201509 sep

SEPTEMBER 2015

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Guyana Goldfields Gold Rush Kenblest Bakery Group Goodness In Every Single Loaf Springbok Atlas That Person To Person Touch

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EDITOR’S NOTE Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Director General Don Campbell doncampbell@littlegatepublishing.com

M

ess is important in business. It’s quite a statement to make but it is true regardless. Mess, when spotted ahead of time, can provide a valuable backdrop for effective change and development when

it comes to cleaning it up. Every now and again it’s important to pick up your

Editorial Research Manager Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com

business and give it a thorough shake until all the messy bits rattling around

Sales Director Tyler Harrison tylerharrison@littlegatepublishing.com

In the wake of a clean-up, opportunities for new growth and development

Sales Manager Emlyn Freeman emlynfreeman@littlegatepublishing.com

have you can plot your course ahead and plan exactly where you want to go.

Commercial Manager Kaye Kalu kayekalu@littlegatepublishing.com

companies in the world did not reach that lofty standard by remaining exactly

Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com

mega-houses after giving themselves a shake up and a shift while historically

Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com

withered into redundancy and are kept alive more by the effort of the people

Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com

Endeavour always focusses on the companies that are making moves to

Any enquiries or subscriptions can be sent to info@littlegatepublishing.com ENDEAVOUR MAGAZINE is published by Littlegate Publishing LTD which is a Registered Company in the United Kingdom.

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Suite 10, Thorpe House 79 Thorpe Road Norwich, NR1 1UA

Littlegate Publishing Ltd does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles

in it fall away and you’re left with the core of what you need. are revealed within the cleared out space and with clearer sights on what you Successful shifts in business are what can make a company great, the biggest the same as they started. Small companies have blossomed into international giant companies have ground slowly to a halt as their tired routines have who have grown used to them than their usefulness in the field. pursue higher efficiency, we value businesses and business leaders who sweep away over-complicated and top-heavy systems from the floor around the anvil that they shape their business upon. Discarding the fancy and the unnecessary until what they have is essential, important and clear. After all it is the simplest knife that cuts the sharpest.

Work against complication and don’t hesitate to shake your business hard.

Take Marissa Mayer’s ongoing effort to remake Yahoo after shedding the overcomplicated and redundant and take a moment to observe what is emerging from the confusion. Take a second to look at the crowd sourcing campaigns that are turning this once-new idea into an accepted model and observe how the simplest ideas are the ones that are getting the most money.

by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this

Businesses like PNG Power Limited, who are gathering steam to carry

magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher.

themselves out of a state of emergency that threatens to plunge Papua New

Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely

Guinea into darkness, or Springbok Atlas in South Africa who have simplified

coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal

their services to the core of what is needed and in turn created a booming

responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising

tourist culture, or EGA leveraging their position in the smelting industry to

from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part

provide hundreds of new jobs to a market seething with un-used skills.

of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the

All of these companies have a clear moment in their backstory where they

prior written consent of the publisher.

shook themselves and made a shift.

Copyright © Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2015

Endeavour Magazine | 3

CONTENTS 11

Chicken Xpress

FEATURES

45

PNG Power

4 | Endeavour Magazine

11 Chicken Xpress

Xpress Success 17 COVER STORY Kenblest Bakery Group

Goodness In Every Single Loaf 21 Advent Construction

20 Years Still Strong 27 Medcorp

Hearts Set On Saving Lives 33 Ketraco

Powering Vision 2030 39 Saudi Electricity Company

A Kingdom Filled With Light 45 PNG Power

Keeping The Lights On 55 Qatar Rail

The Most Modern Railway Network 67 COVER STORY Guyana Goldfields

Gold Rush 73 PPC Zimbabwe

Foundations Thick And Supported 79 Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

The Limegrove Style 87 Amertrin

Not Just Any Port In A Storm 93 Curacao Drydock

Running A Tight Ship 99 OVK

Together We Achieve More 105 COVER STORY Springbok Atlas

That Person To Person Touch

55

Qatar Rail

ARTICLES 3 Editor’s Note 6 Business Headlines 50 Automotives

Peugeot 308 SW

End Of The Road For Electric Vehicle Myths 114 Travel

Hermit In A Mountain

A Touch Of “China’s Venice” 120 Gadgets 122 Book Reviews

89

Curacao Drydock Endeavour Magazine | 5

BUSINESS HEADLINES

FRANK SINATRA LIVES

S

wiss watchmaker RAYMOND WEIL is proud to join the Sinatra

birth of Frank Sinatra, I am proud to see my father’s name associated

family to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the

with this magnificent timepiece.”

birth of Frank Sinatra. As part of the “Sinatra 100” centennial

The timepiece features a mechanical movement with automatic

celebration, RAYMOND WEIL has introduced a special limited

winding housed in a 39.5 mm stainless steel case. Reminiscent of

edition timepiece reinterpreted from its classic maestro collection.

the famed ‘Ol’ Blue Eyes’, the hands, index markers, and contour

The maestro Frank Sinatra Limited Edition watch pays homage to

of the date window are a bright blue hue, against the backdrop

the legendary artist and his iconic persona. With restraint, elegance

of a silver dial. A transparent caseback boasts a special Sinatra

and precision, the timepiece evokes a sense of admiration for the

Centennial insignia, while the twelve marker, highlighted as the only

entertainer’s illustrious career.

Roman numeral, signifies Sinatra’s December 12th birthday. Also in

“It is a great honour to have partnered with Frank Sinatra Enterprises to create a design that celebrates this special occasion.

reference to his birthday, only 1,212 pieces of the maestro Frank Sinatra Limited Edition watch will be available, starting June 2015.

Frank Sinatra was a charismatic character who left an indelible

Among his many accomplishments, Sinatra earned a total of 21

mark in the hearts and minds of many generations; he embodied

Grammys, three Oscars and two Golden Globes, frequently earning

an era, a style and a tradition and was above all a passionate man of

him the title of one of the greatest entertainers of all time and yet

extraordinary talent. As a music-loving family company, it is perfectly

the leader of the Rat Pack was not just one of the most renowned

fitting that we pay tribute to this undisputed maestro of music with

singers of his generation, he was and remains a true icon of elegance

a limited edition piece in our maestro collection,” says Elie Bernheim,

and style.

CEO, RAYMOND WEIL.

His extraordinary voice, impeccable suits, iconic tipped hat and

“Frank Sinatra understood the vital importance of time and when

soulful blue eyes all contributed to his legendary status. Throughout

preparing his music he employed what he had named ‘the heartbeat

2015, Sinatra will be globally honoured with special tributes,

tempo’. For that reason, he insisted that his wristwatch should have

partnerships, book and video releases, television and film events,

the utmost mechanical integrity and construction to guarantee many

performances and much more, including the Grammy Museum’s

years of faithful and accurate service,” says Frank Sinatra, Junior.

Sinatra: An American Icon exhibit hosted by The New York Public

“Master of horology, RAYMOND WEIL has steadfastly maintained

Library for the Performing Arts.

this degree of excellence and in the centennial celebration of the 6 | Endeavour Magazine

RAK TDA LAYS FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE OF EMIRATE Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority in collaboration with international creative agency TBWA hosted a two-day intensive ‘Disruption Workshop’ at The Cove Rotana Resort. The workshop aimed to define the brand positioning for the destination and to further drive the vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

Disruption® is a methodology patented by TBWA, designed to create breakthrough brands by developing a strategy centred on real human insights. TBWA has worked with iconic brands both locally and internationally, such as Apple, Emirates and Qatar Foundation.

Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) said, “This is the first step to defining a clear roadmap and vision to the destination. It has helped us gain clarity about our brand proposition and has given us a focused purpose for Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination of choice.”

For the workshop, TBWA interviewed His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi to gain insights into his vision of the future for the Emirate, as well speaking to key stakeholders in the Government and the hospitality and tourism industry. The research incorporated a segment study conducted by TNS Global Marketing focusing on leading source markets, including Russia, the UK, Germany, Saudi, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, as well as interviewing customer-facing executives within prominent hotels and resorts in the Emirate.

THE INTERNATIONAL COPPER ASSOCIATION (ICA) ANNOUNCED TODAY THE APPOINTMENT OF ANTHONY LEA AS ITS NEW PRESIDENT. Mr. Lea holds the senior

ICA, a position that provided

great value to the copper

management responsibility for

him with a unique perspective

industry by promoting and

all aspects of the organisation,

on the challenges faced in the

defending

overseeing

global

end-use markets for copper

and developing a positive

operations of the extended

and a wealth of experience in

image for copper among its

Copper Alliance™ across six

conducting

wide range of stakeholder

continents.

(Tony)

develop and defend copper

communities,”

will continue the process of

use. Tony holds an MBA from

Sebastien Jacques, Chairman

organisational, strategic and

Warwick

School

of the ICA Board of Directors.

programme

the

Anthony

programmes

Business

to

copper

said

markets

Jean-

improvement

and a Bachelor of Science in

“On behalf of the ICA Board, I

initiated by ICA’s members in

Physics from Imperial College

am pleased to welcome Tony

2014.

of Science and Technology,

into his new position and I am

both in the United Kingdom.

confident he will lead the ICA

Tony

previously

served

for 12 years as Senior Vice President,

Marketing

and

Strategic Planning, within the

“I under

am

confident

Tony’s

that,

leadership,

as a strong advocate for the copper industry.”

TRAVEL Petra

ICA will continue to provide Endeavour Magazine | 7

SANTIAGO CALATRAVA’S “TURNING TORSO” RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS 10-YEAR AWARD FROM THE COUNCIL ON TALL BUILDINGS AND URBAN HABITAT (COUNCIL OF TALL BUILDINGS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT) 10 years after the Calatrava’s groundbreaking

by his white marble resembling abstractions

57-storey skyscraper opened in Malmö, Sweden,

of the human figure, which utilises multiple

CTBUH has recognised Turning Torso as a world

cubes revolving around a vertical axis as a torso

landmark for its contribution to urban design

that in turn revolves around a backbone. The

Turning

degrees

building’s nine pentagonal sections turn 90

continuously as an abstraction of the human

degrees and can increase in height and form

figure and grows simultaneously in height with

the building’s waveform. An outer skeleton of

an upper body that revolves around its own axis

steel, that resembles a spine, pivots upwardly

The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban

with structure and binds these entities together.

Habitat

Torso

(CTBUH)

rotates

has

90

awarded

Santiago

The two lowest sections of the building are

Calatrava the prestigious ‘10 Year Award’ for

dedicated to office functions, while the seven

its building Turning Torso. HSB Malmö chose

upper sections contain a total of 147 housing

Calatrava to design the tower, which was

blocks, with each floor containing one to five

completed in 2005. The tower was intended

breaks.

to transform a declining industrial area into a

CTBUH also acknowledged Turning Torso

new neighbourhood of homes, business, culture

for its pioneering sustainable design and for

and entertainment in Malmo, Sweden. This

its use of sustainable industry standards far

international accolade was awarded to Turning

ahead of its time. One hundred percent of the

Tower for its value as a contribution to culture

energy consumed in the building, comes from

and urban iconography, the social role and the

renewable sources, including geothermal, water,

technical development ten years after opening.

sun and wind. Each unit has its own meter for

“This unusual building is iconic, amazing and

electricity, which means that residents can

inspiring and has had a strong influence on our

make more informed choices with regard to the

industry and has contributed a unique additions

amount of energy they use at any time.

to Malmo’s skyline. From the announcement

The

award will

be

handed

over on

of this project 15 years ago, architects in the

November 12 at the 14th annual CTBUH

world have been inspired,” says Vincent Tse

Award Symposium in Chicago in Crown Hall,

spokesman for CTBUH, juror of the Committee

a landmark building designed by Ludwig Mies

for CTBUH Technical Awards and CEO of

van der Rohe for Illinois Institute of Technology

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Building MEP in China

and School of Architecture. Previous winners of

region. “Today there are more than 30 towers

the 10 Year Award, among others, are the Post

that pivot upwardly. When we look back at the

Tower in Bonn, Germany in 2014 and London’s

innovations in the last decade, there are few

30 St Mary Axe in 2013.

that have had such a lasting effect and influence that Turning Torso.”

Turning Torso is the first skyscraper in the world that revolves around allowing every room to benefit from sunshine and views. It is also one of the tallest buildings in Europe with its 57 floors and a height of 623 feet. Turning Torso is Calatrava’s first tall building and was inspired

8 | Endeavour Magazine

This project will be presented in the book Best Tall Buildings, published in collaboration with

Images

Publishing

internationally each year.

and

distributed

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOK TO POSITIVE FOR ABU DHABI NATIONAL TAKAFUL COMPANY Best has revised the outlook to positive from stable and affirmed the financial strength rating of B++ (Good) and the issuer credit rating of “bbb+” of Abu Dhabi National Takaful Company P.S.C.

performance

has

improved

by

18%

when

compared with the same period last year.

In 2014, ADNTC carried out a detailed review of its wakala fee structure and subsequently

The ratings reflect ADNTC ‘s solid risk-

reduced its wakala fees by approximately 33%,

adjusted capitalisation and track record of

compared to 2013. This improved the balance

excellent

These

of earnings between the policyholders’ fund and

positive rating factors are partially offset by an

shareholder funds, resulting in a policyholders’

accumulated deficit within the policyholders’ fund

fund surplus in 2014, which was offset against

and a modest, albeit growing, business profile.

the accumulated Qard Hassan. Providing ADNTC

The revised outlook reflects ADNTC ‘s improved

maintains an appropriate balance of earnings

balance of earnings between the policyholder and

between the policyholders’ fund and shareholder

shareholder funds and enhanced enterprise risk

funds, the Qard Hassan is expected to be cleared

management.

by 2016.

underwriting

performance.

Given the strength of the regulations in

ADNTC ‘s level of risk management surpasses

the United Arab Emirates (UAE), risk-adjusted

many small to medium-sized insurers in the

capitalisation is measured on a combined basis

region. The company continues to enhance its

(integrating both the policyholder and shareholder

enterprise risk management framework in line

funds). On this basis, ADNTC ‘s risk-adjusted

with international best practices. ADNTC has

capitalisation remains solid, benefitting from

developed appropriate tools and processes to

a prudent dividend policy, low underwriting

identify, measure and manage risks across the

leverage and a conservative investment profile.

business. The company assesses it risk-based

ADNTC has demonstrated a track record of

capital requirements using an internal capital

excellent underwriting performance with a five-

model and employs an international third party

year average combined ratio (adjusting wakala fees

actuarial consultant to assess the company’s

for actual expenses) of 80%, with most business

exposure to natural perils.

segments producing strong operating results. This

Whilst ADNTC maintains a modest, albeit

exceptional performance was achieved despite

growing, profile in the UAE insurance market, it has

gross written contributions that almost doubled

a more dominant position within the local niche

to AED 295.3 million (USD 80.4 million) in 2014

takaful (an Islamic compliant form of insurance)

from AED 150 million (USD 40.8 million) in 2010.

market segment.

Furthermore, ADNTC ‘s overall earnings have

A.M. Best Company is the world’s oldest

been strong with a five-year average return on

and most authoritative insurance rating and

capital and surplus of 17% (2013: 15%). Half-year

information source. For more information, visit

results for 2015 demonstrate that the operating

www.ambest.com.

BOOK REVIEWS

10 | Endeavour Magazine

CHICKEN XPRESS WWW.CHICKENXPRESS.CO.ZA 0027 31 263 0045

XPRESS SUCCESS WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

When a franchise plans to double the number of outlets it has open in one year one thing is for certain; the management team is doing something very right. Endeavour Magazine spoke to Devon Scoulelis, Managing Director of Chicken Xpress, to find out what his secret recipe for success is.

Endeavour Magazine | 11

CHICKEN XPRESS

Describing itself as a “truly South African” brand, Chicken Xpress

has an exciting expansion and development programme in action that will see the size of the franchise increasing dramatically, while still remaining true to its values of supporting local communities.

D

evon Scoulelis told us a little bit about how the chain started; “The Chicken Xpress business was developed in KwaZulu

like fantastic fiscal position to be in, Devon explained that with high demand comes pressure;

Natal in 2011 after we saw a need for an affordable business

“Chicken is the continents most loved quick-food item and the

model serving the nations most loved product, quality fried chicken,

obstacle being faced is keeping up with the demand and necessary

while incorporating items specific to South Africa into our menu.”

growth across South Africa and into Africa.”

He went on to explain further;

An enviable position to be in certainly, but when demand for

“We focused on smaller format stores of roughly 80m2, that

a product reaches such heights, there needs to be a reliable and

could fit into high commuter areas across South Africa. While we

focussed team in place to handle it efficiently. With a core team of

have kept the core Chicken Xpress model, we have since developed

six at head office and a further 128 employees working throughout

larger format stores, drive-thrus and our newest Chicken Xpress

the 16 branches, it is vital that Chicken Xpress maintains the

Container Concept, which will allow us to send pre-built and fitted

highest standards of customer service and brand awareness, but

stores across the countries to remote areas where we can ‘plug and

how do they achieve this?

play’ our brand into the community.”

“All new store franchises and staff undergo an intensive training

It’s this kind of forward thinking and employment of future-

schedule in order to prepare them for the store opening. This

proofed construction techniques that are eminently indicative of

covers all operational and business requirements for the Chicken

just how Chicken Xpress has come to enjoy the levels of success

Xpress business model. Thereafter our head office operations

that it does. With no area being overlooked, everyone can enjoy

team spends five days in store, after its opening, to assist with any

quality products at reasonable prices and become part of the brand

teething problems and ensure that the store gets off to the best

family. With this in mind, expansion plans are in full effect, with

possible start. Constant support is provided to franchises and staff

a highly structured rollout plan working perfectly. Lead by a team

through our dedicated operations team.”

of experienced professionals, the Chicken Xpress brand is growing exponentially; “Currently, we have 16 stores across South Africa and have

It’s clear that Chicken Xpress is not merely a faceless parent company, but a brand that places a high value on the needs and development of its partners and employees. Devon expanded;

another 45 planned openings over the next 12 months. Our goal

“A core focus of our brand is on our people. While there are

is to bring our offering to every community across South Africa

many companies that claim this, we simply cannot survive without a

and Africa, through a rapid yet sustainable rollout pattern. We are

‘people-rich’ structure, due to the intensive customer service based

currently expanding across Africa with stores openings in Botswana

nature of our business. This is extended by our deep underlying

and Sudan, while also exploring the feasibility of expanding into

passion to grow people in their respective roles and provide them

Nigeria, Zambia, Uganda, Ghana and other African regions.”

with the necessary skills required to grow within the business.”

These are not the plans of a small operation and it seems

Clearly extremely passionate about the people that directly

inevitable that wherever there are hungry people that appreciate

develop the brand and contribute to the success of the business,

quality food, there will be a Chicken Xpress. Though this may sound

Devon continued;

12 | Endeavour Magazine

CHICKEN XPRESS

“I view our brand as a portal for skills development to grow our

Licence Model. This will let us partner with the correct people in

nations people and assist the current unemployment levels, one

each country to ensure the most effective brand growth through

store at a time! We look to achieve this through the opportunity to

each country.”

provide necessary skills, training and mentorship to staff, managers

That’s not all though and we cannot be surprised. Without

and franchises alike. Our staff recruitment process is based on the

ambition, there is no growth and without growth, success remains

premise of ‘hire for attitude, train for excellence’ and it is with this

static, so of course Devon and his team have more plans afoot;

in mind that we would like to see our brand providing the best

“The Chicken Xpress container concept is a huge stride forward.

possible opportunities in life for people that would previously not

The modular container system will allow us to send pre-fitted stores

have had any formal education in the food and beverage sector.”

to outlying areas across the country and into Africa. It will give us

Undoubtedly an incredible company to work for, it suddenly

access to areas where there is no existing structure in place and

becomes clear just how Chicken Xpress has risen to the heights

enable us to trade almost instantaneously. Alongside this, we are

that it has; by supporting, nurturing and staying true to not only

also currently in the final development phase of two new exciting

the roots of the organisation, but the people who actively strive

brands to accompany our headline Chicken Xpress Brand.”

for it every day.

