Africa Outlook - Issue 63

www.africaoutlookmag.com

AFRICA ISSUE 63

In just five years Zapper has transformed the face of South African consumer convenience, leveraging fintech to edge closer to a cashless world

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 20 Mauritius: More Than Meets the Eye

CSQUARED 52 Unleashing what’s possible

MOMENTUM HEALTH 68 Health insurance focused on diversification

BUSHVELD MINERALS

Fulfilling demand for an ever sought-after resource

80

ALSO FEATURING: COMSOL NETWORKS | MINOPEX/DRA GLOBAL | GALP – KINGDOM OF ESWATINI

Business Travel Guides

A complete guide to Africa’s leading business travel destinations

B

M A U R I T I U S

Mauritius Striving to become the preferred business hub on the Asia-Africa Corridor Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Ryan Gray

PHOTO: XXXXXXXXXXXX

24

hen you think of Mauritius your mind immediately, and understandably, wanders to visions of paradise islands, palm trees, crystal blue seas and white sands. But while these stunning attributes inevitably contribute to the success of the East African island, what shouldn’t be overlooked is the ever-improving acumen and strategies in place to capitalise on such natural beauty.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Across strands of hospitality, food & drink, leisure tours, historical documentation and nature facilitation, the country has successfully built its economic growth plan around its make-up; consequently paving the way for enhanced, adjacent business activities to appear across the country as well.

The majority of hotels in the present day can’t simply set their facilities up for luxury and relaxation, but have to also accommodate an escalating

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

AFRICA

L

FACTS & FIGURES

swathe of business professionals and foreign direct investors via business suites, conference rooms and technologically advanced meeting facilities.

Once such hotel chain to meet this trend is Indigo Group, and Managing Director, Rolph Schmid has discussed Mauritius’ diversification from paradise island getaway, to multifunctional business landscape.

“Many destinations can offer these [palm trees and piña coladas]. But the

formula for ‘heavenly’ island holidays that saw 550,000 tourists travel to Mauritius between January and July this year alone is evolving and meeting the increasingly demanding needs of international visitors,” he said. “What differentiates Mauritius most, apart from luxury hotels, pampering spas, beaches and friendly people, is a truly welcoming business environment and subsequent investment opportunities.”

Languages: Area: Population (2015): GDP (2018): Currency: Time zone: Dialling code: Internet TLD: .

Climate:

English, French 2,040 km2 1.262 million $27.5 billion Mauritian rupee (MUR) UTC+4 +230 .mu Tropical

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

25

20 See page

Our Business Travel section not only gives executives the complete guide to the world’s most popular and populous locations, but also gives said locations the perfect opportunity to showcase their own businesses, events, venues and services to a truly international audience and readership of more than 185,000 each month.

To share in this unrivalled exposure and to put your own offering on our map, then please contact our Sales Managers, Joe Palliser or Ryan Gray to find out more.

joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 676

ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 672

W E L C O M E

AFRICA

Game Changer AFRICA Having completed our largest and longest-running sector focus last month in the aftermath of 2018’s Investing in African Mining Indaba, we felt it was time for a change this month; migrating In just five years Zapper has transformed the from the industrial landscape into a face of South African consumer convenience, leveraging fintech to more suit-adorning office environment. edge closer to a cashless world In particular, this month’s edition of Africa Outlook takes us on a more tech-based journey, with an emphasis on consumer convenience and connectivity in comparison to recent months’ engineering, mining and construction concentration.

Leading the way to this end is Zapper South Africa, a company with digitallydriven convenience ingrained in its business model and value proposition.

Helping to edge the country towards a cashless future, the Company’s multifaceted online payment platform is changing the face of continental retail, as the number of customers using the app to pay in restaurants, at petrol pumps, in charity domains and in numerous shops, tops the one million mark.

“We aim to create a lifestyle of convenience in the palm of your hand,” Zapper’s Head of Marketing and Communications says in an exclusive interview… “Collectively, the Zapper Marketing Platform empowers merchants to deepen their relationship with their customers, sustainably gathering knowledge about their preferences, and enabling one-to-one communication that is personal and relevant.”

Continuing along the theme of technological innovation, CSquared and Comsol Networks each share their own success stories in bolstering African infrastructure. While the former serves as a social enabler for the digital age via its comprehensive metro fibre capabilities and extensive Wi-Fi network, the latter continues to optimise a successful alternative to traditional fibre solutions.

Concluding our office-based analysis of trends, successes and challenges, this edition’s front-of-book assortment comprises a dissection of the cryptocurrency conundrum, courtesy of Fay Mukaddam of 4AX; and Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Dr. Saad Ali Shire overviews Somaliland’s ongoing strive for recognition on the global stage.

Finally, despite the sector transition, we haven’t deserted more industrial realms entirely. And rounding up this month’s showcasing segment are a host of market-leading operators including Bushveld Minerals, Minopex, Galp and Fargo Courier. www.africaoutlookmag.com

ISSUE 63

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 00 Mauritius: More Than Meets the Eye

CSQUARED 00 Unleashing what’s possible

MOMENTUM HEALTH 00 Health insurance focused on diversification

BUSHVELD MINERALS

Fulfilling demand for an ever sought-after resource

00

ALSO FEATURING: COMSOL NETWORKS | MINOPEX/DRA GLOBAL | GALP – KINGDOM OF ESWATINI

EDITORIAL Editorial Directors: Matthew Staff matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com Tom Wadlow tom.wadlow@outlookpublishing.com Deputy Editor: Jonathan Dyble jonathan.dyble@outlookpublishing.com

PRODUCTION Production Manager: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com Advert Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com Images: Thinkstock by Getty Images

BUSINESS Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Operations Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com Project Directors: Joshua Mann joshua.mann@outlookpublishing.com Tom Cullum tom.cullum@outlookpublishing.com Head of Projects: Kane Weller kane.weller@outlookpublishing.com Training Development Manager: Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com Sales Managers: Joe Palliser joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Jordan Levey jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com Project Managers: Callam Waller callam.waller@outlookpublishing.com Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com Josh Hyland josh.hyland@outlookpublishing.com Lewis Bush lewis.bush@outlookpublishing.com Matt Cole-Wilkin matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Vivek Valmiki vivek.valmiki@outlookpublishing.com

ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com Office & Finance Manager: Sophia Curran sophia.curran@outlookpublishing.com WEB DESIGN: Hamit Saka IT: James Le-May

OUTLOOK PUBLISHING Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com CONTACT Outlook Publishing Ltd Woburn House, 84 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 4AB, United Kingdom Sales: +44 (0) 1603 959 652 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0)1603 959 655 Email: matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

www.africaoutlookmag.com Like us on Facebook - facebook.com/africaoutlook Follow us on Twitter - @Africa_Outlook

Matthew Staff

Editorial Director, Outlook Publishing

Enjoy the issue!

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

3

C

O

N

T

E

N

T

S

In this issue...

8 F

12

NEWS

All the latest stories from across Africa

E

A T

U

R

E

S

FINANCE Cryptocurrencies: Colonialism or Upliftment?

Fay Mukaddam of 4AX dissects the cryptocurrency conundrum

14

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS The State of Somaliland

Striving for independence

S E C T O R F O C U S

18

MANUFACTURING A Platform for Progress An industrial contribution to South Africa’s economy

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

20

4

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

MAURITIUS

More Than Meets the Eye

AFRICA 32 R

34

120

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

E

T

A

I

L

ALPHA PHARM South Africa’s Pharmaceutical Custodian

E V E N T F

I

68

N

A

N

C

E

MOMENTUM HEALTH Flexibility is Fundamental to Progression

Care, service and value

Health insurance focused on diversification

74

ALAT BY WEMA BANK Powering Financial Inclusio

128 130

POWER WEEK AFRICA

52

CSQUARED A Better Way to Connect

Unleashing what’s possible

Fulfilling demand for an eversought-after resource

MINOPEX / DRA GLOBAL Growing Globally

Taking Middle Eastern mining to new levels

O

94

I

L

&

G

A

Providing leading insights on the African power and energy industry

The number one energy conference in East Africa

BUSHVELD MINERALS The Vanguard of Vanadium

88

Inside the Zambian real estate market

FUTURE ENERGY EAST 132 AFRICA

MINING & RESOURCES

80

F O C U S

ZAMREAL PROPERTY FORUM

Nigeria’s first fully digital bank

T E C H N O L O G Y

PARAGON GROUP Powering Africa’s Architectural Revolution

Pioneering innovation across Africa’s property market

ZAPPER SOUTH AFRICA Convenience in the Palm of Your Hand

Edging closer to a cashless world

44

CONSTRUCTION

SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES

134

THE BIG 5 CONSTRUCT EGYPT

136

2018 API SUMMIT & EXPO

138

TANZANIA OIL & GAS CONGRESS

140

POWER NIGERIA

142

SAPHEX

144

KENYA MINING FORUM

146

HI EUROPE

S

Facilitating collaboration within Egypt’s booming construction market

Africa’s premier real estate event

Outlining investment opportunities in Tanzania’s oil & gas industry

GALP – KINGDOM OF ESWATINI Celebrating 10 years of Innovation and Agility eSwatini’s oil & gas leader

H E A L T H C A R E AHMED AL-KADI 102 PRIVATE HOSPITAL

62

COMSOL NETWORKS Solving Real-World Problems Connected without limits

Raising the Bar

Delivering Durban’s state-of-theart healthcare

GOODLIFE PHARMACY 108 Living the Goodlife A true health partner

SHIPPING & LOGISTICS FARGO COURIER 116 Efficiency and Excellence

Kenya’s courier of choice

Energising the Nigerian power industry The go-to event for Africa’s pharmaceutical manufacturing industry Unveiling mining opportunities within the ‘Big Four’ agenda Showcasing innovative healthy products for the retail sector

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

5

Outlook Creative Services Complementing the production of Africa Outlook, Asia Outlook and Europe & Middle East Outlook magazines, Outlook Publishing’s award-winning in-house team is now utilising these same specialist production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

For more information on how we can work with you in providing a plethora of completely flexible and customisable production services, please visit www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

CONTACT DESIGN: Stephen Giles +44 (0) 1603 959 656 steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

E D I TO R I A L : Matthew Staff +44 (0) 1603 959 655 matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

Devon Collins +44 (0) 1603 959 661 devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

Phoebe Calver +44 (0) 1603 959 660 phoebe.calver@outlookpublishing.com

N

E

W

S

conference that offers talks of further investment opportunities and international development.

The extension of the countries’ existing partnership expands upon their existing Strategic Programme, signed in 2015.

This programme outlines six priority initiatives that include accelerating South Africa’s industrialisation; greater cooperation within Special Economic Zones; enhanced marine cooperation; accelerated infrastructure development; human resources collaboration; and the growth of financial partnerships.

“President Xi Jinping has indicated that China is ready to invest and work with South Africa in various sectors, such as infrastructure development, ocean economy, green economy, FINANCE science and technology, agriculture, environment and finance,” said Ramaphosa.

The financial agreements include Chinese banks lending a combined $2.8bn to South Africa’s state power utility firm Eskom and logistics specialist Transnet.

Eskom itself reported a $171 billion annual loss in its latest report, while Transnet has been subject to During a state visit to South Africa the size of the investment and the similar difficulties in recent times – on 24 July, Chinese President Xi agreement from both countries to difficulties that these investments Jinping outlined his country’s plans implement a new strategy in the aim of are likely to quash. to invest $14.7 billion in South tackling the current trade imbalances China has now been South Africa’s Africa. that heavily favour China. largest trading partner for nine Cyril Ramaphosa, the current Africa’s most industrialised economy years consecutively, exceeding South African President, has stands as a key regional trade partner $10 billion in total, with these taken plaudits in the wake of the for China, with President Jinping latest agreements looking likely to announcement having advocated for himself having revealed that the continue the trend through 2018. stronger external investment since Chinese investments would actively In total across July alone, overseas being appointed earlier this year. expand imports from South Africa to countries have now committed “We have agreed that we must support its development. more than $35 billion to investment work as partners to improve the The announcements were made across the country, highlighting the lives of our peoples by elevating ahead of the latest 25 July BRICS growing economic prosperity under our business, commercial and trade summit, where leaders from Brazil, Ramaphosa’s presidency. ties,” Ramaphosa said.

Russia, India and China will be hosted Further, the Rand grew one The praise comes from both

by Ramaphosa in Johannesburg – a percent off the back of the news.

China Earmarks $14.7 Billion for Investments in South Africa

8

GO TO WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM AFRICA

AFRICA SHIPPING & LOGISTICS

DP World to Launch New Logistics Hub in Mali Global supply chain specialist DP World has revealed that it will be constructing, operating and maintaining a new 1,000-hectare logistics hub in Mali.

Signed in a 40-year agreement with the Republic of Mali Government, the state-of-the-art facility, known as the Mali Logistics Hub (MLH), will facilitate the mass import and export of goods by utilising inland container depots and container freight stations.

Located just outside of Mali’s capital city Bamako, the MLH will be capable of handling four million tonnes of cargo and 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU).

“The Malian market is expected to grow over the next two decades and is driven by a robust economic and

Mali’s capital city, Bamako

population growth,” said DP World Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

“Thus, the MLH is much needed and will provide the country with a logistics platform that aims to facilitate the import and export of goods via the Port of Dakar, which is operated by DP World.”

Further, as part of the deal, DP World has also agreed to provide the Republic of Mali with three new locomotive trains to increase its transport capacity along

the country’s key Bamako-Dakar rail system.

“The project will provide us with a first-class logistics facility comparable to global standards and will be the largest in terms of capacity,” said Republic of Mali Minister of Equipment and Transport, Moulaye Ahmed Boubacar.

The initial phase will see DP World investing $50 million, with construction, beginning in 2019, expected to take a total 18 months to complete.

CEO of MallforAfrica.

“DHL and MallforAfrica saw the need to promote African-made products to the world and I am beyond proud to be a part of making history alongside a company that has pioneered logistics efficiency in Africa, and across the globe.”

DHL will manage all associated logistics services that are already designed with small business operations in mind.

The partnership will place both companies in a prime position to capitalise on the growing cross-border ecommerce market – a market that DHL expects to grow by approximately 25 percent annually until 2020.

“DHL is a facilitator of global trade and if we can improve connectivity and accessibility to global markets for local business, this will go a long way in helping small businesses grow,” said Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express, sub-Saharan Africa.

“We’ve been in Africa since 1978, so have seen first-hand, the huge opportunities that cross-border trade offers to local businesses.”

SHIPPING & LOGISTICS

DHL, MallforAfrica to Provide CrossBorder Solutions African ecommerce firm MallforAfrica has partnered up with US logistics leader DHL in the aim of better providing international markets with access to African products.

The partnership will help African retailers to sell on the global stage, no longer being isolated due to a fear of complex shipping requirements and payment systems.

“Africans finally have the opportunity whether banked or unbanked to showcase their amazing talents and skills to the world and sell their products,” said Chris Folayan,

GO TO WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM AFRICA

9

N

E

W

S

FINANCE

Barclays Africa Relaunches as Absa Group The African division of global banking firm Barclays has officially been renamed as Absa Group with the Company looking to refresh its continental outlook.

Absa’s new structure will seek to better leverage digital technologies as the firm pursues a technology-driven cultural transformation.

“A single brand will enable us to unite behind a single identity, purpose and strategy; we are excited by the enormous opportunity we have to create a bank that Africa can be proud of,” said Absa Group CEO Maria Ramos.

Absa Group will operate across 12 African counties, with plans to open international offices in both the UK and the US. The new design of the brand will complete in 2019, with the rollout across Barclay’s existing African banks expected for mid-2020, subject to customary regulatory approvals.

The bank’s existing product and services will not be affected by the rebrand.

FINANCE

Allianz Group Acquires Ensure Insurance Allianz has completed the acquisition of Nigerian insurance operator Ensure Insurance in the aim of expanding its industry portfolio across Africa.

The Nigerian life and non-life insurance services Company will now be known as Ensure – a company of Allianz, continuing to operate under new ownership after Allianz agreed to purchase a 99.03 percent stake in the firm.

“This new step of development will allow us to leverage the TRANSPORT

Ethiopian Airlines Retains Best Airline in Africa Award Ethiopian Airlines has been named the Best Airline in Africa for the second successive year during the 2018 World Airline Awards.

The ceremony was held in London, with Ethiopian airlines having been recognised for its continued rapid growth, rising profitability, and contribution to the development of

10

strength of the Allianz Group and the expertise of the Nigerian team to provide high quality products and services to Nigerian customers in both personal and commercial lines,” said Coenraad Vrolijk, Regional CEO of Allianz Africa.

The acquisition significantly bolsters Allianz’s long-term regional growth strategy, viewing Nigeria as a high-potential market.

“We are pleased to enter this fast-growing market through the acquisition of a solid financial player with strong local expertise,” Vrolijk said.

Allianz currently has a presence in 17 different African countries, employing more than 1,500 regional staff that generated €630 million in revenue in 2017. the aviation market across Africa.

“We are thrilled to win the African Airline of the Year Award for the second time,” said Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde GebreMariam.

“It is testimony to the continued hard work of our committed team and the successful implementation of our airlines fast, profitable and sustainable growth plan, Vision 2025.”

The carrier currently serves 55 African cities, connecting them with more than 110 international markets across the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East - the largest network across the entire continent.

GO TO WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM AFRICA

AFRICA TECHNOLOGY

Wits University, AFD, IFAS Unveils New Digital Hub in Johannesburg Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct has announced the launch of a new Digital Content Hub in Johannesburg in partnership with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS).

“We need this kind of partnership for much needed skills development in the country,” said Tshimologong Precinct CEO, Lesley Williams. “It is a win-win for all involved and Tshimologong is excited to work with both the AFD and IFAS.” The hub will allow for collaboration between academic, corporate, government, and entrepreneurial players, working with a range of technologies such as virtual reality.

In turn, this is expected to further technological education within the region.

TRANSPORT

Kenya Airways, Air Madagascar, Air Austral sign MoU for Africa Kenya’s national airline Kenya Airways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air Madagascar and Air Austral that will see the three firms looking to expand their African carrier networks.

The partnership will explore the potential of new connections and business opportunities, particularly in Africa and the Indian Ocean islands.

Further, reports state that Kenya Airways is particularly eyeing leisure segments in the new agreement.

The news comes after Kenya Airways signed a deal with Boeing to access a greater range of the US aerospace manufacturer’s spare parts and on-demand services.

TECHNOLOGY

Amazon Eyes Cape Town as a Regional Tech Hub

OIL & GAS

Aiteo Named Company of the Year at the Nigerian Oil & Gas Award Nigerian energy conglomerate Aiteo has been named Indigenous Oil & Gas Company of the Year during the Nigerian Oil & Gas Awards this month.

The Company was largely recognised due to its depth of human resources, sustainable industry investments, and contribution to the Nigerian economy.

“This honour from the NOG is fulfilling, particularly coming from our peers and a reputable industry

platform,” said Aiteo CEO and Executive Vice Chairman, Benedict Peters.

The ceremony is the most prestigious across the Nigerian energy sector.

Global ecommerce leader Amazon has begun advertising for job vacancies in Cape Town as the Company is soon to occupy a new eight-story building within the city, according to Reuters.

Adverts include tech-focused roles such as software developers, suggesting that the building is likely to be used to support the expansion of its Amazon Web Services (AWS) division.

The move is set to lead to greater industry competition in the African market, with Microsoft having expanded its regional presence after beginning the construction of data centres in Johannesburg and Cape Town itself.

GO TO WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM AFRICA

11

C R Y P T O C U R R E N C I E S :

C O L O N I A L I S M

O R

U P L I F T M E N T ?

Cryptocurrencies:

Colonialism or Upliftment?

The business world has moved beyond the idea that if it isn’t made of bricks and mortar, then a company has no value. The classic illustration of this principle is that of Uber, which despite being one of the largest transport organisations in the world, actually owns no vehicles.

“When one looks at it like this, there is no real reason for the financial services and capital markets to be any different. After all, the aim of the game, whatever the industry, is always Fay Mukaddam of 4AX to see how we can; encourage the dissects the inclusion and participation of as many cryptocurrency people as possible within financial conundrum markets, and make things simpler for t is quite clear that we are developing the client or end-user, using available into a society that is completely technology,” says Mukaddam. driven by information and reliant on “With this in mind, there is both technology. As we evolve along this room and a need for a platform like path, those that succeed will be those Blockchain, which we believe offers who are able to equip themselves to enormous potential not just to the handle this future by grasping the fact financial sector, but to industries that the entire paradigm has shifted across the spectrum. Of course, the significantly, believes Fay Mukaddam, one that is most often talked about CEO of 4AX. in finance is cryptocurrencies, which

The rise of cryptocurrencies has both positive and negative implications for Africa, and the world. How their use is managed will determine how well they benefit those most in need Edited by: Matthew Staff

I

12

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

is ultimately nothing more than an application built on top of Blockchain technology,” she adds.

There are a lot of conflicting opinions across global markets as to the benefits cryptocurrencies may offer. Mukaddam believes that, “before we can truly attribute value to it, we need to both understand what it does and how it may improve things.

We also need to contemplate the fears and anxieties it raises, such as the concern around moving large values across borders in a situation where there is no regulatory control”.

Mukaddam is of the opinion that there is certainly more value to be gained from such technologies than there are things to be feared: “The answer most likely lies in managing it and contextualising it properly. The regulators certainly need to approach it from this angle, rather than from a point of fear and anxiety; as the latter will only lead to them wanting to shut it down.

“From an African perspective, I

F

I

N

A

think we clearly need to recognise the potential that cryptocurrencies offer to the continent, as a solution that can effect real change as a driver of financial inclusion, and thereby help to close the massive socio-economic disparity gap.

“If we consider just the opportunities this opens for crossborder trading in Africa, the benefits are obvious. No doubt there are challenges that come with this, not least of which is the sovereignty issues relating to the taxes and customs fees that would be applicable, were we talking about a physical entity.”

However, Mukaddam still believes that cryptocurrencies offer immense opportunities in terms of economic development where, for example, the BRICS community would be able to undertake cross-border trade without all the suffocating regulations that currently govern such a process.

“The ease of trade and of movement that comes with this will ultimately help to encourage trade with partners, irrespective of where they are in the world,” says Mukaddam. “I am, in fact, less concerned about the technology

N

C

E

“...appropriate steps must be taken to regulate these new asset classes, as well as education initiatives to ramp up on financial knowledge and literacy”

than I am the regulatory oversight, as it is imperative to ensure that there is full transparency and disclosure, to eliminate the possibility of fraud or malicious circumvention of due process.”

There are speculative market concerns that cryptocurrencies hold the potential to launch a new cycle of economic colonialism, where the rich use it to oppress the poor.

“I am however more of the positive view that fintech, such as cryptocurrencies etc., has the potential to effectively reduce the gap between the haves and have-nots, almost

“The ease of trade and of movement that comes with this will ultimately help to encourage trade with partners, irrespective of where they are in the world”

overnight. Where there is innovation, there is positive possibilities for all,” adds Mukaddam. “Though, to uplift a significant portion of the African continent, due consideration and appropriate steps must be taken to regulate these new asset classes, as well as education initiatives to ramp up on financial knowledge and literacy. We must ensure that ordinary citizens are not being defrauded, or are continuously excluded from participating in capital and financial markets. We simply cannot allow those that need to be uplifted to be taken advantage of or oppressed by exclusion.”

Mukaddam concludes: “When it comes to potentially game-changing technologies, such as cryptocurrencies, it is important for markets and authorities, alike, to not allow themselves to be steered by fear of change. Rather, the focus should be on how we can positively map our way through the challenges and utilise such innovation to drive change - change that will have a meaningful impact on positively transforming people’s lives.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

13

T H E

S T A T E

O F

S O M A L I L A N D

Somaliland The State of

Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Dr. Saad Ali Shire discusses the de facto nation’s current situation as it seeks enhanced recognition on the global stage Written by: Matthew Staff

S

ince the 2017 re-election of the Kulmiye Party, a concerted effort has been reignited to strengthen Somaliland’s position as an international force.

