs are taking place, wages that still need to be paid, loss of regular clientele and, even worse, loss of life.

That is why it is important to always have supplement firefighting equipment, such as hand-portable equipment available (correct applications for specific fires) at all times.

March 2015

Oils and Lubricants

T

By Eric Mong'are he world of lubrication is one of diversity.

Each machine, application and set of operating conditions demands a particular combination of

lubricant properties and functions. These demands create the need for a broad spectrum of lubricant formulations.

In Africa Lubricants are subjected to greater extremes in operating speeds along with wider temperature ranges.

This increases the need for lubricants which can provide long life protection against friction, wear, rust and corrosion. Keeping pace with this technological progress manufacturers succeed where conventional products fail.

The result is a full line of products that increase productivity, decrease downtime and extend the life of machinery while providing cost-effective and trouble free maintenance. The market constitutes big fleet owners as well as single equipment owners especially from the rental fraternity. Engine lubricants essentially help in reducing friction in engine parts, keep the machinery protected from wear and tear, thus cutting failure and downtime of machinery at job sites.

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Every maintenance engineer in the continent wants a reliable lubricant to safeguard a piece of machinery’s vital components and moving parts.

The lubricant must reduce friction as well as protect against acids, deposits, water contamination and wear in a range of harsh operating conditions. According to Derk Jan van der Veen marketing manager Rewitec Company based in the central Hesse town of Lahnau any engine has metal friction and by adding an appropriate lubricant you can reduce the friction, reduce wear and by that save money. He also adds that since the future is all about environment and cost saving, both should be addressed by the available products in the market.

NORMA CHUNG-BARDALEZ LE International Ltd’s Sales and Marketing Administrator said there are profitable opportunities available in Africa for companies interested in investing in high performance lubricants. Substantial savings can be achieved by significantly reducing maintenance and operating costs by reducing wear, lubricant and energy consumption. For example, energy savings of between 5-10% are possible by converting equipment to a superior lubricant. By extending lubrication intervals and equipment life, as well as significantly reducing wear, energy requirements, downtime and maintenance costs, the initial cost of LE lubricants is recovered many times over.

Engine oil being the blood of your construction equipment fleet long hours and heavy loads take toll on the bearings and other moving parts in your diesel engines.

It pays to use the most dependable, highest quality oils, lubricants and coolants to keep your construction equipment working. Scott Besedick District Manager Lubriplate Lubricants Co says Lubricants thickened with either aluminum complex or lithium complex and manufactured with heavy base fluids are the most popular products for heavy duty construction equipment. For example, LUBRIPLATE No. 1444 grease is aluminum March 2015

complex grease with a heavy base fluid and it also contains additive to make it very adhesive. This grease seals out dirt, rocks and other airborne contaminants hence preventing bearing failures.

Lubriplate Lubricants For 142 years Lubriplate Lubricants has manufactured and sold highest quality lubricants to the lubricant industry.

The company is committed to developing manufacturing quality lubricants that meet and exceed your expectations.

Their Greases thickened with either aluminum complex or lithium complex and manufactured with heavy base fluids are the most popular products for heavy duty construction equipment. Their LUBRIPLATE No. 1444 grease is aluminum complex grease with a heavy base fluid containing additive that makes it adhesive, the aluminum complex thickener also products a very high melting point for No. 1444.

Frequently professionals in the construction industry prefer their red-colored greases that are thick, tacky and adhesive. LUBRIPLATE LTR-2 answers this market requirement. LTR-2 is lithium complex grease. Open gear and fifth wheel applications are very prevalent in heavy duty construction. LUBRIPLATE Gear Shield Extra Heavy is our recommendation for both of these applications. Also their gear oils are available in SAE80W-90 and SAW

85W-140 viscosities. These products may be used for both rear end/differential applications and in gear boxes on rock crushing and shaker screen equipment. Serving both automotive and gear reducer needs, the “Kling Gear” Oils deliver lubricants consolidation for customers.According to LUBRIPLATE Lubricants Company Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Jim Girard their products are available in the African market especially in Egypt and South Africa and they are currently looking for distributors across the continent.Jim also added that clients looking for best lubricants to compare the specification sheets closely and Make sure they are receiving the value proposition which is being promoted.

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Hydraulic Oils

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FOR EQUIPMENT OPERATING IN THE MOST DEMANDING CONDITIONS

Lubriplate® Lubricants Newark, NJ 07105 USA / www.lubriplate.com Contact: Bernie Meeks - Global Mining Specialist Tel: +01 505 320-1123 / bmeeks@lubriplate.com March 2015

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Westpark Suites

W

Kenya

estpark Suites is an upcoming project strategically placed on Ojijo Road, just off Parklands Road in the Westlands surburb of Nairobi. It is a development by Highwayy, who are also behind another prestigious development on Uhuru Highway known as Highwayy Mall among others. The location of the project is ideal in that it is only two minutes from Uhuru Highway and Thika Super Highway making it easily accessible to shopping, schools and hospitals. Work commenced in July 2014 and is expected to go on until January 2016.

The Project The building consists of eight floors of open plan with room for 35 modular suites and three penthouses. Exteriorly , the building will have angular shapes complimented by soft curves and blue tinted glass. Other features that will make the building attractive to buyers or tenants include: • Energy efficient glass façade exterior to minimize heat.

• Acoustic ceiling with LED lighting for lower power consumption.

• Large windows for generous views, natural light and airflow, • Wi-Fi enabled • Suites fitted with high quality neutral colored granite tiles Other conveniences include three levels of parking that can accommodate up to 87 cars, 24-hour security with CCTV and two standby power-back-up generators for suites and lifts for common areas respectively.