Incredibly, Chicken Xpress has made the bold decision to

With a committed team in place, the future plans of Chicken

expand its menu in a bid to satisfy even more consumers and there

Xpress are eminently attainable aspirations and Devon told us

can be little doubt that it will be yet another enormous success for

more;

the ever-expanding brand;

“We want rapid and sustainable expansion across South Africa

“We will be forging a new path in the market with the tastiest,

with 45 planned stores opening in the next next 12 months and a

hand cut, natural fries accompanied by a choice of delicious

long-term goal of reaching 250 stores across the country. We are

toppings including different meats and sauces, as per the customers’

also planning expansion across Africa through a Master Franchise

preference. We have tested the concept and had a phenomenal

Specialists in the fast food market Leaders in manufacturing plain and printed cartons

www.foldingbox.co.za Tel: (011) 421-4101, Fax: (011) 421-4164, E-mail: foldingbox@tiscali.co.za 2a Poplar Park, 16 Lancaster Road, Benoni, P.O. Box 1182, Benoni , 1500 14 | Endeavour Magazine

response to both the product and the idea. Our initial goal will be to take worldwide favourites, the French fry and potatoes and give them a South African twist. Customers will be the true king of the brand, whereby they can either select from our selection of gourmet fries, wholesome spuds, or make a combination of their own.”

Sounds delicious, but Devon is emphatic that even more is to come; “FishGO! is another of the new brands we will be launching this year in order to capitalise on an open market and large demand for a quality fish and chips concept in the emerging markets across South Africa. The brand will be positioned very differently to the current offerings in the market and we see a large opportunity to grow this brand quickly as well as extend across the nation.”

With a highly ambitious growth plan supported by high demand, a loyal customer base and dedicated staff, there is no doubting that Chicken Xpress is a brand destined to enjoy success on an enormous scale and with Devon at the helm, they will do so with deep rooted community and family values at the centre of every achievement.

“

The Chicken Xpress container concept is a huge stride forward.

The modular container system will allow us to send pre-fitted stores to outlying areas across the country and into Africa.

It will give us access to areas where there is no existing structure in place and enable us to trade almost instantaneously.

Endeavour Magazine | 15

16 | Endeavour Magazine

KENBLEST BAKERY GROUP WWW.KENBLESTGROUP.COM 00254 20 205 5591

GOODNESS IN EVERY SINGLE LOAF WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

There is a question within the bakery industry of Kenya; what makes Kenblest Bread so special? We spoke with Managing Director Jinit Shah about this. “At Kenblest we only use the finest ingredients,” Shah explains, “Our baker’s flour comes from our very own mill and is fed directly into our bakery through a one of a kind process, in Kenya, which gives our bread it’s distinguished fresh taste.”

Endeavour Magazine | 17

KENBLEST BAKERY GROUP

“Our flour blend also includes soya flour, which enriches the

natural goodness of each loaf and contributes towards a healthier lifestyle, rich in protein,” he adds, “Even the water we use is treated and just the right minerals are retained giving an even healthier loaf.”

B

aked to perfection, every loaf of Kenblest white bread has

loaves per day, making Kenblest the single largest bread producer

a rich taste as all of their ingredients are sourced with the

under one roof in Kenya.

aim to achieve the best quality bread possible and there is

“The company currently boasts a distribution channel that

no compromising on quality for the sake of saving on cost, thus

comprises of over 100 vehicles,” Shah reveals, “Which delivers

culminating in a unique taste experience.

bread through an extensive network that extends to the most

“Our roots can be traced back to 1937, with the incorporation of Shah Kanji Ladha and Company in Thika, by Kanji Ladha Shah,”

remote of areas. The company directly employs over 700 staff and many more indirectly.”

Shah explains, “The shop was located in the centre of Thika town and traded in textiles and general goods. Kanji was later joined in 1940, by his cousin HemrajSura Shah.”

He goes on to say that in 1950, their current Chairman, Mohanlal Dharamshi Shah, joined his uncle to fuel further expansion and “Thika Household Suppliers” was formed in 1968, dealing in the supply of foodstuffs, hardware and sundry items to Government bodies, hospitals and schools.

Over the following years, Mohanlal’s three sons also joined the business, first with Anju Mohanlal Shah in 1974. Anju joined after having completed a Diploma in Business Studies from Wandsworth Technical College. His younger brother, Jinit Mohanlal Shah, who had recently completed a Diploma in Business Studies from Romford Polytechnic, later followed him, in 1977.

A decision was made to venture into the capital city of Nairobi and so this saw the formation of “Anjim Fabrics” on Biashara Street, which specialised in bed sheets, blankets and khangas.

Given their strong understanding and experience of the Kenyan market, the directors identified a large gap for good quality bread and so plans were drawn up to expand out into the baking industry, resulting in the incorporation of Kenblest Limited.

KIFARU INDUSTRIES LIMITED In 1994, Kenblest Limited acquired the assets of the adjacent Kenya Taitex Mills, which was later rebranded to its present name, Kifaru Industries Limited.

Once a fully-fledged textile factory producing a range of textiles, the company moved into the manufacture of mineral water under the brand name “Acacia” and the milling of Maize meal under the brand name “Two Ten”. The company also manufactures wax paper and is a distributor for Orange Telkom products.

NAV PLASTICS LIMITED With a strong foothold in the Kenyan market, in 1994 the company expanded into the plastics industry, through the installation of a polythene extrusion plant and bag making machinery to cater for Kenblest Bread’s packaging requirements.

The directors held a strong regard for the environment and so Nav Plastics was expanded in 2005, with investment in machinery to manufacture millenary paper bags using recycled paper. Demand for this environmentally friendly product stemmed from both local and international markets and as a result the company embarked on similar projects that placed a strong consideration on the

KENBLEST LIMITED In August 1982, the Kenblest bakery was commissioned with the prime objective of manufacturing and delivering good quality and affordable bread to Kenyan consumers.

environment, such as a plastic recycling plant.

MCNEEL MILLERS LIMITED Kenblest Limited sought to vertically integrate their operations,

Having completed their higher education abroad, Mohanlal’s

investing in the installation of a 140 tonne/day wheat mill. The mill

three sons were able to embed international business practices

operated under McNeel Millers manufactures flour for domestic

into the workings of Kenblest bakery. This enabled the company

consumption, under the brand name “Two Ten”. The mill also

to prosper and within four short years the bakery expanded

manufactures baker’s flour, which is fed directly into the Kenblest

its capacity from 80,000 to 230,000 loaves per day. A further

Bakery, ensuring the best quality flour, is used to make the best

expansion in 2006 increased daily production capacity to 330,000

quality bread.

18 | Endeavour Magazine

Given the rapid increase in demand for the mills’ products, the company is currently undergoing a large scale expansion to increase capacity to 300 tonnes per day. The installation of state of the art Swiss Milling Technology will make McNeel Millers one of the most technologically advanced milling facilities in Africa today, which means even better quality flour and bread for consumers!

With a view to delivering the best quality products at affordable prices to the Kenya Public, Kenblest Group is enjoying rapid growth.

With widely diversified activities supported by an incredibly strong and experience network of logistics and warehouses, the Group has every intention of continuing to grow and expand even further.

A strong emphasis is placed on Corporate Social Responsibility and the company donates thousands of loaves and millions of shillings to worthy causes annually. The Group’s main strengths derive from a strong and unified workforce, whichis complemented by strong and ethical working practices. Together with a streamlined and coherent business model, the Group continually strives to better serve the Kenyan public.

After all, success is not derived from the office; it is derived from the market, from the field and from the people. Understand

P. O. Box 584, Nairobi – 00606, Kenya

 +254 20 2068600

+254 722/735 527280

 manish.shah@uniquediesel .net manish@parts-solutions.net.

your people and you will succeed.

Endeavour Magazine | 19

20 | Endeavour Magazine

ADVENT CONSTRUCTION WWW.ADVENTCONSTRUCTIONS.COM 00255 22 270 1093

20 YEARS STILL STRONG WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Advent Construction Ltd is one of Tanzania’s largest and most recognised construction companies. With a workforce of over 1000 staff their activities are spread over the country, ranging from large scale civil works in the manufacturing/extracting sector to five star lodges and hotels and everything in between. As one of Tanzania’s most respected class one construction companies they partner with a wide variety of clientele and are local representatives to various global contracting groups.

Endeavour Magazine | 21

ADVENT CONSTRUCTION

With a combined experience of over 100 years in the industry, their project managers have a single business motive in the execution of their projects, which is to provide superlative service to their customers.

“W

e have built proud and diverse portfolios of cutting

have worked our way up to getting class one registration which

edge factories, educational facilities, mining facilities,

happened in 2007.”

residential and hospitality facilities, shopping and

It was about the same time that the Tanzanian economy kicked

commercial complexes and other versatile multi use projects that

off and they found themselves in the best place to take advantage

have transformed the country and region we live and operate in,”

of it and that was exactly what they did, “We wanted to be known

says Dhruv Jog, Company Director.

for quality and that set us up for the long run.”

Additionally to their traditional role of main contractor, they

Jog explains that to achieve this president of becoming a class

also have vast experience in the design build sector, offering

one company took a number of key points. Firstly, they chose to

solutions and sourcing technology using value engineering to meet

focus their business on quality and not cost. This has not always

and surpass the requirements of their customers and have handled

been easy but it has given their reputation an uncommon shine that

turnkey factory projects, turnkey residential towers, commercial

many of the competitors lack.

towers and are working on building capacity in order to be able to take on large scale turnkey infrastructural projects.

“Being a start-up that has gone through the ranks, we are wellversed with what a market like Tanzania needs,” he explains, “And we

Handling suppliers and sub-contractors from across the

have done our best to keep that as a main priority while remaining

globe has demonstrated their infrastructural ability to coordinate

flexible in terms of change, be it technology, methodology or

numerous parties from all parties of the work and ensure the

techniques.”

logistics and local environmental conditions are all factored in to

As far as technology is concerned he reveals that Advent

provide a seamless delay free project, executed on time and within

Construction have always been the first to bring in new technology,

budget.

to embrace new management systems and created new departments

Jog explains that Tanzania’s construction sector is seeing

within the company, “We were the first construction company in

unprecedented growth as demand soars for infrastructure, real

Tanzania to a fully independent health and safety department with

estate and oil and gas projects. Set up in 1995, Advent Construction,

dedicated management,” he says, “And the first to be ISO certified.”

has found itself well placed to take advantage of this explosion in activity and is working on projects that span economic sectors.

The question is does this focus on quality over cost pay them dividends? Jog explains that they have lost projects in the past as

“Advent Construction is twenty years old now and we have

a result of not being able to compromise on quality to reduce the

grown up through the ranks,” Jog says, “Originally we were a class

cost, “Clients who want to cut corners for costs are dangerous

seven construction company which is the lowest classification

clients to have, whereas the ones that we attract now are clients

for any Tanzanian construction company but step-by-step we

who understand the importance of quality.”

22 | Endeavour Magazine

ADVENT CONSTRUCTION

Of the clients at Advent Construction up to 15% of them come

is very keen on quality and standards and health and safety,” he

from the oil and gas and extractive industry while 35-45% are

says, “These have been issues that we have always been trying to

parastatals and semi-government organisations and the remainder

push, so that worked in our favour. We opened up a dedicated oil

are a mix of corporations and private clients. Jog tells us that they

and gas department to focus on that sector because that sector

have done a lot of work for the cement and heavy industries in

places quality first and then cost and other commercial aspects

Tanzania and have contracts for the manufacturing and private

second. That is good for the industry.”

sectors too.

Jog says that it’s important to keep a perspective on growth.

“In five years’ time we expect the extractive industry and oil

When Advent Construction started they had a small figure in terms

and gas to be more towards 40 percent of our revenue stream,”

of turnover which is why they were able to see a 500 percent

he reveals, “And we have invested a lot of time, effort and money

growth rate at the beginning but they knew that was unrealistic to

in this. We were the first company to set up a dedicated oil and

expect that forever.

gas department and open up a regional office in Mtwara where

“You reach the stage where the percentage growth reduces but

we have a fully functional office. We have successfully completed

the volumes are still remarkable,” he says, “Today we are seeing

and handed over three projects in Mtwara, one of which has been

a minimum of 20-25 percent growth in the company’s turnover

a major milestone for us which was the main supply base for

annually. Including casual and contract workers, we currently have

Schlumberger.”

around 1,200 workers.”

He adds that this was the first of its kind in Tanzania and that

In the Tanzanian construction sector, some of the biggest issues

they were fortunate enough to be selected and handed it over to

include general struggles to raise technical knowledge amongst the

them in record time and with fantastic quality. In return, they gave

workforce. That is always a big challenge especially in an industry

them a certificate of recognition for their work.

like construction which is by its very nature a technical industry and

“What we were very happy to note is that the oil and gas sector

24 | Endeavour Magazine

Jog says that they do have a serious shortage of qualified workers.

Bureaucracy is another thing to deal with, which is again a

construction-related industries. He has met with a number of

challenge that most companies have to handle. Things are definitely

businesses from the air conditioning sector and related fields but

getting better and as a local company they know the market and

not many UK construction companies, “We want to partner with a

know how the system works and as a result get things done a lot

construction company bigger than ourselves as this is a sure way

faster than some of the foreign companies. Jog does add that it’s

to grow.”

not the easiest of environments to operate in and although they

Global expansion is on the cards. Advent were registered in

are well on the way of making it better there is still have a long way

Mozambique in April 2014 and soon after landed their first project

to go.

in May of the same year. The plan was to go in and set up a base

An issue of personal annoyance for Jog are Chinese contractors.

The biggest problem not being the companies, “It is only fair that

in Maputo and then open up a satellite base in the north in the oil and gas sector.

a business can come here and try to get contracts; but we could

“We are looking at being in five East and Central African

definitely do with a bit more Government support in terms of a

countries by 2020, however we will not do this at the cost of any

margin of preference for local contractors. I would say that 60-70

of the countries not being well covered,” he says, “We would rather

percent of Government-funded projects go to Chinese contractors,

take it slowly and make sure that each country is set up 100 percent

which isn’t helpful for the local industry.”

before moving onto the next.”

Working

with

international

business

still

provides

an

opportunity for skill transfer and it is something that Jog wants

First they plan to help build the continent and then, once done, they’ll look to move over the seas too.

to look at in the future. However, it has to be managed in such a fashion as to benefit the local economy.

He explains that UKTI does bring over companies regularly and there have been a few companies coming from the UK in

Endeavour Magazine | 25

26 | Endeavour Magazine

MEDCORP WWW.MECORPLTD.COM 001 868 628 1451

HEARTS SET ON SAVING LIVES WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

The islands of Trinidad and Tobago operate under a two-tier healthcare system with both private and public healthcare facilities. Medcorp have established themselves as one of the leaders in the islands and stand as a highly focussed enterprise who opened their doors in 1993 and have been present in the development of patient care ever since.

Endeavour Magazine | 27

MEDCORP

Opening doors in 1993, the Medcorp Group have readily and

enthusiastically expanded to cover a range of health care needs to better service the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Growing into a 60-bed medical institution that can offer services from accident and emergency through to life saving procedures and open-heart surgery!

E

very expansion has been organic and in response to a need

role of any Ministry; to make beneficial changes to suit the times

from the community they service. Such expansions include

and the economic positions of its peoples. In this case, The Ministry

24-hour emergency care, intensive care, dialysis, maternity

allocates resources to the RHAs to finance their operations and are

and major and minor theatre care while at the same time remaining

shifting their focus to concentrate on policy development, planning,

dedicated to providing the highest possible standard of care for

monitoring and evaluation, regulation, financing and research.

their patients.

Citizens can access free healthcare at public healthcare facilities

Every new facet of medicine or treatment that is offered brings

where health insurance is not required. However, the Government

with it a necessary contingent of machinery, equipment and spatial

is developing the National Health Service whereby a list of services

requirements and the renovation and expansion of GHMC made

is to be determined, as well as a financing strategy.

room for the first private oncology centre which was named The Brian Lara Cancer Treatment Centre of Trinidad and Tobago, named after Trinidad and Tobago’s world famous cricketer.

In Trinidad and Tobago, healthcare is controlled at the very top by the Ministry of Health and while this organisation does not directly run the health facilities, it is required to play a key role in ensuring that they are properly run, by setting policies, goals and targets for regions based on assessment of real health needs.

In the last 22 years, the Medcorp Group of companies has continually and without compromise placed its patients first, providing access to a team of highly specialised doctors and physicians, well trained medical and nursing staff and the most advanced diagnostic technology to offer patient focused care that is second to none.

Proudly, the company states, “We offer a variety of services, all types of surgeries ranging from OHS to orthopaedics, neurosurgery, urology, laparoscopic and general surgery, gynaecology, plastic surgery, eye surgeries and all types of internal medicine specialties including cardiology and intervential cardiology, 24hour emergency care, intensive care, and dialysis, maternity and dental.�

While patient care should be a direct and simple thing, Medcorp have had to ride the changing tides of their industry the same as any company. Waves made as a result of changes and influences by the Ministry of Health. Of course, this is the main 28 | Endeavour Magazine

STAFF Of course, no matter what changes or hurdles present themselves, Medcorp understands that the best patient care can only come from them being treated by dedicated and highly trained staff including nurses and doctors. Medcorp are very proud of the calibre of their physicians expertise and the standard of care and attention that their patients are given by the nurses.

An emergency team of on-site doctors and nurses work quickly and efficiently to treat patients, offering critical care and treating a range of conditions and complaints, working to save the lives of those in life-threatening situations and this team is supported by over 50 specialist physicians and surgeons who are on call aroundthe-clock.

RESEARCH AND SURGERY St Augustine Medical Laboratory LTD provides a full laboratory service for St Clair Medical Centre and Good Health Hospital and is noted and recognised for its international achievements. Medco, through this affiliation and partnership, is able to benefit from the very latest research in medicine, treatment and diagnostic procedures ensuring that they are always on the very edge of healthcare. In this area everything is investigated, validated and incorporated thoroughly into a very stringent External Proficiency

MEDCORP

Testing Service mandated by St Augustine Medical Laboratory and

fewer than 400 open cardiovascular surgeries were performed

the Accreditation body.

with a 100% success rate. Since then they have been performing

All phlebotomists are qualified, trained and under competent

over 400+ open heart surgeries every year, including emergencies,

experienced supervisors, who are guided by internationally

with success rates equivalent to other world class cardiovascular

recognised laboratory policies and protocols. The medical

organisations. This outstanding achievement is attributable to

laboratory Director is a graduate in chemical pathology from Leeds

CHCm’s committed team of health care specialists and their strict

University and is well qualified for the position and possesses

adherence to the UK’s standards of practice for patient care. Since

significant expertise and experience.

then CHCm has conducted over 8,000 catheterisation procedures,

At St. Clair Medical Centre, surgical services include two major

performed by a group of high volume local and international

modern operating theatres and one minor operating theatre within

Interventionalists. In what is obviously a trend for Medcorp,

which many different procedures can be performed. The processes

CHCm’s trained staff understands and is focussed on satisfying a

leading up to and following after surgical procedures are set in stone

patient’s needs.

and fastidiously conducted to ensure the safety and comfort of the

Just as an example; before any surgery, the doctors meticulously

patients. Bedside manner is not just a catchphrase at Medcorp, but

explain and ensure that patients and family members fully

something that they insist on practising.

understand their cardiovascular conditions and what to expect.

Which leads us to the award winning, Caribbean Heart Care Medcorp (CHCm).

Acknowledging that a heart is more than just an organ, the group have received recommendations based upon their direct but

This subsidiary of Medcorp opened its doors in 1993 and has

understanding methodology of preparing a patient.

proven itself to be one of the best heart surgery units in the world

“We know there is anxiety when a loved one is diagnosed with

and one of the most affordable within the region. In 2012, just

a life threatening illness,” it says on their website, “Our goal is to

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30 | Endeavour Magazine

answer your questions, treat, educate and comfort our patients and

limb arterial diseases resulting from diabetes in order to prevent

their families.”

the possibility of amputation. Their neuro-radiology team is by far the most experienced in the Caribbean for the treatment of brain aneurysms; a cause of sudden unexplained death/haemorrhagic

THEIR HEARTS SET ON SAVING LIVES We all know someone who smokes, but we may not know that a loved one suffers from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or is showing signs of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease or any other heart problem, so it is important to have access to a place with world-class cardiac care.

Since opening, CHCm’s team of local and international heart surgeons have saved the lives of thousands of patients, including children who have had open-heart surgery and other complex cardiac surgical procedures. Over 7,000 patients have had lifesaving angiograms and or angioplasties performed by their experienced cardiology department and they have also diagnosed and successfully treated over 20,000 patients. Some are their own patients, while others have been referred by their physicians, other hospitals, clinics, as well as those who have simply walked in for cardiovascular consultations and investigations.

CHCm’s vascular and endovascular treats patients with lower

stroke.