HE Dr. Saad Ali Shire has been the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Somaliland since 2015 and has been a key figure in the region’s attempts to broaden its influence abroad, to educe the international community on its economic potential, and to – critically – make a case for its official recognition.

“I am lucky to have had a diverse background prior to my work as Foreign Minister spanning business, academia, development, and politics,” he introduces himself. “I previously served as Somaliland’s

14

Minister of National Planning and Development, working on the Berbera Port expansion, formulating national and regional development plans, establishing the Somaliland Development Fund, and building the legal framework and institutional capacity of the Ministry, so I have a strong sense of Somaliland’s development journey to date.

“Being the Foreign Minister of an unrecognised nation brings very particular challenges on the international stage, but also immense opportunity to promote Somaliland, establish its reputation in the international community, boost prosperity internally, and engage with the diaspora community. In my role to date I have focused my work on presenting the legal, humanitarian, and historical case for Somaliland’s

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

independence to the international community, promoting Somaliland as a destination for foreign investment, and restructuring and improving efficiency within the Ministry internally.”

Africa Outlook (AfO): Can you go on to provide a bit of a contextual history to Somaliland in general: an introduction to its governmental structure and how it exists within the framework of Africa as an independent area?

Dr Saad Ali Shire (SAS): Somaliland is a former protectorate of the British Empire and, throughout the 73-year period between 1887 and 1960, Somalilanders forged close ties with the British, fighting alongside them in both World Wars. This closeness has been maintained following Somaliland’s independence from Britain in 1960, largely due to a thriving diaspora community in its major cities and a mutual history.

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

Soon after its independence from the United Kingdom, Somaliland entered into a political union with neighbouring Somalia, which was plagued by violence and unrest. After 30 years, Somalilanders decided to dissolve the union in 1991.

We have since established ourselves as an example of political stability and democracy in a region characterised by frequent popular protests, infighting, and election irregularities. We have our own constitution, legal and political systems, and entrenched rule of law. Power has changed hands through regular presidential and parliamentary elections (most recently in November, 2017), which have been repeatedly certified as free and fair by international observers, something not usual within East Africa.

Nevertheless, despite having built a stable political environment and demonstrated our democratic credentials, Somaliland has been thwarted in its efforts to be recognised as an independent nation by the international community – both by individual countries and

R E L A T I O N S

international organisations, such as the Commonwealth or African Union.

Currently Somaliland still operates as a ‘special case’ in its relations with the African Union; however, this does not afford us a seat at the table to discuss African issues which impact Somalilanders as much as other Africans.

Whilst Somaliland is, for all intents and purposes, already independent in practice, international ratification will have a transformational impact on the country internally. We remain determined to work closely with our immediate African neighbours who would also directly benefit from greater prosperity in Somaliland, as well as representatives from further afield in the Middle East and the Commonwealth.

AfO: How has Somaliland’s economic landscape evolved over the years and what do you feel are the key drivers behind its growing influence?

SAS: Somaliland’s economy is still largely based on traditional sectors, such as agriculture, which renders us

particularly vulnerable to drought and other natural disasters. Many of our economic difficulties are exacerbated by our status as an unrecognised state, which means we struggle to access foreign capital to invest in developing our industries and tackling the country’s high youth unemployment rate.

However, we remain bullish in creating an economic environment which will attract investors from diverse industries, who recognise Somaliland’s potential in spite of its political status, and will hold the key to job creation and economic diversification. In order to promote Somaliland as a destination for trade and investment we have been participating in international trade fairs and exhibitions including in Brussels, Dubai, and Nigeria.

International players such as DP World have already committed their future and capital to Somaliland through the Berbera Port deal, recognising the benefits of our strategic location on the Horn of Africa and the stable political environment

“We remain determined to work closely with our immediate African neighbours who would also directly benefit from greater prosperity in Somaliland, as well as representatives from further afield in the Middle East and the Commonwealth” Dr. Saad Ali Shire, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Somaliland

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

15

T H E

S T A T E

O F

S O M A L I L A N D

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

which has been fostered by successive governments.

We hope the example set by DP World, who have pledged $442 million towards the Berbera Port, will encourage more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to follow, inspired by the trade and commercial possibilities that will be opened up by the port and cross-border trade routes between Somaliland, the Gulf, and Ethiopia.

AfO: Inevitably, Somaliland’s relationship with neighbours Ethiopia and Somalia have a direct influence on your own development, so please talk me through the condition of these relationships and what the current status is?

SAS: We enjoy a flourishing and increasingly collaborative political and economic relationship with our neighbours in Ethiopia. Ethiopia is a country experiencing rapid reform and we feel there is a congruence between our countries’ visions for a peaceful,

16

“We now have a Representative Mission situated in Addis Ababa and Ethiopia became a third party in the landmark deal with DP World to redevelop Berbera Port earlier this year” prosperous, and economically integrated Horn of Africa.

We now have a Representative Mission situated in Addis Ababa and Ethiopia became a third party in the landmark deal with DP World to redevelop Berbera Port earlier this year. The tripartite deal pledges to

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

create a Berbera corridor between the maritime hub at Berbera and Ethiopia, acting as a gateway to the wider continent and benefitting not only our own nations but also other landlocked African countries.

We hope this deal and the subsequent development of the Berbera Free Zone will act as a catalyst for attracting FDI, leading to the creation of much-needed jobs and spurring industrialisation and diversification of Somaliland’s economy.

Somalia has sought to declare the Berbera Port project ‘null and void’

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

R E L A T I O N S

Despite the beneficial impact of the Berbera project on all East Africa, Somalia has sought to declare the deal ‘null and void’. Their decision to challenge the deal has no legal basis so will in no way hinder the implementation of the port expansion.

However, we are concerned by Somalia’s ongoing stubbornness and hostility towards Somaliland. With the region at a turning point geopolitically, we would like to restart bilateral talks to establish a peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship for all Somalis as well as the region as a whole.

AfO: To what extent is there scope to broaden your international network, through areas such as the Middle East, and what work is being carried out to strengthen this more widespread input?

SAS: We have established our own trading relations with international partners since the early 1990s and, in recent years, with the United Arab Emirates in particular, due to our strategic location at the gateway to both the African continent and Persian Gulf.

These trade relations have offered Somaliland welcome economic independence. We now export two-three million heads of livestock annually to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries alone and DP World has committed significant capital into Somaliland, further integrating the economies of Somaliland and the Gulf States.

Burao, goats and sheep to be exported. Burao is the largest livestock market in the Horn of Africa. Most animals are exported to Arab countries.

1 3

2

5

4

6

Earlier this year our President, HE Muse Bihi Abdi, and a delegation from Somaliland were received by the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Mansour, to discuss how to enhance bilateral relations between the nations for the mutual benefit of both states.

We expect to be able to build on the strong foundations we have laid with the UAE and attract more investors to invest in our economic future.

Administrative regions of Somaliland

AfO: In your ongoing bid for stronger international recognition, what more do you feel needs to be done to boost Somaliland’s influence on a continental and global scale?

SAS: Recent years have seen a surge in interest in the Horn of Africa, shaking up the region’s geopolitical landscape.

We regard the entry of new players into the region as a significant opportunity, both economically and politically.

Presenting Somaliland as a willing and valuable partner in the long-term, mutually beneficial political treaties and economic partnerships have the potential to stimulate economic growth in Somaliland and enhance our political influence in the region.

Our ultimate aim remains to move from our current status as a de facto nation to an internationally recognised state. Membership of international bodies such as the Commonwealth and African Union is critical to our ongoing growth as that will facilitate access to foreign aid, investment, and loans through the IMF and World Bank.

My priorities as Somaliland’s Foreign Minister are to build on existing relations with our partners in Ethiopia, Djibouti, the UAE, and further afield to bolster our economic and political independence, and to further build our case for recognition in order to create an international consensus that reflects the present-day reality of Somaliland as an independent nation.

1. Awdal 2. Saahil 3. Maroodi-Jeeh

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

4. Toghdheer 5. Sanaag 6. Sool

17

S E C T O R

F O C U S

A Platform for 2018’s KwaZulu-Natal Manufacturing Indaba is set to bring together leading decision makers from the region to discuss an era of improved engagement and collaboration Written by: Matthew Staff

T

he annual KwaZulu-Natal Manufacturing Indaba, to be held on 22 August, 2018 at the ICC in Durban, South Africa is a revered platform for assembling provincial manufacturers and businesses to explore growth opportunities, uncover the latest manufacturing incentives and trends, as well as to network and collaborate with relevant contacts vested in the sector.

The event has announced its agenda which includes a dynamic offering of engaging sessions discussing a range of thought-provoking topics, among which are the 4th Industrial

18

Revolution, maximising the market for manufacturers, and accessing new markets for manufacturers.

The conference will host forums on the 4th Industrial Revolution and its implication on manufacturing units within the sector. Well-versed industry leaders will impart their knowledge of opportunity development and management of threats while proactively implementing strategies to fortify a competitive advantage and boost profits through the digitalisation of manufacturing operations. Panel discussions focused on this theme have been devised to educate both small and large manufacturers on the relevance that Industry 4.0 has to every company,

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

thereby empowering manufacturing facilities to improve their innovation tactics and consequently their bottomline.

A focused session will delve into how industry players in the sector can thrive by maximising the manufacturing market, making use of government grant incentives.

Various tools are available to support industrialists in this endeavour and will be thoroughly unpacked, while a greater understanding of how government can contribute to the success of such firms though various incentives, investment opportunities and financial solutions will also be explored.

Moreover, forums have been set up to educate players of the manufacturing domain about the various financing opportunities available to them. These dialogues will explore funding options to encourage investment in South Africa’s manufacturing facilities, assisting them to initiate and execute potential projects. Numerous conditions are required to be met by candidates in

M

A

N

U

F

A

C

order for businesses to gain access to funding initiatives and these panels will serve as platforms to inform potential applicants thereof.

The Conference programme offers a stage for robust discussion and debate on the everchanging nature of the manufacturing landscape which deems acquiring constant access to emerging markets essential. Managing these changes requires a thorough understanding of economic trends that will have a significant impact on manufacturers. Furthermore, forums led by industry experts will unpack prevalent growth opportunities in the small business manufacturing environment and how these smaller enterprises ultimately enable the accelerated growth of larger, more established manufacturing units.

T

U

R

I

N

G

The annual KwaZulu-Natal Manufacturing Indaba will be hosted at Durban ICC, Durban on 22 August, 2018. The aim of the Manufacturing Indaba 2018 and its provincial roadshows is to focus on and boost the growth potential of key industry sectors, namely: automotive, construction, metals, forestry, paper & packaging, chemicals, aerospace & defence, industry products and services, and to provide a platform for informative and interactive sessions with the prime movers of the nation’s manufacturing sectors.

The productivity debate is a pertinent topic within the manufacturing industry.

Adopting technology, cultivating talent across the generations and encouraging skills acquisition are fundamental factors to enhancing productivity rates within the sector. Implementation of such strategies will be explored in detail to encourage manufacturers to

grow their establishments and create a competitive edge that will see them at the forefront of the industry.

The KwaZulu-Natal Manufacturing Indaba is where industry players converge to discuss prevailing and future concerns while acquiring access to relevant networks, content and ideas that empower individuals and manufacturing units to prosper in this highly competitive sector. The event represents the ultimate marketplace for practical educational opportunities that help industry professionals discover what incentives are available from the Province and government to support KwaZulu-Natal manufacturers in growing their businesses, thereby striving to contribute to South Africa’s manufacturing economy in its entirety.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

19

M A U R I T I U S

Mauritius Striving to become the preferred business hub on the Asia-Africa Corridor Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Ryan Gray

PHOTO: DANIEL MALINOWSKI

20

hen you think of Mauritius your mind immediately, and understandably, wanders to visions of paradise islands, palm trees, crystal blue seas and white sands. But while these stunning attributes inevitably contribute to the success of the East African island, what shouldn’t be overlooked is the ever-improving acumen and strategies in place to capitalise on such natural beauty.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Across strands of hospitality, food & drink, leisure tours, historical documentation and nature facilitation, the country has successfully built its economic growth plan around its make-up; consequently paving the way for enhanced, adjacent business activities to appear across the country as well.

The majority of hotels in the present day can’t simply set their facilities up for luxury and relaxation, but have to also accommodate an escalating

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

FACTS & FIGURES

swathe of business professionals and foreign direct investors via business suites, conference rooms and technologically advanced meeting facilities.

Once such hotel chain to meet this trend is Indigo Group, and Managing Director, Rolph Schmid has discussed Mauritius’ diversification from paradise island getaway, to multifunctional business landscape.

“Many destinations can offer these [palm trees and piña coladas]. But the

formula for ‘heavenly’ island holidays that saw 550,000 tourists travel to Mauritius between January and July this year alone is evolving and meeting the increasingly demanding needs of international visitors,” he said. “What differentiates Mauritius most, apart from luxury hotels, pampering spas, beaches and friendly people, is a truly welcoming business environment and subsequent investment opportunities.”

Languages: English, French Area: 2,040 km2 Population (2015): 1.262 million GDP (2018): $27.5 billion Currency: Mauritian rupee (MUR)

Time zone: UTC+4 Dialling code: +230 Internet TLD: . .mu Climate: Tropical

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

21

M A U R I T I U S

The Business End EVIDENCE OF THE country’s success in widening its overall appeal to business, as well as pleasure, can be found purely across the number of MICE travellers who enter Mauritius each year.

Its location in the Indian Ocean between Africa and Asia makes it a strangely attractive option given its remoteness. Serving EMEA and SADC communities in tandem, the country is then able to leverage solid diplomatic ties and an equally thriving East African business climate at present to add to the overall attraction.

“Mauritius is well placed to open doors to the business world.

Destination management is of the highest standard here and several hotels offer their own excellent business facilities,” the Indigo Hotel Group detailed in a recent statement.

“A combination of factors comes into play to make Mauritius an incomparable investment gateway to Africa, but it is its unique taxation system that encourages both local and foreign companies to set up business here.

“Although the corporate tax rate is 15 percent, offshore companies may claim foreign tax credits at the rate of 80 percent, which reduces the effective rate on a GBC1’s income to three percent; 15 percent corporate and personal income tax rate; 15 percent VAT (refundable), tax-free dividends; free repatriation of profits, dividends and capital; and no capital gains tax.”

Expanding its scope on the international scene, Mauritius recently facilitated the development of the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) in collaboration with the Mauritian Board of Investment, so as to facilitate the sale of residential properties to foreign buyers – yet another example of FDI attraction away from immediate tourism-based appeal.

Indigo Hotel Group continued: “Because of its stable and free economic and political stance, business thrives in Mauritius. A compliance to international best practices in corporate governance, transparency and ethics, as well as a regulated financial sector, ensure secure and successful investment.

Excellent living conditions, together with a skilled, bilingual workforce, complete the attractive picture.”

PHOTO: GIRISH POONYTH

22

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Your Business Trip in Mauritius Strategic Planning Seminar Hennessy Park Hotel 10AM TO 12.30PM

Lunch at Brasserie Chic, Labourdonnais 12.45PM TO 1.45PM

Gym

Meeting with Patrick at Coffee Lounge, Labourdonnais

7AM TO 7.45AM

3PM TO 3.45PM

Massage I Spa 4PM TO 5PM

Catamaran Sundowner Departure: Le Suffren 5.30PM TO 6.30PM

Happy Hour On the Rocks, Le Suffren 7PM TO 8PM

Teppanyaki Dinner IZUMI, The Address 8.30PM TO 10.30PM

Indigo’s selection of 4* and 5* business hotels in Mauritius presents the perfect mix of unequalled business services and leisure options.

With a range of superb restaurants, bars, gyms, spas, and state-of-the-art conference and banqueting facilities, Indigo offers its unique sense of style, outstanding service and business practicality in the capital Port Louis, in Ebene Cybercity and in Port Chambly.

For a totally successful business trip in Mauritius, Indigo is the way to go.

Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel

Le Suffren Hotel & Marina

Hennessy Park Hotel

Le Suffren Apart’hotel

The Address Boutique Hotel

www.labourdonnais.com

www.lesuffrenhotel.com

www.hennessyhotel.com

www.lesuffrenaparthotel.com

www.addressboutiquehotel.com

Caudan Waterfront, PO Box 91, Port Louis, Mauritius - T (230) 202 4000 - E reservations@indigohotels.com - www.indigohotels.com

M A U R I T I U S

The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA)

THE MAURITIUS TOURIST office was set up in the 1970s off the back of continuous growth in the country’s tourist market. From this genesis the Government fervently considered the need for a dedicated promotion agency for tourism, thus creating the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority in 1996; a new entity which would be able to operate more flexibly and with better efficiency in meeting the new and growing challenges facing the industry.

In the early days there was an average of 7,700 tourist arrivals with only two hotels operating on the island. Now, 60 years later with the MTPA in full flow, the landscape of tourism in Mauritius has changed dramatically, with tourist arrivals sitting at 1,341,600 in 2017 and approximately 112 hotels for them to select from.

Mr Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, spoke with Africa Outlook about the exciting work of the Authority to make it the success it is today, alongside the plans for the future to take tourism to the next level.

Africa Outlook (AfO): Since inception, how has the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to portray?

Arvind Bundhun (AB): The MTPA is acting specifically in the promotion of the destination in all our key markets and also in selected new markets where we believe there are opportunities for strong growth. We count on a local team of approximately 50 persons and on 13 overseas representative offices.

Our key message has unwaveringly been to promote Mauritius as a lifestyle and all-year round destination to reach our targets. We also focus on niche segments, including golf, sports and eco-tourism, cultural tourism and medical tourism, amongst others.

AfO: What is in store for Mauritius over the course of 2018 and beyond to continue the good work already commenced and to enhance its reputation as a tourism and business travel hub further in the future?

AB: Mauritius has acquired a global reputation as a leading destination for excellence in hospitality. The sector operates within a growth market with tourist arrivals showing healthy increases since 2015. However, it is also an extremely competitive environment and we have to continue delivering a world-class service, and seamless experience to both business and leisure travellers.

As an industry, we need to focus on strengthening the emerging market segments, diversifying new markets and the successful completion of the AfricaPHOTO: GIRISH POONYTH

24

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Asia Air Corridor offers high prospects for the growth of the economy.

To further support and reinforce the tourism sector, we organised a conference on Digitalisation and Sustainable Tourism in May of this year where foreign delegates and local stakeholders met to discuss the impact of technological advancement on the industry. By the year 2019 a new port terminal will be set up to accommodate cruise liners, an emerging market. There are also at least three hotels being constructed.

“We are currently working towards introducing dedicated teams to retain and grow current markets and to develop new markets like the Nordic and Asian markets”

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

In September of this year the MTPA along with hoteliers will be participating in the leading business to business tourism exhibition, TOP RESA 2018 which will be held from 25-28 September, 2018 in Porte de Versailles in France.

AfO: Looking forward, what progress and development would you hope and expect to be able to report back over the next 12 months, both for the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority as an entity, and the business travel industry in Mauritius as a whole?

AB: At the MTPA, our aim is to be better staffed and, with a fully computerised IT system, to be more responsive, adaptable and increase our

T

R

A

V

E

AFRICA

L

efficiencies, effectiveness and decisionmaking processes.

We are currently working towards introducing dedicated teams to retain and grow current markets and to develop new markets like the Nordic and Asian markets. We will increase the role of e-marketing, and engage proactively within our market segments such as sports tourism, cultural tourism, medical tourism and the cruise market etc.

Mauritius has successfully established itself as a business hub on the AsiaAfrica Air Corridor, as well as within the tourism industry and financial services sectors, working together closely to achieve the objective of making Mauritius the preferred hub on the AsiaAfrica Corridor.

PHOTOS: GREY HUTTON

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

25

M A U R I T I U S

Out & About THE COUNTRY’S AFOREMENTIONED diversification certainly shouldn’t be seen as a deviation away from traditional touristic attractions, despite its growing business influence. Rather, the nation is thriving virtue of a merging of the two. The leisure/vacation community are benefitting from a more professional service landscape comparable to the best in the world.

And the business community can capitalise on an abundance of pleasure pursuits outside of the boardroom; be they museums, cultural and religious festivals, a vibrant nightlife, gourmet food, active adventure and sport, colourful markets, or natural wonders.

26

“There has been a marked and increased focus on professionalising the tourism industry in Mauritius, which has yielded positive results for this sector, and recorded an annual increase in tourism arrivals from 2010,” the MTPA’s Arvind Bundhun explains. “Subsequently this has also resulted in an increase in the number of hotels and room capacity across the island. As of June, 2018, there are 400 tour operators listed in the following categories: DMC, Tour Organisers, Outdoor Tour Operators and Online Tour Operators. And going forward, ongoing and healthy public/ private sector dialogue is key to developing further and growing the tourism industry.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

“There is a need to work together in the tourism sector to take Mauritius to the next level in terms of guest experience and ensure the island keeps its leading position as a global and sustainable destination.”

The result can most accurately be demonstrated across its hospitality evolution. More than 13,000 rooms now form Mauritius’ hotel scene.

Indigo Hotel Group added: “It is projected that by 2020, a total of 15,600 rooms will be available on the market. Because the tourism industry plays a major part in the economy, the Government has proposed the interesting Invest Hotel Scheme, designed to broaden the scope of opportunities for investors.”

M A U R I T I U S

Outlook Recommends “Mauritius has acquired a global reputation as a leading destination for excellence in hospitality.” - Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority

HOSPITALITY

RETAIL Natural History Museum of Mauritius Blue Penny Museum Rhumerie de Chamarel

Indigo Hotels Indigo Group with its four hotels targeted for the business community are all strategically located in the heart of the business centre of the island. Capitalising on the country’s evolution from both a touristic and business attraction perspective, the Company has geared its hotels towards the latter aspect especially, bridging the work-relax dynamic via a host of stylish, modern and stunning amenities.

NATURE Île aux Aigrettes

Be Cosy Apart Hotel Merging the convenience of hotel living with the luxury and solitude of an apartment-based vacation the Be Cosy Apart Hotel’s 102 accommodation options grace the north coast of Mauritius, just 100 metres away from Trou aux Biches beach. Its variety of restaurants, leisure facilities and conveniences makes it equally suitable for pleasure and business; making the resort a “cost-effective solution for your holiday plans”.

28

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens Vallée de Ferney Tamarin Beach Blue Bay Marine Park

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

Outlook Creative Services

Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

PHOTO: DANIEL MALINOWSKI

RETAIL

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

Mahebourg Market Port Louis Central Market

La Table du Chateau Chateau Mon Desir L’Archipel Restaurant

PHOTO: PASCAL KOBEH

FOOD & DRINK

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

29

C AA PU ER ITTOI U M W SN

Transport Links

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport

THE VAST MAJORITY of the world don’t need ta visa to enter Mauritius, an indictment of its diplomatic stability. And for the majority of people entering the country, they will do so via the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport which serves as the primary gateway for Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia.

Once in the country, the plane is also a viable option to connect you to most of the more remote attractions.

Rodrigues, for example is best accessed via Air Mauritius’ internal routes.

For the typical business retreat

30

PHOTO: SIMISA (TALK · CONTRIBS)

however, you may be better served by taking to the road, optimising the country’s one major highway which runs from the north to the south.

Car rental firms are one of the many industries to capitalise on Mauritius’ improving business appeal so you won’t be short of options in terms of getting by under your own steam.

And, as is an occurring theme with much of the country, Mauritius’ transport network is set to evolve to even higher levels in the coming years.

On the water, a new port terminal will be set up to accommodate cruise liners by 2019, while back in the air,

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

numerous new channels are being opened up, as explained by Bundhun.

“KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has introduced a direct flight from Amsterdam to Mauritius from October last year, in cooperation with Air Mauritius,” he offers as an example.

“Using KLM’s extensive network will enhance the flights offered to Mauritius from Amsterdam and across Europe.

“Kenya Airways has also started serving the Mauritius route as of June of this year, and Alitalia will start a direct flight from Rome to Mauritius from 28 October, 2018.”