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There is also gong t o be no water shortages as a borehole is being sunk on site.

By the time it’s complete, the project is anticipated to have cost Ksh 450 million (approximately US$ 5 million).

The project team is led by Hussein Associates, Architects and Interior Designers. The firm has been in business for the last 15 years and has handled several other projects including Highway Court along 2nd Parklands Avenue.

Virtually all construction projects experience some challenges in execution. This often results in delays and cost overruns. However, Westpark Suites seems to have kicked off without major hitches except for heavy rains a few months into the project, resulting in slowed progress in those early days.

Project Team Developer: Highwayy Group Architects: Hussein Associates Main Contractor: Dina Builders Ltd Structural/Civil Engineers: I-Continental Consultants Mechanical/Electrica Engineers: Bison Consultants Quantity Surveyor: M.S. Murunga March 2015

We are proud to be associated with Westpark Office Suites as the Main Contractor

The Axis

Hussein & Associates

Symbion Architects

Ikon Designs/Radius Architects

P.O. Box. 38149 - 00623 Nairobi | Kenya. Phone: +254(0) 721493454, +254(0) 721271644 Email: info@dinabuilders.com , vipul@dinabuilders.com dinabuilders@hotmail.com, Website: dinabuilders.com

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The Axis

Kenya

Building Dreams by Creating Elegant, Cost-effective Buildings FHG Architecture (K) Ltd Around the world, architectural firms strive to stamp their seals on the built environment. This is something that FHG Architecture (K) Ltd, a planning and design studio based in Nairobi, Kenya, clearly understands.

By John Njiraini

A

26

Take for examplethe modern and futuristic office

A vibrant practice with substantial experience cutting across several architectural disciplines, FHG Architecture is keen on delivering projects

bock in Nairobi’s Westlands suburb known as The Axis.

that are creative, functional and aesthetically appealing

so. Valued at KSh500 million (approximately US$ 5.3

within budgetary and time constraints. To that end, the

million), the client’s brief was simple – an office block

firm has accomplished projects ranging from office blocks,

that encompasses a modern working environment. FHG

healthcare facilities and gated communities to institutions

was able to deliver on the brief by coming up with a design

and residences. FHG Architecture is driven by the primary

that included an inviting entrance, as many car parks as

desire of creating elegant, well designed and cost-effective

possible and even a rooftop that can be used for various

facilities, a philosophy that is evident in its works.

functions like office parties and cocktails.

Though the firm has undertaken many projects, The Axis is one project that it is especially proud of and rightly

March 2015

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Eagle Plains Housing Estate

project, Andrew Kimani was the Project Architect with a team of over 10 local and international consultants on three continents. The Design Architect was FNDA Canada who brought in a wealth of experience in the medical field leading to an undoubtedly modern treatment facility that cost in excess of KSh1.8 billion (US$ 19 million). This cooperation with international partners helped bridge numerous local challenges and required special attention due to its complexity.

Apart from The Axis and the Aga Khan Hospital Heart and Cancer Centre, other projects include the Eagle Plains Housing Estate, off Mombasa Road, and other gated communities in Lower Kabete, Athi River, Syokimau and Nakuru; residences in Nyari, Kikuyu, Muthaiga and Runda, apartments, institutional projects and many others. Outside Kenya, FHG has undertaken projects across the region including in South Sudan, and Tanzania.

According to Thumbi, FHG has managed to cut a niche as a leading firm due to adherence to various factors. To start with, the firm has a team of highly qualified professionals who are committed to delivering

Kenya

The Axis, according to Samuel Thumbi who is one of the directors, in many ways represents the principles of FHG Architecture. “We are a practice that strives to service the needs of clients, exceed their expectations and ensure their budgets are met,” he says, adding that FHG is not simply an architectural, interior design or planning firm but a team of people who are committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective projects. “We believe our work is to create an icon after an icon by being keen and thorough while guided by integrity,” adds Andrew Kimani, a fellow director.

FHG Architecture (K) Ltd’s history dates back to more than a decade ago to a firm that was established in 2003 by Architect Kimani and a Kenyan-Canadian architect. In 2011, the firm spawned off a new practice FHGArchitecture (K) Ltd- with directors Arch. Andrew Kimani, Arch. SamuelThumbi and Arch. Caleb Mutali.

The establishment of the practice therefore can well be described as the amalgamation of international expertise and an understanding of local conditions.

This convergence of expertise was reflected in the Aga Khan Hospital Heart and Cancer Centre. In this

Skyline Builders (E.A) Ltd

Building and Civil Engineering Works

ICPAK OFFICE BLOCK

DUCHESS PARK

FORWAC EDUCATION CENTRE

A member of Skyline Group: Associated Companies: Skyline Plumbers Ltd, Energen Electricals Ltd, Skyline Traders Ltd and Fluid Systems Ltd

We are proud to be associated with FHG Architecture (K) limited Landhies Road, Nacico Plaza, 4th Floor I Contacts: 020-2037630, +254 770 307 101, +254 720 966 516 March 2015

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Arch Samuel Thumbi

high quality projects. The team, together with external consultants whom the firm partners with in projects, is able to come up with design concepts that exceed the expectations of clients. “We have a team whose sole objective is to seek to understand the needs of clients and deliver beyond their expectations,” he explains.

FHG is also very keen and thorough on details. In this respect, the firm seeks to clearly understand the needs of clients and offer professional advice on issues like legal requirements, regulations and most importantly, the anticipated cost of a project. Indeed unlike some other firms that propagate their own ideas and appear to impose them on clients, FHG enlightens, guides and involves clients in all aspects of the project, something that enables them to make informed decisions. “We like to bevery honest and transparent with clients because we know problems arise when the client is not well informed,” states Kimani.

