Africa Outlook - Issue 65

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AFRICA

ISSUE 65

Belgotex, South Africa’s leading manufacturer of carpets and artificial grass, is embarking on a cultural revolution as it seeks to positively influence society

MOTT MACDONALD

Working to tackle Africa’s infrastructure deficit

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BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

Tanzania: The summit of Africa

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BROLL NAMIBIA 88 Growth from the ground up

THE GREENS 96 A responsible answer to Ghana’s housing deficit

ALSO FEATURING: A B B | H A R E L M A L L A C T E C H N O L O G I E S | A G A M A B I O G A S

ADVERTORIAL

East Africa Hub: Voith’s new center for hydropower projects in East Africa

Symbolic hand-over of the key for the new Voith Hydro East Africa Hub in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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erman technology group Voith has recently opened a new facility in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia that will be a center for hydropower projects in East Africa.

The new East Africa Hub will coordinate large and small hydropower projects in nine countries – Ethiopia, Egypt, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

“Voith has been supporting the development of clean energy generation in Africa since the 1940s.

We are reinforcing this commitment through the opening of our facility in

Addis Ababa,” said Voith Hydro CEO Uwe Wehnhardt. Voith will work with customers and investors to continue to play an active role in developing a sustainable energy supply in Africa. In this context, training measures are an important element for Voith and will in future be coordinated from Addis Ababa. The purpose of the training is to pass on the company’s extensive expertise in hydropower to local experts. Because Voith sees its role in the region not only as a supplier of cutting-edge hydropower technology but also as a full partner for developing energy infrastructure.

T + 49 7321 37-0 F + 49 7321 37-7890

www.voith.com

W E L C O M E

AFRICA

Reaching a crossroads AFRICA South Africa’s delicate economic situation has been well documented of late, its President Cyril Ramaphosa recently announcing a $3.5 billion plan to inject some much-needed financial stimulus into the country.

It is also hoped that renewed economic impetus will bring with it societal benefits, a view very much reflected by Edward Colle, CEO of Belgotex, South Africa’s largest manufacturer of carpet and artificial grass.

Optimistic of doubling Belgotex’s business over the next five years, Colle’s wider ambition revolves around transforming culture, both internally and with society writ large. “Society all around the world is dysfunctional, and South Africa 24 years on from gaining democracy has not made the progress it should have done,” he tells me. “There is a lot of blame, but somebody needs to do something about it.”

Colle is not alone in believing South Africa has reached an important crossroads in its development. Gordon Ayres, Managing Director of AGAMA Biogas, also sees his organisation’s mission as driving social change, this time through its ambition to supply more than 22,000 schools with sustainable power generation.

Two multinational firms looking to impart their expertise on industry in South Africa and the wider continent are ABB and Mott MacDonald, each firm talking to us in exclusive interviews about their ambitions for what is a bustling region for both companies.

This month’s business travel section arrows in on Tanzania and Ghana, the latter also being the focus of a pioneering housing project called The Greens.

We hear from the Company’s Founder Kiran Diswani on why this development signals a change in direction for the country’s property market.

Other exclusive insights in this packed edition span many industries, including transport, technology, finance, healthcare, construction and energy, which also includes a detailed look at the opportunities and challenges facing those looking to invest in the continent’s renewables scene. A region blessed with natural means to produce power, DWF’s Christian Helmund argues why now is an ideal time for organisations to look to Africa for sustainable investments.

Finally, a nod towards outgoing Editorial Director Matt Staff, who I’ve had the pleasure of working with on more than one occasion. After years of dedication to Africa Outlook, myself and Deputy Editor Jonathan Dyble will be continuing where he left off.