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

Landmark Attractions Père Laval’s Shrine

“The shrine of French Catholic priest and missionary Père Jacques-Désiré Laval is something of a Lourdes of the Indian Ocean, with many miracles attributed to pilgrimages here. Père Laval is a popular figure with Mauritians of all religions. Pilgrims come from as far afield as South Africa, Britain and France to commemorate the anniversary of his death on 9 September. Notice the coloured plaster effigy of the priest on top of the tomb – it’s been rubbed smooth by miracle-seeking pilgrims.” – Lonely Planet

Rodrigues

“Rodrigues is a delightful remote little holiday island 650 kilometres east of Mauritius in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Measuring only 18 kilometres in length and eight kilometres at its widest point, Rodrigues is entirely surrounded by coral reefs offering world-class diving and snorkelling. Rodrigues is a place that is strikingly beautiful. The island is hilly with lot of flora and has a lot of beaches and tiny islands around it, such as Ile aux Cocos.” – Mauritius Attractions

Eureka

“Eureka House is a unique Creole house built in 1830 located by the river of Moka. It is an elegant Créole residence originally owned

by British and French aristocrats in the 19th century. It is reputed to be one of the largest houses on the island, with 109 doors and windows... During the guided visit of the gardens, you will come across four wonderful small waterfalls. The river banks are the natural habitats for water lilies, ‘jacinte d’eau’, and ‘bredes songes’.”

– Mauritius Attractions

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

31

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world.

AFRICA OUTLOOK is a digital and print product aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers across a wide range of industries on the continent.

With content compiled by our experienced editorial team, complemented by an in-house design and production team ensuring delivery to the highest standards, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories from the length and breadth of Africa.

We reach an audience of 185,000 people across the continent, bridging the full range of industrial sectors: agriculture, construction, energy & utilities, finance, food & drink, healthcare, manufacturing, mining & resources, oil & gas, retail, shipping & logistics, technology and travel & tourism.

In joining the leading industry heavyweights already enjoying the exposure we can provide, you can benefit from FREE coverage across both digital and print platforms, a FREE marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and to grow your business.

To get involved, please contact Outlook Publishing’s Managing Director, Ben Weaver, who can provide further details on how to feature your company, for FREE, in one of our upcoming editions. www.africaout

FREE Mark

lookmag.com

AFRICA

eti

Opportu ng nity

ISSUE 63

Z A P P E R

S O U T H

In just five years Zapper has changed the face of South African consumer convenience, as a game changer in the fintech sector Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Josh Mann n an ever-changing fintech world, the need to remain flexible and open to diversification is critical, and few companies epitomise this ethos better in Africa than Zapper.

Launching in 2013, the Company has evolved from relatively humble beginnings in the payment platform space, catering for the hospitality sector in main, to a multi-faceted platform providing a multitude of merchants the ability to market directly to their own customers.

In just five years, Zapper’s reach has broadened to more than 16,000 businesses across South Africa, each embracing the Company’s accessible business model, yet completely agile approach to continuous improvement.

“These businesses have embraced Zapper as an alternative payment method and rewards platform,” adds the Company’s Head of Marketing

Mauritius: More

ALSO FEATURI

R

E

T

A

I

L

Convenience in the Palm of your Hand

In just five years Zapper has transformed the face of South African ience, consumer conven leveraging fintech to edge closer to a cashless world

GUIDE 00 BUSINESS TRAVEL Than Meets the Eye

A F R I C A

CSQUARED 00possible Unleashing what’s

NG: COMSO

HEALTH 00 MOMENTUMfocused on diversification Health insurance

| MINOPE X/DRA L NETWO RKS

BUSHVELD MINERALS for an ever

ZAPPER SOUTH AFRICA

Edging closer to a cashless world

Fast, easy and secure payments

Zapper’s expansion over the past five years is perfectly represented by the remit and portfolio on offer in the present day, evidenced by five core pillars of service provision and consumer retention.

Firstly, comes Zapper for the merchant, as Fowlds details: “Zapper integrates with a merchant POS system to generate a printed or electronic Dynamic QR code,

00

Fulfilling demand sought-after resource

– KINGDO GLOBAL | GALP

and Communications, Jessica Fowlds.

“Zapper’s vouchering, loyalty programme and customer insights platform help businesses attract customers, while also providing a measurable, direct marketing channel.

“More than one million people is a global FinTech company that provides seamless all-in-one mobile use the app to pay in restaurants, payments, vouchering and loyalty fill up their cars with fuel, make services to a variety of businesses and donations to charity, pay bills brands across the retail, hospitality, and shop online.” bills, donations, fuel and convenience Such scope and widespread and ecommerce sectors. A disruptive application derives from a player, Zapper enables merchants to conscious business strategy use data-driven insights to better to make consumers’ lives and engage their customers, build retail interactions as convenient superior relationships and grow their businesses. and secure as possible; performing transactions without worrying about carrying physical cash or even using more traditional debit and credit cards.

“We aim to create a lifestyle of convenience in the palm of your hand,” Fowlds affirms.

2

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

3

M OF ESWATI NI

+44 (0) 1603 959 650 ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com

www.africaoutlookmag.com/get-involved

Z A P P E R

S O U T H

A F R I C A

Convenience in the Palm of your Hand In just five years Zapper has changed the face of South African consumer convenience, as a game changer in the fintech sector Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Josh Mann n an ever-changing fintech world, the need to remain flexible and open to diversification is critical, and few companies epitomise this ethos better in Africa than Zapper.

Launching in 2013, the Company has evolved from relatively humble beginnings in the payment platform space, catering for the hospitality sector in the main, to a multi-faceted platform providing a multitude of merchants the ability to market directly to their own customers.

In just five years, Zapper’s reach has broadened to more than 16,000 businesses across South Africa, each embracing the Company’s accessible business model, yet completely agile approach to continuous improvement.

“These businesses have embraced Zapper as an alternative payment method and rewards platform,” adds the Company’s Head of Marketing

34

and Communications, Jessica Fowlds.

“Zapper’s vouchering, loyalty programme and customer insights platform help businesses attract customers, while also providing a measurable, direct marketing channel.

“More than one million people is a global fintech company that provides seamless all-in-one mobile use the app to pay in restaurants, payments, vouchering and loyalty fill up their cars with fuel, make services to a variety of businesses and donations to charity, pay bills brands across the retail, hospitality, and shop online.” bills, donations, fuel and convenience Such scope and widespread and ecommerce sectors. A disruptive application derives from a player, Zapper enables merchants to conscious business strategy use data-driven insights to better to make consumers’ lives and engage their customers, build retail interactions as convenient superior relationships and grow their businesses. and secure as possible; performing transactions without worrying about carrying physical cash or even using more traditional debit and credit cards.

“We aim to create a lifestyle of convenience in the palm of your hand,” Fowlds affirms.

Fast, easy and secure payments

Zapper’s expansion over the past five years is perfectly represented by the remit and portfolio on offer in the present day, evidenced by five core pillars of service provision and consumer retention.

Firstly, comes Zapper for the merchant, as Fowlds details: “Zapper integrates with a merchant POS system to generate a printed or electronic Dynamic QR code,

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

R

E

T

A

I

L

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

35

Z A P P E R

S O U T H

A F R I C A

Zapper generates a unique QR code for every transaction it processes, adding an important layer of security

which is scanned by a customer using the Zapper App to make a payment. Each QR Code generated is unique, containing invoice value and transaction-identity data related to specific purchases. Zapper allows businesses access to a digital marketing portal enabling them to gather rich data about their customers spending habits as well as communicate with their database.

“Collectively, the Zapper Marketing Platform empowers merchants to deepen their relationship with their customers, sustainably gathering knowledge about their preferences, and enabling one-to-one communication that is personal and relevant.”

From a customer acquisition perspective, merchants can be discovered by potential customers via the Zapper Nearby feature. And inevitably, the next stage focuses on retaining these attained customers.

38

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Fowlds says: “From a customer retention perspective, Zapper allows businesses to reward existing customers by sending vouchers directly to their Zapper app or by running a digital loyalty card. Zapper’s voucher distribution and redemption process is entirely seamless during the payment process.

“Zapper loyalty programmes provide merchants with a technology leapfrog solution to customer acquisition and retention. Customers earn rewards for aligning with specific behaviours set by the merchant, with their cards updated automatically with payment in the Zapper app.”

The loyalty card system comprises spend-based, visit-based or line-item loyalty cards which assist in increasing customer frequency, spend and product interest. On completion of a loyalty card, a customer is automatically rewarded with a voucher. Customers consequently have the ability to communicate with the merchant through Zapper’s Rate and Review functionality in real time, enabling merchants to respond immediately.

Ultimate security is assured across each strand of the process, Zapper’s transactions processed by one of the most advanced fraud systems in the world.

And ultimately this ensures overall satisfaction for the user.

DPO PayGate and Zapper are ideally positioned to expand payment options in Africa.

Doing business in Africa is complex, especially for companies who have not had any prior experience of the continent. It is estimated that there are anywhere between 1,250 and 2,100 languages spoken across the continent, while some believe this to be more than 3,000 when considering local dialects. Add to this the nuances of the unique business cultures in each country, as well as a multifaceted regulatory environment, and it is easy to see why many businesses approach African expansion with caution.

Choosing a payment service provider which can handle the complexities of cross border trade, regulatory challenges and which can offer on-the-ground technical support is one of the smartest ways to lower business risk for companies looking to grow their African footprint.

A proudly African solution The DPO Group has invested heavily in providing local support, setting up offices across the continent and has established legal entities in 18 African countries with this set to grow to 28 by the end of 2018. The DPO Group collectively services more than 40,000 merchants throughout Africa and is now the biggest ecommerce payment service provider in Africa.

The DPO Group has built a solid technical foundation which allows companies a common entry point to processing in Africa.

No matter which country they trade in, or which currency they are using, or regulatory authority they are complying with, companies will enjoy a common interface with the same back-office support and the same fraud and

risk screening. The DPO Group offers African and international companies a PCI certified and GDPR compliant, pan-African payment service – an offering that significantly lowers risk and guarantees compliance.

A stable partnership ideally positioned for new markets The DPO PayGate journey with Zapper began four years ago when the Company entered the South Africa market. Since then the companies have built on their relationship as Zapper not only won significant point of sale market share, but released their online payment solution for ecommerce websites.

The opportunity for growth in Africa is significant. The DPO Group is signing hundreds of new merchants every month – many of which are international tourism and leisure groups expanding into the continent.

In addition to this, African customers are comfortable with trying new payment options and are exceptionally mobile savvy.

The DPO PayGate partnership with Zapper is ideally positioned to tap into the African business network and deliver services to a market hungry for reliable, fast and safe local and cross-border payments.

The DPO Group’s vision to provide an accessible, reliable, secure and comprehensive payments network across Africa is perfectly aligned with Zapper’s goal of delivering innovative new services to a market poised for digital growth.

T +27 87 820 2020 E sales@paygate.co.za info@paygate.co.za www.paygate.co.za

Z A P P E R

S O U T H

A F R I C A

Fowlds concludes the list: “For the consumer, the Zapper mobile application allows users to make fast, easy and secure payments with their smartphone. Zapper’s reach extends across international borders including South Africa, the UK, USA and Europe; allowing for successful transacting across all major currencies.

“Users have access to loyalty cards and vouchers within the app which makes paying with Zapper even more rewarding.”

At the forefront

Virtue of its multi-stranded functions and benefits, the Zapper app naturally attracts customers who are highly mobile, tech savvy and who have discretionary spend.

Once again displaying an aptitude for diversification and trend adherence, the move has been away from its traditional hospitality focus, and towards other aforementioned

verticals including retail, fuel and convenience, ecommerce and bill payments.

And from this vast outlook, the Company can then turn its attentions towards the capabilities of the app itself, applying modern and advanced ideologies to bring technological prevalence to each of the above sectors’ users.

Fowlds offers a poignant example: “In an age of ever-increasing amounts of data, the ability to monitor, aggregate, process and drive business insights from this information is of critical value in all areas of business. This information allows Zapper to benefit merchants and users alike, as businesses can target loyal users with relevant marketing campaigns.

“Zapper also continually monitors the uptake of new methods of payment in South Africa as well as loyalty-focused apps.”

“Zapper’s commitment to technical support and innovation will allow merchants access to continued improvements and new offerings, as well as a mature and stable platform. More importantly, Zapper can offer merchants excellent marketing value-adds that will assist them to grow their customer base and their revenue. DPO PayGate is looking forward to working with Zapper as they expand into Africa and we have every confidence that the offering will be a welcome payment addition for merchants across the continent.”

Peter Harvey, Managing Director, DPO PayGate

40

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

AURA

E

stablished in 1994, Cosoft has a proven track record in the restaurant industry in Africa, supplying leading restaurant groups and franchises with efficient and reliable software, hardware and backup service.

Cosoft has developed an ecosystem of enterprise grade products and services, specifically designed for a niche segment of the hospitality industry Quick Service Restaurant groups and franchises.

Their solutions include Aura Point-ofSale (counter or mobile), web and app ordering, centralised ordering software for call centres, driver tracking, delivery optimisation and cloud analytics.

Solutions are fully integrated with Zapper.

T +27 (0)82 453 0754 E leigh@cosoft.co.za

R

E

T

A

I

L

For 23 years we have walked the journey to success with Africa’s most successful Quick Service Restaurant groups. Our software solutions improve customer experience, restaurant operations and bottom line profit.

Contact Leigh on +27 (0)82 453 0754 or leigh@cosoft.co.za

Pay@ provides secure bill payment gateways for a diverse market of corporate, small and medium businesses and governmental institutions who trust Pay@ to deliver accurate, convenient and real-time payment options.

For more information please visit www.payat.co.za

021 886 5557 info@payat.co.za FSP No 29423 PASA No SO 01037

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

41

Z A P P E R

S O U T H

A F R I C A

Recent additions to the offering have also comprised vouchers incorporated into the app, with loyalty cards coming soon after; making Zapper’s the only app in South Africa to address valueadded services in conjunction with payments and seamless redemptions.

“Being a fintech start-up, there is a large requirement for ongoing investment in development to ensure that we continue to compete at the forefront of our industry,” Fowlds encompasses.

42

“Being A game-changer in the lifestyle, payment industry a fintech startEnsuring the smooth introduction of up, there is a large each new value-added function is a requirement for ongoing highly skilled and knowledgeable investment in development workforce, overseen by a management team of seasoned to ensure that we continue professionals comprising to compete at the forefront backgrounds in marketing, mobile of our industry” app development, payment

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Jessica Fowlds, Head of Marketing and Communications

processing and mobile encryption.

“This enables us to complete large-scale transaction processing for businesses,” Fowlds notes. “We operate as a family and aim to make Zapper a

R

E

T

great place to work.”

Keeping all elements of the Zapper hierarchy and operation content is no mean feat considering the rapid speed in which it is expanding. However, it is achieved largely through close collaborations with key business partners; the resultant combinations working together to deliver secure, interoperable, convenient payment systems to bring the Company closer to a cashless world. All our partners are pivotal to the operation of our business, from banks, payment gateways, POS companies, telcos and more.

A

I

L

Partner interactions are just a carry-on from one of Zapper’s key differentiators, in the form of its passion for people, and subsequent personability. Customer service has been at the forefront of the business since inception, borne from an understanding of how important it is to merge human characteristics, requirements and personalities with technology.

Fowlds concludes: “Our team is passionate about helping each and every one of our merchants grow their businesses through Zapper. We believe

Zapper has recently added a voucher feature to its solutions

that our team is key to the success of the business; and our business is a game-changer in the lifestyle, payment industry.

“From this point, we hope to be the leader in payments and loyalty within South Africa, creating ubiquity across all verticals related to a user’s everyday lifestyle. Our current goals are to grow our footprint within the retail sector, and to build better insights and superior relationships with our partners.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

43

A L P H A

44

P H A R M

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

R

E

T

A

I

L

South Africa’s Pharmaceutical Custodian Alpha Pharm continues to serve the medical and care needs of millions of South African citizens through its 920-strong network of pharmacies Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Lewis Bush

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

45

A L P H A

P H A R M

outh Africa’s pharmaceutical industry is big business.

A recently released report by Research and Markets found that the sector contributed somewhere between R42.6 and R45 billion to the country’s economy in 2016, this revenue generated by 276 companies officially licensed by the Department of Health and the Medical Controls Council.

One such company is Alpha Pharm.

Headquartered in Centurion, it is the largest wholesaler of pharmaceutical goods in South Africa, distributing an enormous portfolio of products via sites spread around the country.

This wholesale operation supports Alpha Pharm’s group of independent community pharmacies, the largest of its kind in South Africa at 920 outlets.

Thousands of the products sold to the public through the pharmacy network are Alpha Pharm’s own brand, for

example Alpha Clin. From bathing and burn care solutions to first aid essentials and personal hygiene products, the full spectrum of goods can be sourced and sold to those in need.

In terms of health services, Alpha Clin Clinics provide a range of care and treatments, including family planning, injections, wound care, blood pressure tests, pregnancy services and more.

One company, 920 pharmacies

At the end of 2014, the South African Competition Commission approved a crucial merger which saw Alpha Pharm’s group of regional pharmaceutical distributors merge into the single company it operates under today.

Having received a R350 million investment from Swiss firm Shogun Holdings und Finanz for 51 percent of the new entity, the structure sees the remaining 49 percent of shares issued to the network of pharmacies.

PFIZER SOUTH AFRICA

P

fizer South Africa, established in South Africa in 1953 with a motto of ‘living our full potential in striving for a healthier Southern Africa’, which embraces its dream of being able to see every Southern African having access to quality healthcare. Pfizer SA’s head office is in Sandton and is made up of three business units: Pfizer Innovative Health, Pfizer Established Health, and Consumer Health.

Pfizer Innovative Health (PIH) is committed to discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative products and vaccines that change the outcome of chronic conditions and devastating diseases.

Pfizer Essential Health (PEH) combines the history of industry leadership, comprehensive knowledge of global healthcare markets, and a vast portfolio of trusted, quality medicines to benefit patients around the world at virtually every stage of life.

Pfizer Consumer Health (PCH) develops, manufactures and markets leading nonprescription medicines, low risk medical devices (for external use) and health products (mainly supplements).

PFIZER SOUTH AFRICA 0860 Pfizer (734937) Physical Address: 85 Bute Lane Sandton 2146

www.pfizer.co.za

46

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

PFIZER, DEDICATED TO HELPING SOUTH AFRICANS LIVE HEALTHIER LIVES

Our partnerships At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products. Our global portfolio includes medicines and vaccines as well as many of the world’s best-known consumer health care products. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time.

For us, the patient always comes first We are committed to discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative products that may change the outcome of chronic conditions and devastating diseases. Our vast portfolio of trusted, quality medicines helps people at every stage of life – from prevention to treatment to wellness. Thanks to the breadth and depth of our global reach and capabilities, we are able to anticipate customer and patient needs and make a meaningful contribution to improving global health.

Our Innovation

Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 150 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us.

Research and development (R & D) is at the heart of fulfilling our purpose to help people live healthier lives. Innovation is also the key to sustaining our growth and profitability. As such, the quest for innovative solutions invigorates the Pfizer community worldwide and we have more than 200 new R&D collaborations active worldwide.

Pfizer works closely with stakeholders and healthcare professionals across the healthcare sector, as well as with government on key issues impacting the pharmaceutical industry. We are committed to making a difference and build partnerships in communities to strengthen health systems, increase access to our medicines, and find sustainable solutions to the health challenges of today, and tomorrow.

Our communities At Pfizer we have a proud tradition of ensuring that the communities in which we live and work benefit from our investment through unique partnerships.

Throughout the world, Pfizer contributes to local charitable programmes that provide health care in poor urban and rural areas; and we support our communities’ most vulnerable members, including children, women and the elderly.

Pfizer’s corporate responsibility activities are focused on investing the full range of our resources - people, skills, expertise and funding - to broaden access to medicines and strengthen healthcare delivery for underserved people around the world.

A L P H A

P H A R M

TIBB HEALTH SCIENCES LTD A heart for health and wellness

In a statement released at the time of the deal, Alpha Pharm said: “The formation of the national company is a major boost for the 900 independent community pharmacies that own 49 percent of the new shares and for the community pharmacy sector as a whole.

“The new Alpha Pharm will put all its energies into ensuring that its pharmacies compete in a market increasingly dominated by major retail chains.”

48

Care, service, value

This is reflected by three core pillars that underpin Alpha Pharm’s current offering – ‘our special care’, ‘our better service’ and ‘our improved value’.

The first of these, care, revolves around how Alpha Pharm reacts to the needs of customers and their families through its experienced team of pharmacists, whose knowledge and caring interest is what the company champions as setting itself apart from the rest. Even by its own admission on Alpha Pharm’s website, “care seems to be one of those overused words that has lost its meaning or value”.

However, it claims to put the human touch back into care through its 920 pharmacies.

Service again relates to the expertise and knowledge of Alpha Pharm’s employees, whether it be filling scripts or offering advice regarding medicines or alternate therapies.

Helping to ensure its pharmacists are kept abreast of the latest scientific thinking in areas such as diabetes, asthma, malaria, HIV and depression, among others, is an education programme called Insight Medicine Information. Established for more than 25 years, Insight specialises in providing clinically relevant and practical

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Tibb has been inspired to nurture the human spirit – one body, one person and one nation at a time. At Tibb we are perfectly poised to see the health and wellness needs of a variety of people.

We care deeply about improving the lives of people who use our products (healthcare professionals, pharmacists and patients alike), therefore, our work is never done. We are confident to say that we are committed to providing the highest quality, clinically proven and uniquely formulated natural products. Our products are available in a variety of dosage forms for controlled effectiveness and ease of use. These dosage forms offer convenience for the whole family.

“Choosing Tibb is not just choosing a healthcare provider, it is choosing the right to a healthier, happier life.”

This winter, Tibb brings you a range of products aimed at keeping you, your customer and your family healthy and happy, naturally. The full Tibb winter range is available from your Alphapharm and will give you the natural boost you need this winter.

From preventing the flu with Septogard, to treating troublesome symptoms with Tibb Flu-relief, there is a Tibb solution available for all your winter woes.

Speak to your trusted pharmacist about the right Tibb solution for your winter ailment that is safe, affordable and offers superior treatment without side effect.

Trust that Tibb will improve the healthy balance in your body.

www.tibbherbals.com

A L P H A

P H A R M

Xxxxx xxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxx

education courses for pharmacy workers which have developed by South African experts and tailored to the country’s healthcare guidelines and circumstances.

Furthering the claim of superior service, the Company has also just launched a new programme called Alpha Script across more than half of its pharmacies, a scheme which allows the store to receive doctor-prescribed orders.

‘...one of the key challenges facing South Africa’s pharmaceutical industry is improving access to affordable medicines and healthcare products and services’

Access to healthcare

Whether its provision of care or the price of its medicines, Alpha Pharm’s third pillar of success revolves around offering value.

Indeed, according to the Research and Markets report, ‘The Pharmaceutical Industry in South Africa 2017’, one of the key challenges facing South Africa’s pharmaceutical industry is improving access to affordable medicines and healthcare products and services.

50

‘...the need to achieve more with fewer resources is apparent, but Alpha Pharm’s formidable network appears able to withstand economic ups and downs’

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

R

E

T

A

I

L

Grasping every opportunity, not gasping for air IT’S THAT FIRST BREATH THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.

LEPETTA 083 415 6431 9506T

HELP YOUR PATIENTS TAKE THEIR

AS EASY AS TWIST, CLICK, INHALE1,2

Dual action inhaler for maintenance therapy1,2

Reduces risk of future asthma exacerbations3,4 Gives patients fast relief1,2

INHALE

1,2

CLICK TWIST

THE DIFFERENCE IS

1

References: 1. Symbicord® Turbuhaler® 320:9 Inhaler Approved Package Insert, September 2012. 2. Symbicord® Turbuhaler® 80:4,5 and 160:4,5 Inhaler Approved Package Insert, September 2012. 3. Aalbers R, Backer TT, Omenaas ER, et al. Adjustable maintenance dosing with budesonide/formoterol compared with fixed-dose salmeterol/fluticasone in moderate to severe asthma. Current Medical Research and Opin 2004;20(2):225-240. 4. O’Byrne PM, Bisgaard H, Godard PP, et al. Budesonide/ Formoterol Combination Therapy as Both Maintenance and Reliever Medication in Asthma. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 2005;171:129-36.