Making the client understand the many facets of a project is critical particularly in terms of budgeting. While the aspiration of a client is for a project to be implemented within budget and within certain timelines, cases of projects overshooting budget and dragging for long can arise. To avoid such eventualities, it is important to get everything right at the design stage. “As a firm, we get into a project wholeheartedly. We are very detailed and don’t take anything for granted because we want to offer the best services to clients,” notes Thumbi.

Tragically, while FHG and other likeminded firms adhere to professionalism, the building and construction industry is awash with poorly implemented projects. Cases of buildings collapsing are rampant in various parts of the country while in Nairobi alone, it is estimated that about 50 per cent of the buildings are not up to required standards.

According to Kimani, this sorry state of affairs emanates from weak regulation.“There is

Kenya

Arch Andrew Kimani

P.O. Box 43436 Nairobi 00100 Kenya Tel. (+254 20) 2217002/2216990/315680 Fax: (+254 20) 2217005/2218314 Email: sentrim@sentrim.co.ke

The Axis, Nairobi

Markan Consultants Ltd Consulting Engineers & Project Managers

We are proud to be associated with FHG Architecture (K) Limited

We are proud to be associated with FHG Architecture on The Axis Project 28

P.O. Box 46647 - 0010 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254-20-3754025/6, +254-20-2025017 Fax: +254-20-3754024 Cell: 0722 612808 1st flr Studio House, Plum Lane, Off Ojijo Road, Parklands Email: info@markanconsultantsltd.com www.markanconsultantsltd.com March 2015

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a need to regulate the entire construction industry,” he states, adding that while currently the law is strict on professionals like architects, engineers and quantity surveyors, other players in the chain are not subjected to the same. Apart from tightening regulations, Kimani also wants to see more local firms participating in huge projects particularly infrastructural projects. Currently, the area is dominated by foreign firms. Kimani feels that while local firms might lack experience, it is important for the government to create mechanisms for expertise

sharing. “More critically, the government must ensure it secures participation of local firms in the projects even if they are foreign financed. This will help in building local capacity.”

Despite the challenges in the industry, FHG is optimistic of the future going by the significant growth being experienced in the building and construction industry. Indeed the firm would like to see itself associated with major projects in Kenya and the region in the days ahead.

RUGUMI BUILDING CONTRACTORS LTD Dealers in Building Contractors, General supplies & Transport Services

Ngara Road opposite Ngara Post Office, Kiambu Mwitumberia Building, 1st Floor Door No. 9 P. O. Box 41770 - 00100 Nairobi, Cell: 0737 778 286, 0722 778 286, 0772 778 286, Email: rugumij@yahoo.com

Supply and installation of: Steam Boilers, Waste Incinerators, Air Compressors, Autoclaves, heat exchangers, Bore hole Pumps, Plumbing/drainage, water reticulation & treatment systems.

We are proud to be associated with FHG Architecture (K) Ltd

P. O. Box 58380 Nairobi city square I Tel: 254-2-2689999 I Cellular 0722553520 Fax: 254-2-2689999 I E-mail: info@aquaboil.co.ke, aquaboil@yahoo.com Registered office: Jogoo Rd. Motor-World Thievan Bldg fourth Flr. Suite 4.

Work/Shop: Lokitaung Rd. Off Likoni Rd. Industrial Area Nairobi.

March 2015

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Kenya

We are proud to be associated with FHG Architecture (K) Ltd

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Kenya

Kaluworks Limited Commissions first ever Wide-Width Colour Coating Line in East Africa

K

ALUWORKS LIMITED was set up in 1929 and is among the oldest companies in Kenya. The company has made history by growing continuously over the last 80 years.

Predominantly a cookware manufacturer, Kaluworks diversified

into Aluminium Rolled Products by setting up a state of the art Aluminium Rolling Plant at Mariakani, Mombasa in 1988. Since then, after a series of upgrades on the process and machinery, consisting of a Foundry Continuous Caster, Cold Rolling Mill and other Finishing Equipment, Kaluworks started rolling out high quality Aluminium

We are proud to be associated with Kaluworks Limited

Coils, Sheets, Circles and Roofing Products.

The company has established its mark as a manufacturer of Quality Aluminium Roofing Products and carved a niche for excellence in performance and quality in the Eastern and sub Saharan region.

This modern technology is run by highly qualified, experienced and talented professionals who have ensured the products are of high quality and meet international standards. The company is ISO 9001 and 14001 certified, recognized for the high quality products it supplies the market.

Recently, Kaluworks Limited has commissioned the first ever state-of-the-art colour coating line which has a width capacity of up to 1400mm. This is by far the widest width of painted coils in East Africa. Thus taking a major leap in the infrastructure sector.

Kaluworks is also committed to ensuring a healthy and safe working environment by operating within stipulated regulations of the factory and other places of work.

For more information, please call +254 722 205024/733 622 311.

Email: enquiries @kaluworks.com or visit www.kaluworks.com

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March 2015

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Machakos Hospitality Sector Reinvigorated

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The Project elian Hotel is a 90-room hotel set on a 1400 square metre piece of land in Machakos town, south east of Nairobi. The hotel is arranged on eight floors, served by a lift. A terrace has been provided and will be accessible by all guests to enjoy spectacular views of the greater Machakos.