Tom Wadlow www.africaoutlookmag.com

ISSUE 65

Belgotex, South Africa’s leading manufacturer of carpets and artificial grass, is embarking on a cultural revolution as it seeks to positively influence society

MOTT MACDONALD

Working to tackle Africa’s infrastructure deficit

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BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

Tanzania: The summit of Africa

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BROLL NAMIBIA 00 Growth from the ground up

THE GREENS 000 A responsible answer to Ghana’s housing deficit

ALSO FEATURING: A B B | H A R E L M A L L A C T E C H N O L O G I E S | A G A M A B I O G A S

Editorial Director, Outlook Publishing

EDITORIAL Editorial Director: 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

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 Joe Palliser (Business Travel) joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Kane Weller kane.weller@outlookpublishing.com TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com SALES MANAGERS Jordan Levey (Business Travel) jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray (Business Travel) 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 Administrative Assistant: Sophia Curran sophia.curran@outlookpublishing.com Office Manager: Karla Doyle karla.doyle@outlookpublishing.com Digital & IT: Hamit Saka Helpdesk: James Le-May

OUTLOOK PUBLISHING Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com CONTACT Africa Outlook 69-75 Thorpe Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1UA, United Kingdom.

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In this issue...

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SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

MANUFACTURING

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NEWS

All the latest stories from across Africa

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CONSTRUCTION Shaping Africa Brick by Brick

Mott MacDonald tackles Africa’s infrastructure deficit

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How ABB is serving the food and beverage industry

ENERGY & UTILITIES Renewed Hope

DWF on Africa’s clean energy potential

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDES

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BELGOTEX For the Love of Country

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TATA CHEMICALS SA’s Chemical Curator

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SONA GROUP Pride of Nigeria

TANZANIA

The summit of Africa

GHANA

Epitomising the continent’s tourism potential

Embarking on a cultural journey

Powering industrial expansion

Championing home-grown produce

CONSTRUCTION

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TECHNOLOGY Powering Productivity

S E C T O R F O C U S

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BROLL NAMIBIA Growth from the Ground Up

Setting the standard in Namibian property services

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THE GREENS A Responsible Answer to Ghana’s Housing Deficit Shaking up the property industry

AFRICA F O O D & D R I N K

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OASIS WATER Safeguarding Southern Africa’s Water

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TEMA OIL REFINERY Ghana’s Cardinal Refinery Empowering economic prosperity

Implementing sustainable and innovative solutions

ENERGY & UTILITIES

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THE COCA-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY GHANA Passion, Excellence and Diversity Staying true to a worldrenowned brand

T E C H N O L O G Y

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HAREL MALLAC TECHNOLOGIES Transforming African Business

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TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY Scaling New Heights Flying the flag for progressive reform

Fuelling the future with biogas

MINING & RESOURCES

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SFTP MINING Elevating ECOWAS Economies

Combining industry experience with local expertise

E V E N T

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ER GROUP Multifaceted Healthcare

AFRICAN PORTS AND RAIL EVOLUTION

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2ND EDITION REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT 2018

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KEYHEALTH MEDICAL SCHEME A Patient-First Mentality

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LIBERTY LIFE ASSURANCE UGANDA Peace of Mind

5TH SENEGAL INTERNATIONAL MINING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION Exploring Senegal’s mining potential

Maintaining medical excellence

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Exploring opportunities to upgrade

Arrowing in on Africa’s property industry

Pursuing a South African medical ideal

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F O C U S

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H E A L T H C A R E

Facilitating technological innovation

T R A N S P O R T

AGAMA BIOGAS The Power to Transform

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Protecting the lives of more than 500,000 Ugandans

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FUTURE ENERGY NIGERIA

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GAS OPTIONS NORTH AND WEST AFRICA

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AFRICA RENEWABLE ENERGY FORUM

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ELECTRICX

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MINING INDABA

Addressing challenges in Nigeria’s power industry

The future of gas on the continent

Discussing power projects in North and West Africa North Africa’s leading power exhibition and conference Africa’s premier mining industry showcase

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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

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

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Cyril Ramaphose greeting the President of Chile in 2014

FINANCE

Ramaphosa announces $3.5 billion economic stimulus plan South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a new R50 billion (US$3.5 billion) stimulus programme in the aim of reenergising the national economy.

The government previously announced a range of measures that it had hoped would set the country on a new path to growth, employment and transformation in February. However, the country has continued to endure economic difficulties since, resulting in the need for more drastic measures.

The stimulus package has largely been earmarked towards helping bolster job creation through national infrastructure development, set to be delivered through a new established infrastructure fund.

Such investment is renowned

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for its economic benefits, offering the opportunity to create a large number of new jobs, attract external investment and facilitate sustainable economic expansion.