S4 Symbicord® Turbuhaler® 80:4,5 μg/dose (Inhaler). Reg. No: 35/21.5.1/0404. S4 Symbicord® Turbuhaler® 160:4,5 μg/dose (Inhaler). Reg. No: 35/21.5.1/0405. Each delivered dose contains Budesonide 80/160 micrograms and formoterol fumarate dihydrate 4,5 micrograms. PHARMACOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION: A 21.5.1 Corticosteroids and analogues. INDICATIONS: Asthma: SYMBICORD® TURBUHALER® 80:4,5 and 160:4,5 μg/dose is indicated in the treatment of asthma in adolescents and adults where use of a combination (inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-2-agonist) is appropriate. COPD: SYMBICORD® TURBUHALER® 160:4,5 is indicated in the regular treatment of patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with frequent symptoms and a history of exacerbations. Symbicord® and Turbuhaler® are registered trademarks of the AstraZeneca group of companies. For full prescribing information refer to the package insert approved by the medicines regulatory authority. S4 Symbicord® Turbuhaler®320:9 μg/dose (Inhaler). Reg. No: 38/21.5.1/0187. Each delivered dose contains Budesonide 320 micrograms and formoterol fumarate dihydrate 9 micrograms.

PHARMACOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION: A 21.5.1 Corticosteroids and analogues. INDICATIONS: Asthma: SYMBICORD® TURBUHALER® 320:9 μg/dose is indicated in the treatment of asthma in adolescents and adults needing inhaled corticosteroids where continued use of a high dose combination (inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-2-agonist) is appropriate. COPD: SYMBICORD® TURBUHALER® 320:9 μg/dose is indicated in the regular treatment of patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with frequent symptoms and a history of exacerbations. Symbicord® Turbuhaler® are registered trademarks of the AstraZeneca group of companies. For full prescribing information refer to the package insert approved by the medicines regulatory authority.

AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd. Reg. No. 1992/005854/07. Building 2, Northdowns Office Park, 17 Georgian Crescent West, Bryanston, 2191. Private Bag X23, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. Tel: 011 797-6000. Fax: 011 797-6001. www.astrazeneca.co.za. Expiry Date: December 2019. Activity ID: ZA – 1221.

Given the general economic picture, the need to achieve more with fewer resources is apparent, but Alpha Pharm’s formidable network appears able to withstand economic ups and downs. Such is the organisation’s size and resultant buying power, it is able to provide South Africans its vital healthcare products and services at affordable prices.

This process is also strengthened by a centralised procurement operation which handles major cost responsibilities such as stock purchasing, and setting up and renovating stores.

Do Good, Feel Great

Beyond supplying crucial medical products and services across South Africa, Alpha Pharm is also engaged in a campaign to positively spread its influence across society.

The Do Good, Feel Great Campaign is a competition with the stated aim to “invite voluntary participants to

enter who wish to make a difference and have a meaningful impact on the lives of those less fortunate in South Africa”.

The Company is inviting all South

African citizens above the age of 21 to enter, and 10 main winners will be selected to act as brand and community ambassadors for a year, working with a charity of their choosing. These charities will receive a R10,000 donation from Alpha Pharm, with the ambassador responsible for engaging multiple times throughout the year to see where the finance has been spent and what impact this has had on the community in question.

As an added bonus, the 10 winners will receive a new car courtesy of Alpha Pharm, the first year of which will see the Fiat Pandas wrapped with company imagery as a branding exercise.

By reaching out into the communities it serves, not only through its pharmacies and related services but also programmes such as Do Good, Feel Great, Alpha Pharm looks set to strengthen its status as a healthcare custodian across South Africa.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

51

C S Q U A R E D

52

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

T

E

C

H

N

O

L

O

G

Y

A Better Way to

Connect CSquared continues to thrive as a social enabler for the digital age as its shared infrastructure model reaches multiple markets across sub-Saharan Africa Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Kane Weller

Squared’s metro fibre capabilities and extensive Wi-Fi network continues to help local providers connect more seamlessly and broadly to the internet and, resultantly, each other.

Initiating as a Google-driven project in 2012 called Project Link, the mission back then was to develop the missing link in Uganda’s fibre segment.

Heading straight for Kampala, the country’s capital was greeted with the deployment of fibre in 2013, and this kick-started a venture which has since taken the business now-knownas CSquared into Ghana in 2015 and Liberia in 2018.

Chief Technology Officer, Bhavesh Mistry picks up the story: “In May 2017 Google announced the spin-off of CSquared into an independent company with four shareholders: Convergence Partners, Google, IFC and Mitsui & Co. The intention of separating CSquared was to leverage on the experience and knowledge of other investors who are active in Africa and give the Company the needed independence to expand into new markets with a war-chest of US$100 million.

“CSquared has since established itself as a wholesale broadband infrastructure company focused on building fibre infrastructure.”

Encompassed within this status as a wholesale infrastructure provider, the Company’s focus now revolves around enabling mobile network operators (MNOs) and internet service providers (ISPs) to deliver broadband services to critical areas and end users in greatest need of such technological enrichment.

Ultimately serving as a source of social upliftment in the digital age, demand for CSquared’s service offering is in no doubt, and unsurprisingly the Company has expanded its footprint exponentially as a consequence.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

53

SOLITON

Building Networks For Life

Network Planning and Design We develop customized solutions for IP, SDH, DWDM, Access Network Systems, Simulation and Testing for Carriers and service providers.

We have built capacity to design networks for FTTx and IP Network infrastructure.

Network Deployment We promptly deliver all network needs with our experts team using modern equipment. We provide solutions across key technologies including: Local Area Network Deployment, Datacenter Solutions, Servers and Storage Area Networks, WAN, Dark Fiber connectivity and Unified communication solutions.

Network Support and Maintenance We have a 24/7 NOC and a competent field team to support carriers’ fiber optic network.

Guaranteed MTTR through fiber monitoring tools backed by a 24/7 NOC to support our customers’ fiber optic networks.

Network Documentation

Network Support Tools

We engage in proper presentation of cable routes, devices used, connection points and fiber distribution procedures. We develop network documentation using state of the art GIS technologies to capture, store, analyse, manage and present data that refers to a linked location in an easy to query format.

Through our partners, EXFO and Fujikura, we offer various optic testing instruments and system configurations such as Field Network Testing tools, fiber/ copper inspection, Network protocol testing, spectral testing, Network Analysers, Active and passive probes, splicing machines and more.

Contact Us Uganda Lourdel House, 1st Floor Plot 1 Lourdel Road Nakasero Kampala, Uganda Tel:

+256 700 777003 +256 794 427742 Email: info@soliton.co.ug info@soliton.co.ke +256 200 501600 Kenya Soliton Park North Airport Road, Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya Tel:

+254 724 652222 +254 733 652222 Email: info@soliton.co.ke

www.soliton.co.ke

C S Q U A R E D

Faster, more reliable access Of the more than seven billion people in the world, fewer than half are connected to the internet. And for many who are online, inadequate or non-existent infrastructure offers slow and unreliable connections.

CSquared was launched to bring faster, more reliable internet to the people and places that need it. We first built a metro fibre network in the city of Kampala, Uganda, a dense urban centre that was limited to prebroadband speeds. Since then, we have expanded CSquared to Ghana, where have built more than 900 kilometres of fibre in Accra, Tema and Kumasi.

In Uganda, we also offer wholesale last-mile Wi-Fi access. ISPs and MNOs leverage our network to bring high-quality Wi-Fi to homeowners, small businesses and mobile users on-the-go. We continue to explore opportunities for expanding CSquared Wi-Fi networks to future markets.

Enhanced connectivity across Kampala

56

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Mistry elaborates: “Currently CSquared has more than 1,500 sites, these being a combination of towers and enterprise buildings connected on its fibre across Uganda and Ghana. Most of our sites are towers belonging to MNOs but a significant portion are enterprises - both high-end corporates and small and medium-sized businesses which are served through various ISPs.”

Ahead of the curve

In essence, CSquared has fostered a mutually beneficial and symbiotic relationship between itself and its customers (the ISPs and MNOs).

Each customer is dependent on CSquared’s infrastructural development in order to grow, and in turn, CSquared’s ongoing prevalence is dependent on each ISP and MNO’s success.

“Therefore, we are constantly listening to their needs in the market, whether that is the need to introduce new product offerings that are in line with market trends, or reviewing service levels,” Mistry says. “We have a team dedicated to reviewing customer feedback and requests, so we can stay abreast of the latest technological advancements, to ensure CSquared is ahead of the curve.”

Soliton soaring beyond 10 years Soliton Telmec has been a major partner of CSquared since inception in 2013 to date.

With this partnership we have been able to provide the required engineering services ranging from survey, design, construction, maintenance and support.

We have delivered over 850 KM covering major roads and trading centers within the Greater Kampala area. With C Squared’s guidance have been able to connect 1,500 sites for various providers, majorly corporates on behalf of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

Our 24/7 support and maintenance services are backed by strict SLAs and as such we deployed on the CSquared infrastructure high network quality monitoring solution that enables end to end visibility on every aspect on this complex service delivery infrastructure through the use of real time automated testing and monitoring solutions.

Regardless of the complexity of her network CSquared is able to get the right position of the fault locations in real time As the network grew, the complexity of the fiber circuits, inventory management, network designs and operations become more complex. In a bid to overcome the complexities, we recently implemented for CSquared a Fiber Optic Network Management system that enables them to clearly visualize their assets, make the designing of any future network expansion easier and keep track of the daily network changes.

About Soliton Telmec Soliton Telmec is regional company operating in East Africa headquartered in Nairobi, with presence in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Djibouti. Operating in the entire East African region, we work across the telecommunication spectrum from need analysis, conceptual design to maintenance and service connection. Through building,

delivering and supporting lead-edge communication infrastructure of any complexity, Soliton is focused on enabling individuals, businesses and communities access telecommunication services.

What we do • Design, rollout and maintenance of fiber optic networks • Data center development and transmission systems • Data center services: Managed services, disaster recovery & collocation • Unified communication and networking services • Service assurance systems and solutions • Simulation laboratory and Training Services • NOC (Network Operator Centre) Services in Nairobi and Uganda • Authorized Sales and Support Centre for: EXFO, Fujikura, Juniper, Fiber home, Corning & IBM solutions.

• Supply and Installation of Datacom and IT equipment e.g. switches, routers, racks etc • IT services: LAN, WAN connectivity for enterprises • Turnkey managed services of communication infrastructure: • Leased Capacity • Back hauling • Internet Services:- Internet connectivity, DNS and smart host services • VPN solutions for both private and public • Dark Fiber • Collocation Services

T +256 700 777001 E info@soliton.co.ug

www.soliton.co.ke

C S Q U A R E D

ATX TECHNOLOGY

A lightspeed network CSquared enables ISPs and MNOs to provide high-quality broadband at lower costs through shared infrastructure such as metro fibre and Wi-Fi networks. Our shared infrastructure model means we work alongside our customers, building networks they can leverage to provide better services to end users.

We have seen how connecting Kampala to existing long-distance fibre lines has helped to provide the city with a foundation for growth and help more people get online. We are excited to see similar growth in Ghana.

A

TX Technology is a leading contractor in Uganda providing infrastructure installation and construction services for telecoms service providers, OEM vendors and power utility companies. We create value for our customers and make a difference by providing affordable, high quality, speedy services in a safe manner.

We have been a key partner for CSquared in Uganda providing design, materials, installation and maintenance services for the rollout of a Wi-Fi metropolitan network covering the greater Kampala area. We currently support a total of 212 Wi-Fi sites. Our close cooperation with CSquared and a comprehensive service level agreement ensures that we provide CSquared with a high-quality network which in turn ensures that CSquared can provide a world-class service to its customers.

We typically work on ICT and powerline network rollouts, swapouts, refurbishments and maintenance projects as well as horizontal drilling and boring projects for water utilities and road construction companies.

similar applications for utilities and we are in discussions with various partners keen to deploy smart cities and special economic zones across multiple markets.

“Our priority is to build the right shared infrastructure from the start.”

At present, such trends include the opportunity to supply fibre to the home (FTTH) and the Company has responded in kind by launching a pilot FTTH project in Uganda this year.

Mistry details: “This is being done on a wholesale basis to maximise the uptake and the impact on the market.

In addition to FTTH, there is a role for fibre in smart metering and other

58

Important for national development

Notions of enrichment are evident within the confines of the business too, as part of its equally pertinent mission to be a company driven by motivated individuals who are given license to nurture and thrive in an “open, fun and productive working environment”.

“We work in a very demanding industry and so it is important to keep staff motivated and healthy.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

ATX Technology offers telecom services and products encompassing supply and installation of equipment for your core network, transmission network, access network and Customer Premise Equipment (CPE).

ATX Technology provides power line construction services for electric utilities, municipal authorities, government agencies and private developers of domestic, industrial and commercial premises.

ATX Technology carries out construction of infrastructure for utility companies and municipal authorities. We do site survey and site engineering, tower erection and painting, equipment rooms and shelters, minor roadworks and various concrete works and horizontal drilling and boring works.

T +256790912955 E sales@atxtechnology.com

www.atxtechnology.com

High Quality, Affordable Cost, Speedy Delivery, Safe Work Practices ATX Technology Ltd, 2 Nakasero Hill Road, P.O. Box 10026 Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256790912955 Email: sales@atxtechnology.com Website: www.atxtechnology.com

C S Q U A R E D

We achieve this through a dedicated programme focused on staff wellbeing,” Mistry explains, alluding to the influence of internal HR procedures on external business success. “We are also working on an internship programme that will provide university students an opportunity to gain handson experience within various functions of the organisation.”

CSquared’s business philosophy comes from a belief that every company and individual is responsible for their environment and stakeholders. From a corporate social responsibility perspective, despite being a relatively new company, CSquared has stayed true to this ethos by establishing a tailored programme; which will be unveiled in its

full form over the coming months.

This will compound efforts that have already begun among its team of volunteers who invest their time and efforts into mentoring school children, with a natural focus on IT, as well as supporting clean-up exercises in its immediate surroundings.

Finally, from an education perspective, “we have research and education collaborations among universities and research institutions as they are important for national development”, Mistry adds.

“CSquared has supported the same through providing RENU (Research and Education network for Uganda) last-mile connectivity to all tertiary institutions in the country.”

Unleashing what’s possible

Back in the business realm, and forward-thinking technical developments are a continuous process. Over the past two years alone, the Company has focused on expanding its network in Uganda and Ghana so as to connect more areas of each country to fibre.

Meanwhile, in Monrovia, Liberia, in January, CSquared launched its metro fibre deployment in the country, with a view to it going live in July of this year.

“By working closely with the MNOs and ISPs, we are able to support their efforts to strengthen their network, ensuring they are able to offer a better quality of service to their customers,” Mistry adds from a network speed

“By working closely with the MNOs and ISPs, we are able to support their efforts to strengthen their network, ensuring they are able to offer a better quality of service to their customers”

60

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

T

E

C

H

N

O

L

O

G

Y

Sunshine Service equals Sunshine Smiles We create food thoughtfully and purposefully, in order to nourish the mind and body.

Tel: +233 302 780599 sunshinesaladsghana@gmail.com www.sunshinesaladbar.com

Enhanced connectivity for Accra

point of view. “Network enhancement is an ongoing priority for CSquared and will continue through expansion of our network and adoption of the latest technologies in the future.”

CSquared best sums up its vision by “unleashing what’s possible” and

is helping cities like Kampala and Accra to realise what is possible with enhanced connectivity. The Company goes on to explain that with better connections and expanded network capacities, local providers will be supported in “building a stronger web

in Africa and around the world”.

Mistry concludes: “Within subSaharan Africa and outside of South Africa, CSquared is the only pure wholesale infrastructure operator.

This is our key differentiator and aligns with our belief that it is only through sharing of infrastructure that the telecoms market will be able to keep up with the ever-growing demand for data, improved reliability and flexible pricing from consumers.

“We are currently looking at a number of other countries in Africa where there is insufficient fibre available to meet the needs of the market. It is important that these markets are politically and economically stable with the potential of strong commercial returns and developmental impact.

“Ultimately we see ourselves playing a significant role in bringing the shared infrastructure model to multiple markets across the sub-Saharan Africa region.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

61

C O M S O L

N E T W O R K S

Solving

REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS Comsol Networks’ national and regional footprint continues to facilitate improved wireless connectivity solutions for all strands of society Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Kane Weller

62

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

T

E

C

H

N

O

L

O

G

Y

round 20 years ago, a budding South African innovator set on its journey to plug a vital infrastructure gap in the country’s network. Two decades on, Comsol Networks has cemented its legacy as a key digital enabler in South Africa’s most critical technological period, virtue of its sustainable and collaborative proposition for alternative infrastructure.

Offering a substitute approach to traditional fibre solutions was a business model borne from a critical need in the country, at a time when the wider telecoms industry was suffering regulation challenges and shortages.

Entering the market with its 28 GHz spectrum, the Company thus became a primary and complementary open access, layer 2 connectivity solution provider to connect single or multiple branches of an enterprise, in South Africa.

Since then, bespoke customer solutions, network infrastructure enhancements, the roll out of a national wireless network and the deployment of an IoT network have been delivered in South Africa and further afield to help Comsol make a name for itself in building high-quality, high-speed wireless ecosystems for telcos and corporates across the region.

On its website, the Company sums up its influence by listing that it connects, enables, integrates, provides smart solutions, and partners; all to ensure the most advanced and flexible array of services possible in an everchanging and evolving domain.

“We offer guaranteed, dedicated, high speed carrier grade solutions to more than 200 South African metropolitan areas and towns, creating a business grade foundation for you to connect, anywhere, any time,” the Company says. “We enable all major telcos, carriers and service providers to meet the connectivity

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

63

C O M S O L

N E T W O R K S

needs of South Africa, giving them a superior open access network to deliver quality, reliable services to the market.

“Further to this we enable end-to-end IoT solutions for smart businesses… we are uniquely positioned as an enabler of services and not a [fibre] channel competitor.”

Comsol Networks’ Chief Operating Officer, Greg Montjoie adds: “Initially the business had the foresight to secure the 28GHz spectrum and we now own about half of that spectrum in the country.”

A large part of Comsol’s evolution and ability to innovate has been driven by partnerships.

“Comsol is renowned for finding gaps in the market, but leveraging our partnerships has allowed us to walk the journey with our clients into these new technology territories,” Montjoie adds.

Partnerships and innovation

Comsol has strived to understand clients’ and partners’ business needs and take them on the journey with the Company. For enterprises especially, they are rightly wary of new connectivity mediums, so it is important to make sure the process entails collaboration and education.

Embedded within Comsol’s strategy is a need to be as flexible and customisable as possible with each proposed solution, tailoring systems and technologies for each individual customer to meet their needs. Once again, having the right business partners and vendors in place, has helped facilitate this seamless sharing of expertise and enaction of services.

“I think the ability to tailor bespoke solutions and to create something different with each client in mind has been a big differentiator for us,” Montjoie continues. “We have been lucky to form numerous tech-based “I think the ability to tailor bespoke solutions and to create something different with each client in mind has been a big differentiator for us”

“Comsol is renowned for finding gaps in the market, but leveraging our partnerships has allowed us to walk the journey with our clients into these new technology territories”

64

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

T

E

C

H

N

O

L

O

G

Y

Communications (Pty) Ltd is a South African high-site leasing and management company.

Physical address: 150 Commissioner Street Johannesburg 2001

Contact information Tel: 011 025 9841 Vuyo Magwentshu vuyo@lrtcommunications.co.za

ER W TO

G SI DE

N,

M

AN UF AC TU RIN G&

INS TAL LAT ION S Midrand Gauteng T: 011 014 9790 E: Info@MzansiStructures.co.za

SPECIALISTS IN STEEL STRUCTURE INSTALLATIONS

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

65

C O M S O L

N E T W O R K S

partnerships over the years and these, combined with our strong, core engineering capabilities, have allowed us to rapidly innovate for our clients’ benefit.”

In turn, with each successful project completed, a broader audience has opened up for further opportunities around the continent.

“I can’t emphasise enough how important this merging of partnerships and innovation has been,” Montjoie sums up. “These are the two nonnegotiable values within our business that continue to make Comsol successful and sustainable.”

Solving real-world problems

The impact that this philosophy has had stretches far beyond corporate clients too. In fact, when asked about some of the more exciting projects engaged in, in recent years, Montjoie hits upon a much more poignant and socially uplifting area of Comsol’s work.

Bridging areas of education and agriculture in particular, CSR becomes one with business, as its advanced IoT solutions and infrastructure initiatives have helped to make schools and farming communities more technologically-savvy, smarter, and increasingly resilient to regional challenges.

And behind each and every successful implementation is a thriving HR strategy which ensures that the best possible team and systems are in place to aid the Company’s evolution and its impact on various client segments.

Montjoie details: “We have never had a high turnover of staff and we invest a lot into the training of our team and the general working environment. These continuous improvements combine with our infrastructure investments to make us one of the top wireless networks in the regulated spectrum in the country.

“We talk about client-centricity

66

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

IoT “From a journey perspective, the launch of our IoT business has been particularly key and we’re getting fantastic traction across the continent in terms of its deployment. IoT is here and now, and it’s real.

“The power of wireless connectivity has been undervalued historically, and has been seen as the slower sibling of fibre.

But Comsol has proven that it’s more of an alternative, enabling twin.”

Greg Montjoie, COO, Comsol Networks

T

E

C

H

N

O

L

O

G

Y

“We talk about client-centricity and professional excellence as all companies do, but we walk the walk, and that’s the difference”

and professional excellence as all companies do, but we walk the walk, and that’s the difference.”

Creative license is given to each member of staff to facilitate high levels of innovation, Montjoie affirming that Comsol is willing to express its creativity in the technical space more than most.

As a consequence, the business is able to celebrate ongoing successes across three defined parameters; the first of which inevitably being profitable business growth.

“The second is this aforementioned element of staff encouragement, helping them to shine as industry leaders in the IT space, the radio frequency space or whichever chosen

field of expertise they operate in,” the COO states. “And this leads aptly into the third overriding goal we have moving forward. It might sound cliched, but we want to see every one of our clients succeed.

“This might be in supply chain, the mining industry, public sector, or in any form of life, but we’re only succeeding as an enabler if our clients are growing in their own worlds. And this means solving real-world problems for them that nobody else can solve, to ensure that our clients are performing better than ever, our staff are flying high, and we’re showcasing our development of the region’s infrastructural landscape.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

67

M O M E N T U M

H E A LT H

Flexibility is fundamental to

Progression aving begun its life as an AVBOB-owned life insurance company in 1966, the Momentum brand has expanded exponentially in the half century since its inception and now operates under MMI Holdings.

Its meteoric rise is particularly evident in one of its core divisions, MMI Health - an entity that has come to hold almost a third of the healthcare administration market share across South Africa.

68

Momentum is pioneering new age thinking in the health market, providing unrivalled services to the South African population

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Writer: Jonathan Dyble Project Manager: Josh Mann

The Momentum Health medical scheme was born from the amalgamation of Momentum’s existing administered Pulz medical scheme and the well-established South African counterpart, National Medical Plan.

The resultant medical scheme has become a key player in the South African medical scheme industry something that Damian McHugh, Momentum’s Head of Health Marketing and Sales since 2008, knows all about.

F

I

N

A

“The merged scheme, created in 2005 through the amalgamation of Pulz and National Medical Plan, supports Momentum’s strategic intent to provide a full range of financial services to our clients,” he says.

Providing cover for more than 290,000 lives, and serving over 150,000 families, Momentum Health is now one of the three largest open medical schemes in South Africa.

Currently, approximately 17 percent of South Africa’s population of 57 million

N

C

E

people is covered by medical aid that provides them with access to private healthcare cover. Momentum Health’s growth has run in tandem with the rising market, forecast to grow at either percent per year between 2018-2020.