The greater landscape is dominated by numerous undulations and elevations of the ground from which the building stands out. The peculiar topography of the site, its orientation and unobstructed views of Machakos, are the starting points in the building’s design which was conceived as an introverted volume that adapts itself to the site constraints and reliefs, thereby developing the interior

Kenya

Gelian Hotel is the latest addition to the hospitality sector in this vibrant town. Located in the town centre, the hotel is strategically positioned to serve travelers, business community and the general public. spaces that are a combination of charm, quiet, elegance and solicitous comfort. All this is intended to offer convenient world class facilities from which to explore the greater Machakos town.

The building opens its interiors to the sky above and to the hillside, in order to offer the traveler a tourism alternative that promotes understanding of the natural environment and its conservation. Work on the project started in January 2013 with the demolition of old building structures that existed on the site.

No modern building designed by professionals can escape scrutiny as to whether the design team had “green� ideas when coming up with their designs. Gelian Hotel adequately answers these concerns.

Unighir Ltd

P. O Box 10049 - 00400, Road C, Off Enterprise Rd, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 20 261 3669 / 70 Cell: +254 (0) 722 236 428, 733 974 870 Email: info@unighir.com www.unighir.com

we are proud to be associated with the Gelian Hotel Project

March 2015

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The hotel boasts of a passive solar building design which allows buildings to harness the energy of the sun efficiently without the use of any active solar mechanisms such as photovoltaic cells and

use of designs that

incorporate materials with high thermal mass that retains heat effectively while at the same time acting as strong insulation to prevent heat escape.

The design utilizes a low surface area to volume ratio to minimize heat loss and introduces a large central atrium that acts as an air exchange unit between the rooms and the outside while large windows provide adequate ventilation and lighting. In addition to this the roofs are angled towards the sun to allow solar water heaters to collect at maximum efficiency to heat up water for use across the building, while windows have been placed to maximize the input of heat-creating light while minimizing the loss of

we are proud to be associated with the Gelian Hotel Project

heat through glass Guests at Gelian will enjoy superior facilities including, air-conditioned rooms, key card entry, LED TV with cable

Kenya

television, high speed broadband internet access, coffee/ tea making facilities and minibar, safety deposit box and

a

anka

quantity surveyors | project managers

in room telephone. In addition there are executive rooms TRV Office Plaza, 58 Muthithi road, 4C Tel: +254 20 211 5559 www.ankaconsults.co.ke

for additional luxury and exclusivity. The Ksh 350 million (US$3.7 million) project is scheduled for completion in February 2015. There have been no major challenges experienced so far by the team except for bad weather at the beginning which caused some delays.

Project Team Client:

Mechanical Subcontractor

Gelian Investments Ltd

Trident Plumbers

Consultants Architects Tectura International

Uneek Electrics Lift Subcontractors

Quantity Surveyors

Schindler Ltd

Anka Consultants

Kitchen &Laundry Services

Civil & Structural Engineers

Unighir Kitchens

Eastern Consulting

Cctv & Structured Cabling

Electrical /Mechanical Engineers

Telecommunication Today

Ibcon Associates

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Electrical Subcontractor

Paints & Decorators

Contractors

Basco Paints

Main Contractor

Air Conditioning & Refrigiration Services

N.k Brothers

Delburge Ltd March 2015

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Kenya

Greenhill Hotel – Village Market Competition in Kenya’s hospitality industry is to go a notch higher with the coming onto the scene of another hotel – The Greenhill Village Market. The hotel is designed by Symbion Kenya Limited.

T

he Symbion Group is one of the most respected architectural, planning and design houses in East Africa. Over the years, the Nairobi-based studio has churned hundreds of elegant projects across virtually the entire architectural platform – from grand hotels and housing complexes to commercial buildings and industrial structures among many others. Symbion has bases in at least four countries in Africa but operates in nearly 15 countries on the continent. It is managed by some of the best brains in the industry. The award winning practice has at least 30 years experience in architecture.

Among their latest projects in the hospitality industry is the proposed Greenhills Hotel in Gigiri, a suburb of Nairobi associated with diplomats and the affluent. It is located within The Village Market, a popular up market shopping and leisure complex in the area. The complex also accommodates The Tribe Hotel, an internationally acclaimed five-star establishment by the same developer, Greenhills Investments Limited. Says the developer, “Majority of visitors and tourists cannot afford the services at Tribe Hotel and the construction of Green Hill Hotel (three-star) will benefit many people as its services will be relatively cheaper.”

According to Symbion, “This proposed 165-bedroom hotel has been designed with the intention to seamlessly integrate with and enhance the existing Village Market Shopping Mall. The development will provide approximately 570 parking bays on two levels which will serve both the new hotel and extend the parking opportunities to users of the Shopping Mall. In addition to the proposed bedrooms, the hotel will offer a new pool terrace and bar plus supporting gym facilities.”

They add that the hotel room is also designed with conference facilities to accommodate up to 450 people, with breakout spaces into a lush landscaped area. “The hotel will also provide additional opportunities for retail shops, which will link to the existing Shopping Mall facilities on two levels.”