Interventional radiologists have been assisting in the fight against cancer with procedures such as chemo embolisation, tumour embolisation, bile duct drainage and stenting together with various minimally invasive procedures that were previously performed under open surgery. CHCm’s cardiac electrophysiology unit has also enabled patients with heartbeats that are too slow or too fast (arrhythmia) the benefit of pacemakers and radio frequency ablation. This procedure can cure patients who suffer from heart arrhythmia, a condition that causes dizziness, fainting and sometimes great discomfort.

As a business Medcorp continues to grow and expand into new areas of care, procedural medicine and surgery and as the future brings with it new technology, new methods and new ailments you can be guaranteed that they will be there, giving us the very best they can.

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Specializes in maintaining a safer indoor breathing environment.

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Endeavour Magazine | 31

32 | Endeavour Magazine

KETRACO WWW.KETRACO.CO.KE 00254 20 495 6000

POWERING VISION 2030 WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Incorporated on the 2nd December 2008, Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited aka KETRACO is 100% Government owned and State Corporation regulated, under the state corporations act. It was established to develop a new high voltage electricity transmission infrastructure that was to form the backbone of the National Transmission Grid in line with Kenya Vision 2030. We spoke with the Head of Technical Services, Dr. John Mativo.

Endeavour Magazine | 33

KETRACO

At its core, KETRACO’s business is to plan, design, build and maintain electricity transmission lines and associated substations with a voltage rating of the lines including 132kV, 220kV, 400kV and 500kV (HVDC).

“O

ur company plans to construct over 4,000 km of high

Kenya Vision 2030, which aims at creating “a globally competitive

voltage transmission infrastructure comprising of lines,

and prosperous country with a high quality of life by 2030”. It aims

switch gears and sub-stations across the country in the

to transform Kenya into a newly industrialised, middle-income

next 3-4 years,” he explains, “This will open up geographical areas

country providing a high quality of life to all its citizens in a clean

without access to the national grid, enhance capacity for evacuating

and secure environment.

power from planned generating plants and build inter-connectors to facilitate regional power trade with neighbouring countries.”

Dr. Mativo highlights that the Vision is anchored on three key pillars: economic, social and political. The economic pillar aimed

This is in line with the company’s strong mandate, which is to

to achieve an average economic growth rate of 10 per cent per

improve quality and reliability of the electricity supply throughout

annum by 2012 and more importantly, to sustain the same till 2030

the country and to transmit electricity to areas that are currently

in order to generate more resources to meet the MDGs and Vision

not supplied by the national grid, “We are also to provide a link with

2030 goals. The social pillar seeks to achieve a just, cohesive and

neighbouring countries in order to facilitate power exchange and

equitable social development in a clean and secure environment,

develop electricity trade in the region,”

while the political pillar aims for a democratic, issue-based, people-

Transmission loss is a problem across the country that comes with a heavy cost for the Government each year, who is responsible for ending this while at the same time reducing the cost of electricity to the consumer by absorbing the capital cost of transmission infrastructure.

“The aim is to be a world class electricity transmission company and the lead inter-connector in Africa,” he says, “By building

centred, result-oriented and accountable system.

And through this the role of the Ministry of Energy plays an important role.

“The Kenya Vision 2030 has identified energy as a key foundation and one of the infrastructural “enablers” upon which the economic, social and political pillars of this long-term development strategy will be built,” Dr. Mativo says.

and operating a national electricity transmission network that is

“The successful implementation of the Flagship projects

reliable, efficient, effective, safe and environment-friendly through

highlighted in the Vision will greatly depend on supply of adequate,

innovative and best practices and to promote regional power trade

reliable, clean and affordable energy,”. In particular, the demand for

for socio-economic development.”

electricity will increase since it is a prime mover of the commercial sector of the economy. The level and intensity of commercial energy

VISION 2030 Following the expiry of the Economic Recovery Strategy (20032007), Kenya’s Development Agenda is now anchored on the

34 | Endeavour Magazine

use in the country is a key indicator of the degree of economic growth and development.

Therefore, the energy sector is expected to remain a key player

KETRACO

in tackling such challenges as reduction of poverty as per the

National Flagship Projects and key support initiatives that need to

Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and overall improvement

be undertaken to address the challenges.”

in the general welfare of the population.

KETRACO contributes to the national infrastructure and

For this, the Ministry of Energy will play a facilitative role in

energy sector support initiatives through the development of a

energy supply, by creating an enabling environment for private

new and robust national grid system and in line with its mandate,

sector-led growth through policy formulation and development

the company has identified for implementation on priority basis, a

of an appropriate legal and regulatory framework and oversight

total of 1,471km of 132KV lines, 645km of 220KV lines, 608km of

responsibility.

400KV lines and 686km of 500KV HVDC lines to be implemented

Guided by a vision of an “affordable quality energy for all

over the next three to four years.

Kenyans” and while realising its mission to facilitate the provision

The company has, under the Energy Sector Recovery Project

of clean, sustainable, affordable, reliable and secure energy services

(ESRP), a major component in “Distribution reinforcement and

at low cost,while protecting the environment, the Ministry will also

upgrade” to be implemented over a period of four years, which

play a contributory role towards the achievement of Kenya Vision

targets electricity provision to one million households over the

2030 by enhancing power generation capacity, increasing access to

next five years, at an estimated cost of KShs.84 billion. The project

electricity, development of new and renewable sources of energy,

will target major trading centres, secondary and primary schools,

ensuring security of fossil fuel resources and capacity building of

community water supply works and health centres.

the energy sector.

The 132KV and above transmission lines planned for

Alongside them, Kenya Electricity Transmission Co. Ltd will also be contributing towards Vision 2030.

implementation will reinforce and upgrade the infrastructure. The reinforcement and upgrade is aimed at improving the quality and reliability of supply, reducing system losses and increasing access to electricity services, especially in urban and peri-urban areas. The

EMCG-A10001-00-4A00

“Kenya Vision 2030 identified challenges that needed to be addressed in the energy Sector,” Dr. Mativo says, “And outlined the

The power to m

Siemens SAS France performed in Kenya essential electrical transmission grid substations ie Embakasi, Rabai, and Suswa.

Intelligent and digitally managed

We are very proud to continue expending electrical network with the construction of Lake Turkana wind farm grid connection Loyangalani substation.

Siemens applies its unrivalled in-house Project Management excellence to guarantee the deliverables with a “zero-injury” approach thanks to a robust Health & Safety process placed at the core of its projects worldwide.

The world‘s energy systems are changing across al By offering fully compliant and flexible turnkey voltage levels.

New operational challenges are cal solutions, Siemens delivers a peerless and peace of mindnew solutions & services. solutions – from the long-distan technological

36 | Endeavour Magazine

00

transmission oftalk, large amounts of green power to t Known for walking the Siemens could be comprehensive automation of distribution infrastr considered as a Trusted Partner to Ketraco for The convergence of operational any Energy project and is willing to sustain theand information governmental “Powering Freedom” initiative technology is a fundamental precondition for the in Kenya. successful and efficient tackling of these tasks.

Enter Siemens, the technology company that prov the most comprehensive integrated range of top-n electrification, automation, and digitalization prod

company will also undertake the implementation of the 330KV

meet the increase in demand. The company will particularly identify

transmission line between Arusha and Nairobi, which is being

more transmission line projects that will serve the projected power

undertaken jointly by the Kenyan and Tanzanian Governments,

supply equitably and in a holistic manner. Since electricity access

with the funding already obtained.

is fundamental for development and achieving the Vision 2030,

Developing links between power generators and the distributor (KPLC) to produce renewable energies that can continuously be

KETRACO’s contribution to the development of the Master Plan will be critical.

harvested because they are cleaner and inexhaustible in supply is also an essential component of facilitating access to affordable

PROJECTS

energy. This will relate to the Olkaria IV appraisal drilling of six

The challenges facing the power sub-sector include a weak

wells, in which about 70MW of electricity of renewable energy will

power transmission and distribution infrastructure, high cost

be generated, as well as the 150MW of wind power that will be

of power and a low per capita power consumption and low

generated from wind.

countrywide electricity access.

The above initiatives by KETRACO are incorporated in the

These transmission lines and associated sub-stations will be

National Electricity Supply Master Plan, which will identify

financed by the exchequer, development partners, internally-

new generation and supply to ensure that dependable national

generated revenue, financial institutions and public-private

electricity supply is tripled in the next 10 years from the current

partnerships (PPPs). Management of resources will be guided by

1,050MW to 3,000MW by the year 2018. This will play a key role

operational rationalisation and modernisation of key processes,

in meeting the power needs of an expanding economy and the

while cost saving measures will be deployed to strengthen the

Vision 2030 Flagship projects. The National Electricity Master Plan

company’s financial resource base.

will identify the power projects to be initiated in the first medium-

EMCG-A10001-00-4A00

term plan (2008-2012) to ensure an adequate supply of energy to

EMCG-A10001-00-4A00

all of Kenya,” he finishes.

The power to make power happen Intelligent and digitally managed power transmission and distribution

The world‘s energy systems are changing across all voltage levels. New operational challenges are calling for new technological solutions – from the long-distance transmission of large amounts of green power to the comprehensive automation of distribution infrastructures.

The convergence of operational and information technology is a fundamental precondition for the successful and efficient tackling of these tasks.

1-00-4A00

“These projects will have a significant and beneficial impact on

Enter Siemens, the technology company that provides the most comprehensive integrated range of top-notch electrification, automation, and digitalization products and services.

Globally present and trusted, Siemens combines expertise in all areas of power transmission and distribution with a unique link to automation, drive, and information technology. Along with decades of worldwide experience and a firm commitment to customer success, this distinctive factor makes Siemens the partner of choice for safe, sustainable, and efficient power infrastructures.

Wherever and whenever power is needed, energy management technology from Siemens makes sure it arrives at its destination – across all power levels and with a reliable roadmap to the future. A prime example is the role Siemens plays as »Strategic Partner of Enel for the Smart Grid Technology at EXPO Milano 2015.«

The power to make power happen Intelligent and digitally managed power transmission and distribution

siemens.com/energy-management Endeavour Magazine | 37

38 | Endeavour Magazine

SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY WWW.SE.COM.SA 00966 920000222

A KINGDOM FILLED WITH LIGHT WRITTEN BY DAISY JONES

As the world’s largest exporter of petroleum, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the only Arab country to be included in the G20. Its strong, oilbased economy does not just rely on the Kingdom’s natural reserves, that amount to 18% of the world’s proven petroleum reserves, but also on the power that keeps the country running.

Endeavour Magazine | 39

SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY

The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) provides power generation,

transmission, distribution and customer services and is a key energy provider for the residential, commercial, industrial and Governmental sectors. Endeavour Magazine spoke to Mr Rami Siddiq of the SEC about how the company serves a strong and growing nation.

I

n 2000, a paid-up capital of SR 33.7 billion created a merger of

to infrastructure investment in generation, transmission and

all Saudi electricity companies in the Central, Eastern, Western,

distribution networks, and to establishing an interconnected grid

and Southern Regions, in addition to the ten small companies

throughout the Kingdom to improve the stability and efficiency of

operating north of the Kingdom and the other electricity operations

the service. The company also performs and supports research and

managed by General Electricity Corporation, into a single joint

development in performance improvement, economical operation,

stock company – the Saudi Electricity Company. The Saudi Arabian

environment protection, power conservation, renewable power and

Government maintains a strong control over major economic

services enhancement and stimulates the economy by developing

activities in the Kingdom and the SEC is no exception, with 74% of

competition amongst Independent Power Producers. However,

the company owned by the Government and 7% by Saudi Aramco.

the SEC’s role reaches far beyond the Kingdom; the company also

Like the country of Saudi Arabia, which has undergone

imports and exports power across the borders and invests in power

enormous changes since the discovery of its oil reserves in the

projects internationally.

1930s, the SEC understands the need to adapt and grow. Perhaps the biggest change to the company, since its creation, is the huge organisational restructure that is currently in progress. Mr Siddiq explains, “SEC is in the process of unbundling into SEC and six fully owned subsidiaries, to comply with the objective to reach energy open market in stages: single buyer, principle buyer and eventually open market. The subsidiaries will be four-generation companies (GENCO’s), one transmission company (National Grid), and one distribution company (DISTCO). The preparation of the unbundling program started in 2007, and the final set up was approved in 2010.”

The SEC’s major responsibilities are far greater than providing reliable power supply for all customers; it is constantly striving for progress and improvement. The company is committed 40 | Endeavour Magazine

A PERSONAL TOUCH The SEC cares about people. Thanks to a strong sense of Corporate Social Responsibility, the company has initiatives in place to maintain strong relationships with its customers, do business with transparency and accountability and create an excellent work environment for its employees. Internal communication programmes like the Panorama Programme, which has honoured 428 outstanding recipients of the SEC employee of the year award and the Thank God For Safety Programme, where the company conducted 90 visits to employees in hospital, show the company’s ability to recognise and value individuals even within a large organisation.

SAUDI ELECTRICITY COMPANY

A BRIGHT FUTURE

A CLEAN FUTURE

The SEC’s drive for constant progress is clear in the on-going

The Saudi Electricity Company’s commitment to the future

and upcoming projects that Mr Siddiq details for Endeavour

is about much more than improving service for their current

Magazine, “SEC distribution networks cover the whole country

customers; it believes in tackling climate change and using

with the voltages below 100 KV. The interconnection of the four

renewable energy to provide a sustainable, clean future for the

SEC Area Networks (Central, Eastern, Western and Southern),

people of Saudi Arabia and the world.

supplying extra and high voltage, was completed in 2010. The

“If we continue to consume fuel at the same rate, then there

nine remaining small isolated networks will be linked to the

will be a great lost opportunity,” said Hamed al-Saggaf, executive

interconnected networks before 2016, except Rafha and Sharorah,

director of the SEC, at the Solar Arabia Summit in 2014, “We have

which will remain isolated until 2021. There are currently 13 key

to start pursuing solar now.”

transmission projects underway, from Madinah to Egypt, all to be completed before 2020.”

The nation shares Saggaf’s passion for solar energy. Saudi Arabia is currently aiming to invest upwards of $109 billion into

Other projects include the production of a conventional

solar energy in the coming years, as a means of keeping up with

steam power plant in al Qurayah, south of the eastern city of

growing electricity demand and decreasing local oil use to increase

Khobar, under the Independent Power Project plan. SEC will buy

exports.

all the power produced by the al Qurayah plant from the winning

The SEC has seized the opportunity for solar power with both

consortium which will run it on a build own operate basis. The plant

hands and is now working on an ambitious project that marks Saudi

is the third of six planned IPP power plant projects in Saudia Arabia,

Arabia’s first integration of a solar power field with a combined

which should add 11,000 MW of capacity.

cycle plant and the first introduction of condensate as a gas

42 | Endeavour Magazine

turbine fuel. Mr Siddiq tells us more, “The Green Duba Integrated

cycle power plants in Riyadh, which will have a combined net

Solar Combined Cycle Plant will be built in the northwest of Saudi

electric output of 1,980 MW each. Power blocks one and two of the

Arabia, along the Red Sea coast and has the capacity to generate

PP13 plant are scheduled to begin operating in May and October of

the power needed to supply about 600,000 homes for a year. The

2016, while the two power blocks at PP14 are scheduled to start in

project is designed to generate up to 550 MW from the combined

November 2016 and April 2017.

cycle plant, while the solar field will supply steam for an additional

These projects have great potential, but the SEC knows that

50 MW. Power and medical company GE, which assists in the

more can and should be done and refuses to rest on its successes.

generation of more than half of Saudi Arabia’s power supply and has

The company will work together with the King Abdul Aziz City

over 500 gas turbines installed in the Kingdom, has partnered with

for Science and Technology (KACST) to create a new solar energy

the SEC for the project. GE will supply the engineering equipment

research centre as part of its on-going mission to protect the

package for the combined cycle plant, including two highly efficient,

environment and strive for excellence.

reliable F-class gas turbines, a 7F.05 and a 7F.03, a steam turbine,

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a significant role to play on

generators, heat recovery steam generators, condenser, boiler

the world stage – a role that grows by the day – and with the Saudi

feed pumps, Mark VIe distributed control system and a long-term

Electricity Company at the helm, the Kingdom will be filled with

service agreement. Meanwhile, the SEC will tender separately the

light for generations to come.

plant, solar field, civil works, erection, commissioning and testing.

The project is expected to cost a total of SR 2.5 billion and will be fully operational before the end of 2017.”

In addition, the SEC is building the PP13 and PP14 combined

Endeavour Magazine | 43

44 | Endeavour Magazine

PNG POWER WWW.PNGPOWER.COM.PG 00675 324 3200

KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Papua New Guinea relies largely on hydro-electric power and PNG Power Limited (PPL) supply over 74,000 people in the country, relying heavily on both thermal and hydro plants for their power generation. However, with a stronger than ever El Nino effect, the area has been struck hard putting the region into the worst drought in two decades.

Endeavour Magazine | 45

PNG POWER

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill warned of an escalation of unfavourable

conditions across the rest of Papua New Guinea as the El Nino strengthens over the next few months and said, “This drought has the potential to be worse than 1997 and 1998,”

T

his has not only placed a dire threat to the agricultural sector

for the reforms in the electricity sector and the restructure of PPL

but a huge responsibility onto the shoulders of PPL, who are

(PNG Power) is to introduce reliable and affordable power supply

the main power utility of the country who supply energy to 19

to at least 90 per cent of the population, consistent with the goals

provinces.

of Vision 2050.”

In January 2015, a state of emergency was declared for the

PPL has hydro and thermal electricity generating plants in 19

utility, a result of a number of mitigating circumstances through

provinces of Papua New Guinea all and apart from the 7 connected

which El Nino was only one part and as the first major move

by the Ramu Network, they work in isolation as individual cells.

since this happened, Papua New Guinea’s electricity sector made

According to the Asian Development Bank, Papua New Guinea

a number of key appointments at PNG Power, which included

currently has power generation capacity of around 580MW, but

appointing John Mangos, who was the former Digicel PNG Chief

will need an estimated 2000MW of installed capacity by 2030 to

Executive officer to Executive Director of PNG Power.

keep pace with Government targets.

John, who was Government appointed due to his impressive

Minister Micah also stated that approval had been given for new

record in bringing Digicel from ground zero to holding 90% of the

hydropower stations to be built at Edevua (Brown River), Gembogl,

mobile communication market in Papua New Guinea, explains that

Kiburu, Tua River, Wara Simbu, Daewoo Lae, Hela and Puanda.

his role is to assist the PPL executive management in its executive

The Papua New Guinea Government signed an agreement

duties and responsibilities, “Providing a mentorship role to bring in

with Italian construction firm, Salini-Impregilo, to jointly develop

modern management practises working together with the board.”

the 1800MW Karamui dam project in Simbu Province. This follows

“The state of emergency was announced in January this year

a recent deal with ExxonMobil to buy gas from the PNG LNG

in a bid to fix a list of concerns, one of which is to fix the revenue

project for local power generation. The PNG Government has also

problems faced by PNG Power,”

announced a 10-year electricity infrastructure development plan.

It is a compound problem that affects PNG Power. Lacklustre

In another move, the Government has made a significant

management from previous directors when it came to revenue

change at the top of the Independent Public Business Corporation

collection together with a the worst drought in years and a

(IPBC), which oversees all state-owned enterprises, including PNG

heavy reliance on hydro generated power means the company

Power. Garry Hersey is to replace Managing Director Wasantha

is in a position where it has large obligations to fulfil and needs

Kumarasiri, who has headed the IPBC since early 2013.

a management leader who is able to take the reins and steer the beast in the right direction.

For a 60-day period, Micah had extraordinary powers to take companies and individuals to court for non-payment of bills and illegal use of electricity. He said that a major recommendation of the report was the restructure of PPL, which was viewed ‘as a wholesome approach to improving and strengthening of the provision of electricity services’.

“The SOE [State of Emergency] Report also recommended and was approved by cabinet of major projects that will progress the development of electricity in PNG,” Micah said, “The ultimate goal 46 | Endeavour Magazine

THE SITUATION Despite remarkable economic growth that the country has achieved in recent years, Papua New Guinea is faced with a chronic shortage of electricity, to which the aggressive drought is significantly aggravating.