Unrivalled sustainability

Momentum Health has maintained a philosophy of flexibility within its product offering throughout its journey, a significant reason as to why it is the medical aid provider of

choice for students and lower income employees across South Africa.

“The scheme’s strong growth stems from taking a revolutionary approach that kick-started a move away from traditional options towards benefits that can be moulded to individuals’ needs and pockets,” McHugh explains.

Not only has this approach been fundamental to Momentum Health’s success in the market, but it also bodes well for the scheme’s long-term prospects.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

69

M O M E N T U M

H E A L T H

As of March 2018, the average age of the scheme’s principal members was just 41.5 years, whilst its new business principal members were on average just 32.5 years old.

“The flexibility in the benefit structure appeals to the younger market, as can be seen in the important average member age metric.”

A leading example of this is the Scheme’s Ingwe option, an offering that has maintained its status as the number one medical aid option choice for international students studying in South Africa for the past 28 years.

Taking all of this into account, it is evident that the reliability, adaptability and sustainability that Momentum Health offers is unrivalled across South Africa, reflected in the scheme’s AA credit rating.

Custom, Incentive and Extender Options more than R1 billion over the past three years”.

Further, with the aim of ensuring that its customers receive optimal service alongside value, MMI has brought research, development and innovation to the forefront to complement Momentum Health’s operating model.

Momentum Health was one of the first medical schemes to launch a fully functional mobile app for its members, providing deep insights into both Momentum’s products and their own personal wants and needs, whilst also attracting young, digital-savvy new clients to the scheme.

McHugh continues: “An immense amount of market research is ongoing in the medical aid arena, especially in the current operational climate.

Putting its members first MMI’s involvement overseas, in India Momentum Health prides itself on in particular, helps us understand the offering tangible benefits, for example, long-term value of operating models allowing its members to save up to and aids in identifying key trends.”

R800 a month, if they choose to select Reports suggest that the global network providers specific to their healthcare IT market is estimated to medical needs. exceed $280bn by 2021, growing at According to McHugh, “this model 15.9 percent annually in the period has already saved members on the preceding.

MEDISCOR

M

ediscor has proudly partnered with Momentum Health since 2005. We value our longstanding relationship and are honoured to efficiently manage their members’ medicine benefits, while consistently achieving positive health outcomes.

We add value to our clients, by providing the following services: • Pharmaceutical Claims Management • Chronic Medicine Management • Reporting and Business Intelligence • Disease Management Mediscor has successfully implemented PBM services in several countries. Most recently a client in SADC achieved a cost reduction of more than 23 percent (over a two-year period) in the cost per utilising beneficiary.

www.mediscor.co.za

OOSTHUIZEN BROKERS

O

osthuizen Brokers does not simply just sell health insurance. Our job is to fully understand your health needs, take into consideration your financial position and put together a healthcare insurance package that is affordable and will let you enjoy the smaller pleasures in life.

In partnership with Oosthuizen Brokers, Momentum Health medical aid helps you to safeguard and even improve your health, while also preserving and growing your wealth.

From offering free preventative screenings to savings on contributions and a strong claim paying ability, this philosophy underpins the growing popularity of Momentum Health.

T +27 12 998 5341 E marietjieo@oosthuizenbrokers.co.za

www.oosthuizenbrokers.co.za Graeme Smith helps Momentum Health put a smile on people’s faces

70

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

F

I

N

A

N

C

E

Mediscor is the largest independent PBM company in sub-Saharan Africa. We provide extensive medicine management expertise to more than 60 clients in five countries, covering 1.8 million lives and processing more than 4 million transactions per month.

Fundamental to Mediscor’s offering, is our ability to electronically adjudicate medicine claims in real-time, at active ingredient level, against complex financial, clinical and pharmaceutical utilisation rules. These interventions significantly reduce expenditure on medicines.

In addition to our high-performance adjudication system and our successful pharmacy network offerings, our clinical database includes every registered medicine in Southern Africa, enhanced with more than 80 000 references to current clinical information. This information is used to perform on-line drug utilisation reviews on every prescription we process for our clients.

In this way we adjudicate the safety and appropriateness of millions of prescriptions, each potentially preventing a misadventure or improving the patients’ clinical outcome.

We complement our clients to achieve the “triple aim” - improving the experience of care, improving the health of members, and reducing per capita costs of health care.

Tel: +27 674 8000 (South Africa)

www.mediscor.co.za

Big dreams need a professional guiding hand to navigate them to their final destination...

WE CALL IT FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR LIFE

T: +27 12 998 5341 | C +27 82 8938471, +27 82 9081222 | E: marietjieo@oosthuizenbrokers.co.za

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

71

M O M E N T U M

H E A L T H

Building from within

Aiming to consolidate its position, MMI readily provides its staff with the opportunity to grow their personal skills whilst ensuring that the highest level of talent is retained within the business.

These practices are reflected throughout the company’s structure, from newly appointed employees to the longest standing members of the MMI Health team.

“One of the most important solutions we have implemented, centred around putting sufficient staff resources, of the right calibre, into place to ensure ongoing quality service, an initiative that naturally involved a long period to competency, as these new staff members had to undergo extensive training,” McHugh reveals.

Alongside its level three B-BBEE status, the importance MMI places on its staffing has led to the company winning a range of service excellence awards in recent years.

Leading the way with social responsibility

Much like its outlook on internal progression, MMI actively recognises the wider role that it is expected to play in furthering socioeconomic development. One realisation of this is through the MMI Volunteers programme, where employees

72

offer their skills and talents to local communities.

“We recognise that we are inescapably tied to the welfare of communities around us and that we need to work for their betterment as an organisation,” he states. “Our volunteer efforts are proof of the integrity of our commitment to be an engaged corporate citizen.”

Further, MMI pursues a number of other social investment enterprises, such as its Motheo Financial Dialogues initiative, aimed at empowering the country’s youth with crucial financial knowledge by facilitating conversation through workshops and industrial theatre.

What’s next?

Moving forward within South Africa’s healthcare market, Momentum is now looking to expand its operations and social investment more widely across the country, making its services

SLEEPNET

T

he market leaders in sleep and respiratory disorders, SleepNetBreatheNet, now caters for both adult and paediatric patients.

SleepNet-BreatheNet assists hundreds of patients suffering from sleep disordered breathing, who need reliable and robust medical devices to assist them with breathing during sleep.

The SleepNet-BreatheNet Home Ventilation Program is unique and successfully transitions ventilator dependent patients from the ICU to home.

Providing state-of-the art equipment, a skilled workforce and unrivalled after care services SleepNet-BreatheNet has a national footprint with offices in major cities for easy access.

Visit www.sleepnet.co.za for more information

“This country has been proven to be innovative by nature, and we need to continue finding solutions that work for us”

increasingly accessible to the wider population.

“Momentum Staff Care Solutions and other initiatives are gaining strong traction, showing that we are on the right track,” McHugh concludes.

“Good healthcare cover is a focal point of discussions around the world.

In South Africa, Momentum believes

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

that through cooperation between private and public-sector role players, we may soon arrive at a world-class solution that fits our socio-economic environment.

“This country has been proven to be innovative by nature, and we need to continue finding solutions that work for us.”

F

I

N

A

N

C

E

putting breathing disorders to bed As the most trusted name in the sleep, ventilation and neuro-diagnostics industry, we can assure all our valued clients of our commitment to providing you with quality care, state-of-the-art products and competitive prices.

Branches available in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and Durban 021 551 0325 | info@sleepnet.co.za

www.sleepnet.co.za

At Pick n Pay Pharmacy, we are often asked: What does a Pick n Pay Pharmacy offer?

The answer is:

EVERYTHING.

We deliver medication, do wellness screenings and if we don’t have what you need, we will order it immediately.

Free delivery

Extended trading hours

Medical aid claims and DSPs

Clinic services

Health assessments

Healthy eating plans

Earn Smart Shopper points

Pharmacy Plus app

Broad product range

You can shop on your Pick n Pay Store Account* *Terms and conditions apply. E&OE. RCS is a Registered Credit and Authorised Financial Services Provider NCRCP 38. FSP44481.

44833_PnP Pharmacy_Africa Outlook (96x160).indd 1

2018/07/12 14:43

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

73

A L AT

B Y

W E M A

B A N K

Powering

Financial Inclusion ALAT by Wema’s Chief Digital Officer Dele Adeyinka reveals the Company’s remarkable success since it launched in Nigeria in May 2017 Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Josh Mann

74

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

F

I

N

A

igital finance has proven itself as a vital bridge for communities without access to traditional banking infrastructure.

In many cases, for example in Nigeria, consumers and commercial clients are seeking disruptive solutions that go beyond the tradition of the bricks and mortar branch. Central to this is offering borderless, branchless banking, breaking down barriers.

Enter ALAT by Wema Bank.

Launched in May, 2017, it is Nigeria’s first fully digital bank, where customers can do their banking transactions without ever entering any

N

C

E

physical branch. ALAT was designed to cater for the need of today’s (digital) customers who are in dire needs of a bank that understands and suites their lifestyle with respect to value for time/ money and responsiveness.

Dele Adeyinka, the Chief Digital Officer of ALAT, explains that ALAT is much more than a bank, it’s the future of banking. “ALAT is a fully digital bank designed to deliver tomorrow’s

banking to today’s customer. It is built to match your lifestyle and help you save more.

“With ALAT, you can save seamlessly with a simple automated savings plan and earn 10% annual interest – three times the standard bank rate. You can also get a shortterm loan whenever you’re in a pinch, with no paperwork, guarantors or collateral needed.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

75

A L A T

B Y

W E M A

B A N K

Wema’s head office building

You can also perform the following transactions: personal savings, group saving, loans on goals, virtual dollar card, fx transfers, card control and remittance.

Young Focus

Nigeria possess a youthful and vibrant adult population, and ALAT’s services cater to this rapidly growing population. This is helped by the fact the Company is itself a forwardthinking, innovative platform that is tailored made for this demographic.

“We focus on students, young professionals and young entrepreneurs keeping a keen eye to making sure we meet their ever-changing needs,” Adeyinka continues. “We have continued and will continue to tailor our services to providing solutions to their financial needs.”

ALAT’s products are perfect to meet the increasing need of Nigerians to save money and manage a flexible lifestyle. Savings options are comprised of three major products.

Flexi Goals allows users to save a specified daily amount and withdraw 50 percent of that amount once

76

Inside the plush interior of the Marina branch, Lagos

every 30 days without losing accrued interest. Fixed Goals allows a daily, weekly or monthly amount to be saved without any withdrawal limit until the target is met. Users who do not wish to set targets can opt for Stash, a save-as-you-go account which accrues interest after 30 days of money being saved.

Further, ALAT has diversified its

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

offering into instant short loans, a virtual dollar converter card, bills and payment scheduling services, and a lifestyle shop where customers can buy entertainment such as movies and event tickets through its app.

The flexible offering has so far proven a big hit, and no doubt will continue to help Nigeria towards its unbanked reduction target.

F

I

N

Outlook Creative Services

A

N

Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services

C

E

Payment solutions to connect you to the global economy.

via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

Make and accept payment, anywhere across Africa and around the world. Learn more at rave.flutterwave.com

hi@flutterwavego.com | www.flutterwave.com |

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

77

A L A T

B Y

W E M A

B A N K

Wema’s head office building

78

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

F

I

N

A

N

C

E

“From inception just over a year ago, the market has reacted positively and we have grown our customer base from zero to over 280,000 with a total deposit of over two billion naira, and processed over 40 billion naira in transactions,” Adeyinka explains.

“There is still a lot of room to increase our reach as we continue to build and upgrade to accommodate solutions tailored to better suit the lifestyle of our existing and potential customers.”

ALAT’s progress to date can also be highlighted by the fact it has been the recipient of eight awards in the past year, among them is the Best Digital Bank Award from World Finance scratch with a local developer and are always attracting the best within the Magazine. industry to do great things.”

Partnering with like-minded Internal and External technology startups has also proven Expertise Such awards would not have been won key to ALAT’s rapid success, and the Company has helped without ALAT’s team of employees. to spearhead the As Adeyinka proudly stated, all of this development of a vibrant development has been carried out by fintech ecosystem which local Nigerian expertise. is set to serve the whole “We have a lot highly skilled people country. in the country, especially in the tech Adeyinka further space,” he adds. “We pride ourselves explains how partnerships on the fact that we built this from are vital in ensuring ALAT continues to meet consumer demand: “The “The bank can’t way the industry is structured today, necessarily provide strategic partnerships are essential to a solution to meet the needs of the target group.

“The bank can’t necessarily provide every need of the a solution to every need of the target target group, but group, but can facilitate the process.

We are always open to more local can facilitate the and international partnership to keep process. We are wowing our customers.”

always open to more local and international partnership to keep wowing our customers”

Such activities include beach cleaning, book donations to government-run schools and provision of malaria-treated mosquito nets to encampments. Further, the ALAT Salary for Love scheme sees employees and the Company offer a day’s salary to be used on worthy causes.

“The pride of any nation is its people,” Adeyinka says. “We also strive to make sure we aid the growth of younger people within the tech space through our internship programmes. Further, we drive efforts to increase financial literacy level within the community and in our communications.”

And what of ALAT’s own growth in the future? Adeyinka highlights several priorities, including developing improved product and service experience, re-engineering of processes, enhancing consumer Corporate Citizen engagement, adding more Vital as they are, ALAT’s influence functionality to its platform and in local communities stretches far implementing AI-driven UX. beyond the provision of digital banking He concludes: “The thirst to want to services. Indeed, the Company prides create and recreate sets us apart. We itself on a far-reaching corporate social have always been innovating and will responsibility programme comprising continue to. As long as we stay at the small-scale activities that combine to innovation forefront, we can always make a real difference to Nigerian lives. stay ahead of the game.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

79

B U S H V E L D

M I N E R A L S

THE VANGUARD OF

Vanadium

anadium is a mineral on the rise. A grey, soft and ductile high value metal invaluable to sectors such as alloys, chemicals and especially steel, its value has risen by 400 percent in the space of two years.

With demand for vanadium on the rise, huge opportunities exist for companies able to find and extract the metal, especially outside of China, and AIM-listed Bushveld Minerals is one

80

Bushveld Minerals CEO Fortune Mojapelo discusses the Company’s journey to become an increasingly prominent Company in the global vanadium market

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Writer: Tom Wadlow Project Manager: Donovan SmithÂ

such firm with bold growth ambitions.

It is one of only three producing primary vanadium operations and one of only two vanadium focused play companies in the world.

Further, the South African organisation is leveraging the mineral to develop and promote Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRFBs) in the growing global energy storage market through Bushveld Energy, its energy storage developer and component manufacturer.

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

Bushveld Minerals currently commands four percent of the global vanadium market, and through development of projects at its Bushveld Complex the firm aims to increase that share to five percent by 2019.

Gathering momentum

The past year has been the busiest in the Company’s relatively short history to date. Incorporated in January, 2012, Bushveld Minerals spent its first years exploring for vanadium – it completed a scoping study on the Mokopane Vanadium Project in April 2014 followed by a prefeasibility study in February, 2016.

“On 6 April 2017, through the acquisition of Vametco, the Company transitioned from an exploration Company into a significant global vanadium producer,” recalls Bushveld Minerals’ CEO Fortune Mojapelo. “This laid the groundwork for our growth

into a mid-tier low cost, vertically integrated primary vanadium platform.

The acquisition was further aligned with the Company’s aspirations in the global energy storage space by providing capacity for potential electrolyte manufacturing.”

Fast-forward to the present day, and Bushveld Minerals is comprised of three main divisions – Bushveld Vanadium, Bushveld Energy and Lemur Holdings, the Company’s coal business.

Bushveld Vanadium itself is split into three operations. Recently acquired Vametco is the primary low-cost vanadium mining and processing operation with a 142.4Mt JORC resource, including 26.12 Mt Reserves with in-magnetite vanadium grades averaging 1.96 percent V2O5.

The Brits Vanadium Project comprises prospecting rights on several farms adjacent to Vametco.

The mineralisation is outcropping and a continuation of the Vametco

deposit strike with similar or higher vanadium grades. Historical drilling has shown grades of as much as 2.6 percent V2O5 in-magnetite. In March 2018, an exploration programme commenced which showed positive drilling results.

Finally, the Mokopane Vanadium Project is home to one of the world’s largest vanadium deposits with a 298 Mt JORC resource including 28.5 Mt Reserves. A key priority for the remainder of the year is to secure a New Order Mining Right for the project, and subsequently develop the resource.

Expansion at Vametco

“In 2017, Vametco commenced a three-phased expansion project with the aim of increasing annualised production capacity to more than 5,000 mtV during 2019,” Mojapelo explains. “Phase One of the expansion plan was successfully

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

81

B U S H V E L D

M I N E R A L S

AQUANIC

F

or 27 years Aquanic has grown into a group of companies with various related business lines in civils and fluid management solutions.

We achieve service excellence through application of our extensive knowledge, skilled workers, experience in designing and installation by implementing the best option which is cost effective, sustainable and manageable.

Our business is built around environmental legislation, clients’ standards and procedures and design criteria, assisting clients in achieving their goals.

“We adopt a rigorous approach in analysing market dynamics for each of our chosen commodities to understand industry structure, current and future supply/demand balance and implications for the underlying price” completed on time and on budget in the September, 2017 quarter, during which Vametco reached an annualised production capacity of 3,035 mtV. “Phase Two of the expansion plan was successfully completed on time and on budget in June, 2018, during which Vametco reached an annualised production capacity of 3,750 mtV, through the installation and commissioning of the third primary milling circuit and secondary crusher.”

82

Aquanic, in partnership with Bushveld Vametco, is the contractor for the civil works on the new Magnitite Tailings dump. All earthworks, drainage, HDPE and geotextile lining along with weekly survey and plotting is part of our work.

www.aquanic.co.za Phase Three will increase the site’s annualised production capacity to over 5,000 mtV by the end 2019, enhancing its position in what is a structurally challenged market. This project will also permit the development of downstream operations and facilitate product diversification.

Immediate priorities

Beyond expanding output at Vametco and further exploring and developing the Brits Vanadium and Mokopane Vanadium projects, Mojapelo outlines his plan to list on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

“This is a move that will allow South African investors access to our story while broadening the Company’s access to capital to facilitate its aggressive growth plans and enhance its profile further in the global capital markets,” he says.

As the Company grows, Mojapelo also explains how it will need to simplify in terms the organisational

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

CYCLONE ENGINEERING PROJECTS

O

ur expertise is to operate and manage cyclone tailings storage facilities (TSFs). The field of expertise, apart from the cycloning, has been expanded into spigot TSF and paddock TSF construction, with the full range of TSF construction/management covered.

Hydraulic mining of old TSFs is part of the package and is done by remotecontrolled self-propelled guns and remote-controlled guns mounted on excavators.

T +27 11 660 9466

www.cyclones.co.za

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

FLUID AND WATER MANAGEMENT TURN KEY SOLUTIONS

Our Services: Mining Civils Reservoirs HDPE Piping & Lining Specialized Boreholes Mining Rehabilitation

Nico: 082 553 2116 www.aquanic.co.za

SHAPING THE FUTURE. WORLD SKILLS ON YOUR DOORSTEP Tailings disposal and hydraulic reclamation of tailings is our business. We specialise in the operations and management of Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs) in the mining industry.

Cycloning, spigotting and daywall paddocking form part of our portfolio.

Apart from the operations and management of TSFs, our expertise expands into the reclamation of TSFs by means of hydraulic monitoring.

5 Begin Street T: +27 11 660 9466 Krugersdorp 1739 C: +27 82 789 9458

www.cyclones.co.za

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

83

B U S H V E L D

M I N E R A L S

structure to improve Bushveld’s exposure to the underlying cash flows of its assets, and develop capacity in areas such as human resources, finance and business processes.

Regarding Bushveld Energy, having already delivered its first VRFB project with Eskom this year, immediate priorities include growth of the VRFB project pipeline across Africa, generating interest with downstream stakeholders, developing its own electrolyte manufacturing plant, positioning itself as a key low-cost electrolyte supplier while securing offtake agreements. Finally, the Company expects in the second half of 2018 to be in a position to outline its business model, cashflow capabilities

and valuation in Bushveld Minerals For Lemur Holdings, a 30-year concession for an initial 60MW and associated transmission lines was secured in May, 2018, with plans to complete SEIA and Bankable Feasibility studies for the 136 million-tonne coal Imaloto Power Project in Madagascar.

Four pillars of success

The hallmark of Bushveld Minerals’ project approach lies in four core principles it strictly adheres to.

First is choosing the right commodity. “We adopt a rigorous approach in analysing market dynamics for each of our chosen commodities to understand industry structure, current and future supply/demand balance

TATA CHEMICALS

A

part of the more than $100 billion Tata Group, Tata Chemicals is the world’s second largest producer of soda ash with manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe, Africa and North America.

Tata Chemicals South Africa is located in Durban harbour and has a bulk storage facility with a capacity to store 30 kilotons of soda ash, and the facility also boasts low-cost handling of goods from ship to shore and a complete supply and logistics solution.

The Company continues to play an uplifting role through social support as part of its drive initiative to improve the quality of life of the people it serves.

T +27 31 205 9252 E rmpofu@tatachemicals.com

www.tatachemicals.com

A rigorous and dynamic approach to commodities

84

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

Se rv Tata Chemicals South Africa is a regional leader in bulk chemicals handling.

140 Johnstone Road, Maydon Wharf PO Box 948, Durban 4000 South Africa

Outlook Creative Services

ing S

oci ety th rou

gh Science

Situated in the Port of

Tel: +27 31 205 9252 Direct +27312742675 Fax: +27 31 205 1811 Cell: +27 829235946

Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

n ba Dur

www.tatachemicals.com

VISION By embracing technology we will have surpassed the needs of thousands of our customers throughout Africa, in doing so enabling them to take their businesses to new frontiers. By creating a climate without boundaries and limitless possibilities and by encouraging initiative and lateral thinking we will have taken ordinary people and created extra ordinary results.

MISSION STATEMENT Provide lateral solutions to business through technology.

METHODOLOGY We provide business solutions through services and technology to mainly manufacturing and distribution companies. We do this by designing and implementing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solutions using SYSPRO and providing ancillary requirements and training.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

The company was established in 1994 and renamed Intuitive IT Solutions in 2014. The owner has had extensive experience in the industry before moving into SYSPRO support as well as supplying hardware and infrastructure based on each unique sites requirements. Within the organization we have specialists in the Financial, Distribution and Manufacturing arenas. Together we have amassed over 40 years of support and implementation experience.

E: Ingrid@iitsolutions.co.za | C: +27 (0) 82 568 9332 T: +27 (0) 11 453 0016 | F: +27 (0) 11 454 2512

www.iitsolutions.co.za

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

85

B U S H V E L D

M I N E R A L S

and implications for the underlying price,” Mojapelo says. “Vanadium is in a structural deficit, with limited supply and a growing demand.”

Commodity chosen, the next pillar revolves around cost and stability to deal with price fluctuations. Mojapelo adds: “Vametco, the Company’s flagship asset, is one of the lowest cost primary producers while enjoying some of the highest grades. The Company’s strategy is for the assets to be in a position of generating cash in every phase of the commodity cycle.”

Third, the project must show a clear path to achieving production, as demonstrated by the ongoing success at Vametco. “We therefore target brownfield processing assets that can be acquired at a fraction of their replacement cost or develop greenfield projects that have a low up-front capital expenditure and are scalable,” Mojapelo says.

Such production should also be able to scale up, again highlighted by the three-stage Vametco development.

Bushveld Minerals intends to increase production from 5,000 mtV in 2019 to 10,000 mtV in the medium-term.

Adherence to these pillars could not be successfully achieved without the relevant personnel and expertise on board. The management in place in the Company’s subsidiaries are highly experienced operators in the commodities they are focused on.

Vametco’s team, for example, combines more than 100 years’ experience in vanadium mining and processing.

“Bushveld Minerals has over the years attracted a highly experienced team with multi-disciplinary skills who all share our long-term vision,” adds Mojapelo.