Project Team Client: Greenhills Investments Ltd Architects: Symbion Kenya Limited Quantity Surveyor: Harold R. Fenwick Engineers: Civil Engineering Design, EAMS, LDK Main Contractor: Seyani Brothers

March 2015

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Civil Engineering Design (K) Limited CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS

We are proud to be associated with the Green Hills Hotel Village Market Project Sri Sathya Sai Centre, P.O. Box 54531 Nairobi 00200 Kenya. Tel: 020 8068141. Email: info@ced.co.ke

HAROLD R. FENWICK & ASSOCIATES Chartered Quantity Surveyors

Kenya

We are proud to be associated with Symbion Architects on the Village Market Expansion Project P.O. Box14994-00800 Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (020) 2108281, 2621669, 0734 555412, 0722 204591 Email: fenwick@fenwick.co.ke

5

th

b2b Meetings CEO IntErvIEws

siLVer sPonsor

Regional Roundtables bronZe sPonsor

Zambia international mining & energy ConferenCe & exhibition

organised by

Use Code abri to get 5% DisCouNT off deLegate and eXHibitor Fee

18–19 June 2015

Ministry of Mines, energy and Water developMent Republic of Zambia

The New GoverNmeNT Complex CoNfereNCe CeNTre•lusaka, zambia

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March 2015

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Giving Kenyans Affordable Homes Karibu Homes Riverview

B

ecause of Athi River’s easy access to Nairobi via Mombasa Road and the new Syokimau Railway, home buyers are increasingly finding the area attractive. But the principal reason is the affordability of homes owing to the fact that land is still relatively cheap and available as opposed to the situation in Nairobi suburbs. Another attraction is the serene views and a feeling of country living yet being in close proximity to the capital city.

Developers in the area have come up with homes targeting both young and established families. Many of these developments are apartments, bungalows and maisonettes. Karibu Homes is one of the developers providing affordable housing in Athi River. Their project, Karibu Homes Riverview, is a massive 1080-unit development set on 20 acres.

Founded in 2012, the company aims at providing affordable but commercially viable homes to families and individuals in the lower echelon of the income ladder.

“We also believe that home ownership provides security, stability, a foundation from which a family can develop, a sense of community besides being a viable appreciating asset”, says the developer.

Karibu Homes Riverview consists of two house types of 1 to 3 bedrooms. They have been named Athi and Tana.

According to Karibu Homes, the Athis are designed and priced specifically for first time home owners and families.

Kenya

Athi River is an expansive area in Machakos County, about 35 kilometres south of Nairobi. Like other areas surrounding the Kenyan capital, Athi River has seen massive development in recent years with multiple residential projects coming up. Industries have not been left behind either with manufacturing companies setting up plants while others have put up godowns.

“We have reduced the finishes to allow for a better price by removing the tiled floor and providing a coloured screed finish so that buyers can opt to enhance the unit over time and when they can afford it. The same applies to fitted cupboards and kitchen storage. This allows buyers to get out of a rental situation and onto the housing ladder quickly while also allowing families to incrementally finish the unit. The Tanas are fully fitted and priced to reflect this (they come with tiled floors and fitted kitchens).” Say the developers.

Features/Amenities The development comprises three phases spread over nine courts. It is designed with the family in mind and therefore Project Team Client: Karibu Homes Architect: Lexicon + Ion Designs Services Engineers: Gill Consult Quantity Surveyor: Tandem & Stark Main Contractor: Sichuan Huashi Selling Agents: Karibu Homes and Fortress Consulting Financing: Shelter Afrique

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Applewood Park, 4th Flr Wing B, Wood Avenue, Kilimani P.O. Box 28341-00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 254 (020) 3544776, 0722 387814 Fax: 254 (020) 313998. info@gillconsult.org www.gillconsult.org

Electrical & Mechanical Engineering Consultants We are proud to be associated with Karibu Homes Kenya

provides a great living environment. Features include: • Shops as an integral part of each phase • Green spaces including large open space for weekend markets and exercise • Community hall • Half basketball courts • Nursery school/crèche • Health centre • Boundary wall (gated community concept) • Riverside walks Others include boreholes, underground water storage (100,000 litres for each phase), overhead water tanks, 3-phase electrical connection to each phase and secure entry and exit points. A spine road will service the development to allow for such services as garbage collection and emergency vehicles. As part of the green considerations in the design, rainwater run-off will be used for landscaping while solar water heating will be availed. In addition, the development will be served by EPZ sewer and therefore no need for septic tanks.

Master planner and landscaper, Arthur Adeya of Lexicon + Ion, made a detailed landscaping design with indigenous trees suited to the Athi River environment. He also made extensive use of yellow stone in the development and employed bearing walls as opposed to columns to keep costs low and maintain a user-friendly design. The whole master plan and design had been reviewed by Arup International to ensure that the development met international standards.

Challenges The challenges encountered are not much different from what other projects are faced with. Approval from local authorities is almost always slow and cumbersome. However, Karibu Homes have good consultants who expedited the process. Another hurdle was project finance which can be very expensive in Kenya. The developer nevertheless did manage to team up with reputable financiers who also have expertise in housing thereby creating a winning team.

Groundbreaking of Karibu Homes Riverview took place at the beginning of September last year with the first units expected to be ready for occupation by March 2016.

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Optiven out to empower people

O

ptiven Limited is a rapidly growing real estate company in Kenya. Its main business at the moment is provision of value added land that

has been subdivided into suitable plots ideal for homes. In addition to the value added pieces of land, Optiven Limited provides home development solutions to its customers.

Under the leadership of CEO George Wachiuri, the company has experienced phenomenal growth. To illustrate the pace of Optiven, the company recently joined the elite club of Top 100 medium-sized companies. Top 100 is an annual survey by the region’s leading media house – Nation Media Group – and international audit firm, KPMG. The Survey seeks to identify Kenya’s fastest growing medium sized companies in order to showcase business excellence and highlight some of the country’s

George Wachiuri - Optiven CEO

Kenya

most successful entrepreneurship stories.

Optiven goes beyond selling plots. Unlike many land sellers, Optiven goes an extra mile by providing social amenities like accessible roads, clean drinking water and electricity in the areas where it operates. The company does this as a way of giving back to the society. This has made the company attract an increasing number of investors and prospective home owners.