“We are establishing a dedicated infrastructure team in the presidency that has project management and engineering skills‚ which will identify shovel-ready public sector projects such as roads and dams‚” Ramaphosa said during a briefing at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

With the government having pledged R50 billion, Ramaphosa hopes to secure R400 billion from various financial institutions, pension funds and other bodies to maintain the fund moving forward.

Further, Ramaphosa has attempted to reassure the population, stating

that these funds will come from reprioritised expenditure and new project-level funding.

“We have limited fiscal space to increase spending or increase borrowing… we have to resort to reprioritising our spending and budget within the current fiscal frame work​,” he added.

Further, Ramaphosa also revealed that the stimulus package would have wider implications for the economy.

These will include an altered national Mining Charter, changes to visa requirements in the aim of bolstering national tourism, the planned development of industrial parks, and reforms in the telecommunications industry, namely through the release of spectrum to encourage greater competition and drive down data costs.

“The stimulus package consists of a range of measures, financial and non-financial, to ignite economic activity and restore investor confidence, and prevent further job losses, and create new jobs,” Ramaphosa explained.

The news comes after the country technically slipped into a recession at the end of Q2 2018, with the economy having contracted by 0.7 percent, reflecting continually low business and consumer confidence.

Compared to the 0.6 percent growth that economists had forecast, the poor performance was much worse than had been anticipated.

Following the speech, the rand rose to R14.22 against the dollar, its best performance in approximately four weeks.

“Together, we are taking bold and concrete measures to ensure a clear and sustained improvement in the lives of all South Africans,” the South African President concluded.

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

AFRICA OIL & GAS

SDX Energy enters talks to buy Egypt assets from BP SDX Energy, a UK-based firm concentrating on exploring, developing and operating oil & gas properties in Egypt, has said it is in talks with BP over the potential purchase of some of its operations in the country.

In a statement released to the media, SDX said: “The Company’s shares have been suspended from trading on AIM with immediate effect and will remain suspended until an admission document has been published or until the Company confirms that the acquisition is not proceeding.

“Trading in the shares of the Company on the TSX Venture Exchange will also be halted during such time.”

The proposed deal has been reported to be worth around $1

billion, and concerns BP’s stake in the Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company (also known as Gupco).

This is a joint venture between the British firm and Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation which was established in the 1960s and produces an average of around 70,000 barrels of oil a day.

SDX has been growing strongly in terms of presence in Egypt and net revenues. In the six months ended June 30, the Company turned over $24.4 million, an increase of more

HOSPITALITY

AccorHotels lines up $1 billion investment in Sub-Saharan Africa European hotel operator AccorHotels is planning to take on its rivals in Africa as its regional CEO announced a huge investment programme.

The firm is creating a fund with the Qatar Investment Authority that will see it invest $1 billion into the continent, the equivalent of 40 new hotels.

Accor already runs 114 hotels in Africa through its Novotel, Pullman and CEO Mark Willis now is to expand the Ibis brands, with around 70 percent Company’s presence further south.

Willis told Reuters that there is a of these being in northern countries.

The focus for Middle East and Africa gap in the market for economy and

than a third when compared to the same period in 2017.

It has made numerous recent discoveries in Egypt, including in July when it found gas reserves at its SD-3X in the South Disouq concession area.

Speaking at the time, President and CEO Paul Welch commented: “With our drilling activities completed, we will now focus on the completion of the South Disouq processing facility and pipeline infrastructure with a view to achieving first production by the end of 2018.” mid-range hotel options, and that the Company is looking to the likes of Nairobi, Cape Town, Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa, Dakar, Kampala and Abidjan for growth.

Radisson is a major international rival to Accor in the region, operating 86 hotels in Africa with several more under development. Other firms like Hilton and Hyatt are also ramping up expansion on the continent.

In South Africa, Accor recently acquired a 50 percent share in the country’s Mantis Group, a Company which manages a portfolio of five-star properties and lodges around the world.

Willis said that Accor’s strong North African presence would serve as an ideal springboard into the rest of the region.

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Anglo American eyes up exploration in Angola SHIPPING & LOGISTICS

Port of Durban to be upgraded to handle larger container ships African rail operator Transnet said it will deepen shipping berths at the Port of Durban, a move which will allow it to accommodate larger container vessels.

The Company announced it would spend $464 million on the project and hopes to have the work completed by 2023. Berths 203 to 205 are scheduled for reconstruction.