“Our policy is that the remuneration arrangements, including pensions for subsequent financial years, should be sufficiently competitive to attract, retain and motivate high-quality executives capable of achieving the Company’ objectives, thereby enhancing shareholder value.”

86

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Looking ahead

With the expertise in place and formidable vanadium assets being further explored, developed and mined, Bushveld Minerals is set to play a leading role in the rapidly rising global industry.

Add to this the snowballing demand for battery and energy storage technology and the likely continual rise in vanadium’s value, and the Company appears to be on course to deliver prosperity for its shareholders and other stakeholders, not least the immediate communities in which it operates.

Mojapelo concludes: “Having

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

“The transformation to a producer with healthy cash flows, while very satisfying, is only a step in our journey to build one of the most significant lowest cost vertically integrated vanadium companies in the world”

completed the transformational acquisition of Vametco, we look forward to continuing to diligently execute the strategy that we have articulated across all of our platforms.

“The transformation to a producer with healthy cash flows, while very satisfying, is only a step in our journey to build one of the most significant lowest cost vertically integrated vanadium companies in the world.”

“The transformation to a producer with healthy cash flows, while very satisfying, is only a step in our journey to build one of the most significant lowest cost vertically integrated vanadium companies in the world.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

87

M I N O P E X

/

D R A

G LO B A L

Growing

Globally Minopex and DRA Saudi Arabia are proving to be a formidable multi-commodity operator as its African and Middle Eastern ventures affirm the Group’s market-leading status Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

year has passed since Africa Outlook last spoke with Minopex, a member of DRA Global, and in that time, the Company has achieved unprecedented growth; expanding both from a commodity and geographic perspective to capitalise on burgeoning opportunities and a favourable mining climate.

The O&M (operations and maintenance) outsourcing provider has affirmed its position as the biggest operator of its kind in the world, not simply through continuous improvement, but by strategically broadening each and every element of its reach – not least in the Middle East via its DRA Saudi Arabia subsidiary.

“In the Middle East we opened up operations under our DRA Saudi Arabia banner three years ago, and it’s been a huge success as the first outsourcing enterprise of this type in the country,” confirms the Company’s Managing Director, Rashid Kader.

“Working with the biggest client in the commodity sector we have been able to demonstrate our multi-commodity expertise to complement ongoing

88

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

developments in Africa across our gold and base metal operations.”

Iron ore and zinc are two additional areas of progression in recent times as an indication of the continuous enhancements being enjoyed across the Minopex group. But it is perhaps through this Middle Eastern influence that the Company has best demonstrated its overall scope, flexibility and appeal.

“Realistically in the Middle East, it’s all about relationships and trust, so we started off in the region on a consulting basis, assisting Ma’aden with their plant and mining operations,” Kader recalls. “We assisted them because the skills base is very low in the region, but from these beginnings our relationship has grown from a consulting role into a operating partner. They realised we could change their loss-making business into a profitable one. And we did.”

While admittedly being something of a learning curve for DRA as much as it was for the client, all of the requisite skills and experiences were in place to make the Greenfields operation a success.

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

89

M I N O P E X

/

D R A

G L O B A L

Kader continues: “They didn’t have the local inhouse skills so logistically it was a challenge, but we carried out the work as a local entity – DRA Saudi Arabia – and from there it’s grown.

“The Middle East traditionally has three pillars of industry: oil, tourism and mining. With the former drying up, governments are now putting a lot of emphasis on the latter, but without the readymade skills to fully capitalise, we have become instrumental in applying our skills and knowledge to grow the sector.”

“We know up front that we have to put a lot of focus on training, and uplifting the local communities, converting the number of expats working on-site to a growing number of locals in each operation,” Kader explains. “Corporate social responsibility goes hand-in-hand with the industrial influence we have in each case, and there is a huge expectation among respective governments for us to come in, to help generate more local employment opportunities, and to ultimately help enrich their economy.”

The next advantage then derives from Minopex’s multi-commodity expertise, again making the business a strong proposition regardless of the application required. And to facilitate this turnkey status on an everbroadening scale, the need for skilled, motivated and loyal personnel is every bit as important to the Company as it is to the country it is operating within.

Rashid Kader, Managing Director

Industrial influence

International expansion is no new thing for Minopex of course, the Company having made a name for itself in Africa over the years via its ability to mobilise in new regions quickly and effectively.

From due diligence and strong market research, the rest of its core industrial capabilities are given licence to flourish.

And the biggest appeal to prospective new countries then comes from the Company’s track record in training the national workforce and helping to build the domestic infrastructure.

90

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

“...there is a huge expectation among respective governments for us to come in, to help generate more local employment opportunities, and to ultimately help enrich their economy”

PROLUBE MARKETING

P

rolube Marketing, a specialist lubrication equipment supplier, was established in 1985. Since then, the Company has completed numerous projects supplying complete systems to lubricate machines such as grinding mills, crushers, material handling equipment, mining machinery and process plants in the platinum, gold, steel and mineral industries.

The experience gained by Prolube personnel, has enabled the Company to design and supply lubrication systems for all applications.

For assistance in lubrication applications you can contact Prolube Marketing at:

T +27 11 866 1460 E prolube@netactive.co.za

www.prolube.co.za

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

PROLUBE

Market leaders in the “Fluid Handling” Industry

Prolube Marketing specialise in providing fluid handling systems and products across a wide spectrum of mining, power generation, heavy industry and processing applications.

• Centralised Grease Lubrication Systems • Centralised Oil Lubrication Systems • Spray Lubrication Systems • Oil Circulating Lubrication Systems

(0027) 011 866 1460 prolube@netactive.co.za

www.prolube.co.za

Supplier of Performance Chemicals for the Mining Industry in Africa.

ChemQuest is a SNF Company capable of supplying reagents to all mineral processing operations in Africa with over 20 years’ experience.

ChemQuest represents SNF Floerger with water soluble polymers – flocculants for all mining water treatment applications, CLARIANT for specialty collectors and frothers in mineral flotation applications, PJAC for activated carbon in gold operations and many other chemicals.

ChemQuest provides customer-based chemical solutions to enhance metal recovery with a strong focus on products safety, technical services and investment in products research and development.

chemquest@icon.co.za www.chemquest.co.za

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

91

M I N O P E X

/

D R A

G L O B A L

Kader continues: “Essentially, we try to make sure throughout all our HR schemes that people are custodians of their own lives. They share in the growth of the Company. Because we’re not listed, you work for your own growth as shareholders, and the success of this approach can be seen in the fact that we have very few staff members who stay with us any less than eight years.

“I have been at Minopex for 19 years myself, and if you compare this to the Middle East where the average turnover is around one year, then you can see how successful we are at identifying a skilled individual, developing them, and getting the most out of their skill base in a way that enriches both them and us.”

As strong as ever

Aforementioned notions of diversification not only enhance the

overall business proposition, but it helps to safeguard against fluctuating markets and challenging industry trends; as are common place in the mining sector.

Diversification isn’t just present from a geographic or commodity standpoint though. Kader goes on to note that the most significant area of variation derives from its value chain and from being both an O&M and EPCM player where Minopex and DRA have a role to play.

“We can cater for projects from studies, to design, to construction of a plant, and everything in between,” he says. “We will see a dip in some sectors while others pick up, but we are big and flexible enough to mitigate those challenges, and to still remain as strong as ever in the markets that are still thriving.

“We can cater for projects from studies, to design, to construction of a plant, and everything in between”

92

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

“Being as widespread as we are from a geographic and portfolio perspective is also great from a supply chain and procurement perspective as well. A single mine owner will look after around seven operations at any one time, maximum. But as an outsourcing entity, we are often buying for as many as 14 or 15 different operations, which gives us much more buying power.”

This is hugely beneficial for its clients too, who are able to leverage this buying power to evolve their sites at the most competitive premium.

For Minopex, it means its attentions from a capital expenditures point of view can be turned more extensively towards acquisitions, as Kader elaborates: “We’ve been very busy over the past year acquiring many companies; each helping us to increase our footprint.

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

Future Engineering Ontrock Engineering is a 100% wholly citizen-owned company duly incorporated in Botswana in 2007 and started operations in 2013. We are based in Palapye, specializing in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Engineering and Instrumentation services. We also offer supply of engineering spares and materials on the noted disciplines.

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

“We are accountable and responsible for turning your resource into a profitable revenue stream”

CIVIL ENGINEERING

+267 4922673 rocky@ontrock.com

INSTRUMENTATION

www.ontrock.com

“There’s no passing the buck,” Kader picks up. “We are accountable and responsible for turning your resource into a profitable revenue stream and we are ready and willing to offer ether the full ‘A-Z’ list of services to achieve that, or alternately an ‘A-B’ customised selection of whatever the client specifically needs on a tailored basis.

“Quite often clients will come to us for just the one aspect but then realise that we can offer a whole lot Agility and scale more, and that’s a big plus point.

Ultimately, as Kader affirms, Minopex and DRA’s overriding advantage comes Different clients, in different markets, in different countries all inevitably from its one-stop-shop status. need different things; and no matter From studies, all the way through what that is, we have the agility and to the construction of a plant, and scale to find and apply the appropriate succeeded by maintenance and solution.” operation of said plant, potential Further differentiators emanate clients needn’t look for numerous from the Company’s skill base separate service providers when this which allows for almost immediate one caters for all necessary segments in a package that has an unrivalled mobilisation when opportunities arise in different regions. And, furthermore, track record included.

“Additionally though, with each acquisition we inherit an increase in technologies and personnel skills which lends to an improvement of our value-added services to clients.

We are able to offer the best technical expertise out there to help clients get up and running, and these acquisitions are playing a massive part in facilitating our recent business growth.”

Unit 12, Makwapa Complex Palapye, Botswana

through the Company’s reputation as a leader in operational safety.

Having achieved more than eight years without a lost time injury, its track record has another string added to the bow, as Minopex and DRA strives to compound its market-leading position in the future.

Kader concludes: “We have proved time and time again that we can turn even a loss-making operation into a profitable one, and we want to continue doing so on a growing global scale. Our aim now is to expand, largely in the Middle East and AsiaPacific, where everyone is talking about us.

“We don’t want to grow so fast as to dampen our influence, but from this year to next, even further global expansion is certainly our primary aim; capitalising on an outsourcing option that is becoming more and more popular across all sizes of clients in the mining industry.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

93

G A L P

–

K I N G D O M

s one of the fastest growing and most innovative integrated energy companies around, Galp’s turnkey approach is making waves in the global oil & gas market, and its operations in eSwatini are no different.

From its origins in Lisbon, Galp has made a conscious effort to become a globally significant business with the ability to gain influence on a local scale. Subsequently evolving from its Portuguese base to become a leading operator in the Iberian Peninsula, the business’s international expansion has been mirrored by an equally impressive sector diversification in recent years.

Now, with operations that range from oil and natural gas exploration and

94

O F

E S W AT I N I

Celebrating 10 Years of Innovation and

Galp’s 10th anniversary in Swaziland’s oil & gas sector commemorates a sustainable growth plan that is still in full swing to this day Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Josh Hyland

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

O

I

L

&

production, to refining and distribution of petroleum products, and to the distribution and sale of natural gas and power generation; Galp’s portfolio is ready to tackle any market.

“Galp’s current production, distribution and marketing of fuels, lubricants, base oils, bitumen, gas and electricity has launched the Company into more than 50 countries all over the world,” in the words of Galp eSwatini’s Managing Director, Francisco Ferreira. “Galp Swaziland is a subsidiary of Galp, which is an international energy company with headquarters in Lisbon, Portugal. It is operated through GMI-Galp Marketing International, also based in Portugal.

“Galp entered Swaziland in November, 2008 through the

G

A

S

acquisition of Royal Dutch Shell’s operations in the country, meaning we’re celebrating our 10th anniversary in eSwatini this year.”

From a technical perspective, you need not look further than the Company’s structure in the Iberian Peninsula to confirm its capabilities.

Galp possesses an integrated refinery system made up of two refineries in Portugal, with a processing capacity of around 333,000 barrels of oil a day, delivering across a distribution network that comprises around 1,300 petrol stations.

“At the same time, Galp continues to expand its activities into different markets,” Ferreira adds. “And in each of the 12 countries where we operate, we also contribute

to its economic development. Galp Swaziland is a good example of this as we continue to socially progress each community that hosts us.”

Supplier of choice

In Swaziland - now known as eSwatini - Galp leads the market with around 40 percent of the national share. Even more impressively, the business is still growing, with this number having started at around 30 percent when the brand first entered the country.

Galp’s influence also accounts for 30 percent of eSwatini’s service station network, as Ferreira affirms: “Galp is growing and consolidating its presence in the country, while it is also committed to developing a logistics hub in Mozambique so as to serve the wider regional market.

“Galp’s initial presence in the country comprised 22 service stations and all B2B customers were taken over from Shell. Galp Swaziland has since become the leading oil company in overall market share and through its first-of-its-kind LPG business,” Ferreira states.

Francisco Ferreira, Managing Director

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

95

OPERATE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS > Local Matsapha & Tambankulu depots > Outside eSwatini - South Africa - Botswana - Mozambique - Zambia - Malawi - Zimbabwe

We do transport

SERVICES: > Fuel & chemical transportation > Ethanol > General haulage > Warehousing > Dry bulk haulaging > Grain & commodity side-tippers > Agric-cane-loading and haulage > Agric-bulk sugar

Phil Henning Managing Director T: +27 83 386 3232 | +268 25 17 4000 C: +268 7802 7548 E: phil.henning@southernstar.co.sz P.O. Box 360 Manzini Swaziland, M200 www.southernstar.co.sz

G A L P

–

K I N G D O M

O F

E S W A T I N I

“We have recently been awarded an ISO 9001 Quality Management certification, Galp being one of the first companies in Swaziland to achieve such accreditation...”

From a continuous improvement perspective, an unparalleled agility - despite its size - as well as a focus on sustainability and unwavering customer-centricity have been three core focus areas to achieve the success it has attained on an increasingly broad scale.

These values are then compounded by ongoing capital expenditures to facilitate improvements from a technical perspective.

Ferreira continues: “In recent

98

times three new service stations have been commissioned and all others have been refurbished. A number of new B2B customers have been re-signed and retained as well. From an innovation perspective, we have introduced new LPG regulators that come with the highest global standards of safety and we also offer a range of high-quality lubricants.”

The introduction of Galp’s Tangerina convenience stores, and new POS Systems have been compounded by

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

a recent upgrade to the Company’s depot facility; further outlining the business’s vision for growth in line with capacity aspirations and regulatory fuel specifications.

“We have recently been awarded an ISO 9001 Quality Management certification, Galp being one of the first companies in Swaziland to achieve such accreditation, and the only one within the oil Industry,” Ferreira concludes in recognition of these continuous improvement aspirations.

Background and offering

Employee wellness

Our relationship with Galp dates back to 2012 when we assisted them with some ad hoc fleet assistance. This turned into a permanent contract and the partnership has been strong since then. The fleet consist of 18 units, five of which are PBS units with state-of-the-art equipment like Bartec (electronic sealing and measuring with mapping) and are abnormal bridging units transporting 51,000 litres of fuel.

We have our own on-site primary health facility being managed by a registered occupational health practitioner.

Southern Star Logistics is a proud local registered transport company that was a merger between South Star Logistics and Unitrans Swaziland in December, 2017.

Unitrans Swaziland has been operating in Swaziland since 1960 and South Star since 2014. Southern Star Logistics prides itself with a fleet compliment of 126 units, covering more than 800,000 kilometres a month, operated and managed by 325 staff.

SHEQ and ISO Compliant Safety plays a major part in our business and that is why we have invested in technology like Drive Cam and tracking to be able to analyse behaviour and correct it via our competent supervisors, driver mentors and accredited driver trainers. As the only transporter in Swaziland with all three ISO Management Systems, being ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001, we thrive on continual improvement to remain above.

Additional is our RTMS (Road Transport Management System) which regulates our strict adherence to driver safety, vehicle safety, road safety and environmental safety.

Our onsite training facility is accredited and all drivers are trained and assessed in-house.

Maintenance Most of our fleet is under maintenance plans with dealership handling periodically planned maintenance as well as for backup. We also have our own workshop facility for regular, scheduled services for both truck tractors and trailers, covering pre-trip inspections as a preventative measure to avoid unnecessary accidents. To further reinforce safety, we have on-site brake roller testing. For presentation we have a washbay facility with managed effluent wastewater. We also have a tyre supplier based on site to monitor tyres as fleet enters and exit the depot.

Our vision is “to be the leading supply chain partner in our chosen markets”.

Our mission statement is “driven by excellence, to be the safest and most innovative supply chain partner of choice in sub-Saharan Africa, constantly unlocking value for all stakeholders”.

Southern Star feels proud to be associated with Galp.

T +27 83 386 3232 | +268 25 17 4000 E phil.henning@southernstar.co.sz

www.southernstar.co.sz

G A L P

–

K I N G D O M

O F

“...our goal is to remain the leading oil company with innovation and agility as our key strategic areas of focus” “We have also won various awards from key customers as a supplier of choice, and we will continue to refurbish and expand upon all 23 service stations - and others to come later this year and beyond.”

Innovation and agility

For a company that is growing at the exponential rate that Galp is, its dedication to creating value and sustainable internal infrastructure is commendable. Ferreira describes the Company’s HR strategy as being based around growing “our own timber”, alluding to an ethos of upliftment and employee development.

Through a refined talent management process, the Company targets young graduates so as to develop them to become valued professionals. This approach is reflected in Galp becoming an employer of choice in each region. In eSwatini, the Company boasts of a 97 percent localised content among its employee representation.

100

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

E S W A T I N I

O

I

L

Outlook Creative Services

&

G

Outlook Publishing’s awardwinning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

A

S

COOPER

PROPERTIES Ask Cooper...!

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS IN THE KINGDOM OF ESWATINI (previously Swaziland).

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

Office 101, Cooper Centre, Sozisa Road, Mbabane +268 2404 4197 | cooper@swaziplace.com

introduction of new players and we welcome fair competition in the country.

However, our goal is to remain the leading oil company with innovation and agility as our key strategic areas of focus.

“We strive to provide an equitable service to all types of customers with varying levels of operational complexity. We also have a strong and deliberate corporate social investment programme that aligns with our key stakeholders and customers.”

As a result, Galp will continue to build a solid network of service stations in the future, pumping volumes at a higher throughput rate 97 percent localised representation has been achieved across the workforce than the industry average, while “This same approach is then applied have been exhausted.” simultaneously enriching eSwatini’s By remaining flexible on this internal economic landscape on a local level. to our supply chain management strategy, in line with Group aspirations note, the Company is better positioned The MD concludes: “Galp has to react to, and to keep ahead of to get value for money without acclimatised itself to the Swazi market industry trends. compromising on quality,” Ferreira as a leader, and our intention is to use Ferreira continues, by pinpointing notes. “Our starting point is to give our successful experience to drive some of the Company’s key market local business partners a chance for our leadership position further and to differentiators: “We note a changing supplies, and only extend this search cross borders to neighbouring markets to external sources when local options competitive landscape with the in the region.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

101

A H M E D

A L- K A D I

P R I VAT E

H O S P I TA L

Raising the Bar The R500 million Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital continues to provide leading edge medical services to all Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Callam Waller

102

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

urban – South Africa’s third largest metropolitan area by population behind Johannesburg and Cape Town. A city powered by its manufacturing industry and bustling port, the busiest in South Africa, it is a key economic contributor to the country.

Home to some 3.8 million residents over 87 square miles, Durban is also one of the most densely populated parts of the country, making provision of leading healthcare vital if the area’s workforce is to remain a healthy and productive one.

In April, 2017, a brand-new, stateof-the-art private hospital opened its doors. Situated in the centre-west of the city just off the N3 Highway, the 163-bed Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital (AAK) is the result of a R500 million investment and named after the cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon of the same name.

Altruistic hospital board Chairman Solly Suleman, a prominent pharmacist and businessman by trade, was mandated by the brainchild developers of the project, the Islamic Medical Association of South Africa, to head up the task team of the project and to deliver a private hospital with a difference, which would help ease the strain on private hospitals operating in Durban and provide healthcare solutions to all, regardless of race or religion.

The Islamic Medical Association of South Africa is an NGO/ PBO and in existence for over 40 years. Members of the organization range from the professional and allied health fraternities. The objective of the organisation has always been to deliver healthcare and welfare needs to the less fortunate. The IMASA (www.imasa.org) is the majority shareholder of the AAK. “The occupancy here at Ahmed AlKadi Private Hospital has showed steady

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

103

A H M E D

A L - K A D I

P R I V A T E

growth over the past few months as the public became more aware of who we are and, more importantly, what makes us different to other private hospitals,” he says. “With that said, there is always room for growth and we look forward to this journey.”

Core competencies

AAK’s 163 beds cover wards including maternity, paediatrics, surgical, medical, day ward, general ward, neonatal unit, adult high care and intensive care, while the hospital also houses four operating theatres (including a laminar flow theatre) and an emergency department.

Barring invasive cardiac procedures, AAK offers access to all clinical disciplines and differentiates itself through numerous sub specialities.

For instance, the hospital offers the independent services of two spinal orthopaedic surgeons, a lower limb orthopaedic specialist, a neurologist and neurosurgeon, while its Gall Bladder & Hernia Centre of Excellence with an exclusive Orbera weight loss programme, are leading examples of its kind.

Suleman adds: “This hospital was designed, styled and built to bring hospitality into the healthcare environment, offering the patient a comfortable, warm and hospitable ambience with high-end finishes, great catering and a full spectrum of specialities to cater for their needs.

This we understand sets us apart from the rest. Yes, we take full responsibility for raising that bar.”

Improving occupancy figures back this up. Over the first six months of 2018, occupancy rates averaged 56 percent and AAK is currently conducting 175 operations and admitting 200 cases into its emergency department every month.

“There was a misconception that this is a Muslim only hospital – by Muslims and for Muslims and that the Islamic faith was forced on the patient,” Suleman says. “An aggressive

104

H O S P I T A L

marketing campaign via East Coast Radio, community newspapers and our very active social media pages aimed at a broad audience has showcased that we are a hospital for all.”

Since opening, Suleman and his team have also received accolades in the form of awards, notably in July, 2018 when AAK was recognised as one of the top 20 hospitals in South Africa when it comes to patient experience tracked across the course of 2017. In May, 2017, shortly after opening, it also won the KZN Specialists Network World Hand Hygiene Trophy.

Room for growth

This journey of growth is set to continue into the future, as Suleman explains: “While building this hospital, we purchased seven additional properties surrounding the hospital.

Three of these properties have been developed as part of the facilities amenities to date.

“Future projects include a cardiac unit with a cardiac Cath lab and cardiac theatre, as well as an Institute of Neurology and a physical rehab centre.”

AAK is also continually striving to expand its knowledge base by staying abreast of key developments nationally and globally. It does this by being aligned to numerous industry

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

ARJO AFRICA

A

t Arjo, we are committed to improving the everyday lives of people affected by reduced mobility and age-related health challenges. With products and solutions that ensure ergonomic patient handling, personal hygiene, disinfection, and the effective prevention of pressure ulcers and venous thromboembolism, we help professionals across care environments to continually raise the standard of safe and dignified care. Our partnership with Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital, with its commitment to providing healthcare to the underpriviledged community, is a true demonstration of how everything we do, we do with people in mind.

Head Office Tel: +27 (0) 12 527 2000 Western Cape Tel: +27 (0) 21 982 1388 Kwazulu Natal Tel: +27 (0) 31 705 7692 E sales_za@arjohuntleigh.com

www.arjo.com

bodies, including the National Core Standards of the Department of Health, the National Hospital Network (a group of independent private hospitals formulated for negotiation with medical aids) and the Hospital Association of South Africa.

Further, AAK has representation at the KZN Specialist Network and plays an active role in the monitoring

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

60 years of history as a partner for the acute care and long-term care sectors.

Since 1957, we have been driven by a passion to improve the quality of life for people with reduced mobility and agedrelated health challenges.

Our work is based on genuine care for human health and well-being, always with people in mind.