“Power demand outweighs power supply in growth rate,” John reveals, “According to our research, the country’s peak power demand is expected to increase to 347 MW in 2025,” (to lend some perspective, in 2012 the demand was 210 MW), he continues, “Under the given circumstance, it is critical to implement measures

PNG POWER

to cope with the increasing power demand to promote investment,

improved power stability that can boost economic activities as well

economic growth and ultimately to achieve poverty reduction

as people’s welfare and livelihoods in the region,” John attests.

through economic growth.”

Hydro accounts for more than 40% of the energy output, with 38% coming from thermal as in diesel fire power stations. The remaining installed capacity was constituted by geothermal and natural gas power plants. Of this total installed capacity nationwide, 295 MW belongs to PNG Power Limited, comprising 148 MW of hydro (50%) and 137 MW of thermal (47%) power plants. The remaining installed capacity belongs to mining and manufacturing industries, as well as 150 to 200 small rural electricity systems (called “C-Centres”) that are operated by local Government authorities.

According to the PPL Annual Report 2009, hydropower serves base load in the Port Moresby, Ramu and Gazelle Systems. However, most of these hydropower plants are more than 30 years old and have not been properly maintained due to the previously poor financial situation of PPL. As a result, power outages have been prevalent and increasing for many years and the total hydropower generations are estimated to be lower than 30% of the total annual electricity generation in PNG. There are two major power systems in operation in PNG generating as much as 90% of the country’s electricity. One of which is the Ramu System covering much of the Momase and Highlands Region. The Ramu system, however, is said to have serious problems with its power transmission lines. According to John, the Ramu transmission lines fail to meet the N-1 criteria, one of the international standards for quality transmission lines.

And as such, PPL advised that majority of the 1,706 unserved energy incidents that occurred in 2010 is attributed to this power transmission lines.

“The Ramu transmission lines are literally lifelines indispensable for the city of Lae, which is the commercial capital of Papua New Guinea,” John highlights, “And in this respect, they have a vital role to play to keep major industrial and manufacturing activities alive there.”

Therefore, the Ramu Transmission System Reinforcement Project aims at stabilising the electric supply to Lae and its neighbouring areas. The project is composed of the transmission line component and the substation component. For the transmission line component, more than 130 km overhead 132 kV transmission line will be installed from Taraka to Singsing Substation. For the substation component, rehabilitation of Ramu1 switchyard, Singsing, Erap, and Taraka substations, and installation of telecommunication system connecting substations will be carried out.

“Upon completion of the project, the Ramu system will have

48 | Endeavour Magazine

SUPPLY Papua New Guinea’s topography offers another challenge, which has hampered the development of a national grid system as well as considerable distances between various towns and load centres. PPL operate three separate urban grids and 14 other independent provincial systems. In addition, there are a number of C-Centres and privately owned facilities in rural areas. The three separate urban grids operated by PPL include Port Moresby System which serves the National Capital District, the commercial, industrial and administrative centre of Papua New Guinea as well as the surrounding areas in the Central Province with a total capacity under the Port Moresby System of 116.2 MW, comprised of the Rouna Hydro Power Stations, Moitaka thermal power station and Kanudi Power Station, which is diesel and privately owned.

There is the Ramu System as discussed above which serves the load centres of Lae, Madang and Gusap in the Momase Region and the Highlands centres of Wabag, Mendi, Mt Hagen, Kundiawa, Goroka, Kainantu and Yonki. Economies based on mining, oil, gas,

coffee, tea, timber and industrial productions. The main source of generation is the Ramu Hydro Power Station with an installed capacity of 75 MW, and a run-of-river Pauanda station in the Western Highlands Province with 12MW installed capacity. Power is also purchased when required from the privately owned Baiune Hydro Power Station at Bulolo in Morobe Province and varies

PNG FOREST PRODUCTS

congratulates PNG Power on its upcoming projects and capacity building

between 1 to 2 MW depending on availability. Transmission line outages, energy and peak demands are met by diesel plants at Madang, Lae, Mendi and Wabag, which serve as stand-by units.

Then there is the Gazelle Peninsula System, which serves the townships of Rabaul, Kokopo and Keravat to service Gazelle’s economy based on copra, coconut oil, cocoa, timber and fishing.

The Gazelle Peninsula system is powered by a 10MW hydro power system at Warangoi, Ulagunan Diesel Power Station with 8.4MW, and 0.5MW from Kerevat Diesel Power Station.

“PNG Power Limited has a history that goes back to the colonial days under the Australian Government,” John says, “Its predecessor, the Electricity Commission was set up in the sixties, so there is a historic reason to keep supplying.”

PNG Forest Products is a uniquely diverse company, and as a hydro power producer is proud of its 49 years Public Private Partnership with PNG Power.

Endeavour Magazine | 49

AUTOMOTIVES PEUGEOT 308 SW PURETECH 130 3 CYLINDER ENGINE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

There is no doubt that the Peugeot 308 SW is an appealing family car. With a spacious boot and a fuel-efficient engine, it is safe to say it’s been constructed for a family from one end to the other. Practical and pretty in an understated kind of way, the SW is a symbol of a certain age bracket; an age bracket associated with mortgages, school runs and family trips to the beach.

50 | Endeavour Magazine

W

ith as much boot space as a loft conversion, the 308 SW’s

and potholes. The new PureTech 130 3-cylinder engine was quiet

trunk space rivals that of both the Ford Focus Estate and

and gave the car a decent amount of torque and acceleration when

the Volkswagen Golf Estate with several clever ideas built

it was needed.

in that prove the designers must have been involved in many a

There is also plenty of sunlight thanks to the spacious sun roof

beach run with their families. The rear seats fold flat automatically

that goes all the way to the back of the car, allowing for daylight

when you pull handles in the boot and there is even a convenient

without having to worry about digging insects out of your hair.

space to store the luggage cover beneath the boot floor so that it doesn’t end up being damaged and forgotten in the garage or rattling around in the car.

DASHBOARD LAYOUT The steering wheel is small so that you can look over it at

Peugeot has never really liked very tall people or people with

the instruments, but it does give you less feeling of control and

big feet, so at 6ft 5, I was hitting my head on everything stored

stability. Also, there aren’t any buttons on the dashboard, with a

in the space above the headspace of most people. Additionally,

touch-screen panel set up instead, which is frankly annoying.

I found the pedals quite cramped and my feet kept overlapping

Toggles, knobs and buttons are useful when you’re driving but

which made me regret getting the manual. In the back there is also

not wanting to take your eyes off the road. Instead, if you want to

limited legroom for the over six footers too, but we’re used to being

adjust anything on the dash you have to pull over.

cramped in what other people would consider to be luxuriously spacious cars so we can’t fret. If I wanted space, I’d buy a bus.

In the front though it’s clear that in an effort to simplify the controls and systems, Peugeot has removed many of those convenient cubbyholes and pockets that drivers and front seat

This may sound like a move towards safety and it certainly looks very plush and sophisticated when you first see it, but it doesn’t take into consideration driving conditions and seems more like a designer thought, “Let’s try this out and see what they think?”

The Volvo XC60 and the Skoda Octavia have a safer layout that

passengers always find a use for.

altogether feels a bit better thought out.

COMFORT

FUN TO DRIVE?

Adjustable lumbar support in the seats is a welcome relief to

Once you get accustomed to the small eccentricities of the

long-drive backache and the comfort of the drive is emphasised by

car it is pleasant enough to drive, responding quickly to steering

the suspension, which is outstanding at soaking up bumps, cat eyes

inputs and all in all the steering and the engine strength work well Endeavour Magazine | 51

together and there aren’t any major blind spots that could make reversing difficult, although I was grateful for the rear-view cam that came up on the dash.

Let’s face facts; the SW isn’t meant to be a fun car. I was continuously reminded about the small size of the steering wheel and how my feet were too big for the pedals; but the Peugeot 308 is a solid, affordable and fuel-efficient family car that would be perfect for day-to-day school runs. It is aimed at a different market, one dealing with small grubby handprints on the windows and daily shopping bags.

The most efficient version of the 308 SW is the 1.6 BlueHDi 120 diesel, which returns an official average of almost 90mpg, while even the least efficient model in the range manages more than 55mpg.

True, you’ll struggle to match these figures in the real-world due to the unrealistic nature of the Government test, but the 308 SW should still cost you less in fuel than equivalent versions of the Ford Focus and VW Golf estates.

EASY ON THE POCKET

SAFETY Naturally for a family car this has to be safe and the Peugeot 308 SW is not that far behind the class leaders. In a recent press release it was revealed that the crash-test specialists Euro NCAP haven’t assessed the 308 SW, but the hatchback version of the car earned the maximum five stars. Like its rivals, the 308 also comes with a stability control system that can help you regain control if the car starts to slide, but while it has six airbags, some rivals offer an extra one that protects the driver’s knees, which are things that people miss when they’re not there anymore.

The range-topping Feline version of the car comes with an Emergency Collision Braking System, which automatically applies the brakes if it senses that a crash is imminent. This system is an option on the Allure model, but it isn’t available on cheaper 308s.

Even the cheapest version of the 308, the Access, comes with air-conditioning, cruise control and a Bluetooth hands-free phone connection. What’s more, there’s a digital radio for you to listen to and a USB socket that lets you play the music on your iPod through the car’s stereo.

The 308 SW is competitively priced, whether you’re planning to purchase it outright or pay in monthly instalments and the diesel models have low CO2 emissions that make them cheap to run as company cars.

Peugeot’s three-year Just Add Fuel package is worth considering, because this covers all lease, insurance and servicing costs, meaning you can predict exactly how much a 308 SW will cost you to own.

52 | Endeavour Magazine

CONCLUSION The Peugeot 308 SW has a huge boot and is well-priced and equipped, just bear in mind that it isn’t as fun to drive or as spacious in the back as the Ford Focus Estate or VW Golf Estate.

If you’re about to become a father, maybe it’s time to lose the motorcycle and look at one of these.

NEW GOVERNMENT REPORT SIGNALS END OF THE ROAD FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE MYTHS

A

new government report has realigned long-held beliefs about

in cars and vans to help them get on in life. The Government is

electric car ownership and usage patterns.

investing £500 million over the next five years in ultra low emission

Echoing points made by Government and industry electric

vehicles, innovative technology and charging infrastructure to

vehicle body Go Ultra Low, the Department for Transport (DfT)

support jobs and growth and keep Britain as a global leader for

report, entitled ‘Uptake of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles in the

ULEVs.”

UK’, draws on the research from almost 50 UK and international

Hetal Shah, Head of Go Ultra Low, said: “This new Government

sources, and points to a significant change in the way motorists use

report goes a long way to challenge the misconceptions many

and own plug-in vehicles.

people still have when it comes to plug-in vehicles and reflects

Contrary to popular perceptions, evidence from the report shows that 82% of Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)-owning households in the UK use their electric car as their main vehicle, while for 20% of owners an electric vehicle is the only car.

what is happening in the market place – demand is increasing rapidly, up 256% year on year in the UK.” “Brits are really starting to wake up to benefits of electric motoring. With driving costs from as little as 2p a mile, coupled

The report also found that ULEV usage is not restricted to

with the wide range of cars now available, from city run-arounds

short-distance journeys, as per previous predictions. In fact, plug-

and family hatchbacks to 4x4s and sports cars, there’s an electric

ins are being driven for comparable mileages to petrol and diesel

car to suit almost every lifestyle.”

cars. Where an ULEV is used as the main car in the household,

As well as looking at usage and experience of ULEVs, the 60-

the average annual mileage is approximately 8,850 miles. This is

page report delves into other factors influencing ULEV uptake, such

greater than with the estimated UK average for all cars of 8,430

as public incentives and the growing charging infrastructure. For

miles, according to National Travel Survey data.

full details, download the DfT report, Uptake of Ultra Low Emission

Importantly, the report demonstrates that the vast majority of ULEV owners in the UK are highly satisfied with their ownership

Vehicles in the UK, which is under strict embargo until 00.01hrs on 13 August 2015.

experience. In a UK trial, 90% said they would recommend an

Go Ultra Low exists to help motorists understand the benefits,

electric vehicle to others. Furthermore, the evidence shows that

cost savings and capabilities of the raft of new ultra low emission

most ULEV owners are positive about buying another plug-in

vehicles. The collaborative campaign is the first of its kind, bringing

vehicle in the future.

together a consortium of seven leading vehicle manufacturers

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “As this report shows,

(Audi, BMW, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Toyota and Volkswagen),

plug-in vehicles are cheap to run, can be used every day and owner

Government and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders

satisfaction is incredibly high.

(SMMT)

“More and more families and businesses are choosing plug-

Endeavour Magazine | 53

54 | Endeavour Magazine

QATAR RAIL WWW.QR.COM.QA 974 4433 1111

BUILDING ONE OF THE MOST MODERN RAILWAY NETWORKS IN THE WORLD WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Doha Metro in Qatar’s capital city will be one of the most advanced rail transit systems in the world when Phase I becomes operational by the end of 2019 and we were fortunate enough to speak with Engineer Sultan Al-Anzi, EVP of Operations at Qatar Rail.

Endeavour Magazine | 55

QATAR RAIL

The development of the Doha Metro was originally planned for 2007, as part of a bid to host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Doha. While they lost the bid to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Doha still proceeded with the project in preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup which it won the bid for in 2010.

“W

ith road travel being an extensive mode of transport, Qatar

has

always

enjoyed

a

In August 2008, national development agency Qatari Diar Real

well-developed

Estate Investment appointed the German national railway company

road network made up of a highway system and

Deutsche Bahn (DB) to produce plans for a railway network in the

expressways,” Eng. Sultan Al-Anzi tells us, “The public transport

country. It was DB International (DBI), theglobal wing of Deutsche

that does exist is mainly provided by Mowasalat, a state-owned

Bahn, and Qatari Diar who prepared conceptual designs for the

integrated ground transportation company.”

consolidated railway network development in Qatar.

Recognising the importance of a reliable and aesthetically representing infrastructure, these requirements led for the proposal of a comprehensive railway network for future development in the Greater Doha area and in the state as a whole.

The rail transit system is part of the Qatar Government’s €130bn diversification and modernisation strategy, which involves public and private investments. This campaign also aims to reduce the country’s dependency on natural gas exports. The project is already underway, with contracts for the first phase being awarded in August 2012 and the ground breaking celebration taking place two months later on the 10th of October 2012. Work has started on the Msheireb interchange station, which will serve as the hub for the metro’s operations.

“The objective of the transport master plan for Qatar is to develop attractive, efficient and reliable public transport in the country,” he explains.

MASTER PLAN Doha Metro is part of a larger railway network, which consists of five modern and flexible railway systems integrated across the Persian Gulf and Eng. Sultan Al-Anzi reveals that the larger network includes the development of passenger and freight rail transport systems, along with fast rail links to the international airport, based on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) feasibility study.

“The master plan involves development of a metro railway system in Qatar, in addition to long-distance and freight lines

THE PROJECT Originally, in 2009, Qatari Diar and DB signed an agreement to form a joint venture known as Qatar Railways Development Company (QRDC), for implementing, developing and managing the conceptual design of the railway plan. In this joint venture, Qatari Diar would hold 51% and DBI 49% shares in the joint venture (JV) company.

However in 2011, Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) purchased the shares held by DBI in the JV and became the sole owner of QRDC. In this regard the project is now being executed directly by Qatar Rail instead of QRDC, with support from DB International.

Estimated at costing $36billion, the Doha metro network is planned to be built in phases and will become one of the most modern railway networks in the world with four lines, namely the Red, Green, Gold and Blue metro lines, an overall length of 300km and 98 stations. Bids for the lines were submitted in 2012 and early 2013 and Phase I of the project includes construction of all four lines and two major stations. Construction of this phase has been underway since 2013 and Eng. Saltan Al-Anzi assures us that it is expected to be completed in October 2019, three years ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

LINE ROUTES

connecting the emirate with the rest of the GCC,” he says,

The Red Line, also called the Coast Line, will run between Al

“Currently in the planning stage, the GCC network will connect six

Khor city in the north and Mesaieed town in the south via Lusail

member states, namely Oman, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait

and Hamad International Airport. Divided into two major segments,

and Bahrain, with a 1,940km rail network.”

namely the North Line and South Line, this line will cover 55.7km

56 | Endeavour Magazine

and 18 stations between Msheiredb and Al Khor while the Red Line South will serve 12 stations on a 42.8km segment between NDIA/ Messaieed and Msheireb.

The Green Line, or Education Line, will run along Al Rayyan Road and link Education City with the heart of Doha. It will originate in Industry Area-South and end at Al Rayyan Stadium, covering 31 stations on a 65.3km stretch.

The Historic Line or Gold Line will connect Airport City in the north with Al Rayyan in the south, running for 30.6km covering 20 stations and the Blue or ‘City’ Line will be a 17.5km-long semicircular line linking the West Bay and Airport City North areas along the main C-Ring Road and connecting four stations.

THE HANDS BEHIND THE PROJECT With the stakes so high there is little room for error and the project management and consulting engineering contract for the Red Line was awarded in 2013, to Jacobs Engineering, while a similar contract for the Gold Line and the main stations was awarded to a team comprising of Louis Berger and Egis Rail. Hill International was contracted to manage the Green Line. The total value of these three contracts is estimated at $313.16m.

A QR55m ($15.1m) safety assessment contract was awarded to

The first-ever Westin to debut in Qatar, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa occupies a central location in the heart of Downtown Doha. With 365 well-appointed guest rooms and more than 3,000sqm of function space and the city’s second largest ballroom. The Westin is home to the Heavenly Spa with 9 treatment rooms, 3 pools and Doha’s first manmade wave pool as well as 6 delectable restaurants & bars. The hotel located just 20 minutes from Hamad International Airport and offers easy access to The Corniche, West Bay, Aspire Zone and is only 2km from the Qatar Rail Head Office.

Lloyd’s Register in the same year.

Endeavour Magazine | 57

QATAR RAIL

For the Red Line North, a consortium led by Italian construction

project management, system integration and tunnel ventilation

giant Impregilo and including South Korea’s S K Engineering

work. It will also supply the power distribution system, platform

& Construction and Qatar’s Galfar Engineering & Contracting

screen doors and tracks.

was awarded a design contract dealing with the designing and

Mitsubishi Corporation will supply the rail cars, in collaboration

construction of 13km twin-bore underground tunnels and seven

with Kinki Sharyo. Advanced communications-based train control

underground stations starting from Msheireb station.

(CBTC) signaling, telecommunications and security, integrated

Following that, in June 2013, Qatar Rail awarded the $1.82bn Red Line South design-build contract to the consortium led by

operational control centre and automatic fare collection systems will be supplied by Thales.

QDVC, a joint venture between Qatari Diar and France’s Vinci

Hitachi will handle project management tasks and facilities

Construction Grands Projects. The consortium, which includes

maintenance, including the delivery of special maintenance vehicles

South Korea’s GS Engineering and Construction and Qatar’s Al-

for the inspection of railway tracks and electric train lines.

Darwish Engineering, is designing and building a 12.8km dual-tube underground line between Msheireb Station and the New Doha International Airport, as part of the contract.

Also in June 2013, a consortium of Austrian contracting firm Porr, Saudi Binladin and HBK Contracting Company was awarded a $2.5bn contract for the design and construction of the Green Line between Msheireb and Al Rayyan Stadium.

A consortium of Samsung C&T, Obrascon Huarte Lain (OHL) and Qatar Building Company (QBC) won a $1.4bn contract in the same month to build Doha metro’s two major stations in Msheireb and Education City.

The following year, in March 2014, the FCC-led consortium, which includes Archirodon (Greece), Yüksel (Turkey) and Petroserv (Qatar), signed a $700m contract to build a 6.97km section of the Red Line along with three elevated stations. A consortium led by Greek firm Ellaktor, alongside Yapi Merkezi and STFA from Turkey, India’s Larsen & Toubro and Qatari company Al Jaber Engineering, was awarded a $3.3bn contract for the design and construction of the Gold Line in April 2014.

In the same month, the SYSTRA-Parsons joint-venture was awarded a €170m project management and work supervision contract for Phase I of the Doha metro.

Atkins has been appointed as lead designer for the Gold Line and Red South Underground lines.

INFRASTRUCTURE The key task for the Doha metro is to link all the major locations of the city, such as the Education City and West Bay, Lusail urban development area, Doha airport, the business and conference centre and the 2022 FIFA World Cup stadiums. To achieve this, the railway lines and infrastructure will provide access through tunnels, overhead railways and at the ground level.

“Qatar Rail will build an east coast rail link between Ras Laffan and Mesaieed and a 180km high-speed link from Doha to Bahrain,” Eng. Sultan Al-Anzi says. This line will cross the Qatar-Bahrain Causeway on which trains will be able to reach a speed of 350km/h.