Durban handles almost two thirds of South Africa’s container traffic, which equates to around 80 million tonnes of cargo a year.

The port also houses a busy cruise terminal, which is subject to a R200 million upgrade agreed in April 2018.

The new cruise terminal is expected to commence operations in October 2020, allowing for simultaneous embarkation and disembarkation of passengers on multiple vessels.

TECHNOLOGY

MTN secures licence renewal in Uganda South African telcom giant MTN will continue to provide services in Uganda after the country’s state-run media agency said it would renew its operating licence.

MTN Uganda is the largest communications provider in East Africa and has more than 10 million

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Mining giant Anglo American wants to explore Angola for base metals, putting in a request to the country’s Ministry of Mineral Resources & Oil. Anglo is the first miner to ask for exploration permits since Angolan President João Lourenço said he would open up the industry to

foreign investors.

The revelation comes at a time of growing commodity prices, which is leading major operators in the sector to slowly step up exploration activities. Copper, iron ore and gold are thought to be minerals most likely to be found in Angola.

In South Africa, Anglo sold its New Largo coal project to a majority black-owned and managed company, New Largo Coal Proprietary Limited.

subscribers to its network, launching in the country in 1998 with an initial 20-year agreement.

Uganda Media Centre said it would tighten up the terms under which MTN operates, with one condition requested in exchange for a 10-year renewal being that the telco lists its shares on the local stock exchange.

Indian firm Bharti Airtel is among the main competition for MTN Uganda, along with several other smaller firms.

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AFRICA FOOD & DRINK

RETAIL

Coca-Cola West Africa nears takeover of Chi

SA’s Clicks Group CEO David Kneale to retire

Nigerian juice company Chi is close to being taken over by food and beverage giant Coca-Cola’s West African division.

Peter Njonjo, president of the regional business, told Reuters that the deal was on track to be completed within the first quarter of 2019.

Coca-Cola already owns 40 percent of Chi after buying the stake back in 2016, at the time aiming to complete the takeover within three years, something it is now on course to do.

Njonjo has previously outlined plans to introduce more affordable drinks

Health and beauty retailer Clicks has announced that CEO David Kneale will be standing down in January after more than 25 years at the Company.

Current Chief Operating Officer Vikesh Ramsunder will succeed Kneale, 63, who will take up a strategic advisory role until the end of August 2019.

Clicks Chairman David Nurek said: “Under his (Kneale’s) leadership the Group has delivered superior returns to shareholders and seen the market capitalisation grow to R50 billion ($3.5 billion).”

The announcement comes at a time of promising growth for Clicks, which is expected to see sales increases of between 12 and 17 percent for the full year period to August.

options to the Nigerian market, with smaller bottles and cans seen as a way of doing this.

A G R I C U L T U R E

Moroccan irrigation firm CMGP sells majority stake for $100 million Compagnie Marocaine de Goutte à goutte et de Pompage (CMGP), a Moroccan irrigation company, has sold a majority share to private equity from DPI for approximately $100 million.

DPI Partner Sofiane Lahmar said: “We are very excited to partner with CMGP and M. Youssef Moamah to support the Company’s growth in

Morocco and across Africa.

“Over two-thirds of Morocco is listed as agricultural land according to the World Bank, with only a small percentage available for irrigation, therefore CMGP is well-positioned to grow and provide these essential solutions.”

Established in 1995, CMGP is the market leader for irrigation in Morocco and offers a comprehensive range of products across the manufacturing, distribution, and integration of irrigation and microirrigation equipment primarily into the agriculture and infrastructure sectors.

FINANCE

World Bank gives $500 million finance package to Tunisia The World Bank has handed a $500 million loan to help Tunisia deliver on its budget commitments.

Through its subsidiary, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), it will support all sectors which it views as offering employment opportunities.

The revelation was made by Mouayed Makhlouf, IFC Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, at the International Forum on Public-Private Partnership held in Tunis.

“The main challenge is to create employment potential in Tunisia in addition to accelerating the pace of economic growth,” he said. Publicprivate partnerships are considered important to the World Bank’s plans, with Makhlouf stating that some MENA countries are behind the curve in this regard.