Medical beds

Pressure Injury Prevention

VTE Prevention

Patient Handling

Hygeine

Disinfection

�ead Of�ce Tel: +27 (0) 12 527 2000 Western Cape Tel: +27 (0) 21 982 1388 Kwazulu Natal Tel: +27 (0) 31 705 7692 Email: sales_za@arjohuntleigh.com

www.arjo.com

NRCS APPROVED

QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST

AND LINEN

www.unioncanvas.co.za

WE ARE SAILS AHEAD

Manufacturers of: - Hospital Linen & Garments

PRODUCTS • Roof sheeting • Refuse bags • Plain and printed bags • Toilet roll bags • Carrier bags

• Shrink wrap • Pallet wrap • Lamination of bags • Wicketed bread bags • Specialised plastics

T 0325338903 | 0325330239 | F 0325332040 E tjplastics1@gmail.com | mandy@pearlpac.co.za

• Canvas Products • Laundry bags • Linen Cage Covers, etc.

1117 UMGENI ROAD, DURBAN, 4001 P.O. BOX 47324, GREYVILLE, 4023

T: 031- 3032590 / 3122268 / 3125609 F: 031- 3122267 / 031 – 3128196

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

105

A H M E D

A L - K A D I

P R I V A T E

and implementation of new AntiMicrobial Stewardship Protocols.

“The AAK marketing team also aligns the marketing calendar, events and activities directly with the Department of Health’s calendar,” Suleman adds. “The target audience for these includes healthcare professionals through continued professional development talks, seminars, conferences on site, and public screenings.”

This is an important supplementary activity that backs up the rigorous pharmacist and clinical training offered

106

H O S P I T A L

to employees, with those showing initiative also guided by professional development training and succession planning. Partnerships with the S-Buys Academy and the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority also bolster access to value knowledge and training.

Local responsibility

Solly Suleman, Chairman

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

A factor behind the Islamic Medical Association of South Africa’s decision to set up Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital was to better provision the poorer Durban population with vital

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

“The occupancy here at Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital has showed steady growth over the past few months as the public became more aware of who we are and, more importantly, what makes us different to other private hospitals”

“Future projects include a cardiac unit with a cardiac Cath lab and cardiac theatre, as well as an Institute of Neurology and a physical rehab centre”

“The AAK will be the hospital of choice for low infection rates and quality effective, family oriented nursing care so that reintegration into the community is a smooth process”

healthcare services, and this extends into what AAK does outside of its core medical operations.

“Ahmed Al-Kadi partners with its brainchild developer IMAS in providing cataract operations as well as renal dialysis programmes for the disadvantaged population,” Suleman details. “Recently it undertook a Mandela Day programme at the King Edward VIII Public Hospital.”

Beyond this, AAK provides health education at local Durban schools in areas such as hand hygiene and epilepsy and promotes public

vaccination programmes to help combat conditions such as measles.

The hospital also champions local when it comes to sourcing and the supply chain. It is part of the Pharmed Hospital Division consortium which negotiates, trials and prepares formularies that assist it and other private hospitals to ensure best procurement practice. Where possible, AAK prioritises local manufacturers and helps support these companies in what is an industry traditionally dominated by multinationals.

This dedication to excellence in

medical provision and responsible, sustainable growth in Durban will ensure Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital remains a leader of its kind in the years to come. In setting out his vision for the future, Suleman concludes: “The hospital will soon have been in existence for two years and we hope to have initiated the expansion plans and be at a maximum occupancy.

“The AAK will be the hospital of choice for low infection rates and quality effective, family oriented nursing care so that reintegration into the community is a smooth process.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

107

G O O D L I F E

P H A R M A C Y

Goodlife Living the

Goodlife Pharmacy strives to make its customers look and feel good through providing ethical pharmaceutical advice and globally-renowned health and beauty products Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Callam Waller

108

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

H

E

A

L

T

oday Goodlife Pharmacy is widely recognised and respected as the largest retail purchaser and seller of pharmaceuticals in East Africa. Borne out of a dream to deliver quality pharmaceutical services to the region, the Company tapped into the booming market in a bid to disrupt the prominent distribution of counterfeit drug sellers and sub-par clinical advice.

Seeing the numerous gaps in the

H

C

A

R

E

Josh Ruxin, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman

market, David Zapol, Jeff McCormick and Josh Ruxin started the Company in 2013 with a vision for transforming primary health care in East Africa.

In 2014, Catalyst, a regional private equity firm, provided capital to purchase Mimosa Pharmacy, located in Kenya. From there, the company took off in the market with marquis locations in the region. “In late 2016, Leapfrog Investments acquired Catalyst’s share and with that injected more funds into

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

109

G O O D L I F E

P H A R M A C Y

Goodlife,” begins Josh Ruxin, CoFounder and Executive Chairman of GoodLife Pharmacy. “Subsequently from that point we have grown from five outlets in 2014 to more than 33 in both Kenya and Uganda.”

At the heart of Goodlife’s vision is the desire to help clients look and feel good. Goodlife employees receive the highest level of training in pharmacy and beauty and are well equipped to provide consultation on health and beauty products.

“If one of our customers was to come in with a bad cold - caused by a virus - then our team will recommend appropriate over-the-counter drugs to address the symptoms,” continues Ruxin. “Unlike a large number of pharmacies across East Africa who will often push expensive and unnecessary antibiotics to boost profits, we are able to provide the best prescription for customers’ needs.”

Goodlife has and always will seek to be a true health partner; acting in the best interests of its customers remaining at the forefront of its work.

Ruxin explains: “In order to continue offering the best service, we have carried out in-depth research to learn more about the desires and aspirations of our local consumers, enabling us to deliver products well suited to their needs.”

A quality approach to pharmaceuticals

In a very short period of time, Goodlife has created a name for itself as a leader and innovator in the pharma segment.

Covering the full spectrum of pharma needs, Goodlife is the only regional pharmacy to offer a clean, confidential space for customer consultations, and has further introduced access to clinicians through in-store telemedicine services at select locations.

“We are proudly having a directly positive impact on people’s lives through increased access to reliable medication at affordable prices,” adds Ruxin. “The Company has grown very quickly and we have plans in place to increase to more than 100 stores in the next three years.”

COMPUT ASSIST Africa’s Most Advanced IT Dispensary System With the East African pharmacy market growing and changing at such a rapid pace, flexible and reliable technology solutions will be what Groups and Independents need to move forward and succeed.

Dispensing systems are built around a number of key criteria and functionalities, unique to pharmacies, including automatic Pricing of scripts, maintenance of drug history and repeats due, patient profiles, formulary management, generic substitution, stock movement and pricing history.

With the exciting future prospect of electronic claiming to insurance companies, electronic ordering to and from wholesalers and pharmacy software that provides a dedicated clinic module as well as providing a drug interaction solution assisting you with managed patient care, now may be the time to invest in the future of your business.

ComputAssist International: IT Pharmacy Specialists in Africa...

ComputAssist International has dedicated 35 years to research & development, producing the best pharmacy dispensing system deployed across seven countries on the African continent.

The Company’s strategy for expansion has taken us through South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, the DRC, Uganda and Kenya.

The Company view its clients as partners rather than customers, and is very focused on relationships, to ensure the best possible outcome for their business.

The Company is very proud to be a partner of the Goodlife Pharmacy Group and they have been running our systems across the entire group since inception.

A true health partner

110

www.computassist.co.za

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

International

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? While there are a myriad of good POS systems out there, how many are developed specifically with a Dispensary system to look after your pharmacy and actively manage the wellness of your patients?

A UNIQUE INTEGRATED PHARMACY DISPENSING SYSTEM THAT PROVIDES: DISPENSING SYSTEM

PROACTIVE DRUG INTERACTION TOOL

CLINIC MANAGEMENT MODULE

*Patient History & Repeat Management

*Drug to Drug / to food / to disease *Therapeutic Duplication Management

*Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose & BMI

FLEXIBLE INSURANCE CAPABILITIES

TIME-SAVING ELECTRONIC ORDERING

POWERFUL DATA MINING & WAREHOUSING

*Real-time switching enabled *Handling of multiple pricing models

*Centralized ordering with warehouse functionality

*Central reporting dashboard *Chronic Patient Management Application

CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR INDIVIDUAL BUSINESS NEEDS South Africa Office: +27 12 667 0260 South Africa Mobile: +27 73 217 9189 Kenya Mobile: +254 79 616 3186 Email: morne.liebenberg@cacorporate.co.za

computassist.co.za

G O O D L I F E

P H A R M A C Y

As part of the Company’s efforts to provide the best possible service, it has been endorsed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya - through their Green Cross Accreditation - as one of the best pharmacy practices in the country.

“This recognition of Goodlife’s ongoing commitment to excellence and high standards has affirmed our approach in this business,” explains Ruxin. “We believe that quality pharmaceuticals, the use of innovative technologies across our stores and a customer-centric approach will revolutionise how healthcare is delivered across East Africa.”

Customers for life

Alongside the excellent outward perception of the Company, it enjoys extraordinarily high employee satisfaction and retention - more than 95 percent - for such a young

business. Except for a few short-term consultants, all of the Company’s staff and leadership positions have been recruited locally.

Ruxin states: “We have always made it our aim to achieve 100 percent local employment. There is an abundance of amazing skill-sets available in the local workforce for us to utilise.”

In just three years, Goodlife Pharmacy has created more than 200 jobs and looks forward with the development of more stores to reach more than 5.5 million consumers across the continent annually.

“While as a business we have to care about profit, our clients come first,” affirms Ruxin. “Our format ensures that our advice is always provided in an ethical manner. We have and always will be interested in retaining customers for life, and by providing good health services we are ensuring that our clients will live long healthy lives.”

ARMAAN LTD

E

stablished in 1995, Armaan Ltd imports and distributes a wide range of nutrition and herbal supplements and natural personal care products.

Over the years the Company has developed from humble beginnings to become one of the most specialised and diverse import and distribution businesses in Kenya. Our key strengths are our dedicated and professional staff, our world re-known brands and our loyal clientele.

We are proud to be associated with the Goodlife Group and wish them every success as we partner with them on their journey to provide quality products and service to consumers.

E info@armaan.co.ke

www.armaan.co.ke

“While as a business we have to care about profit, our clients come first,” - Josh Ruxin

112

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

ONCE A DAY VITAMINS

Importing and distributing a wide range of nutrition and herbal supplements and natural personal care products.

ARMAAN LIMITED, PO Box 1483 Sarit Centre, Nairobi 00606, Kenya info@armaan.co.ke | www.armaan.co.ke

Proudly marketing quality healthcare products to Goodlife Pharmacies

One of the leading importers, exporters and distributors of pharmaceutical products in Kenya.

Call +254 722 627 487 www.ripplepharma.com

“Ripple Pharmaceuticals is working to help people live healthier lives.”

X-CENTRIC LIMITED P.O.Box 165-00623, Nairobi, Kenya xcentricltd@gmail.com / +254 726 777 777 / +254 733 297 555

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

113

G O O D L I F E

P H A R M A C Y

SKY HEALTHCARE LTD

T

he healthcare sector in Kenya is experiencing a period of unprecedented change. As innovators within the sector, Sky Healthcare and Goodlife Pharmacy understand how critical it is to streamline the supply chain, be flexible and reliable, and harness new technologies and ideas to improve patient care.

Through their key partnership with Goodlife, the Company helps to deliver cost effective patient care and an extensive portfolio of high quality products.

The Company’s vast experience in the healthcare sector allows it to innovate and be forward thinking with their clients, establishing lean processes, helping control drug costs and deliver effective traceable products.

T +254 20 3748562/4 E sales@skyhealthcareltd.com

Meeting new demands

Continued education is applied across customer service and product offerings

Continued education

When it comes to pharmaceutical companies, bigger usually means better and Goodlife have always been aware that it couldn’t be the best unless it was the biggest.

“We required capital in order to perfect our convenience model, systems, store look and most importantly to be large enough to obtain discounts from the drug manufacturers,” continues Ruxin.

“Increased capital has also enabled us to invest more in our employee training than any of our competitors.

“Employees at Goodlife know the importance of being the most up-to-

114

date company in the industry and therefore are constantly trained in customer service and our product offering. This continued education also spans to our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, with continued education to ensure that they are up to speed with the latest drugs and treatment protocols.”

Now the Company’s relevant protocols are firmly in place and successful, the main focus is on continuing to secure a clean pipeline of authentic drugs and negotiating down the best-in-market pricing and offering for commonly used compounds.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Goodlife has successfully and consistently reduced the price of its products ever year and hopes to continue to do so in the future.

“Our drug offering has been dramatically improved and consistently adapted in order to provide genuine generic branded drugs at a competitive price,” adds Ruxin. “We recognised early on in the business that customers seek convenience and through work with Shell and Total gas stations in Kenya and Uganda, we have been able to provide easy access to essential products for them.”

In terms of the easily accessible products and services available at present, Goodlife is able to offer BMI, glucose monitoring, pregnancy tests, malaria tests, blood pressure monitoring and much more.

Ruxin concludes: “Kenya will lead the economic future of East Africa and we are pleased to have established Goodlife here.”

H

E

A

L

T

H

C

A

R

E

Registered Independent Pharmaceutical and Surgical Wholesaler

Delivering service and value faster and more accurately than our competitors “DELIVERING WITH A DIFFERENCE” Appointed Distributors For

Sub-Distributors For

Amnicot Hooks

PHARMACEUTICAL DISTRIBUTORS & WHOLESALERS 3rd Floor, Kalson Towers 22 The Crescent Road, Off Parklands Road P.O Box 45563, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya

Switchboard: +254 20 3748562/4 +254 20 3748587 +254 725 274374 +254 733 134585

Office Mobile: +254 735 777 797 +254 786 777 796 Office Email: sales@skyhealthcareltd.com

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

115

FA R G O

C O U R I E R

Efficiency and

Excellence Fargo Courier has grown exponentially over the past 15 years from humble beginnings, to now boast an award-winning, market leading array of supply chain services Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Vivek Valmiki stablished in 2003 as a sister company to Wells Fargo Limited, Fargo Courier has harnessed the same integral values to rapidly become a market leader across areas of express courier, document archiving, secure logistics and warehousing, office and household relocation services.

Narrowed down to three core divisions of courier, logistics and warehousing, these elements integrate effectively to make the Company a supply chain entity of choice across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Operations Director, Gray Cullen further introduces: “Fargo Courier currently has more than 100 office locations spread across Kenya and now in Uganda. We also have a strategic partnership with DHL Express and other East African logistics entities for international courier which has helped us with delivery to global destinations.

“Our strategy is unusually marketdriven with client referrals being our biggest seller. You will never see a Fargo Courier billboard! We venture into partnerships that deliver value to our services and growth forecast.

116

Equally crucial for us is to ensure that we observe the highest level of ethics and integrity in our dealings.”

Fargo Courier subsequently ensures that each partnership, project and operation adheres to best practice principles, which is largely assured by keeping the customer at the centre of all considerations.

Working closely with each client, a more flexible and customisable approach is facilitated through a dedicated team of relationship managers, which then transpires in the form of heightened innovation from system interfaces to outsourced retail outlets.

Cullen continues: “This explains Fargo Courier’s comparatively rapid growth for the period it has been in existence. We are keen to remain innovative and ahead of our competition against a backdrop of technological and infrastructural developments.

“We continue to position ourselves as the premium alternative in this industry across the spectrum supporting organisations of all sizes but with a main focus on the SMEs. A wonderful success story we are proud to mention at this

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

point is a solar giant, M-Kopa.

“They approached us seven years ago as a small venture with not even an office worth of goods in storage and a tiny courier account. Today we run four dedicated warehouses with a product assembly line, 52 retail outlets and a distribution to serve such a vast solar empire. The truth is we do not know who the next M-Kopa will be!

“Today we are a large multinational business but with a small company mentality.”

S H I P P I N G

&

L O G I S T I C S

PAST SETBACKS In being a non-bureaucratic business, quicker decision-making capabilities add to its overall flexible ethos; an attribute that seamlessly transfers to all prospective partners and clients as well as allowing the business to move very quickly onto market opportunities.

Growth, innovation and leadership

Fargo Courier’s current, prominent market positioning is all the more remarkable given the relatively short period of time in which it has evolved.

It has not all been plain sailing as Fargo Courier has gone through its fair share of challenges through its growth cycle. However, the 2007-2008 Kenyan post election violence remains the most devastating period in the Company’s history.

Cullen recalls: “We went through a very difficult period trying to facilitate those in need, including our own staff through emergency relocations. Our business volumes declined and we were forced to restructure to adjust to the prevailing circumstances. We have since adopted a more cohesive and deliberate approach in team building and using our diversity as our strength whilst not being too aggressive in expanding into very remote locations. We have also developed robust business continuity plans to handle any such occurrence in the future.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

117

F A R G O

C O U R I E R

Initiating with just two offices, two land cruisers, four motorcycles and 16 members of staff in 2003, the Company has grown exponentially over the subsequent 15 years to 100 offices, 315 vehicles (95 of which are motorcycles), and warehousing in 30 locations.

“Our head office has also grown from a small office space in 2003 to the current 200,000 square feet storage and distribution facility,” Cullen adds.

“With this growth over the years, we have been able to diversify from exclusively doing distribution to the other service lines like warehousing, storage, dedicated outsourced retail sites, office and household relocations, dedicated resources, mailroom and messenger services.”

Cullen goes on to pinpoint efficiency and integrity as two overriding values to have catalysed this development, continuously investing in more robust systems in tandem with changing operational demands. In fact, no

external funding has been required to propel Fargo’s progression as it has been purely organic.

Cullen adds: “Fargo Courier attained ISO 9001:2015 certification and endeavours to promote best practices and excellence in its operations. We were also recognised in 2016 as the best courier company in East Africa in Growth, Leadership and Innovation through an independent study conducted by Frost & Sullivan for Growth, Innovation and Leadership within the Courier industry.

“Fargo Courier also won the prestigious Gold Award at the Logistics Achievers Award held in South Africa in the same year. It was an Africa-wide award incorporating entries from across global logistics and that made it all the more rewarding.”

Ultimately and pivotally from a business perspective, the upshot of this recognition is an increase in attained projects and contracts, where Fargo

A section of the fleet at the courier hub being loaded for dispatch

118

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

can then showcase its personability and industry acumen amid fluctuating customer trends and requirements.

“Once a prospect is established, a detailed proposal is sent to the client with all information on our services and rates,” says Cullen, explaining the beginning of the process. “Recently we have had an increase in contracts in electronics and high value goods distribution. At the moment we are interfacing with three leading ecommerce firms to enhance order fulfilment.

“We are further investing in a new CRM to improve inter-business communication. There is also an additional investment in 12 more vehicles this year to upgrade our fleet and five retail outlets to expand our retail footprint.”

The distribution partner of choice

Fargo Courier’s client-centric investments have recently included the deployment of warehouse ERP

S H I P P I N G

&

L O G I S T I C S

We PRINT Textbooks, Magazines, Newsletters, Annual Reports, Brochures etc.

We also SUPPLY office equipments e.g.

Computers, Computer Consumables i.e.

Cartridges, Computer Stationaries etc.

Branding and Supply of promotional items which include: polo shirts, T-shirts, corporate shirts/blouses, umbrellas, wheel covers, lanyards, sunvisors, awards/medals, pens etc.

We are proud to be associated with Fargo Courier and Wells Fargo as their supplier.

Your Credible Printer

T: +254 20 209 9433/43 | C: +254 722 817 888 E: info@starbright.co.ke | starbrightprinters@gmail.com

or WMS and courier ERP systems to integrate with clients’ own operations, compounded by further advanced technologies including a fleet management system providing realtime updates.

New additions to the vehicle fleet, upgrades to Fargo’s facilities, an increased focus on automation and improved optimisation of online services all epitomise the Company’s willingness to diversify in accordance with modern expectations.

And complementing each and every introduction and innovation, is an equally considered human resources strategy to make sure that the best minds are enabling such investments.

“There is an HR Policy as per ISO standards that guides recruitment and thereafter training - both internally and externally - in areas of operations, health & safety, and leadership,” Cullen details.“The HR policy focuses on internal promotions and empowering employees from within. This helps in

building employee loyalty and as a result staff turnover is less than two percent annually.

“Additionally, Fargo Courier believes in mentoring junior employees into senior roles to achieve energy and vibrancy in its operations. Fargo Courier also has a recognition programme that rewards the outstanding contributions by employees in various aspects within the organisation. Currently more than half of the staff managing our branch network as Branch Managers joined as entry level couriers and rose through the ranks.

“It is also worth mentioning that there is significant gender inclusivity across all roles with women getting equal opportunities and rising through the ranks on merit.”

Cullen attributes the Company’s youthful, energetic workforce (being only 34 himself) – alongside its sheer scale and volumes - as one of Fargo’s key differentiators. And given the growth, awards and recognition achieved in

www.starbright.co.ke

recent years, it’s fair to suggest that the business hasn’t finished developing yet.

Cullen concludes: “Fargo Courier has more than 15 years of experience in East Africa and is a trusted partner in the provision of customised courier services and logistics. We have one of the largest networks of branches and resources, delivering to more than 1,400 contracted clients; and through our innovative products, we now hope to be the distribution partner of choice for both contract clients and the informal cash market.

We also look forward to a shift in the market mentality leading to more organisations outsourcing all supply chain functions.

“Additionally, we look forward to more stringent regulations by the courier regulator, the Communications Authority of Kenya to better enforce service and security standards in the distribution sector as well as facilitating a meaningful address system for all the players within Kenya.”

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

119

PA R A G O N

G R O U P

Powering Africa’s Architectural

REVOLUTION Johannesburg’s Paragon Group is spearheading architectural progression within South Africa and beyond Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Eddie Clinton

120

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

C

O

N

S

T

R

U

C

T

I

O

N

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

121

P A R A G O N

G R O U P

here isn’t a better blank canvas for an architect than a Potemkin Village-style office.

Starting out with unpowered computers and borrowed furniture, Anthony Orelowitz and fellow Paragon Group Co-Founder Henning Rasmuss secured their first contract off the back of their own imagination and creativity, undertaking all aspects of internally designing the office.

It was this first contract that laid the foundations for the Johannesburgbased firm to come to the forefront of the African architectural design industry.

Operating as a team of just four people in 1999, the 20 years since its inception has seen Paragon grow substantially, now active throughout the region’s leading cities including home town Johannesburg, Cape Town, Accra and Nairobi, amongst others.

Currently, the Company has approximately 240 active projects,

122

with more than 100 employees manning its operations.

Throughout these two decades, Paragon has evolved and diversified continuously into a range of markets, as Director Orelowitz explains: “Initially the Company was known for its daring commercial office designs which have done much to define the Sandton skyline but over the last few years, we have expanded our portfolio

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

“It is heartening for Paragon to be recognised by their peers for their contribution to creating a humanist work place architecture that responds to our climate, social fabric and exploiting the opportunities offered by technology”

to include residential, retail, industrial and hotel and leisure work.

“We deliver design, project documentation, and contract administration services across a range of project types,” he continues.

“In addition, our property finance, risk assessment and management background extends our range of client services beyond that of the conventional architectural practice.”

C

O

N

S

T

R

U

C

T

I

O

N

_facadesolutions_ www.facadesolutions.co.za

T: (012) 991 0516 | F: (012) 991 0436 info@sotiralis.co.za | www.sotiralis.co.za

Structured for Excellence

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

123

P A R A G O N

G R O U P

Providing such a broad range of services, Paragon is able to work with its clients from the briefing and sketch design phases in the very beginning right through until completion and handover of its projects.

Industry Recognition

Paragon is regularly recognised for its work, renowned for its origins as a firm that handles projects with bold design and an innovative approach.

This year has already seen the Company receiving three awards, firstly with its 140 West Street complex as Best Commercial Development at the SAPOA 2018 Property Development Awards for Innovative Excellence.

Standing with a 10-storey North Tower and a 14-storey South Tower, the Hogan Lovells-occupied building features the latest in sustainable technology such as water harvesting, with a focus on incorporating natural materials and lighting throughout.