Other projects include a 325km freight line, 270km of which will be used for passenger services, connected to the planned GCC rail network; a light rail network serving residential developments, a 100km long-distance rail transport line to Saudi Arabia with trains having speeds of up to 200km/h and the Doha metro network.

A light rail network serving residential developments is also included within the projects, featuring a 100km long-distance rail transport line to Saudi Arabia with trains attaining speeds of up to 200km/h.

THE IMPORTANCE OF RAIL PROJECTS

In September 2014, UNStudio was appointed as the principal

Qatar Rail launched the pre-qualification process for operation

architect for the Qatar Integrated Railway Project by Qatar Rail and

of the future Doha Metro and Lusail tramway at an Industry

will design more than 30 stations in Phase I of the Doha Metro

Awareness Day on May 7 2015 where approximately 600 companies

project. Rolling stock contract for the metro project is expected to

attended, including 55 in the session on pre-qualification.

be awarded in 2015.

The event was intended to encourage the private sector to

A consortium of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), Mitsubishi

participate in rail projects in Qatar and according to Transportation

Corporation, Hitachi, Kinki Sharyo and Thales submitted a bid

Minister, Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, 15% of the companies involved

for the turnkey construction of a fully automated driverless

in the design and construction contracts awarded for the two

metro system in March 2014 and received a letter of conditional

projects so far are from the private sector. Of these, 70% are local

acceptance (LCA) in February 2015.

firms and 30% foreign.

The package includes 75 sets of three-car trains, tracks,

Arcadis announced on June 23 that it is to provide architectural,

platform screen doors, a railway yard, a signaling system, power

branding, design and construction consultancy services for the

distribution, tunnel ventilation and telecommunications.

Gold Line of the Doha metro under a €20m contract. Arcadis is

MHI will lead the consortium and be responsible for overall 58 | Endeavour Magazine

already providing similar services for the Red Line South and the

“Small enough to know you, Large enough to serve you…” scope takes in design and co-ordination of architectural finishes for 10 of the 13 underground stations. This includes the design of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, structures and landscape, as well as construction support and consultancy services. The design phase is expected to take 12 months and construction support a further 24 months.

The east-west underground line linking Airport City North with Al Rayyan South is scheduled to be completed by 2019 and is being built by the ALYSJ joint venture of Aktor, Larsen & Toubro, Yapı Merkezi, STFA Group and Al Jaber Engineering under a €3·2bn design and build contract.

Hochtief ViCon has won a contract to provide building information modelling services for a section of the Doha Metro Red Line. A 6·7 km stretch of the Red Line between Lusail and Msheireb, which includes elevated and at-grade sections. ViCon is to prepare initial BIM documents including an implementation plan and the modelling guidelines and will also co-ordinate the implementation.

Last year a consortium of Rizzani de Eccher, Lotte Engineering & Construction and Redco Construction won a US$609m contract to build this section of the Red Line.

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When the 3·65bn riyal syndicated financing package for the construction of the Doha Metro Gold Line was finalised, Barwa Bank called it the largest infrastructure syndication in Qatar to date.

Last year, project promoter Qatar Rail awarded the ALYSJ joint venture a €3·2bn design and build contract covering the eastwest line linking Airport City North with Al Rayyan South. The underground line is scheduled to be completed by 2019 as part of Phase 1 of the planned four-line network.

Barwar was the sole book runner to arrange financing for ALYSJ. The mandated lead arrangers are Barwa Bank, First Gulf Bank of Abu Dhabi and Qatar International Islamic Bank. Law firm Simmons & Simmons advised the banks and Exarchou & Rosenberg International Law represented ALYSJ. ALYSJ comprises of Greek company Aktor SA, Larsen & Toubro of India, Yapi Merkezi and STFA Group from Turkey and Al Jaber Engineering, which is a Qatar based firm.

‘The Gold Line Metro syndicated financing is another credential that supports Barwa Bank’s status as a leading franchise in Islamic capital financing products and we thank ALYSJ for the trust they have placed in us’, said Khalid Mahdi Al-Ahbabi, Executive General Manager & Chief Business Officer of Barwa Bank.

QATAR RAIL As project promoter, Qatar Rail has awarded the Citizen Services Group consortium a €506m contract to build a 6·97 km section of the Red Line. As a credit to their faith in this consortium

Endeavour Magazine | 59

QATAR RAIL

Eng. Sultan Al-Anzi explains that the consortium is led by Spanish

passengers pre-paying their fare online or at the station and then

firm FCC and includes Archirodon from Greece, Yüksel from Turkey

holding a card or token up to a sensor at a gate. Thales is also the

and local firm Petroserv.

company that supplied the fare collection system for the Dubai

“The scope of the 31-month contract announced on March 11

Metro. This means of payment, the predominant form in the likes

includes the construction of elevated stations at Barwa Village, Al

of the London Underground, has proved to be highly efficient and

Wakra and Qatar Economic Zone, as well as a road tunnel at Al

preferred by international commuters.

Wakra.” He says.

Platform screen doors: Increasingly common in new and retrofitted metro systems, these are separate doors that act as a

THE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE The latest contract awarded by Qatar Rail sheds new light on what passengers will experience while riding the Doha Metro once the system starts operating in 2019. Coinciding with a weekend visit to Japan by Qatar’s Emir, a consortium of five firms, led by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, has indicated that it has signed a letter of conditional acceptance with Qatar Rail. While some details of this deal have not been disclosed, it is known that it includes the sale of railway vehicles, laying of track and various systems including signals, power distribution, telecommunications and tunnel ventilation.

Automated fare collections: Thales is one of the five firms in the consortium and provides contactless systems that typically involve

safety barrier between the platform and the tracks. Another feature is that some of the trains, akin to a system built in Dubai, will be fully automated and driverless, negating the need for human operators.

In addition to Kinki Sharyo, Thales and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the full consortium – which will also be responsible for maintaining the system for 20 years after it is completed – includes Mitsubishi Corp. and Hitachi Ltd. According to Qatar Rail’s website, five companies and jointventures were invited to bid on the project. Three responded with the winning consortium including German industrial giant Siemens and a JV between Italian transportation firm Ansaldo STS and Spanish railway firm CAF.

ABOVE GROUND PLANS Separately, another firm has announced that it has it received a US$79-million contract to act as a project management consultant for the approximately 16km of elevated and ground-level portions of the Doha Metro. New Jersey-based Louis Berger Egis Rail jointventure is already familiar with the project, having previously been named a project management consultant for the Gold Line and major stations in 2012.

The Doha Metro is expected to be fully operational in less than five years. The first phase will consist of four lines: •

The Red Line North, running from a connection with Lusail’s light-rail line to Msheireb via West Bay;

•

The Red Line South, running from Msheireb to Hamad International Airport;

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•

The Green Line, running from Al Rayyan Stadium to Msheireb via Education City; and

•

The Gold Line, running from Villaggio Mall to the area around the old Doha International Airport, via Msheireb.

DOHA METRO TUNNELLING Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail), the company overseeing the construction of the Qatar’s integrated railway network, had nearly completed 20km of tunnels dug on the Doha Metro project, a landmark that clearly highlights the progress of the tunnelling works underneath Doha city.

The update was shared by Qatar Rail during a press conference,

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60 | Endeavour Magazine

held at the Millennium Hotel, which provided the most recent milestones shaping the path of the company’s near future

undertakings; ones that will remodel Qatar’s urban landscape,

blasting tunnels through everything from soft ground to hard rocks.

infrastructure, and global role in the field of transport, shipping and

They form circular tunnels through the rock and can install concrete

logistics technologies.

linings along the drilled sections to reinforce the bored tunnel and

Qatar Rail already received the 21 Tunnel Boring Machines

stabilise the ground.

(TBMs) assigned for the project, after being imported from

The Doha Metro’s Red Line has launched all tunnel-boring

Herrenknecht, the German world market leader in mechanised

machines, which are Lebretha, Al Mayeda, Al Khor, Al Biddaa,

tunnelling technology. Most of Qatar Rail TBMs are currently

Lehwaila, Al Wakra, Msheireb, Doha and Al Zubara. Tunnelling

operational, with expectations to successfully accomplish the

works are progressing according to plan where the accumulative

tunneling phase by the second quarter of 2017.

dug of these TBMs reached 11880m for both northern and

Eng. Abdulla Abdulaziz T. Al Subaie, Managing Director of Qatar

southern sections. In parallel, the Green Line also launched its six

Rail, said, “Qatar Rail has overcome many challenges to launch a

TBMs with an accumulative tunneling of 6653m executed by Al

successful tunnelling phase at Doha Metro project. Our philosophy

Rayyan TBM, Al Gharrafa, Al Messila, Al Sheehaniya, Leatooriya

is to talk about what we have achieved, rather than share intangible

and Lijmailiya TBMs, while the tunneling drive recorded 150m

promises. Today, we are pleased to announce the completion of

until now at the Gold Line, which has received its six tunnel-boring

nearly 20km of tunnels out of 113km; a development that we at

machines; Lusail, Sharq, Al Sadd, Al Waab, Al Sailiya and Ras bu

Qatar Rail are proud of. Thanks to all workers and stakeholders

Abboud (Airport City North).

contributing to the success of this national project in alignment with

Eng. Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi, Chief Executive Officer of

Qatar’s National vision 2030, the Doha Metro tunnelling works are

Qatar Rail, discussed the latest updates of the rail projects said,

progressing as planned in adherence to global standards”.

“During the past year, we have achieved remarkable milestones on

The TBMs are a key component in implementing the Doha

the Doha Metro and Lusail Light Rail Transit (LRT) projects thanks

Metro innovative project; a high-tech mechanised alternative to

to the joint efforts of the company and its contractors. Particularly,

conventional methods of design-and-build mining, drilling and

the tunnelling phase for the Doha Metro was successfully launched

Endeavour Magazine | 61

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Annual Report 2014

QATAR RAIL

as we achieved great records of 11880m of tunnel dug at the Red

Rail’s developments in general and the Tunnel Boring Machines

Line, 6653m at the Green Line and 150m at the Gold Line. With

(TBM) operations specifically.

a skilled team and advanced machines, we were able to tackle obstacles and ensure works are moving forward.”

Needing only one point of entry, TBMs can drill right below the city streets, practically unknown to the crowds above. They

Commenting on complications that may occur during the

are also ideal for long lengths of uninterrupted tunnelling, as

TBMs operations underground, Al Muhannadi said, “Challenges

required by the Doha Metro project. Having limited environmental

are the rule of any innovative project similar to Qatar Rail’s current

footprints, the machines have very little impact on the infamously

endeavour and these encounters might be logistic - like finding the

high water levels that lie beneath Doha. Dust pollution associated

best way to manage excavations left-over at any site or between

with construction sites is virtually non-existent as all work takes

two different locations, or geo-technical, as no matter how good our

place approximately 20 metres below the surface. The Doha Metro

surveys were, we will keep on discovering what the underground

project is using 7 metre diameter TBMs, producing a tunnel with a

world is hiding, from groundwater conditions to voids and cavities,”

diameter of 6.7 metres.

He also noted, “Technical hitches cannot be avoided while

Before any tunnelling begins ‘Pre Condition Surveys’ were carried

implementing such a huge and complex project, however, they can

out by Qatar Rail on buildings along the route. Key Monitoring

be dealt with in an efficient, effective and timely manner. We were

Points were installed and actions taken to ensure that all works are

proud of the team who handled a flooding situation at Al Bidda

carried out under the safest conditions. Among three major types of

station earlier this year, which had no delay or impact on the Doha

TBMs - Earth Pressure Balance (EPB), Slurry Shield and Open Face -

Metro progress. When and if such incidents occur, it is our duty to

the EPB machines were selected for Doha Metro due to the nature

react immediately.”

of the country’s geological makeup. This type of TBM is ideal for use

A presentation on the Qatar Rail projects and the tunnelling

in cohesive soft ground and rock conditions. Their name is derived

mechanism was also shared by Eng. Hamad Ibrahim Al Bishri,

from the fact that the pressure exerted by the machine itself is in

Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Rail. The demonstration

equilibrium to the weight of the earth above it. While the machine

gave insight on “the other life being led underground” showing

drills through the ground, grout is injected straight into the ground

the route of each TBM operating, the machinery details and the

to fill the overcutting gaps, stabilising the ground

improvement at this stage.

“2019 is right around the corner and so we are leaving nothing

Qatar Rail’s interactive event was followed by a site visit to Al

to chance and working with the very best,” Eng. Sultan Al-Anzi

Sudan Gold Line Underground station, where attendees were able

advises, “Combining talent with vision is the way to achieve

to inspect some of the tangible and concrete progress of Qatar

greatness.”

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64 | Endeavour Magazine

Celebrating the

Future of Making QATAR Changing legislation, increasingly complex urban landscapes, skills shortages & shifting expectations of asset owners challenge how the engineering and construction industries think and operate. What impact will technologies like building information modelling (BIM), 3D printing, infinite computing, digital reality and crowd sourcing have on the way in which buildings and infrastructure assets are planned, designed and made?

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Join us as we look beyond today’s established technologies, and explore potential future digital strategies that might shape the construction industry, helping Qatar respond to the needs of its National Vision for 2030.

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66 | Endeavour Magazine

GUYANA GOLDFIELDS WWW.GUYGOLD.COM 001 416 628 5936

GOLD RUSH WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Last year, Endeavour Magazine spoke to Guyana Goldfields Inc. about the Aurora Gold project; a new mining initiative that promised to change the industry forever.

Endeavour Magazine | 67

GUYANA GOLDFIELDS

With the first pour having now been reported, we spoke again with the team to find out if things are progressing as they hoped.

A

s we previously reported, though a fantastic site was

Guyana Goldfields Inc (GGI)., we can report that it is indeed on the

discovered, with the potential for impressive yields, initial set

cards. Back in December 2014, the company told us that;

up procedures proved to be anything but smooth sailing, as

Scott Caldwell, CEO at Guyana Gold, told us,

“Gold production will be staged, with initial open pit production supplying ore to the mill at a rate of 5,000 tons per day, thereafter

“In the beginning, in order to gain access to its properties, the

increasing to 10,000 tons per day with the onset of underground

company would have to make use of the waterways by boat and

mining. The company also continues to explore its large land

sometimes portage due to the interior being very remote and the

package within the Aurora and Aranka districts.”

lack of existing roads because of the dense jungle rainforest. Any

We can now confirm that as of August 4th 2015, first gold

infrastructure we currently use has been specifically put in place

production has been achieved and most impressively, it has come

over the years and the company has made a substantial investment

in on time and within budget;

into this. We currently use a 160km all-weather access road, which

“First gold production was attained through the gravity and

leads to our site from our Buckhall wharf facility located along

saprolite production circuits, which allowed for earlier gold

the Essequibo River. The wharf facility is where all of our goods

production (pre-commercial production) through the processing

and equipment is barged to and thereafter transported down the

plant. Initial start-up gold was captured by processing the lowest

access road to our site by trucks.”

grade ore available and GGI is now progressing towards full

Fortunately, the company was and remains committed to not

saprolite circuit operation and will gradually feed the mill with

only enjoying the fruits of its labour, but also contributing positively

higher-grade material. The commissioning and startup of the hard

to the surrounding communities, making infrastructure investment

rock crushing circuit is projected to be completed later in the third

necessary and widely beneficial. With considerable costs implied

calendar quarter of 2015.”

in the development of a new mine, we reported that success was a

So what does this mean for GGI? With this initial yield solidifying

necessity and now, thanks to the regularly updated newsfeed from

the belief that the Aurora gold mine will prove to be, well, worth it’s

68 | Endeavour Magazine

GUYANA GOLDFIELDS

weight in gold, projections are ambitious for the next year; “The

They went on to explain;

Company expects to produce between 30,000 ounces to 50,000

“In the area of Human Resources Development, Guyana

ounces of gold in 2015, depending on how quickly full ramp-up is

Goldfields’ policy is that “CSR begins at home”. CSR begins with

achieved, and approximately 120,000 ounces to 140,000 ounces

how we treat our employees and some of the activities that we

of gold in 2016.”

have developed are insurance plans, HIV testing and counselling,

Don’t be fooled onto thinking that these are just empty numbers and promises however, as there is solid research and development methodology supporting the aspirations of GGI;

well-being symposiums, formal training programmes, appreciation awards and social events, such as Sunday barbeques.”

With a large workforce and expensive operational costs to

“GGI expects to issue an updated National Instrument (NI) 43-

account for, GGI has been proactive and diligent in the procurement

101 Technical Report Feasibility Study in the first quarter of 2016

of funding and confirm that they have sufficient financial support

for the project, which will reflect an extended open pit mining

to complete the construction of the Aurora mine. Determined to

scenario while deferring the underground production until later in

not exceed the initial development budget of US$277 million, the

the mine life, as well as current operating cost parameters and an

management team are progressing well, with the purse strings

updated ore reserve metal price.”

firmly tightened, so much so in fact that the overrun budget of

A project of such magnitude, which is now offering confirmation

US$52 million remains untouched.

of long-anticipated success will be dependent on the staff that

It seems incredible that a project of such magnitude is making

commit both their time and effort. Because of this, GGI has a very

significant discoveries and progress within budget and on time, but

forward thinking approach to Human Resources;

this is how a world-class organisation operates. Talking about the

“Guyana Goldfields has been dedicated to sourcing local personnel and achieving a workforce target rate of 90-95% Guyanese nationals.”

70 | Endeavour Magazine

exciting first pour, Caldwell commented; “Our first gold pour is an extraordinary achievement in GGI’s transition from an exploration and development company to a

high grade, low cost gold producer. We would like to celebrate this

as to the initial investments made into this ambitious mine project.

significant accomplishment for all that have contributed from the

Caldwell explained;

project’s inception and thank our shareholders and stakeholders

“Since the Company’s inception, approximately US$192 Million

in supporting the development of the project, including our Board

has been spent on historical exploration and development costs in

of Directors, management team, employees and contractors as

order to bring the Aurora Gold Project to development stage. From

well as the lenders for the debt financing syndicate comprised of

this point, an additional US$249 Million will be spent on the Aurora

International Finance Corporation, Export Development Canada,

Gold Project in order to achieve commercial gold production by

ING Capital LLC, Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation,

mid-2015. The Aurora Gold Project will be Guyana’s largest foreign

and The Bank of Nova Scotia. In addition, we wish to thank the

investment in the country’s history and is projected to provide total

Government of Guyana and local communities for their continued

revenues to the Government of approximately US$960 Million

support through the development of the Project. The focus at the

through corporate taxes and royalty payments over the life of

site now is to increase gold production to our target level of 50,000

the project. In addition to its large capital investment and direct

ounces during the balance of this year.”

financial revenues to the Government, the company is committed

Modest even in the face of huge success, GGI remains keen to showcase the people that are making this ambition a reality, from

to sourcing local services, goods and equipment purchases, in order to support local businesses and communities.”

shareholders down to ground staff. It’s a personable approach,

While ambition is essential in business, it is a rare and market-

such as this, that really sets GGI apart form competitors, as well

leading organisation that cannot only realise it, but within a

as a determination and ability to stay on schedule at all times, in

stringent budget and time frame. GGI has accomplished the

fact, it was back in May that GGI reported that it looked to be on

ultimate business trifecta and we are eager to track their progress

schedule for the first pour and it did not disappoint.

in the future.

Everything looks to be going to plan, but we asked for a reminder

Endeavour Magazine | 71

72 | Endeavour Magazine

PPC ZIMBABWE WWW.PPC.CO.ZA/ZIMBABWE 00263 974 205

FOUNDATIONS NEED TO BE THICK AND SUPPORTED WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

In 2013, PPC Zimbabwe celebrated its centenary. A Zimbabwean company, they are one of the oldest companies in the country and few people know their market as well as them. They also boast the most modern production facilities in Africa, which benefit from continued investment.

Endeavour Magazine | 73

PPC ZIMBABWE

In a rapidly changing world that is constantly evolving, the question

is; how has PPC Zimbabwe managed to prolong and maintain its success throughout the years? “I would say it is due to our consistency and quality,” they say, “We are a recognised brand, known for being the best in the country and conforming to various international standards.”

H

owever, there is no room for complacency at PPC Zimbabwe, as evaluating processes and continuous improvement are of the utmost importance.

“We have a system that is aimed at involving employees at all

levels of the company. This includes assessing their performance, learning from mistakes, how to move forward and suggesting ways to improve in the future,” they assert.