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Shaping Africa Brick by Brick 12

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Mott MacDonald is gradually reducing one of the world’s largest infrastructure deficits through forward thinking and a renewed approach Writer: Jonathan Dyble

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Africa is the same land area as the United States, India, China and Australia combined, it’s got 30 percent of the world’s known mineral reserves, and yet it’s got 75 percent of the world’s poorest countries,” says George Rennie, General Manager of Africa for Mott MacDonald.

Africa faces many challenges. The widespread infrastructure deficit across the continent is a major restraint on long term economic growth, whilst a significant proportion of the African population are without access to things that many of us would consider fundamentals.

However, Mott MacDonald islooking to change this.

With a team of 1,200 staff in 22 offices across Africa, the Company is playing a major role in accelerating regional development, led by Rennie himself – a man who has worked in the sector throughout his entire career.

“When I graduated I wanted to travel,” he says. “I always had an interest in working in different parts of the world and I wanted to do development work.

It was a bit of a regret that I hadn’t done more in Africa, so when this opportunity came up it was something I really jumped at.”

A refined focus

In 2017, Mott George MacDonald Rennie undertook work in 44 of the 54 countries across Africa, implementing its newly outlined global strategy across these operations.

Rennie explains: “We recently did quite a bit of work on revisiting our global strategy which had been

THE AFRICAN INFRASTRUCTURE DEFICIT > Household electrification rate is 43 percent, leaving 600 million people without access to electricity. > 53 percent of the continent’s roads are unpaved, isolating people from fundamental institutional services such as health and education. > Handling costs at ports in Africa are 50 percent higher than in other parts of the world. > Broadband coverage is just 16 percent. > Only 18.6 percent of the population use the internet.

unchanged for a number of years. This entailed a bit of a rebrand; we changed our logo and our motto, but more importantly we made the decision to focus on six core sectors around the world.

“This approach has been particularly relevant in Africa as there is significant regional opportunity in all six sectors.”

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Shaping the mould

Working across such a vast range of sectors, Mott MacDonald has achieved a great deal across Africa over the years.

One key example, as highlighted by Rennie, was the Company’s work with the Transnet National Ports Authority in developing the Port of Ngqura.

Standing as a world class deep water

Port of Ngqura

MOTT MACDONALD’S SIX CORE SECTORS Advisory “This has involved supporting South Africa’s Independent Power Producers Programme, helping it to develop its strategy across the spectrum of renewables and other energy requirements such as gas and coal.”

Built Environment “We developed the Department of Environmental Affairs’ headquarters in Pretoria for the South African government – the first six-star green rating building in South Africa.”

Energy “We focus a lot of our work on strengthening transmission distribution systems across southern Africa; in Zambia, Botswana, Malawi. We’re involved in Malawi with the US Millennium Challenge Corporation on this front.”

International Development “Our international development team does a huge amount of work, involved in overseeing institutional reform projects, such as award-winning education and health delivery programmes.”

Transport “Historically we’ve done a lot of work helping South Africa to develop their rail and port infrastructure.”

Water and Sanitation “We’ve worked with a number of municipalities and their water authorities, helping to run water sanitation programmes in Sierra Leone and other African nations.”

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transhipment hub, the port offers an efficient and globally competitive trade location within Sub-Saharan Africa, situated 20 kilometres northeast from Port Elizabeth between Durban and Cape Town.

“We achieved a total of five million hours of work without a single accident, which is really outstanding, and I’m particularly proud of that,” Rennie explains.

Further, he recalls the extensive role that the Mott MacDonald-led consortium played in running the Shire River Basin Management Programme in Malawi.

The Shire River Basin is Malawi’s single most important water source, substantially helping to uphold the country’s economic stability. Lasting for a period of five years, the now completed project has improved land and water management across the country, protecting and enhancing Malawi’s national ecosystem.

“The project has come to an end recently, and it is hugely inspirational what was achieved over the years,” Rennie says. “For me, it is truly heartwarming that the programme was recognised at the British Expertise International Awards 2018 within the Physical Project category.”

Transcending the normal

For Mott MacDonald, corporate social responsibility is part and parcel of the business model.

“There’s a crying need for infrastructure and institutional development to be improved, equally with economic growth and declining levels of poverty,” says Rennie. “Are we doing that because it’s good CSR, or because its good business? Well, the answer is both – at Mott MacDonald, the two aren’t separated.