Additionally, the Company’s 70,000 square metre Sasol Place project won the Award for Excellence commendation, and its Alice Lane 3 was given the Award of Merit during the SAIA Awards 2018 ceremony held in Pretoria.

Further, Paragon itself was named as both Architectural Firm of the Year and Best Overall Professional Services Firm of the Year during the fourth annual edition of the SA Professional Service Awards (SAPSA) 2018.

“It is heartening for Paragon to be recognised by their peers for their contribution to creating a humanist work place architecture that responds to our climate, social fabric and exploiting the opportunities offered by technology,” Orelowitz states.

South Africa is famed for its architecture. From the pastoral structures of the Xhosa and Zulu era to the colonial buildings of Herbert Baker, Paragon is upholding this reputation by pioneering new age design across

124

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

140 West Street complex

C

O

N

S

T

R

U

C

T

I

O

N

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

125

P A R A G O N

G R O U P

South Africa, creating a range of the country’s most iconic buildings consistently to the highest standards.

Securing Local Talent

A key reason why the Company is able to repeatedly adhere to such high standards is the competency and professionalism of its staff.

“Staff remain our single biggest investment,” Orelowitz explains.

“Because of the nature of our work, we only hire graduates in architecture or interior architecture. Most of our staff studied locally, with a few from elsewhere in southern Africa and a couple of regional citizens.”

The Company also runs a school education programme in the aim of opening the eyes of local children to the possibilities of architectural design from a young age.

Both educating and hiring the best in young talent throughout South Africa, Paragon then provides its employees with the opportunity to continue their

126

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Katherine Street Towers

C

O

N

S

T

R

U

C

T

I

O

N CKRAdvert.pdf

2

2018/07/10

15:54

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

AFRICA | MIDDLE-EAST | ASIA

K

enquiries@ckr.co.za +27 11 217 7300

www.ckr.co.za personal development by offering internal training programmes.

Examples of this include the Company’s continuous Revit teaching initiative, an information modelling software application for architects, and its Paragon Peoples Programme, ensuring its staff are able to work with people and their tools.

“There is an emphasis on people skills and how they fit into our families and community. Our staff wellbeing is of enormous importance to us and we put much effort into their happiness with a number of social and entertainment programmes,” Orelowitz adds.

Powering Architectural Transformation

Looking Ahead, the Company intends to continue to push the boundaries of architectural design and act as one of the decisive driving forces behind the transformation of the wider continent’s property industry.

Rosebank Link

With the South African industry already valued at more than $6 billion and growing, Paragon’s consolidated position means it is well set to capitalise on this prospect moving forward.

“Africa is a difficult place to work with many political and socioeconomic challenges, but we find the opportunities inspiring,” Orelowitz concludes.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

127

Z A M R E A L

P R O P E R T Y

F O R U M

E V E N T

F O C U S

Inside the Zambian Real Estate Market

THE IMPACT OF infrastructure improvements on the economy and the Zambian real estate sector will be a major topic of discussion for more than 250 local and regional real estate executives at the third annual ZamReal Organised by API Events, African Property Forum on the 21 August, 2018. property’s most respected specialists in providing platforms for learning, growth, networking and deal-making; this year’s ZamReal Property Forum, hosted at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel, is the fifth of nine conferences planned this year in Africa’s most attractive and emerging markets.

“The Zambian market continues EVENT DETAILS to excite and attract investors from across Africa and internationally and WHEN: 21 August each year we’re able to dig deeper and attract different speakers and we’re WHERE: also able to bring new case studies Lusaka, Zambia and a masterclass workshop to the CONTACT: property sector. These additions and murray@apievents.com top-level speakers matches this year’s theme: Forging ahead, developing a WEBSITE: www.zamreal.com new agenda for prosperity,” says Kfir Rusin, API Events Managing Director.

128

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Typifying this theme of advancing the sector’s profile and the growth of the economy is Roma Park’s managing director Shaun Davy, who will present a case study to delegates on how their mixed-used project has altered the development landscape in the country.

Further, accruing commercial benefits to the private sector and generating more avenues for publicsector revenue are some of the key objectives for the decongestion project said the Lusaka City Council in a statement to ZamReal, who are a key partner of this year’s forum.

The perspective of Zambia’s most innovative and bullish investors together with public sector officials and planners in a room to overcome challenges is a strategic imperative and focus for ZamReal says Rusin.

www.zamreal.com

21 AUGUST 2018 | TAJ PAMODZI HOTEL, ZAMBIA ZAMBIA’S LEADING REAL ESTATE CONFERENCE

FORGING AHEAD, DEVELOPING A NEW AGENDA FOR PROSPERITY GOLD SPONSORS

LEAD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

INDUSTRY SPONSORS

COCKTAIL SPONSOR

MARKET RESEARCH SPONSOR

PARTNERS

1

ZamREAL Property Forum | www.zamreal.com

LUNCH SPONSOR

LEGAL SPONSOR

P O W E R

W E E K

A F R I C A

E V E N T

F O C U S

Providing leading insights on the African power and energy industry

POWER WEEK AFRICA is an international conference & summit specially designed for the African power & energy industry, promising five days of premium networking opportunities that consists of a two-day main conference, five supplementary workshops, multiple case studies from a variety of perspectives, expert opinions and

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 10-14 September WHERE: Johannesburg, South Africa CONTACT: abigail.harris@power-week.com WEBSITE: www.power-week.com/Africa

130

unrivalled insights into the African power & energy market prospects.

POWER WEEK Africa promises an abundance of opportunities to network with C-level executives in the African power & energy industry ranging from regulators, national power companies, financial institutions, investors, renewable & IPPs, government ministries, policy makers, law firms and many more. This will be your chance to interact with key players of the African power & energy industry – all at one platform!

With our diverse pool of influential participants, you are guaranteed valuable insights on a wide range of topics that concern the African power and energy industry today – climate change, renewable energy, energy mix, energy efficiency, government regulation and policies, privatisation, financing and investment, cost reflective tariffs, power infrastructure development, smart grids and mini grids, key advancements in technology, energy storage, metering, distribution, revenue collection and so much more.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Network with influential figures • Opportunities to network with some of the biggest names in the industry • Diverse perspectives • Understand the industry from a variety of different perspectives - from regulators to national power and energy companies • Solution oriented discussions • Find solutions to key issues facing the African power & energy industry • Gain a competitive advantage • Stay ahead of your competition with valuable insights exclusive to this event • Experiential understanding • Experience the successes and pitfalls of our experts through multiple case studies

POWERWEEK

--------------AFRICA-------------

10 _ 14 SEPTEMBER 2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA w w w. p ow e r - w e e k . c o m / A f r i c a

POWER WEEK Africa is an international conference & summit specially designed for the African power & energy industry, promising 5 days of premium networking opportunities that consists of a 2-day main conference, 5 supplementary workshops, multiple case studies from a variety of perspectives, expert opinions and unrivalled insights into the African power & energy market prospects.

POWER WEEK Africa promises an abundance of opportunities to network with C-level executives in the African power & energy industry ranging from regulators, national power companies, financial institutions, investors, renewable & IPPs, government ministries, policy makers, law firms and many more. This will be your chance to interact with key players of the African power & energy industry – all at one platform!

With our diverse pool of influential participants, you are guaranteed valuable insights on a wide range of topics that concern the African power & energy industry today – climate change, renewable energy, energy mix, energy efficiency, government regulation & policies, privatisation, financing & investment, cost reflective tariffs, power infrastructure development, smart grids & mini grids, key advancements in technology, energy storage, metering, distribution, revenue collection and so much more.

Grab this opportunity to be one step ahead in the industry - POWER WEEK Africa is definitely not to be missed!

This year’s conference will address cutting edge topics with Real Examples and Case Studies including: Dates

Program

11 – 12 September 2018

POWER WEEK Africa Main Conference

4 – 7 September 2018

Workshop A: Mastering Renewable & Alternative Energies

10 September 2018

Workshop B: Power Project Financing

13 September 2018

Workshop C: Energy Efficiency

14 September 2018

Workshop D: Energy Storage

17 - 20 September 2018

Workshop E: Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Produced by

Our Supporters & Partners

E: abigail@power-week.com

T: +65 6325 0274

W: www.power-week.com/Africa

F U T U R E

E N E R G Y

E A S T

A F R I C A

E V E N T

F O C U S

The number one energy conference in East Africa

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 12-13 September WHERE: Nairobi, Kenya WEBSITE: www.future-energy-eastafrica.com

132

FUTURE ENERGY EAST Africa has evolved from the East African Power Industry Convention (EAPIC).

After years of close collaboration with utilities, governments, regulators, large power users, consultants and solution providers it has become the number one power conference and exhibition in East Africa and will take place from 12-13 September, 2018 in Nairobi, Kenya.

More than 80 suppliers from across the world will not only exhibit their latest technology and solutions but will be waiting to share their experience, case studies and best practices with you.

Future Energy East Africa –

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

celebrating 20 years in East Africa is the largest and longest running regional power conference and exhibition in East Africa, making it a well-known and trusted brand.

The event boasts both a strategic conference and a large trade exhibition which provides a platform for public and private stakeholders to engage in discussions around the future of the East African energy sector, giving stakeholders the opportunity to benchmark their operations, challenges and achievements against their peers and seek suppliers who are looking to gain access to projects across the region.

SECURE YOUR EXPO SPACE TODAY!

Shorten your sales cycle and save on market research reports Expand your footprint in East Africa by finding local agents and distributors Align your brand with East Africa’s premier power and energy meeting point.

12 - 13 SEPTEMBER 2018 KICC, Nairobi, Kenya Under the auspices of the

MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND PETROLEUM

For more information, please contact Lucian Scholtz T: lucian.scholtz@spintelligent.com E: + 27 21 700 3576

www.future-energy-eastafrica.com

T H E

B I G

5

C O N S T R U C T

E G Y P T

E V E N T

F O C U S

Facilitating collaboration within Egypt’s booming construction market

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 18-21 September WHERE: Cairo, Egypt WEBSITE: www.thebig5constructegypt.com

134

THE BIG 5 Construct Egypt, the leading international construction event, launches in Egypt on the 18-21 September, 2018.

The event will bring together influential decision makers, innovators and suppliers from the region and beyond for four days of business and networking opportunities.

The country’s booming construction market has placed itself as the leading contributor to GDP growth in the region with $473 billion worth of active projects in the region, the majority of which are in Egypt.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

LAUNCH SHOW

18 - 21 SEPTEMBER 2018 EGYPT INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTER

ACCESS EGYPT'S

MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR CONSTRUCTION MARKET

B2B Hosted Buyers Programme 15+ International Pavilions

Seeking Patronage of H.E. President Sisi

22+ CPD Certified Workshops

2nd Largest Construction Event after The Big 5 in Dubai

TO ENQUIRE ABOUT EXHIBITING CONTACT MENNA LOTFY ON

MennaLotfy@dmgeventsme.com / +971 56 9907 089 www.thebig5constructegypt.com SPONSOR'S & PARTNERS

ORGANISED BY:

2 0 1 8

A P I

S U M M I T

&

E X P O

E V E N T

F O C U S

Africa’s premier real estate event ENTRENCHED AS THE must attend and largest property gathering for senior African property investors, developers and decision makers, the 9th API Summit & Expo will be held on the 20-21 September, 2018, Johannesburg, South Africa.

This year’s Summit promises to be the most robust and optimistic

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 20-21 September WHERE: Johannesburg, South Africa CONTACT: murray@apievents.com WEBSITE: www.apisummit.co.za

136

gathering in recent years as more than 600 executives representing 250 companies from 30 countries seek to capitalise off 3-4 percent continentwide GDP growth, rising commodity prices headlined by $70 oil prices and greater political stability in Africa’s major bellwether economies.

According to Summit host, API Events’ managing director, Kfir Rusin, “Africa’s resurgent economies and property markets are increasingly viewed as a smart destination for investors as global business leaders hunt for yields and growth.”

“This year’s theme – Building a Smarter Future for African Real Estate – will build the platform for influential property stakeholders to connect with each other and discuss issues around optimal sizing and restoring global confidence, while also unpacking innovations in building, identifying new funding avenues, and fostering better market transparency.”

The innovative far reaching theme and achievable objectives have gained traction with some of Africa’s largest

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

pan-African property brands. These include its largest bank, Standard Bank, Africa’s most active acquirer of diverse property assets, Grit - Real Estate Income Group, Africa’s largest multidisciplinary property services company, Broll Property Group, and Ethiopian Airlines signing up as this year’s official airline sponsor.

Global and regional trends and their relevance and learnings to the API’s Summit’s shareholders – Africa’s real estate stakeholders - is what positions the Summit at the forefront of innovation and driving Africa’s markets forwards by delivering new and relevant presentations and case studies, says Rusin.

With Africa’s consumer and retail market estimated to be worth over $1 trillion in two years, the evolving and growing sector is of major concern to the continent major moneymen and the overall economy.

TH 9 ANNUAL PLATINUM SPONSOR

AFRICA’S LEADING REAL ESTATE GATHERING 20 - 21 SEPTEMBER 2018 SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE. JOHANNESBURG FEATURES International keynote speaker Africa Property Investment Awards Pre-conferencing networking portal Masterclass training workshops

TIM MURUNGI

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR REAL ESTATE, CENTUM, KENYA

ILARIA BENUCCI

INVESTMENT DIRECTOR: EQUITY INVESTMENTS , CDC GROUP UNITED KINGDOM

FORUMS Africa Proptech Summit Mauritus Forum Funding Forum Development Innovation

DERRICK ROPER

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, NOVARE EQUITY PARTNERS SOUTH AFRICA

GAETAN SIEW

CHAIRPERSON, PORT LOUIS DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE & SPECIAL ENVOY, UN HABITAT MAURITIUS

BUILDING A SMARTER FUTURE FOR AFRICAN REAL ESTATE GOLD SPONSORS

INDUSTRY SPONSORS

MAURITUS FORUM SPONSORS

RESEARCH PARTNER

T A N Z A N I A

O I L

&

G A S

C O N G R E S S

E V E N T

F O C U S

Outlining investment opportunities in Tanzania’s oil & gas industry HON. MEDARD KALEMANI, Minister of Energy, United Republic of Tanzania, will outline the vision for Tanzania’s industrialisation powered by oil & gas, and highlight the investment opportunities that the latest project developments will bring to the country, at the second Tanzania Oil & Gas Congress, taking place from 24-25 September, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, The Kilimanjaro,

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 24-25 September WHERE: Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania CONTACT: sbuckley@thecwcgroup.com WEBSITE: www.cwctog.com

138

Tanzania.

Along with the Ministry of Energy, TPDC, PURA, EWURA, NEEC and several other key Government and industry stakeholders have also announced their support and participation in the upcoming Congress, organised by the CWC Group in collaboration with Pietro Fiorentini Tanzania as local partner.

The Conference will explore the strategic importance of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) that will provide a number of opportunities in the oil value chain and associated sectors, as well as the latest developments of its gas projects, as Tanzania strives to become the first exporter of East African natural gas, in a bid to drive forwards industrialisation and economic development in the region. Download the full programme here: cwctog.com/ programme The Congress will address the following key topics: • Project spotlight: East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) – the pipeline’s strategic importance to Tanzania and the region • Gas and LNG Mega Projects: latest updates and opportunities

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

• Panel discussion: creating a robust and investor friendly business environment in Tanzania • Gas monetisation as a force to power industrialisation and economic development • Panel discussion: local content and job creation ensuring a sustainable development in Tanzania’s oil and gas projects • Government and industry collaboration to move projects forward • Technology showcase: how to ensure project efficiencies and competitiveness?

• Downstream projects and infrastructure development in Tanzania The Congress will showcase the opportunities for investment and focus on the creation of partnerships between local and international companies by gathering together all the major Government and industry stakeholders.

Registration is now open with early bird rates available. For more information please visit: cwctog.com.

P O W E R

N I G E R I A

E V E N T

F O C U S

Energising the Nigerian power industry POWER NIGERIA EXISTS to serve the power generation and electricity transmission and distribution markets in West Africa.

The event is an annual hub for

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 25-27 September WHERE: Lagos, Nigeria CONTACT: info@power-nigeria.com WEBSITE: www.power-nigeria.com

140

suppliers and manufacturers to meet buyers and specifiers of products, driving the power market in Nigeria forward. It has been established in the region for seven years and has forged strong relationships with government, associations and other key stakeholders in the Nigerian power market.

The Power Nigeria exhibition is the West African branch of the Informa Power Portfolio which encompasses major power exhibitions in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The most notable event in the portfolio being Middle East Electricity in Dubai which has existed since 1975 and is internationally recognised as the market leader for power events.

The collective international brand status combined with local knowledge and partnerships results in Power Nigeria being the most important

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

power event for West African’s involved in energy, construction, government, consulting and power production.

S A P H E X

2 0 1 8

E V E N T

F O C U S

The go-to for the African pharmaceutical manufacturing industry SAPHEX 2018 will be held later on this year from 1-2 November at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa. We are expecting around 150 exhibitors and 2,000 visitors both local to South Africa but also Internationally.

The SAPHEX exhibition and conference is now established as the

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 1-2 November WHERE: Johannesburg, South Africa WEBSITE: www.saphex.co.za

142

go-to networking and business event for anyone working in the South African or Africa pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. The exhibition brings together all the key suppliers to the region’s pharmaceutical manufacturing base, exhibitors presenting a full range of APIs, excipients, and drug formulations; pharmaceutical packaging and syringes; processing machinery and equipment; laboratory equipment; waste and clean room technology.

In addition, The Pharmacy Show runs alongside SAPHEX, giving us the chance to bring the South African pharma industry together and drive business into the relevant sectors we now run. The Pharmacy Show will combine an exhibition and conference allowing for anyone working, supplying or supporting the South African pharmacy industry to promote their company and enhance the supply of goods and technology that pharmacists need to drive their business moving forward.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Gallagher Convention Centre Johannesburg, South Africa

SEE LOCAL & INTERNATIONAL PHARMA COMPANIES AT SAPHEX 2018

SAPHEX is now established as the “go-to” pharmaceutical manufacturing event in South Africa, and is a fixture on the calendar of key pharmaceutical professionals who attend to see best-in-class product and service suppliers, and too access peer-driven papers at the sister content-rich conference.

The exhibition brings together all the key suppliers to the region’s pharmaceutical manufacturing base, exhibitors presenting a full range of APIs, excipients, and drug formulations; pharmaceutical packaging solutions; processing machinery and equipment; laboratory equipment; and clean room technology.

There really is every reason to secure your place at SAPHEX as soon as possible, and no reason to delay.

Register Free today (limited free of charge conference places apply)

50+ Countries

2,500+ Visitors

1 st - 2 nd November, 2018 Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, south Africa

2 x Free Conferences

150+ Exhibitors

Learn more: www.saphex.co.za/event-registration/

K E N Y A

M I N I N G

W E E K

E V E N T

F O C U S

Unveiling mining opportunities within the ‘Big Four’ agenda

EVENT DETAILS

WE ARE DELIGHTED to invite you to take part in the 2018 edition of the Kenya Mining Forum conference and exhibition taking place on 12-13 November at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya.

Kenya is certainly one of the most promising destinations in Africa for business and investment in the mining sector while significant efforts have been made to put Kenya on the mining map. Hosted by the Kenya Chamber of Mines, this international B2B and B2G event offers a unique opportunity to access this emerging market and get the latest insight into upcoming developments.

WHEN: 12-13 November WHERE: Nairobi, Kenya CONTACT:

Benjamin.weinheimer@spintelligent.com

WEBSITE: www.kenyaminingforum.com

144

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

What to expect at the Kenya Mining Forum: • Strategic conference: Providing insights into hot legal issues, commodity trends, productivity tools for your operations and address power supply shortages. Special focus in 2018 on mining and quarrying.

• B2B indoor trade expo: Featuring leading technology and innovative services covering the value chain of the mining industry.

• Equipment display area: Exclusively in 2018, meet equipment and machinery suppliers who will be presenting and demonstrating live equipment for your mining operations.

• Free-to-attend technical workshops: Upskill your team or learn to mine from A to Z with technical expertise and hands-on practices.

Attend technical workshops and technological shootout sessions available on the expo floor. Free-toattend, these sessions are available to all attendees to learn more about the latest technologies, techniques and products that can assist increasing the efficiency of their operations!

• Investors’ briefing: Dedicated conference sessions and debates to equip you with the right tools to invest in Kenya’s mining.

• Matchmaking platform: Make the most of your participation at Kenya Mining Forum by meeting the right people and potential business partners. Arrange and confirm all your business meetings before the event even starts via our online matchmaking platform.

UNVEILING MINING OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE ‘BIG FOUR’ AGENDA : KENYA NAVIGATING THE PACE !

12 – 13 November 2018 Nairobi, Kenya

ARE YOU POISED FOR GROWTH AT EAST AFRICA’S EXCLUSIVE INTERNATIONAL MINING PLATFORM?

• INDOOR EXHIBITION showcasing the latest solutions for the industry • NEW ! OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT DISPLAY AREA for heavy machinery and vehicles • TWO-DAY STRATEGIC CONFERENCE on mining and quarrying • INVESTOR’S BRIEFING providing the right tools to invest in Kenya’s mining • TECHNICAL WORKSHOPS AND TECHNOLOGICAL SHOOTOUT to present innovations for mining

SECURE YOUR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY OR EXHIBITION STAND! CONTACT BENJAMIN WEINHEIMER Tel: +27 21 700 3515 Email: benjamin.weinheimer@spintelligent.com

www.kenyaminingforum.com

Hosted by

Diamond Sponsor

H I

E U R O P E

E V E N T

F O C U S

Showcasing innovative healthy products for the retail sector HEALTH INGREDIENTS EUROPE & Natural ingredients 2018 will address the booming market for food with health benefits.

As part of Hi Europe & Ni, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany (27–29 November), the new Healthy Finished Products Expo provides a novel platform for innovative new end

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 27-29 November WHERE: Frankurt, Germany CONTACT: leah.barsema@ubm.com WEBSITE: www.figlobal.com/hieurope

146

products from all over the world that have already made their way into the retail sector.

At the Healthy Finished Products Expo, exhibitors at this year’s show will present their high-quality end products – from functional foods made from natural ingredients and whole meals to special medical purposes nutrition, dietary supplements and active nutrition drinks. The new pavilion offers visitors from the retail environment a one-stop-shop on the 22,000 metres squared show floor.

In addition, a free business matchmaking tool will encourage networking throughout the show, enabling business appointments to be arranged online. A customer lounge and tasting bar will provide the perfect framework for successful meetings.

The enormous range of new developments in functional foods and beverages presented at the exhibition makes Hi Europe & Ni an important and inspirational business platform for food retailers, drugstores and pharmacies, as well as distributors.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

In addition, more than 40 exhibiting companies produce ingredients and/ or finished products themselves, including key players such as Glanbia Nutritionals and Stern Vitamins.

Healthy food: a growing but undefined category

“Consumers associate both healthy food as well as nutritional supplements with a positive effect on their own health,” Hi Europe Brand Manager Julien Bonvallet said: “At the same time, they expect more transparency, sustainability and trustworthiness than with normal finished products. Meeting these high standards is a key task for the entire industry. Inspiration, know-how and the right partners are available at HiE, with the Healthy Finished Products Expo highlighting successful product examples.”

With innovative examples from a wide variety of applications, Healthy Finished Products Expo truly reflects the full spectrum of activity in this dynamic market.

Making Innovation Taste Good!

27-29 November 2018 Frankfurt, Germany

REGISTER NOW hieurope.com

Outlook Creative Services

Complementing the production of Africa Outlook, Asia Outlook and Europe & Middle East Outlook magazines, Outlook Publishing’s award-winning in-house team is now utilising these same specialist production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

For more information on how we can work with you in providing a plethora of completely flexible and customisable production services, please visit www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

DESIGN:

E D I TO R I A L :

Stephen Giles +44 (0) 1603 959 656 steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

Matthew Staff +44 (0) 1603 959 655 matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

Devon Collins +44 (0) 1603 959 661 devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

Phoebe Calver +44 (0) 1603 959 660 phoebe.calver@outlookpublishing.com