HISTORY PPC Zimbabwe traces its roots back to a factory 15km east of Bulawayo that was established in 1913. Known as Premier Portland Cement, the company’s product went on sale a year later and before long it was exporting goods to Northern Rhodesia (Zambia) and the Belgian Congo.

Sales figures of 3,000 tonnes a year early on began to increase, thanks to a rise in the construction of dams and a demand for cement during the Second World War. Even though more facilities were established to meet capacity requirements, a dip in sales during the 1960s forced PPC to become more efficient.

A joint-holding company between Premier Portland and Rhocem rationalised production and United Portland Cement (Unichem) was born in 1965.

As the years rolled by, so did sales figures, with capacity increasing throughout decades of successful operation. Like

74 | Endeavour Magazine

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The company is ISO 9001:2008 certified by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ).

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PPC ZIMBABWE

any other company, PPC Zimbabwe has experienced numerous

Although Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become big

triumphs and times of hardship, but its position in the market 100

business for corporations around the world, PPC have always made

years after inception is testament to the organisation’s commitment

reaching out to the local people and wider community as a priority

to quality.

as it is of great significance to them.

At the end of last year, PPC Zimbabwe also received its

With quite a long history over the past 100 years of being

indigenisation certificate, complying with Government law that

involved in their community, which has seen them take part in a

requires 51% of a company to be given to native shareholders. “We

number of activities, they have various agricultural projects that

are in the process of implementing this ahead of the competition.

help enhance income and improve health as well as sports activities.

It will give the community and employees shares in the company,” they say.

EMPLOYEES

DEVELOPMENTS FOR THE INDUSTRY AND PPC ZIMBABWE Since Zimbabwe adopted the dollar, the cement industry has enjoyed a solid recovery and good growth. During the country’s

Even though PPC Zimbabwe recognises the importance of

hyper inflation period, cement sales dropped to 400,000 tonnes a

employee satisfaction, with remuneration above the national

year compared to an industry high of 1.1 million in 1999. But with

average for the industry, the company’s workforce receives several

numbers now back on track, it is believed that PPC is now well

additional benefits.

positioned to take advantage of future expansion.

On-site staff are provided with housing, clinics and free medical

The ability to maximise volume has been made possible by a

schooling and the company also offers a comprehensive HIV

recent investment at the company’s Bulawayo plant, with capacity

programme that guarantees access to antiretroviral drugs to any

growing from 650,000 to 1.1 million tonnes. Dispatch operations

employee and his or her family.

have also been improved thanks to a $6 million injection of funds.

76 | Endeavour Magazine

Three years ago, PPC Zimabwe spent $20 million at its Colleen

extensive market surveys, which is an ongoing mechanism to

Bawn factory and is planning on increasing volume further still with

further understand their clientele better to encourage an increase

a $3 million project in 2013.

in client and customer orientation.

The possibilities for expansion do not stop there though, as

Looking ahead, despite an uncertain political and economic

they are in the process of exploring the possibility of a new plant,

outlook, PPC Zimbabwe is confident it can carry on its success in

which will be very advanced and they hope to see progress on the

the future. With their continued growth and the rising demand for

ground by next year. Looking ahead, they also believe that the

cement they are well positioned to take advantage of this ahead of

demand for cement will grow and outstrip the installed capacity,

the competition.

hence the decision to look at a new facilities.

PPC are looking at North East Zimbabwe because they want to be closer to the Harare market and to spread their operations across the country more evenly.

THE FUTURE During the cement industry’s difficult period, when shortages were common, consumers were forced to buy whatever they could find. However, since its recovery, PPC Zimbabwe recognises the importance of customer service.

The company needs to change the previous mindset and become more customer focused. Already they are engaged in

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LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE WWW.LIMEGROVE.COM 0012466205463

THE LIMEGROVE STYLE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

A stylish place to shop, dine and live in Barbados, Limegrove, located in the heart of Holetown is a signature location with a trove of duty free jewellery, apparel and accessories, featuring more than 100 of the world’s best known fashion brands. We spoke with Patricia Mckenzie, head of marketing at Limegrove to discuss what makes them singular and special.

Endeavour Magazine | 79

LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE

Dubbed by London’s Daily Telegraph as the “Most stylish place to

shop and dine” Limegrove has become a mainstay for tourists and locals alike with its convenient location only a stone’s throw from the wonderful beaches of the Caribbean Sea’s platinum coast: Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland, Sugar Hill and Ape’s Hill.

L

imegrove is more than just a shopping destination for tourists travelling to Barbados and Patricia is proud of their involvement in the local community, “We are a proud supporter of Barbados

and its local communities,” she says, “In addition to the generation of financial activity and foreign exchange, we directly and indirectly employ and contract the services of approximately 400 local people.”

They also participate in a number of activities and support a wide-range of community-centred projects.

“We work closely with the Barbados Community Foundation to support social responsibility programmes,” she reveals, “Through them we can officially raise funds for a number of charities as well as supporting local community initiatives.”

While opening their doors and allowing such initiatives and charities to make use of space at Limegrove to build grassroots support for their causes, Patricia highlights that they make a concerted and special effort to support by offering hands-on advice and guidance as well as concessional rates. For example, she tells us that the Optimist Club of Barbados benefits from a paidparking and contribution system that is in effect on Friday nights, the Centre’s busiest period of the week.

“We support local artisans by regularly hosting craft fairs, which give talented craftsmen and craftswomen the opportunity to showcase and sell locally manufactured goods,” she says, “And we are very proud to be home to Marge, our cow sculpture, who is the most recent addition to the Palm Courtyard and is an example of “art in motion.”’

80 | Endeavour Magazine

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LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE

There is a deeper meaning behind Marge, which at first glance

not only celebrate the arts to be found within our local Barbados

may seem to be just an interesting piece of décor. Patricia reveals

community,” Patricia says, “But support them as well. We were

that it is a reminder of the site’s humble beginnings as a cow pasture

delighted to host many of the society’s photographs, featuring

and serves as a symbol of Limegrove’s role in the wider community.

Limegrove, on our website,”

In November 2014, the first “Marge” received a makeover from local artist Catharine Cummins. Marge was then sold with part of the proceeds from the sale being directed to charity through the Barbados Community Foundation.

In 2015, Limegrove was pleased to welcome back Catharine Cummins for the makeover of Marge number two and visitors to the Centre were encouraged to come and see Marge’s makeover live.

THE BIGGER PICTURE Barbados is teeming with a wealth of expression and as one of the community pillars, Limegrove is vigilant to support as much

LIFE AT LIMEGROVE The Grove Residences are a combination of luxury apartments and penthouse suites and the Hillside Villas at The Grove, currently for sale, offer a living experience unmatched anywhere in Barbados.

“Our villas feature a unique open design inspired by loft living, with high ceilings and plenty of natural light,” Patricia says. She adds that there are eight in total with 3,433 square feet of living space including three bedrooms and bathrooms over three levels.

“One third of the living space is outdoors and includes a pool deck, garden decks on the ground level and two decks off the main living level,” she says.

of it as they can. Proud partners of the Barbados Photographic

The exterior architecture is a modern take on traditional design,

Society, which is a non-profit group dedicated to fostering the art

which complements the chic surroundings of the Limegrove

of photography in an area where some of the best pictures can be

Lifestyle Centre while making full use of the majestic beauty of

taken.

Barbados’ other architectural surroundings. Each villa benefits

“It is through collaborations such as this that we are able to

82 | Endeavour Magazine

from a private pool with easy access to the beach and world class

shopping and gourmet dining to be found within Limegrove itself.

Furthermore, any visitors have the added benefit of knowing that all this does not come with a hefty cost to the environment, which is part of the natural splendour of this area. It is quickly apparent that at Limegrove, “going green” is not some token gesture but a corporate commitment to environmental sustainability.

This is why, Patricia reveals, Limegrove embarked on a number of initiatives with the ultimate goal of earning the prestigious LEED Certification for environmentally friendly commercial projects and has set out to achieve this in a number of ways.

REDUCTION OF AREA FLOODING Up until the development of Limegrove there had been no buildings on the site’s location because it was a low lying flood zone.

The floods had been an ongoing and highly damaging problem for the local community and it took a combination of a large number of environmental studies followed by aggressive engineering to eliminate the flooding and to ensure the integrity of the project’s foundation.

“Naturally, eliminating the flooding to make way for the construction of Limegrove was a prestigious and appreciated

Endeavour Magazine | 83

LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTRE project that involved in the community,” Patricia highlights.

Then, to best capture the spirit of historic Holetown, the buildings at Limegrove were constructed from recycled materials with many of the walls made from natural coral stone and the walkways feature recycled bricks.

Furthermore, Limegrove carefully examines the products that staff, tenants and guests use on a day-to-day basis, in order to

palm trees surround the parking and outdoor areas and in addition, the residential areas at Limegrove are intentionally designed to provide a great deal of space for “greening” and landscaping.

“On the rooftop, we have created a starter shed to grow herbs, which restaurants in the Centre can use for their menus,” she says.

Still under development, the green roof will be additionally useful for absorbing rainwater and providing insulation to the building.

understand opportunities to reduce, reuse or recycle waste as part of their waste management initiative. Currently, Limegrove refills ink cartridges, recycles paper and has plans to use grey water from the on-site sewage treatment plant for irrigation.

THE MAN BEHIND IT ALL In 1980, Paul Altman joined the team for the creation of the Speightstown Mall. Located in Barbados’ most northern city, this

Management of waste and construction via recycled products

was and is a treasured conservation area and signalled the start

are one thing, but Limegrove has taken it a step further with the

of Paul’s career in development. During his tenure as President of

creation of green spaces for their community. Understanding

the Barbados National Trust, Paul had the opportunity to oversee

the aesthetic, environmental and psychological benefits of green

improvement of the town, particularly significant because of its

spaces, which are a common feature around the centre, they have

rich, historic past. This ignited a passion which led to the creation

gone to extreme lengths to fit in as much as possible.

of many signature developments associated with the Altman Real

“During development, The Sandbox Building, which houses

Estate brand.

Burberry and Hugo Boss, was given a “J shape” to preserve the

“I’m in the real estate business and have been involved in

sandbox tree that is located there and today it features a green

a number of projects where I have been acting on behalf of

courtyard,” she illustrates.

investors or investing in myself,” Paul tells us, “Limegrove gave the

Natural flowering trees, including lime trees, bay leaf trees and

84 | Endeavour Magazine

opportunity to go into a mix used development that has everything

with it- restaurants, retail, hotels, films, cinemas and residential.”

Paul explains that the particular site lent itself to this development. It was abandoned because people didn’t understand how to develop it but he had the experience to make it happen.

“Barbados is a high profile destination,” he adds, “And Limegrove is influenced and inspired by Havana, Miami, Los Angeles, Las

Constantly reviewing, upgrading and acting is vital, instead of reacting.”

It is remarkable that a flood-prone pasture used to graze cattle has been so neatly transformed into the Caribbean’s signature lifestyle centre and it is a credit to Paul’s ingenuity and vision. He is quoted as saying;

Vegas, New York (Soho), Singapore and other trendy destinations.”

“Before Limegrove, there was a void of high-end duty free

Throughout the architecture you can catch glimpses of the

shopping in Barbados. Limegrove introduced this at the highest

original influences and the atmosphere of Limegrove. This mixed-

end possible, in an environment that is socially inviting. There is

use facility presents the world’s top retail brands, all set around

a culture and an image surrounding Limegrove that makes our

courtyards where visitors spend time enjoying food, fashion, art

visitors feel special.”

and film.

Paul reveals that shortly they will be opening a signature rooftop restaurant, a radio station as well as refurbishing a number of restaurants and this is over and above the usual score of events and promotions they have year round focussed around the Barbados obsession with food, wine, rum and music.

“There is always change and excitement that takes the level of experience to the next stage,” he says, revealing something that is important to him, “It must be pushed and advanced. You have to be constantly in touch with products in new markets, in touch and tweaking it and extracting the highest level for the public.

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AMERTRIN WWW.AMERTRIN.COM 001 868 636 5800

NOT JUST ANY PORT IN A STORM WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

It is very simple; AmerTrin is focussed on the full and professional satisfaction of all their clients and have directed every aspect of their business from their services to their staff in this direction.

Committed to the utmost efficiency and perfection in every aspect of the business and with the brand name being backed by years of experience in the shipping and logistics industry, it is no wonder that the company has such an impeachable reputation. We spoke with Managing Director Wade Thomas regarding his company.

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AMERTRIN

As a company, AmerTrin Marine & Logistics Limited was

incorporated under the Companies Act of Trinidad and Tobago in August 1997. Today, the company is managed by a group of industry professionals with over 100 years of combined experience in the shipping business with comprehensive services including air and ocean transport, ship chandler services, port operations, licensed boarding clerks and custom clerks.

“O

rganically we have grown to service a number of different industries,” Wade explains, “It is a simple enough process of accepting challenges and developing the correct

habits to overcome them. This approach is not new or revolutionary it is merely good business.”

He goes on to explain that AmerTrin is an action-based company, not wasting time trying to be extravagantly fancy in press or media but merely focussing on keeping their customers’ satisfied and engaging with them so that when new opportunities for growth arrive they can capitalise on them.

“Our clients and customers know us as a one stop shop,” he explains, “But that doesn’t mean that when they have a new product or a new issue that they will automatically bring it to us.

This is why having developed an open and friendly engagement with our clients means that they often bring these new challenges and opportunities to us.”

Thanks to this organic growth, tempered with a strong sense of consolidation that is emulated through the 140 staff members, AmerTrin has grown into a multifaceted powerhouse that achieves far more than expected of its collective parts.

Port agency and shipping services, logistics, marine and crew management are the primary business profiles that this company

88 | Endeavour Magazine

BCSL offers quality service in line with international standards with the aim of remaining the premier service provider in the Caribbean.

Launch Hire • Private Water Taxi • Transport of Supplies • Mooring Boat Operations • Emergency Evacuations • Dry Docking of Launches • Vessel Maintenance • Small Vessel Crewing • Launch Design/ Build/ Acquisition Support P.O. Box 1385, Wrightson Road Port Of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago Tel: 868-671-0751/ 672-7678 Fax: 868-672-4694 Email: info@bridgecontrolservices.com

bridgecontrolservices.com

Endeavour Magazine | 89

AMERTRIN

has and what holds them all together is a rigid dedication to

selling points is their complete understanding of this simple fact;

professionalism matched with a deeply innovative, can-do attitude.

time is money.

“It is convenient that foreign vessels calling in at any port in

“We handle a wide variety of issues, including checking proforma

Trinidad and Tobago can rely on the professional and efficient

for compliance with tariffs, providing a receipt of owner’s funds and

service of our personnel,” Wade says, and goes on to explain that

payment to head agents, signing bills of lading and reporting vessel

his staff are well trained and experience in providing the very

and cargo status,” Wade describes.

best in port agency services, “When it comes to a company’s port

“Our ship supply specialists are highly trained and know what

agency needs, they can turn to AmerTrin to get one email to access

it takes to undergo tough conditions in order to properly deliver

any port, a single account for all payments and much more.”

supplies to vessels in all situations,” he adds, “They also know how

In addition to outstanding port agency services, AmerTrin also offers the best in husbandry services, which you may need at

to properly handle issues like spills, grounding, fire, collisions and more.”

various times when in port. Wade reveals that the services in this

The delivery of parts, which is something few shipping

area include serving as a link with local authorities, bunker fuels,

companies will have time for, is a service that AmerTrim are happy

assistance with communications, inward and outward clearance

to offer, being able to deliver ship spares and marine parts with

and clearance and delivery of spares.

appropriate haste. Wade explains that little things like these have

“Plus, we offer assistance with crew handling and crew welfare,

created the reputation they enjoy for being the “go to company”.

which may involve hotel accommodations, shore passes, medical care, mail, technology services and more,” he adds.

“We work closely with our partners to make sure that when there is an issue with a spare part, we’re there to provide fast,

As a vessel owner or operator, there are many times when

efficient delivery.”

you want a preferred agent to manage all of the required port call

AmerTrin work closely with their partner, Associated Transport

operations. Time is of the essence and one of AmerTrins unique

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90 | Endeavour Magazine

service from the U.S. Gulf of Mexico to the east, west and north

deal with the performance of the overall organisation in terms of

coast ports of South America, as well as Trinidad. “We have worked

how the crew functions and performs,” he tell us, “Working very

with Associated Transport Line for over a decade and vessels on

closely with our partner, Merlog Services Ltd.”

this service are built to transport all types of containers, as well as heavy-lift and break-bulk cargo.” Wade says.

He also says that the freight services deliver cargo to a wide variety of cities and locations around Trindad and Tobago and make use of partnership with major air carriers.

Together they are able to deliver recruitment and selection services, union relations, long term strategy, training and education courses, travel arrangements, provisions and budgeting.

“At AmerTrin, we work with energy companies large and small to deliver products and services to consumers who need

“It is important to have not only the skills but the resources

it most, meeting the 24/7/365 demands of the industry,” Wade

in place to offer a fully comprehensive clearing and forwarding

says, “Providing top-notch support to companies around the

service,” Wade says, “It is important to our customers that

world, including everything from oil and gas exploration to power

everything we do is quick and cost effective because if you can

generation, both onshore and offshore.”

offer a top service while helping the customer save money, you’ll have a loyal customer.”

“By the end, it’s what you provide to customers that keeps them coming back,” he concludes.

He explains that people, staffing and crew are the most fundamental part of any business especially when it comes to shipping. From experience he knows that to have a loyal customer, you need to have a loyal staff member first because the value of one directly influences the services you can offer to the other, “Finding the right crew is as important as having the right ship and we work with our clients in all aspects of crew management and

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CURACAO DRYDOCK WWW.CDMNV.COM 00599 9736 5580

RUNNING A TIGHT SHIP WRITTEN BY DAISY JONES

The Dutch Caribbean Island of Curaçao stretches just 40 miles from southeast to northwest, but its historic capital of Willemstad is home to an important, dynamic and ambitious business.

Curaçao Drydock Company Inc. (CDM) offers ship repair services, its main activities being yard (Ship Repair, Engineering and Conversion) and PRS (Port Repair and On-Voyage Services). Endeavour Magazine spoke to Chief Commercial Officer Mr Miraldo Martie to learn how the company has served its worldwide clients for over 50 years – and continues to do so.

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CURACAO DRYDOCK

The CDM’s years of service have given the company extensive

experience in a wide variety of vessels: tankers (oil, product, chemical and gas), bulk carriers, containerships, ferries, tugs, cable layers, AHTS and pipe laying barges. Additionally, the CDM is proud to be entrusted to take care of specialised vessels such as cruise ships, Navy and offshore support vessels, and very soon also LNG carriers.

W

ith an effective quality management system independently verified by certification ISO 9001:2000, the CDM performs all ship repair services in a safe and stable

environment and has held ISPS accreditation (International Ship and Port Facility Security) since the end of June 2004. The shipyard itself is safely located in the Caribbean, well outside the hurricane belt. Curaçao offers year-round favourable weather conditions and as a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it also has a juridical and politically stable climate.

The integrated provider of Industrial Cleaning, Maintenance, and Waste Management services.

As the CDM strives to be the first choice ship repair yard in the Caribbean and South America’s Region, Mr Martie reveals their recipe to success, “We believe our commercial success depends upon offering quality and value to our customers within an attractive time frame, supported by an effective quality management system

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certified by Lloyds and according to the ISO standard. We seek to maintain the highest achievable standards of safe work habits and our business is conducted in a way that preserves the environment.

We provide employment possibilities and, by generating foreign currencies, contribute to the growth of Curaçao.”

FACILITIES The CDM has an impressive portfolio of facilities to provide its services, including three docks up to 150.000 DWT, 2000m

info@realpowergc.com 5999-869-0695 / 5999-888-4540 www.realpowergc.citymax.com 94 | Endeavour Magazine

alongside repair quays and sheltered deep-water bays. The Antila graving dock can support even mega cruise ships with a deadweight tonnage of 150,000 tons; the smaller Beatrix graving dock has

CURACAO DRYDOCK

a deadweight tonnage of 28,000 tons and the Curaçao floating

ensure a swift and efficient job.

dock has a lifting capacity of 10,000 tons. Three repair wharves

The company’s light and heavy machine shops have a covered

of approximately 2,000m of repair quays outfitted with 13 cranes

area totalling 45,850 sq. ft, with two overhead traveling cranes

each with a lifting capacity up to 75 tons and six repair shops can

apiece. Here, the CDM uses lathes, carousel lathes, universal

service a huge number and variety of vessels.

milling machines, radial drilling machines, horizontal boring

Hull and internal treatments such as ballast tank treatment, grit

machines, planing machines, electronic balancing machines and

blasting, hydro blasting, internal blasting and paint, anti-fouling

special equipment including an injector grinding machine and laser

and vinyl coating are part of the yard’s daily work. The CDM

beam aligning equipment for mechanical repairs.

regularly provides chemical, tank and underwater cleaning; the

A pipefitter shop, fitted with automatic hydraulic pipe bending

latter using automatic underwater cleaning equipment or rotating

machines and electrical welding equipment, services all repairs

nylon brushes handled by certified divers. In addition to these, the

and renewals of pipelines, heating coils and sanitary installations,

company also has the facilities to provide more specialised services.

handling Ferrous and non-Ferrous materials.