“In the work we’re doing, the objective is to make the world a better place. In everything we do we aim to achieve sustainable outcomes, whether that be for our stakeholders

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‘The Shire River Basin is Malawi’s single most important water source, substantially helping to uphold the country’s economic stability’

or for the communities we are serving.”

Such work is fundamental in aiding Africa’s continental economic advancement, forecast to grow 3.1 percent this year by the World Bank. However, despite this, the Company is also constantly looking to help in other ways, encouraging its staff to get involved in local communities and initiatives to tackle problematic issues.

“The nature of our business means we are contributing positively, but we also consciously and intentionally want

The Shire River Basin project has improved land and water management across the country

to do things that go beyond that,” Rennie states.

“Our HR Manager Ursula Thys recently took part in a sleep out to raise funds to help alleviate homelessness, for example, whilst our staff in Uganda are delivering maths

and science tutoring to schools.”

With much progress having been made, Rennie hopes that Mott MacDonald will continue to empower this trend moving forward in the aim of gradually making Africa a more manageable continent.

He concludes: “Looking ahead, the point I would make is, Africa can be a very frustrating place. It’s often two steps forward one step back, and maybe that’s on a good day. I think we’re doing some good work, but I think there’s a lot more that we could do.”

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P R O D U C T I V I T Y

POWERING

Productivity ABB’s formidable technological expertise is being put to game changing effect across the African continent, not least in the region’s food and beverage industry Writer: Tom Wadlow

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BB is officially changing the world. Ranked eighth among the top global companies that help the planet and tackle social problems by Fortune, the pioneering technology leader has been innovating for more than 130 years.

From automotive and mining to rail transport and wind power, the Company has been supplying industries all over the world with automation and smart technologies designed to boost productivity.

Africa’s food and beverage sector is a relatively new addition to this list, but one ABB identifies as carrying

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ABB is a world renowned industry leader that has been pioneering innovation for more than 130 years

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enormous potential. If AGRA’s forecast in its latest Africa Agriculture Status Report is correct, then businesses will seize opportunities worth more than $1 trillion a year by 2030 as imports are substituted with locally-produced food.

Linda Eales is ABB South Africa’s Regional Industry Manager for Food and Beverage, responsible for growing the Company’s operations across 12 Sub-Saharan nations.

A former Schneider Electric veteran of 11 years, Eales was lured away by the opportunity to work with another renowned global brand, one which recognises the need to introduce smarter ways of producing food and drink across the African continent.

“There is huge potential here in light of automation and replacing manual processes,” she says. “There is also big potential in terms of food resources in Africa, and we’re only just starting to realise this opportunity.

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“Multinational companies are acquiring and investing in smaller enterprises. They can see the promise and are building factories, expanding operations and upgrading machinery as a result.”

Untapped potential

Eales is in no doubt that Africa’s food and drink manufacturing represents enormous promise.

For instance, in Nigeria, by far Africa’s most populated country, it is estimated that $10 billion of food export revenues have been lost due to underproduction.

“ABB is a perfect fit for the food and beverage industry,” Eales says.

“We probably have 99 percent of the electrical and automation applications that this market needs to thrive. If you look at current trends, issues such as productivity and health and safety are right at the forefront. We have solutions to these problems.”

However, maximising this potential will not be without its challenges.

Spiralling consumer demand for both variety and quality at reasonable prices places pressures on manufacturers to keep their offerings relevant and efficient, while ever-evolving techniques require almost constant training.

Eales continues: “Level of service, skills and speed are among the biggest barriers facing the market at present. Customers expect very quick turnaround times, so companies that can produce quickly and cheaply will gain a better grip of the industry.”

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hygiene to 100 percent traceability.

Add in the challenges presented

by African climates, politics and inconsistent infrastructure, and the need for flexible, cost-effective production systems becomes all the more paramount.

“We are providing more and more consultancy and training services to the end user,” Eales says. “Client companies looking to expand operations do not always know what they need, so we can add a lot of value here.”

Africa Agriculture Status Report Key observations Each year AGRA produces a study on the state of food production across the continent. Here are some of the major conclusions from the latest publication, looking back on 2017.