And the company is not targeting people within Kenya only. Optiven is keen to tap into the diaspora market.

There is a huge investment interest by Kenyans living abroad. Many are sending money to purchase land and build homes. It has therefore become important to look for a trustworthy and experienced organization that can effectively serve this need. To this end, Optiven has appointed various individuals outside Kenya to be its liaison partners who will be advising Kenyans living in those regions on the options available.

The company works with banks and financial institutions to enable individuals purchase their plots at easy terms.

Optiven also maintains a highly informative website and a presence on social media where one can get all information on its services.

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Greensquare Mall to Boost Kericho’s Stature Kericho is a mid-sized town nestled in Kenya’s Rift Valley.

It is at the heart of Kenya's biggest water catchment area, the Mau Forest. With a high altitude and reliable rains, Kericho is the centre of Kenya's tea growing industry and hosts some of the country’s largest tea plantations.

As the town continues to grow in the face of the devolved political and economic system adopted by Kenya several years ago, investors have taken an even keener interest in Kericho. Consequently, the town is about to experience its first ultramodern shopping mall –

Kenya

Project Team Developer: Greensquare Mall Ltd

Management

Architect: Team 2 Architects

Letting Agents: Dunhill Consulting

Engineers: Engplan Consulting

Main Contractor: Seyani Brothers

Engineers/Norkun Intakes

Electricals: Master Power Systems

Quantity Surveyors: Harold R.

Plumbing/Firefighting: Trident

Fenwick

Plumbers Ltd

Project Managers: Limojade

Lifts: Schindler

the Greensquare Mall.

“Kericho’s population of more than one million people is currently served only by small hotels and single retail outlets, yet boasts a wide base of affluent consumers”, says Chris Ng’eno of Greensquare Mall Limited, the developers. Kenya’s leading retail supermarket – Nakumatt – is poised to be the anchor tenant.

Designed by Team 2 Architects, the Greensquare

We are proud to be associated with Kericho Greensquare Mall as their preferred Electrical Sub Contractors

Mall is located along the busy Kericho-Kisumu highway strategically set to serve not only Kericho residents but also the thousands of travelers who use this major transport corridor.

The mall comprises three floors of shopping and entertainment with over 135 parking spaces made available. It has a lettable area of 105,572 square feet.

The project is projected to cost more than Ksh 500 million (Approximately US$5,000,000).

Features and amenities Greensquare Mall will be served by two lifts. Provision has been made for easy access by disabled persons. A borehole on site will guarantee continued supply of water to the building. There is also standby power to ensure business continuity in the event of outages from the national grid. Greensquare Mall will be fully secured with

KENYA

HEAD OFFICE, NAIROBI P.O. Box 976-00606 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254774137828/+254705976976/ +254731976976 Fax: +254-20-3756280 Email: info@masterpowers.com

UGANDA MOMBASA P.O. Box 95864 Mkomani, Mombasa Tel: +254710670384/254734976976 Email: infomsa@masterpowers.com

KAMPALA P.O. Box 7715 Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256-006414 566020/030 Fax: +256-41-4566040 Email: info.ug@masterpowers.com

www.masterpowers.com An ISO 9001:2008, BS OHSAS 18001:2007 and ISO 14001:2004 Certified Company

38

CCTV installed in all public areas. Like in many modern buildings, the building will be internet ready.

Groundbreaking took place last June and construction is expected to take 18 months. The project is being managed

by Limojade Management while Dunhill Consulting will be the letting agent.

No major challenges have been experienced so far safe for heavy rains that often hit the Kericho area.

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HAROLD R. FENWICK & ASSOCIATES Chartered Quantity Surveyors

We are proud to be associated with the Greensquare Mall Kericho as the Project Quantity Surveyors

Pan Africa Life Assurance Building

P.O. Box14994-00800 Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (020) 2108281, 2621669, 0734 555412, 0722 204591 Email: fenwick@fenwick.co.ke

VEE VEE ENTERPRISES LTD perfection and passion for innovation.

Vee Vee Enterprises Ltd has served as

Projects

main contractor in Kenya Police projects

Specifically, Vee Vee Enterprises has

and has also undertaken construction of

undertaken the following projects among

various facilities at institutions of higher learning (Technical University of Kenya and Masai Mara University).

The company has also undertaken projects with Kenya Railways, Coffee Research

Foundation

and

Insurance

Regulatory Authority among many other organizations.

Mr Ram feels that the business climate

others: •

Ngong Police station •

direction as far as support for stakeholders is concerned. He however decries the status of credit. “It is a nightmare and is the biggest bottleneck in the growth of the

Type ‘E’ flats at CID training school, SouthC

•

Renovation of Public Works building

•

Hostel construction at Masai Mara University

•

Construction of 10 storey building for the Civil Engineering Department of

in Kenya is currently conducive. He also reckons that the government is in the right

Residential and Administrative block at Kenya

Vee Vee Enterprises Ltd is a Nairobi-based contractor founded about nine years ago.

In that period, the company has continued to grow and expand its capacity to handle more and bigger projects.

According to Managing Director Mr G.B. Ram, the company was established with the aim of undertaking government and related works, something that it continues to do even today. Apart from building structures, the firm undertakes other civil works such as roads, bridges as well as water and sewerage works.

Vee Vee Enterprises is adequately staffed to handle practically any project.

The company employs 4 civil engineers, 2 quantity surveyors, 5 construction foremen, 3 fabrication foremen, 2 joinery foremen, 3 procurement specialists, an administration manager and a human resources manager.