The CDM can undertake electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic

Another shop is fully equipped to repair and maintain both

and other automation, working on all kinds of specialised

fixed and controllable pitch propellers of practically all sizes, with

electronic equipment. From radio communication to navigation

up to 44 ton balancing machines, pitch measuring equipment up

and instrumentation, teams of nautical and electronic engineers

to 7m, special welding equipment and all necessary grinding and

from the CDM and associated firms service the automation and

polishing tools. Specially trained operators and technicians carry

instrumentation of various installations in automated engine rooms.

out all major repairs and conversions under the supervision of all

Maintaining emergency beacons and universal TV receivers, no job

major classification societies and according ISO standards.

is too big or too small. As a full member of I.S.E.S. (International

The CDM has adapted to keep up with changing times and uses

Ship Electric Service Association), the CDM has immediate access

innovative and modern techniques to provide its clients with a first

to a worldwide supply network for spare parts and equipment to

class service. The company practices Metalock, the engineering

96 | Endeavour Magazine

method of effecting cold repairs of cracked, fractured or weakened

in ship repair. All are regularly sent abroad to familiarise themselves

machine parts of pressure vessels made of cast or forged materials

with the latest technical and organisational developments. All of

and is an authorised representative for the engineering technical

our craftsmen have at least a basic Dutch education and most have

service, supervision and application of pourable cast resin

followed specialised courses either abroad or at the shipyard’s

Chockfast epoxy chocks. In addition, the CDM provides steel repair

own training school, which gives initial courses, upgrading courses,

and conversion with a CAD CAM system connected to two fully

supervisory and safety and environment awareness courses.”

automated ESAB burning machines by means of a PCI system. This

The CDM’s personnel are also known for their multilingual

provides flame cutting, shaping, gouging, welding and annealing.

skills, with English, Spanish, Dutch, Papiamento, and Portuguese all

Independent specialists Wilson Walton International perform

spoken at the shipyard.

audio gauging, giving accurate Ultrasonic thickness measurements.

These impressive facilities are supported by an extensive stock of materials and parts, including on average 1500 tons of steel plates and structural steel sections and a large stock of electrodes, pipe material, propeller blades, valves, manometers and thermometers – all Lloyd’s and ABS approved materials. The facilities and equipment are operated by a highly skilled workforce; something that Mr Martie is proud of.

STAFF

THE FUTURE The Curaçao Drydock Company was established in 1959 and it has seen many changes in the marine industry and to the Island of Curaçao itself. Although another shipbuilder will likely start a small shipyard in Curaçao, the CDM’s size and facilities mean that it is not a competitor. The number of vessels calling on Curaçao has averaged just over 3,000 per year since 1990 and despite a slight slump after the Economic Depression, numbers remained steady and are now even starting to improve. Mr Martie is sure that the

“All our Senior Project Managers and Heads of departments have

company will continue to serve thousands of vessels for many more

an engineering degree,” he explains, “Part of our supervisory staff

years to come, “The Curaçao Drydock Company is the place to go

have engineering degrees and others have decades of experience

when it comes to ship repair services and it is our privilege to serve.”

Endeavour Magazine | 97

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OVK WWW.OVK.CO.ZA 27 51 923 4500

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Today’s farmer is a successful entrepreneur who heads a complex business and manages the unique challenges of an international marketplace. Every farmer needs a partner who knows the industry and can help maintain and build every facet of a multicultural enterprise.

Endeavour Magazine | 99

OVK

South African agribusiness OVK is one of the most diversified and active companies we’ve seen come out of this industry. With divisions across wool and mohair textiles, mills, livestock, grain storage, trading, insurance, mechanisation, motor retail and financial services, the company has become a resolute and irreplaceable partner in the agriculture sector of South Africa.

S

tefan Oberholzer, CEO of OVK, explains that with the amalgamation of the Ficksburg, Clocolan and Laybrand Coops on 1 March 1993, the Oos-Vrystaat Co-op was founded.

During August 1993 the Oos-Vrystaat Co-op amalgamated with the Albert Co-op, and so the Oos-Vrystaat Kaap Co-op was officially established.

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“The Oos-Vrystaat Kaap Bedryf Bpk Company was established in 1999,” he says, “During 2004 the company expanded its operating area through its amalgamation with Kolk, which is situated in Hopetown, Northern Cape.”

Oberholzer says that at the time, the main priorities for the newly-founded OVK were to establish trade and mechanisation branches, fuel depots, storage facilities and the marketing of grain, as well as a financially sound share-holding. Of course, OVK has grown tremendously over the past 22 years and some 51 trade branches have been opened in an operating area that covers the Free State as well as the Eastern and Northern Cape.

One of the keystones to OVK’s success is that it provides a central resource to farmers across South Africa that they simply cannot afford to go without. Combine this need with a fantastic, personable approach and you get some very happy businesses.

When you consider the scope of the farming land in South Africa and the range of different farming grades it consists of, everyone is a potential client, customer or partner to OVK.

100 | Endeavour Magazine

“Farmers were quick to gauge the potential of OVK, resulting in the accrual of more than 10,000 shareholders.”

OVK prides itself on having responded to the needs of

important to OVK and especially to Oberholzer. Since taking on CMW, wool and mohair have been doing extremely well and the company is experiencing a jump in the volume of fibre traded.

producers over the years. An insurance service was established, the construction of a new fertiliser plant is in progress and a wheat mill came into operation three years ago. Another focus area is services

OVK’S UNIQUE APPROACH OVK makes it a priority to serve rural communities by providing

to both cattle and sheep farmers; for the latter the provision of shearing services and mohair marketing is a priority.

Two Toyota agencies based in Ladybrand and Ficksburg, enable farmers to purchase their favourite vehicle brand from OVK, who

a fully stocked port of call. Trade branches not only provide basic agritrade necessities and groceries but also supply fuel and hardware, making them essential for these towns.

“We are known for our personable approach and CMW also

also assist them with financing products.

Apart from its head office at Ladybrand, OVK has regional

provide shearing teams and handle auctions,” says Oberholzer,

offices at Cradock, Burgersdorp, Ficksburg and Hopetown, as well

“OVK sought the opportunity to establish branches in rural towns

as the CMW head-office at Port Elizabeth.

where other agribusinesses did not want to venture.”

In conjunction with its passion for serving rural communities,

Oberholzer describes how OVK services cover all the facets of

OVK is actively involved with several local projects such as its

a modern agribusiness.

“A cattle, sheep and game abattoir operates from Strydenburg;

popular annual Golf day to raise funds for welfare projects in

grain marketing, storage and trading are provided for, as well as

OVK’s operating areas. Old age homes, children’s homes and food

shearing services and marketing for both wool and mohair,” he says,

schemes all benefit.

“CMW, a company that we acquired in 2013, recently procured

Schools are the heartbeat of all rural communities, and OVK

the first high-density press in South Africa with the capability of

gives training opportunities for pupils and sponsorships to school

pressing two or three bales all at once.”

sport-teams. Agricultural shows and festivals are well supported and both the head office and regional offices have regular team-

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training, product training and ad hoc study bursaries for staff

The company also supports emerging farmers to operate

members who have spent six months or longer with the company.

effectively and independently. A substantial number of farmers

Furthermore, the company sees personal development of staff

participate in this project and technical advisors assist them to

as an essential element to enable them to experience growth both

master the finer detail of successful farming practices.

privately and professionally. All staff are encouraged to grow and develop within their roles through after-hours study or in-house practical training.

THE AGRI-INDUSTRY Agriculture depends on nature for its success and prosperity.

And while Oberholzer points out that the government often makes

THE FARMERS

statements that creates uncertainty and have a detrimental and

OVK understand the importance of what they are doing,

undermining effect within agricultural circles, he remains optimistic.

and this is why they value a personal approach so strongly.

“Agriculture is the only business that can deal with the growing

Consideration is given to the needs and requests of farmers. These

need for food and OVK has an extremely positive outlook for

differ from area to area and the company seeks to adapt to these

agriculture in South Africa,” he attests, “Meticulous planning, developing new products and finding ways and means to assist farmers in the wake of an unsuccessful season, means that they may remain successful in providing food to the world’s population.”

circumstances. Branch and regional managers visit clients on their farms regularly to build solid relationships, “This enables them to nip weak customer services in the bud and to provide specific needs,” Oberholzer says.

He also says that happy customers and excellent aftersales

THE PEOPLE OF OVK

services means more continued business. OVK also has a customer

There are 1666 staff members at OVK and regular training

services centre to deal with client issues, “We can only improve

opportunities form the crux of their contribution to creating

further by listening to our clients and when issues do arise our

prosperity for both OVK and its clients. These training sessions

centre ensures a direct and immediate intervention.”

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2015/08/07 3:06 PM

KEEPING AHEAD OVK is a company that likes to lead from the front and Oberholzer highlights that while ongoing attention is given to the needs of farmers, identifying future needs is important. To do this, the company keeps abreast of developments within the agricultural sector to determine future opportunities.

Widening the gap between OVK and its competition all boils down to customer service, and their loyalty scheme for clients has proven very popular. By making farmers shareholders in the company, OVK place the policies and control of the company in their hands.

“The advantage of this scheme is that farmers get discount on purchases and product loans during the month, the amount of which appears on the monthly statement,” he explains, “With this amount shares are bought for the client. The growth accrued by these shares is a further gain. Dividends based on the profit achieved by OVK are paid on shares. This is another way that we give money back to clients and shareholders. They are free to sell shares or keep them and watch them grow.”

2015 Providing the very best service to their shareholders over the last 22 years, OVK has learnt the importance of always moving

forward. Now in the second half of 2015 there are a number of promising and exciting developments taking place.

“Two particular developments this year are the high-density press at CMW, Port Elizabeth and the Silo complex at Elliot,” says Oberholzer.

The high-density press, as previously mentioned, is the first of its kind in South Africa and is currently being installed at CMW. This press will benefit producers as far more bales will be transported per container, leading to a substantial reduction in freight cost per kilogram.

The Silo complex at Elliot will bring about a developed identity for the Eastern Cape, which is better known for livestock farming but also has a high production of grain, especially maize.

“Formerly the area only had limited handling facilities for grain,” Oberholzer says, “However, OVK has now acquired Elliot Maize, which has enough space for 2000 tons.”

Some 25,000 tons of grain were handled at Elliot Maize during the 2013/2014 period. Thanks to the upgraded silo, Oberholzer believes that the outlook for the 2014/2015 season is more like 40,000 tons.

“For our shareholders, clients and customers it is important that we provide as many opportunities for growth as we provide brilliant service,” he says, “After all, together we achieve more.”

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SPRINGBOK ATLAS WWW.SPRINGBOKATLAS.COM 27 21 460 4700

THAT PERSON TO PERSON TOUCH WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

With the advent of mobile phone apps and interactive phone websites such as Google Maps and Tripadvisor,there was a slowdown predicted that was expected to cripple the travel industry.

However, speaking with Glenn McKeag, CEO at South African tour operator Springbok Atlas Tours and Safaris, this has been anything but the case.

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SPRINGBOK ATLAS

“We’re busier than ever,” Glenn says directly, “And I think the reason for it is that people want that personal touch when it comes to their tours. When it boils down to it, phone apps and Google Maps are just that; maps, and advisements, but people need that human element. They want someone to advise them, to suggest a place and make personal recommendations.”

B

ased in Cape Town, Springbok Tours and Safaris provide touroperating services for a wide range of clientele from across the world. One of the largest in-bound tour operators in Southern

Africa, it began life as a transport company in Kempton Park, South Africa, operating school tours to and from Kruger National Park.

The tourist and safari side of the business was quickly born and has since always been strong in the international market. Glenn has been with the company for 28 years, watching the company go from strength to strength.

“I am sometimes called a part of the furniture,” he jokes, “I’ve never worked anywhere else. I was in highschool, then two years in the army and then I joined Springbok Atlas.”

He recalls how he was in the perfect location to experience the changes that the tourism industry in South Africa underwent, following the release of Nelson Mandela and his becoming president in 1994 which heralded the ending of the oppressive Apartheid Regime, “1994 for the presidency and then 1995 with the famous Rugby World Cup were boom years for us,” he says, “But we have had to reinvent ourselves since then to keep in line with changing times and trends for our international clientele.”

Springbok Atlas Tours and Safaris is a long-standing leader in the African tourism industry.With headquarters in Cape Town,

Reservations: Telephone: (+263) 13 43211-20, Email: saflodge@saflodge.co.zw www.africaalbidatourism.com 106 | Endeavour Magazine

offices in Johannesburg, Durban and Windhoek and alliance partners in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique it is well-positioned to deliver extensive travel and touring services throughout South Africa and has offered this service for long

Perfect from end to end “The Blue Train pops up on many bucket lists... oh boy I had my fingers crossed that it would live it to its reputation. It did and then some. From arrival in the lounge through the journey and into Pretoria it was sublime. The perfect staff, the delicious meals and wines were of course to be expected.”

StevenBSydney, Tripadvisor

enough that it is the go-to company for tourism across the area.

biggest pull comes from USA, Germany and the UK, followed by

“Once travellers have arrived in the country we provide all the

Australia, Italy and that their customised, one stop shop approach

ground level logistics and support infrastructures,” explains Glenn.

has made them one of the most well known name brands in South

“Effectively what we do is provide a complete, fully rounded tour

Africa, “That personal touch,” he says, “Means so much in our

operating and support service for our international wholesale

industry. We visit all of our destinations personally, to experience

clients.”

exactly what our customers will enjoy and when it comes to each

Having been around since 1946, operating coaches, bus services and safari tours across the country, it has grown successfully over

package we design it specifically for what they want, understanding that different cultures want different things from their holidays.”

many decades, building a well-established infrastructure and a strong brand both internationally and in South Africa and is approaching its 70th birthday at a pace.

Due to its lifespan, the underlying building blocks are incredibly solid and thanksto the well-established position and size, travel knowledge, experience and purchasing power it is very attractive to work with, not only for the 100 staff they make use of but also for the long list of destinations that they have on their network.

Indeed, since its establishment, Springbok Atlas has grown too large to be contained in one company and has recently split into two firms; one handling the tourism and safari side of the business and the other running the transport side.

“We are all part of the same mother company, Cullinan Holdings, who own our fleet of vehicles,”Glenn reveals, “This puts us at an automatic advantage compared to our competitors because we own our vehicles, they are our assets and as such we can choose the prices that suit our clients the best.”

Drawing tourists from across the globe, Glenn explains that their

SAFETY FIRST Although Springbok Atlas is now two different companies, they both share a key priority- safety. This can be seen easily in the Springbok Atlas Luxury Charter business, whereby the company goes to extraordinary measures to ensure their passengers have a comfortable and safe journey.

“Safety first, money second is a mantra for us,”Glenn says.

“We’re the largest coach and bus operator in the country and that allows us to invest heavily in ensuring the safety of our passengers.

After all, we’re transporting people, not oranges.”

Springbok Atlas Luxury Charter’s safety measures come in two forms. Firstly, the company invests plenty of time and money into making sure that its vehicles are in the best possible condition.

Through a rigorous and demanding maintenance system it is able to ensure that the fleet remains in tip top shape, but the key to it is the driver. If the driver isn’t up to scratch, it doesn’t matter how good the vehicles are.

Endeavour Magazine | 107

SPRINGBOK ATLAS

As such, every two months drivers are put through an evaluation and training routine using both internal and external monitoring to ensure that they are always at the top of their game. However, between evaluations the drivers aren’t left to their own devices and Springbok Atlas is constantly monitoring their performance.

“We have an on-board system called C-Track that provides information on the driver’s activity and transmits that back to us, live,” explains Glenn. “So if there’s a problem we know immediately.”

But Springbok Atlas goes a step further by not just monitoring the drivers’ behaviour, but also making sure the drivers’ welfare is at its best, putting them through annual medical examinations to ensure they are physically and mentally able to work.Being such a well-established company, it is able to achieve levels of safety and security compliance, insurance and liability cover that smaller businesses can only dream of.

“At Springbok Atlas Tours and Safaris side we send staff on educational travel on a regular basis,”Glenn tells us. “As well as

A “BUCKET LIST” DESTINATION: AFRICA – EXPLORED, EXPERIENCED & ENJOYED! Africa is on everyone’s Bucket List to visit, the majesty, the beauty and expansive wildlife are the very elements of dreams.

Allow us the moment to get excited about this because Africa truly has it all. Whatever a person’s tastes, be them for the kind of wildlife that puts your position on the food chain in serious doubt or the kind of cuisine that makes your mouth water you can find it on this continent and Springbok Atlas has the best routes to the very best it has to offer.

Especially when you have a family or are going on an “adventure” you want to make sure you don’t miss anything memorable and having a guide who knows where to go and what to do is essential which is yet again one of the reasons why Springbok Atlas will always be a popular choice for tourists seeking something of the wild side.

YOUR IDEAL LEISURE DESTINATION

ensuring we have great cover, we also vet suppliers carefully to

ensure they are up to scratch. We look for regular feedback and make sure we only use suppliers that provide the best experiences,

have good track records and areaccommodation, safe and reliable.” professional Whether it’s comfortable

“It is very simple,” Glenn says, “It’s easy to get passionate about

making dreams come true when you’re passionate about what you do and where you work.”

And it shows: their wide selection of enthralling guided holidays,

service, delectable cuisine or great locations with stunning views – we’ll help you find your perfect escape. With over 90 hotels across Africa, Tsogo Sun provides you with the variety you need to discover your ideal destination. Experiences shape your life. Escape to ours.

For more on the options available to you, visit tsogosun.com

gosun.com

Stellenbosch_Vineyard in the hills 108 | Endeavour Magazine

TSOGO SUN – the leading hotels, gaming and entertainment company in South Africa is the perfect choice for your stay.

Our portfolio includes elegant, individually branded deluxe hotels where the accent is on luxury for the most discerning travellers, as well as out stylish Southern Sun Hotels which provide world-class accommodation in spectacular locations. Together with our preferred partners, we promise you an unforgettable experience.

YOUR IDEAL LEISURE DESTINATION Whether it’s comfortable accommodation, professional service, delectable cuisine or great locations with stunning views – we’ll help you find your perfect escape. With over 90 hotels across Africa, Tsogo Sun provides you with the variety you need to discover your ideal destination. Experiences shape your life. Escape to ours.

For more on the options available to you, visit tsogosun.com

tsogosun.com

SPRINGBOK ATLAS

tours and safaries showcases the many, diverse splendours of Southern Africa. Each authentic, completely hassle-free guided holiday experience takes in top destination highlights; and offers their guests safe luxury transport, excellent accommodation and fine dining, fully supported by professional, world renowned service.

It is also important, Glenn reveals, to know what people want in their holidays. Many people have dreams of being in Africa but despite what they may say they don’t want to be dropped into the middle of deepest darkest Africa and left to fend for themselves.

There are tourists who love that but they won’t be going to Springbok Atlas.

Instead, Glenn tells us, what their clients seek is a way to encounter the best of Africa while sitting back in the lap of luxury appreciating the fact that all of the details necessarily to make for a relaxing memorable holiday are completely taken care of.

“They want to be free to have fun, to fully explore, experience and enjoy a continent so rich in culture and heritage, peoples and places, astonishing wildlife and spectacular scenery,” he says, “While knowing they have comfortable beds and good food waiting for them.”

SOLO TRAVELLERS Traditionally, Springbok Atlas was known as offering family tours and while they have catered for the “get out by myself” tourists it is only recently that they have launched Solo Holidays for 2015.

“We have launched “Solos Only” departures on some of our best-selling guided tours,” Glenn explains, “These selected departures allow our guests to enjoy the company of other solo travellers but still experience the privacy of a single room, without having to pay any single supplements.”

This is useful in a world where an increasing number of people unfettered by families or spouses are looking to see the world and have their own adventure. When researching the market it is rare to find any major tour operators of Springbok Atlas’ side who are willing to make provisions for solo travellers but now that they have no doubt it will be a trend that will catch on.

“We can offer the solo traveller a real adventure,” Glenn says, “They can embark on an unforgettable holiday with every detail meticulously planned and taken care of as they explore incredible places, sights and people on the bespoke “solo only” tours.”

Of course, for solo tours there are somewhat different requirements than what would be needed for a family. Glenn

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www.LegacyHotels.com 110 | Endeavour Magazine

Glenn McKeag Endeavour Magazine | 111

SPRINGBOK ATLAS

explains that throughout the Solo Tour, full support from the

They are not allowing these hurdles to get in the way. Springbok

company’s expert staff and experienced guides is given to ensure

Atlas is a people company, he explains, “We don’t work on a mission

that every minute spent is nothing short of extraordinary.

statement or an overpowering vision but instead on core principles

He goes on to highly that every Solo Tour has been carefully

of fairness, honesty, creativity and positivity.” As such the company

planned to provide the absolute best experience at their chosen

is involved in a range of charities targeted at supporting Africa’s

destination, “Perfect for someone wanting to escape,” he says,

vital natural heritage, including animals and people.

“You can just relax, explore and soak in fantastic natural beauty, excellent weather and diverse wildlife.”

“We support the Barrydale School Farming Community,” he tells us, “And it’s had a significant impact on the community, who have practical needs. When a tour passes through the community

THE INDUSTRY Although the industry is showing strength and while 2014 was their biggest year to date, Glenn reveals that several obstacles were thrown in their way, “Last year it was Ebola,” he says, “International travellers became nervous about all things African and didn’t realise we were far away from any outbreaks and it was surprising how much this impacted the market.”

Following this, the minister of home affairs introduced a visa policy regarding children under 18 stipulating that every child under 18 has to have an unabridged birth certificate and if a mother is travelling by herself,without her child she needs an affidavit with authority to travel without him.

This has caused major stumbling blocks because it has made it harder to get into the country. The Minister of tourism is fighting against the decision but in the meantime Springbok Atlas is continuing to grow and expand and work around it, “We have been around for almost 70years,” Glenn reflects, “We have managed through much worse than this.”

Cape Town Aerial View

we stop and invite the tourists to visit the school and give them a presentation about what the school represents to us and the community.”

Pragmatic involvement is important, but Glenn knows the power of inspiring people. On the animal side, the company has a sponsored The Rhino Ride, where one of their sales people visits Europe on motorbike , sponsored by BMW, and every passenger donates R30, which goes to rhino protection in SA and Namibia “Involving and inspiring our staff is so important,” Glenn says, “We are a family and as such we have regular staff outings, company braai days and even a braai competitions. As we’re heading into summer this is something everyone looks forward to.”

To monitor staff morale, Springbok Atlas use twice annually surveys and aren’t afraid to ask their staff, “Would you recommend Springbok Atlas to someone else as place of employment?”

“It is a blunt question but allows us to determine the situation with the staff,” Glenn advocates, “I’m delighted to report that 80% of our staff say they would. So we reckon we’re doing something right.”

Glenn admits that while training and education can prove to be costly on paper, it is invaluable to have that training budget because as a business that relies heavily on people to people relationships,the company needs all of its staff to be as well trained as humanly possible.

Staff are sent to the touring destinations to get a feel for the experience so that they can offer genuine feedback to the tourists and to keep the destinations as fresh as possible they regularly have new suppliers coming in to pitch to them. Glenn explains that this has to be carefully managed because of the huge swell of potential destinations, “But we will only extend our support to those suppliers that can offer something new and exciting for our clients,” “We have a product team of six people who sit and analyse products every day,” he says, “And we come up with new attractive innovative packages every two weeks.”

He also indicates that they are in the process of redeveloping their website and moving into the social media side of things in a big way, however he reminds us that it is all a process, “Springbok Atlas has grown along with technical developments,” he says, “But we’ve learnt that people value that person to person feel.”

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Signal Hill lookout pointing Endeavour Magazine | 113

TRAVEL

THAT TIME THE BROKE BACKPACKER BECAME A HERMIT IN A MOUNTAIN

BY WILL HATTON

114 | Endeavour Magazine

T

he bright pink Land Rover bumped across the desert, dust

Time slipped away from us; we must have been driving for

spiralling into the sky. It skidded to a halt in front of me; I

about an hour. We cruised past towering piles of rocks and

could feel the eyes of my friends boring into the back of

mysterious tracks leading off into the horizon. How anybody

my skull.

“Come with me, we can get properly off the tourist path and

stay with a Bedouin” I had been promised.

He stepped out of the Land Rover and strolled towards me, a cigarette dangling from his lips.

His name was Ghassab. I had chatted to him briefly online over Couchsurfing, a hospitality website which helped budget travelers connect with hosts all over the world who offered a place to stay for free.

could hope to navigate out here I had no idea but Ghassab appeared to know where he was going; he kept his eyes fixed upon the horizon.

Without warning, Ghassab made a sharp right and we left the trail altogether. We drove at speed towards a huge pinnacle of rock scratching at the sky like an outstretched hand. He stopped the Land Rover.

Silence swallowed us as the dust swirled through the air.

I looked around. A small tent, battered and much repaired,

I had used Couchsurfing over a hundred times in the past;

lent against a bronzed boulder. An enclosure made from stacked

crashing with Indian sadhus and Israeli goat farmers, Romanian

stones and topped with a tarpaulin sat sizzling in the sun. The

businessmen and Laotian monks. When it comes to really

heat was unbearable.

connecting with the local culture, Couchsurfing is my secret weapon.

I had been trawling the Internet when I had found him.

Ghassab spat loudly and strolled over from the other side of the Land Rover.

He seemed excited. “I am very happy you have come, welcome

He had instantly stood out. Here, I had thought, was a real

to my cave”. He stepped back and pointed with an outstretched

adventure.

hand. 50 metres away from us was a large lump of rock, it was

Ghassab had offered to put me and my friends up in a

perhaps 10x8 metres. I could make out stairs, a gaping entrance

rock-cut cave his family had owned for centuries. His hair was

and nearby, a fire pit with something shiny, perhaps a pan,

tangled and wild, his eyes piercing. He stared at me with no

glistening in the sun.

expression upon his face.

“Why are you here?”

“I want to see your goats” It was the right answer. He smiled at me as we piled into the back of the Land Rover. With a worrying crunch of the gear

Ghassab beamed at me proudly and then looked up at the sun. His brow creased.

“There is no time to lose, we must gather firewood” he commanded. We dumped our packs by the door of Ghassab’s stone home and headed into the mountains.

box, we were speeding across the desert. Tantalising ruins and

Ghassab handed me a sledgehammer and I followed him into

carved facades called to us as we passed a lone camel and rider,

the bush. We scrambled and climbed, inching past precarious

eyes fixed upon the horizon.

drops and sliding down rocky gullies. The red desert floor pulled

Endeavour Magazine | 115

116 | Endeavour Magazine

Photo Credit: Will Jehring away from us as we ascended into the clouds. “If you want to eat

be stepping into posh tents in the many tourist camps scattered

then we must find wood” Ghassab said again, harsher this time.

across the desert. Whilst I had no doubt that they would be

I sensed we were not climbing fast enough for him, he

having a good time, it could not possibly rival the experience I

expected us to keep up. He leapt from rock to rock like a cat, his

was having with my friends, staying with a Rastafarian Bedhouin

Rasta dreads bouncing in the sun.

in a rock-cut cave. This was DIY adventure tourism at it’s best!

We jogged after him, sweat trickling down our backs until we finally stumbled across some wood. Carefully, slowly, we broke apart the wood by hammering the piece of iron in with the hammer until the wood splintered.

And tomorrow, I would be hitting up the Indiana Jones-esque ruins of Petra themselves….

I spent a week with Ghassab, exploring the many rock-cut buildings and caves of Petra, cooking and chatting deep into

Ghassab had been living in the desert outside Petra all of his

the night, playing cards and chess and losing myself in the

life. He told me how he had inherited the rock-cut cave from

timelessness of the desert. In seven years of traveling, this was

his family and had bought himself a bright pink Land Rover to

to be one of my greatest adventures.

traverse the desert with ease. Once, he said, he had driven it to South Africa. I couldn’t tell if he was joking.

Darkness came and we settled around Ghassab’s fire whilst he cooked tender skewers of meat. He passed me a smoke and told me he considered himself to be a Rastafarian Bedouin.

Inside his starkly furnished cave, a poster of Bob Marley looked down at me as I admired Ghassab’s collection of trinkets; presents from his past Couchsurfers.

I dragged a mattress up the stairs hacked into the outside of the cave and lay on top of the roof, the stars above me beginning to shine dimly as the sun retreated for the day. The entire valley had turned a deep red as the sun had set and now I could just make out the looming rock faces and twisted formations in the remaining daylight.

Darkness fell slowly. The desert faded away as the night spread across the sky like a pot of spilled ink. Night was nearly

About Will Hatton: Writer and photographer. Adventurer

upon us. I scrambled for my head torch and wrapped myself in

and vagabond. Master of the handstand pushup. Conqueror

a pair of scratchy blankets. I lay on top of the roof of Ghassab’s

of mountains, survivor of deserts and crusader for cheap

cave, the open sky above me. I snuggled down, my breath

escapades. Will is currently preparing to hitchhike from England

coming to me in ragged wisps of air. Tens of thousands of stars

to Papua New Guinea, a journey which will take over 18 months.

glistened above me, dark shapes loomed out of the darkness

Will blogs over at The Broke Backpacker about his adventures

and monsters turned to stone.

in some of the world’s least visited countries, you can follow

Just a few miles away, I was sure, dozens of tourists would

him on Facebook and on Twitter.

Endeavour Magazine | 117

A TOUCH OF “CHINA’S VENICE”: ZHOUZHUANG ON THE CANALS OF THE CITY OF WATER n July 21, 2015, Wu Juan, a sampan sculler from Zhouzhuang,

O

“The Expo is an opportunity for countries around the world to

joined a local gondolier from Venice, who taught her how to

gather and showcase their culture, history and best products. This

handle a gondola. Instead of the barcarolle, Wu sang graceful,

year we have come to the Expo to introduce our traditional cultural

traditional Chinese fishermen’s tunes while they drifted along the

and tourist products to our friends in Italy and Europe,” said Zhang

famous waterways of Venice, bringing traditional Chinese rhymes

Weiqing, General Manager of Jiangsu Water-town Zhouzhuang

to Italy.

Tourism Co. Ltd. “At the same time, we also connected with the

The gondola trip was part of Zhouzhuang’s “A Tale of Two

host country through a series of cultural exchange events.”

Cities” event in Venice during the Expo Milan 2015 in order to

Zhang indicated that Zhouzhuang and Venice share many things

promote tourism resources from two of the most famous water

in common. Residents in both towns live near water, with narrow

towns worldwide and this is the first time Zhouzhuang has been

canals separating rows of classic houses and arched bridges linking

showcased in Venice.

different islands. They are both water towns with profound history

The event featured another performance by soprano Nie Hongmei and Italian tenor Francesco Grollo. They sang “Time to Say Goodbye” composed and accompanied on the piano by Francesco.

118 | Endeavour Magazine

and have been working extensively to preserve their historical heritages.

Lifestyles in these two towns are also similar. The most famous

Carnival of Venice is held every February, when visitors gather in

offering shoppers a unique experience in a world of big box stores.

the city wearing distinct styles of masks. At the same time in the Far

Such unique legacies are not only historical and cultural heritages

East, Zhouzhuang embraces a Chinese style carnival by celebrating

to China, but also to everyone in the world interested in such

the Chinese New Year with folk customs that are passed down

historical quaintness.

through generations.

“As a cultural ambassador of folk exchange between China and

Though known as “Venice of the East,” Zhouzhuang’s beauty is

Italy, Zhouzhuang hopes to contribute to the tourism market in

different from that of Venice. As a much smaller town, Zhouzhuang

both countries and for people in Europe, we would like to be the

instead seeks to retain the traditional lifestyle by its tranquil

gateway to the traditional culture, folk customs and lifestyles of

waterways and preserve traditions that are extinct in other cities in

China,” Zhang said.

order to provide a unique cultural experience to visitors.

The various traditional markets that have been operating for centuries in Zhouzhuang are a prominent example of this. By South Lake, a large fish market sells fresh aquatic products that are caught every morning as well as homemade dried fish and shrimp, Endeavour Magazine | 119

GADGETS

WINBOT W930 Science fiction writers have long speculated about robots. Will they be used for good? Will they turn against us? None of them seem to have predicted that robots are the window cleaners of the future. But that’s just what the Winbot W930 is – a robot that can effectively clean framed and frameless glass, mirrors and other vertical flat surfaces. What a time to be alive.

Bow Active GameBarz The GameBarz is a fun if slightly ridiculous-looking gadget

The W930 fixes onto the window with dual suction rings,

that takes mobile gaming to the next level. It’s a universal game

forming a double vacuum barrier, and the onboard motor allows

controller that works with over 300 free games and several mobile

the robot to move while maintaining this vacuum suction. A unique

devices, clipping easily onto your smartphone, mini tablet or iPod

4-stage cleaning process leaves windows bright and sparkling: first,

touch. Use it horizontally like motorbike handles or vertically as a

the front cleaning pad loosens dirt, then one squeegee removes

sword or firearm – it can handle whatever your game calls for.

debris and another removes any remaining waterborne dirt, and

At GadgetHead, our favourite thing to use the GameBarz for is

finally the rear cleaning pad wipes the window dry. The Winbot

definitely driving games. The GameBarz uses your mobile device’s

even returns to where it began its cleaning journey, so you can

in-built gyrometer, making for brilliant tight steering. We also love

easily remove it. An RF remote control comes with each model, so

how the lever and stylus can be used as a trigger for shoot-out

you can operate it from a distance.

games, really testing your reaction times. Mobile gaming becomes

The W930 is the latest in a line of award-winning robots from

even more immersive when you stream it to a bigger screen, and

Ecovacs Robotics, and they’re certainly intelligent. Smartmove

that’s exactly what we did with the GameBarz one quiet afternoon.

navigation means the microfiber pad cleans in all directions, no

Nothing brings out your competitive side like shooting your

matter what direction the robot is travelling in. And the W930 is

colleagues.

equipped with onboard Pathfinder Technology, which measures

Built for heavy play, the GameBarz looks and feels like a solid,

the size of the glass and calculates the fastest, most efficient path

good quality product, with soft tactile grips that make it comfortable

to clean it. Multiple sensors make sure it avoids obstacles like

to use. According to Bow Active, product testing included a 30ft

window latches.

drop onto concrete, so you can be sure that the tough frame can

If you want to move your home into the space age, then look no

stand up to hours of hardcore gaming. But we might just keep

further than the W930.

playing with it to test that out.

www.ecovacsrobotics.com

www.bowblade.net

120 | Endeavour Magazine

TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio Watch All fitness watches are the same right? They track your movement, calculate how many calories are being burned and give you a gentle nudge towards a fitter and healthier you. That might be true of some models, but the TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio Watch does exactly what it claims to; offers state of the art monitoring during running, cycling and swimming activities.

ADX X05-UE3 Where to start with this little blue beauty? It’s a step forward for me in the world of Bluetooth speakers. My previous one is now

Perfect for triathletes, the watch has an integrated heart rate

cowering on the shelf somewhere, the ADX X05-UE3 is amazing

monitor that negates the need for a chest strap, while also offering

for a house hold speaker box and to be honest does hold its own

real-time data thanks to the built in GPS receiver. Basically, it’s like

in situations where it should be drowned out, it’s Bluetooth 4.0

having NASA attached to your wrist. And it looks great too.

connection means I can have a quality connection with great sound

Aesthetics shouldn’t play a huge part in the selection of a fitness

within 20 meters of my phone or Bluetooth device, meaning I can

watch, but we can’t overlook the fact that the design of this item

listen to an album in the bath with no fear of dropping my dog and

is nothing short of awesome. It just screams cutting edge and can

bone in the suds. The bass resonator inside this little ditty means

be personalised with the choice of coloured straps, all of which are

that when using the right pre-set EQs you can get an amazingly

insanely comfortable and unobtrusive while you are out pushing

powerful sound that is great competition for competitors on the

your own limits.

market and for the cost of RRP £79.99 and there is a Sale Price at

As a budding triathlete, I put the TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio

the moment of £49.99 means it’s a reasonably priced option too.

watch through its paces by taking it out on the road for an 80-

The X05-UE3 is beautiful and easy to carry even if the handle does

mile bike ride (in the rain), for an 8k run (in the rain also, thanks

make it a bit too “clutch bag” for me. You can get up to 20 hours

British weather!) and a two hour session in the pool. To say that

play time if you use the AUX cable and 10 hours when connected

it stepped up to the plate would be an understatement. No loss

by Bluetooth meaning that a camping trip would never be silent

in signal meant I received accurate data and could see how hard I

and you won’t have to drag out the 3 stringed guitar and the hippy

was working at all times and when I needed to push a little more. In

fella with bad hair and a beanie hat. I wouldn’t sit here and praise

short, it made me work better, harder and for longer.

it for no reason but it really is a nice piece of gear and for the cost

This is not just a sports watch; it’s a personal trainer, a stylish

is well worth getting. ADX has done a great job with its look and

accessory and unrelenting motivation that you can wear. It’s a

sound meaning I take my hat off to you and firmly fit this gadget

winner, as am I when I’m wearing it.

on the shelf.

www.tomtom.com

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BOOK REVIEWS THE KITE RUNNER

by Khaled Hosseini “It may be unfair, but what happens in a few days, sometimes even a single day, can change the course of a whole lifetime.”

Amir is the son of a wealthy Kabul merchant, a member of the ruling caste of Pashtuns. Hassan, his servant and constant companion, is a Hazara, a despised and impoverished caste. Their uncommon bond is torn by Amir’s choice to abandon his friend amidst the increasing ethnic, religious, and political tensions of the dying years of the Afghan monarchy, wrenching them far apart. But so strong is the bond between the two boys that Amir journeys back to a distant world, to try to right past wrongs against the only true friend he ever had.

The unforgettable, heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant, The Kite Runner is a beautifully crafted novel set in a country that is in the process of being destroyed. It is about the power of reading, the price of betrayal, and the possibility of redemption; and an exploration of the power of fathers over sons—their love, their sacrifices, their lies.

A sweeping story of family, love, and friendship told against the devastating backdrop of the history of Afghanistan over the last thirty years, The Kite Runner is an unusual and powerful novel that has become a beloved, one-of-a-kind classic.

122 | Endeavour Magazine

FAHRENHEIT 451

by Ray Bradbury The terrifyingly prophetic novel of a post-literate future.

Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to burn books, which are forbidden, being the source of all discord and unhappiness. Even so, Montag is unhappy; there is discord in his marriage. Are books hidden in his house? The Mechanical Hound of the Fire Department, armed with a lethal hypodermic, escorted by helicopters, is ready to track down those dissidents who defy society to preserve and read books.

The classic dystopian novel of a post-literate future, Fahrenheit 451 stands alongside Orwell’s 1984 and Huxley’s Brave New World as a prophetic account of Western civilization’s enslavement by the media, drugs and conformity.

Bradbury’s powerful and poetic prose combines with uncanny insight into the potential of technology to create a novel which, decades on from first publication, still has the power to dazzle and shock.

THE DIARY OF A YOUNG GIRL

by Anne Frank, Eleanor Roosevelt (Introduction), B.M. Mooyart-Doubleday (Translator) Discovered in the attic in which she spent

living in confined quarters, and the ever-

the last years of her life, Anne Frank’s

present threat of discovery and death.

remarkable diary has since become a

In her diary Anne Frank recorded vivid

world classic—a powerful reminder of the

impressions of her experiences during

horrors of war and an eloquent testament

this period. By turns thoughtful, moving,

to the human spirit.

and amusing, her account offers a

In 1942, with Nazis occupying Holland,

fascinating

a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl and her

courage and frailty and a compelling self-

family fled their home in Amsterdam and

portrait of a sensitive and spirited young

went into hiding. For the next two years,

woman whose promise was tragically cut

until their whereabouts were betrayed

short.

commentary

on

human

to the Gestapo, they and another family lived cloistered in the “Secret Annexe” of an old office building. Cut off from the outside world, they faced hunger, boredom, the constant cruelties of

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