The firm’s core values are performance,

Technical University of Kenya •

Construction of 624 units for Kenya Railways,

•

Hostel construction for Coffee Research Foundation Ruiru.

sector”, he says.

We offer solutions in the fields of Electrical, Instrumentation, Networking, CCTV, Solar Engineering & Contracting Services

We are proud to be associated with Vee Vee Enterprises Ltd Authorised ABB Channel Partner in East Africa for Instrumentation products.

P. O. Box 1604-00606 Nairobi. Tel: +254 703 700797, info@sesssolutions.com, www.sesssolutions.com March 2015

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Design of Gorgora Nova Eco Resort , Gondor- Suit rooms (10 hectars of land)

Ethiopia

Meskerem Tamiru Consulting and Trading plc …becoming well experienced in observing and solving major problems of projects before and during construction period on construction site and in consulting offices, have encouraged her to start her own firm and transfer the knowledge she accumulated during her professional years.

F

ounded in August 2008, Meskerem Tamiru consulting and Trading plc is bound to become one of the leading consulting firms in Ethiopia.

Meskerem, owner of the company, graduated in Architecture and Town Planning from Addis Ababa University in 1993EC. In addition she has certified in Management from Open University, Bahir Dar Polytechnic Institute.

As an architectural designer, construction supervisor and contract administrator, Meskerem is practicing Professional Architect with more than 20 years of experience. Her experience includes residence, offices, hotels, colleges and hospital buildings in addition to landscape design. She has been engaged in various tasks as designer of hotels, hospitals, as quality surveying, payment processing and preparation of tenders and contract agreements.

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All the more she has extensive experience in Architectural design of buildings and knowledge of computer aided design and drafting through AutoCAD series.

Vision + Mission Becoming a dominant consulting service, chiefly providing contract administration service for Africa and the world, has been the (core) sturdy vision on which the firm has been built up on. The firm that refuses to be satisfied by just providing design, supervisions and administration of construction works, is keen on striving to become a standard by which other consulting firms measure their performance. Starting off with developing the capacity of young consultants and contractors in the field of contract administration work, strongly established in Ethiopia, the firm then missions to penetrate into Africa and world market.

March 2015

Ethiopia

Hawassa University Landscaping works (22 hectars of land). As technical advisor jointly with FLORA agricultural Estate plc

Values W/o Meskerem points out that her firm highly values capacity building of professionals, excellence in performance, punctuality, teamwork, dedication to objectives, respect, professionalism, quality, customer focus, friendliness, resourcefulness and stimulating work environment.

Service + Projects The firm offers services that include complete Architectural Design of Buildings and Landscape, Quality Assurance and Author Control Supervision, Contract Administration, supervision of construction works, research into alternative construction technology, construction materials and construction and creation of experience sharing media. Meskerem Tamiru consulting PLC has been caring a number of projects over the years, some that contrasts in the portfolio are: • Hawassa University Landscapeing works (22 hectares of land) as technical advisor jointly with FLORA agricultural Estate plc • Design of Gorgora Nova Eco Resort in Gondor (10 hectares of land) • Embassy of Ireland at Kasanchis area in Addis Ababa, as technical advisor and contract administrator • Armed forces hospital under construction in Debrezeit as design revision architect

•

Resort hotel near the shore of Tana Lake in Bahirdar as Resident Engineer and Contract administrator…

Behind her success Meskerem states that her inspiration to become an architect generated from her pursuit for freedom, abhorrence towards limitation, interest in art and her aspiration to add her creativity in the mix. She was soon convinced that Architecture would be the suitable profession to truly find herself and her destination. “…I have always been one to admire defined beauty so Architecture for me is a freedom to express myself in my ideas and designs,” She states “it helps me listen to my inner self…”

Challenges in the Industry Being one of the few senior women architects in Ethiopia, the challenges Meskerem confronted in the construction industry goes back to the time she first joined the profession. She explains that throughout her professional years she has tackled a lot of stereotyping towards her profession itself and her gender in relation with the profession. She says she has encountered the majority of the society not really understanding the importance of architecture nor believing that it can be a females’ job.

Regardless, the nay saying only gave her strength and enthused her to work hard in creating awareness in

March 2015

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Design of Gorgora Nova Eco Resort , Gondor- Main building (10 hectars of land)

Ethiopia

the society as to change the stereotyped attitude towards women in her profession.

Being an architect who tends to lean on her perfectionist side, picking up on tiny details and demanding her ideas to be born into identical reality has made her spent more than half of her professional years on construction sites than in her office. Meskerem has worked on sites throughout Ethiopia facing all the challenges that comes in respect of societies’ culture and lack of awareness.

“Whenever I come across conflicts with the society in relation to my gender and profession, I see it more of an opportunity than a challenge,,, an opportunity to evidently show that females can be fit for this profession and I use myself as a living proof”. Meskerem insists that there is a lack of unity thus lack of active communications among

the different associations with in the construction industry.

She mentions that professionals, including herself, in construction industry have great responsibility in changing the build environment to a healthier level.

Although there is to be done a lot on the governments’ side in implementing quality control over building equipment, she advises that it’s also the professionals responsibility to create awareness to clients and the society as a whole about environmental friendly constructions and its perks.

She says there is a lot to be done both on the governments’ and professionals’ side in improving laws and regulations, licensed professions, quality control and all the other problems that the industry faces today.

Hawassa University Landscaping works (22 hectars of land) . As technical advisor jointly with FLORA agricultural Estate plc

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March 2015

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one-of-a-kind mall in Mthatha South Africa

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By Mashudu Mulovhedzi thatha’s largest state-of-the-art mall is underway with its completion expected on28 May 2015.The mall which is located to the south of Mthatha CBD, near the N2 bypassis conveniently located and should attractmany walkin customers as it is located close to both the CBD and across the stadium.So far R1,3 Billion is being been injected into this project to ensure that the residents of Mthatha and surrounding areas enjoy a quality shopping experience.Billion Group’s brain child is funded

by Nedbank Corporate Property Finance. This is a one-of-a-kind shopping mall in the town of Mthatha, “Its size is more than twice any commercial structure ever built in this town, providing a full tenant mix of national and regional traders”, says Vinay Panday, Group Marketing Manager for Billion Group. The mall comprises of 60,000 sqm of gross lettable area which will consist of more than 150 shops.

“There is a dedicated on-grade taxi terminus on the street with a dedicated mall entrance for the convenience of taxi commuter customers. Even agymnasium is included in the tenant mix. To allow for smoother traffic flow all loading yards are accessed away from the car circulation system.”

Unique Architectural Design elements The mall has a circular layout that allows circumnavigation for more convenience and less customer boredom. It is an elevated mall built over a parking level to provide direct vertical access for car borne customers. The raised elevation of the mall also presents a good visualattraction at road level for increased customer awareness of the mall.

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S.Vena and Associates Land Surveyors S.Vena is also one of the participants on the mega construction development in Mthatha, BT Ngebs. Some of the areas in which they have offered their expertise includeCadastral surveys, engineering surveys, GIS and GPS. The company, although not for this mall, also offers sectional title surveys, township surveys,powerline and pipeline surveys and communal land rights.

“The establishment of this practise started as an idea when I was working in Cape Town and became aware of the need to open a survey firm in Mthatha. Utilising the expertise and experience gained in various survey fields in Cape Town, I then established S.Vena and Associates Land Surveyors in Mthatha,” said Sigbo Vena, the manager of S.Vena.

The company has maintained a healthy working relationship with other fellow consultants with expertise in town planning, civil engineering, environmental consultants, architects, quantity surveyors and management consultants. The Development of Billion Group in Mthatha will bring a new and exciting shopping experience to the region. The mall is named, BT Ngebs, in memory of one of the regions founder entrepreneurs and great sportsman Sisa Ngebulana’s grandfather, Buchanan Tandi Ngebulana. Sisa is the founder and executive chairman of the Billion Group. His grandfather, BT

Ngebulana played rugby for Border and Western Province and then moved onto the Springboks in the 1940’s. With his sharp entrepreneurial eye he started a soap factory in East London (Fort Jackson) after the 2nd world war when there was a shortage of soap. He was the Bushbucks rugby club lifetime honorary president. BT Ngebulana also had a taxi business which ran between East London and Butterworth. On one of the trips he returned to Mthatha and fell in love with a piece of land 4km outside Mthatha which he bought and moved with his family in 1949. He started and managed with his wife various businesses which included the general dealer for the area of Corhana, butcheries, brick making field, farming and building residential rental properties.

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“We are proud to be part of the project and endeavour to make a success of it in conjunction with all the other role players”, said the DGT Power Services Manager,Vic de Villiers. The services which they have been appointed to offer to the project include, manufacturing, supplying and installation of generators, generator control systems, switch gear and transformers.

“DGT Power Systems is renowned for quality workmanship, excellent after sales service, integrity and do business on sound and ethical business principles”, stated Vic.

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March 2015

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Horizontal Directional Drilling

Smart trenching Horizontal Directional Drilling is being hailed be the most cost effective way of rehabilitating aging water supply pipelines as well as rolling out new projects in Sub Saharan Africa.

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t is a worrying trend that critical infrastructure that is key to Africa’s development is falling apart faster than it is being rehabilitated - this is evident from Cape to Cairo. Fortunately, the arrival of horizontal directional drilling (HDD) has emerged as the perfect solution to the challenge. HDD has come to the fore as legislation on environmental preservation demands compliance and implementation costs of Greenfield projects keep on rising.

In a series of interviews with Construction Review, South African specialists in HDD who are involved in water supply infrastructure rehabilitation projects in most Sub Saharan countries hailed the ability of HDD to reline existing pipelines without having to dig trenches to reach the pipe. In contrast, the conventional method of rehabilitating pipes has been to dig up and replace. This process turns out to be both complex and expensive as, pipelines which were built as far back as 40 years ago run below buildings. This renders the cost of replacing the pipes expensive. In these days of economic recession, this is a luxury that most African countries can ill afford.

The specialists also said they valued the technology’s ‘green’ benefit. In particular, they highlighted the fact that no digging is involved and there is no environmental footprint. As to refurbishing corroded pipes, there is demand for pipe replacement technology that minimises

the need to disrupt infrastructure, Construction Review is informed. One of the most intriguing technologies that have taken the lead is the lining of pipes with a tight-fit high-density polyethylene liner that can be applied up to 1 km at a time called Swagelining. Of note, through the innovation, pressured and non pressured pipelines are replaced quickly and cost effectively.

Convenient in greenfields HDD has proved handy when applied in greenfield water supply projects too. Fascinatingly, contractors can trench across a river or a road with minimal disruption to the ecosystem. “If you had told me that it was possible to layout pipes without trenching in 1977, I would have told you that you were a fantasist,” remarks a veteran consulting engineer, reveling in the innovation’s convenience.

More efficient It’s encouraging to hear from specialists that new HDD products are reducing the margin for error, ensuring better cost efficiency and environmentally conscious execution.

This development could have not come at a better time, with a huge backlog in the development and rehabilitation of infrastructure for water, supply telecommunications, electrical installations and transport.

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