• Africa’s food import bill is estimated to be at $30-50 billion.

• Smallholder farmers, working an average of two hectares, account for 80 percent of the food Africans eat – there is thus a huge opportunity to transition these enterprises into thriving businesses.

• Around 70 percent of Africa’s population works in agriculture • The report calls for an agricultural transformation that is more focused on a market driven, business agenda that encompasses the entire food system, not just agricultural production.

• The private sector, and companies such as ABB, can and should take the lead in transforming the food system, the report states.

• Changes in diets and the urbanisation of many food chains are creating even more opportunities for adding value and creating employment within the broader agri-food system.

Education in automation

This is where ABB’s knowledge and experience comes to the fore.

Consultancy services form a key part of helping African food and beverage producers get up to speed on the sorts of technologies that could optimise their operations.

Manufacturers today are faced with managing multiple complexities in parallel, from faultless safety and

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P O W E R I N G

Uptime

P R O D U C T I V I T Y

From smart sensors and robotics to real time information gathering, Eales cites many ways in which ABB technology is helping African producers.

The area of predictive maintenance is one such example. “Harvesting information from systems and devices is critical for food and drink manufacturers,” Eales states. “The trend is very much towards repairing these machines via the cloud, and this is one of biggest areas ABB can add value, not least because of our ongoing collaboration with Microsoft.

“For instance, in refrigeration, compressors are an important component, and losing one of them can lead to having to waste food products, which results in loss of time and profit. With a predictive motor sensor, customers can monitor the

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“Consumers are driving diversification of products, and platforms like social media are helping companies to quickly gauge what is popular and what is not”

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state of the equipment and predict when it will need maintenance or replacing.

“The same logic can be applied to energy usage, which is critical given that the cost of electricity to producers is huge.”

As Eales eludes to, key to maintaining uptime is a stable power supply, a common problem facing industrial operations in many African nations.

ABB’s microgrid is an off-grid energy storage and distribution solution which safeguards against electrical outages, a system the Company is looking to roll out extensively across the continent given its potential to harness the power of solar.

“We have good orders on the books, especially in the beverage industry, but again this is about education and telling companies about the long-term

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benefits to be had from investing in solar,” Eales adds.

“This is certainly an area ABB is targeting, as unstable power supplies present big problems to manufacturing operations. Being able to tap energy from a natural resource will only help this situation.”

The digital age

Asked what trends will drive the future development of the industry, Eales quickly states the growing influence of the digital consumer.

In an age where unprecedented choice, value and convenience are demanded by customers leading increasingly busy lifestyles, it is imperative that Africa’s food and beverage industry can make their offerings suitable to this evolving demographic.

“Consumers are driving diversification of products, and platforms like social media are helping companies to quickly gauge what is popular and what is not,” Eales says.

“More and more people are moving into mid-income sectors, and this is fuelling demand for better food and drink products.”

“More and more people are moving into mid-income sectors, and this is fuelling demand for better food and drink products”

And it is this emerging band of mid-income earners that fuels Eales with optimism about the future of the continent and its food production, although clear and obvious challenges still remain if Africa is to catch up with other parts of the world.

She concludes: “I am very optimistic.

Clearly there are political and natural factors that may present challenges, but if you stripped that away and lived in a utopian scenario, the eyes of the world would be on Africa in terms of food production and growth of food production.”

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Renewed

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frica needs to double its output of electricity by 2030 if it is to keep up with demand. Economic growth, changing lifestyles and a growing population are all placing strain on the continent’s electricity grid, and according to research conducted by global legal firm DWF, renewables are set to play a huge part in the future.

Christian Hellmund, Partner in Energy and Renewables, recently co-wrote the DWF report, What’s holding Africa back? Delivering renewable energy in a challenging market. Here he answers our questions on the research and his thoughts on the industry’s potential.

Africa Outlook (AfO): Why does Africa present an exciting prospect for investment in renewable energy?

Christian Hellmund (CH): Currently, over 640 million Africans have no access to electricity. Not only is there a huge electricity supply deficit but also an enormous scale of demand for energy. Due to economic development and democratisation in the region, the domestic and industrial demand for power has vastly increased, and the current levels of investment lag far behind these fast-growing needs.

These needs are only set to intensify, with the International Energy Agency predicting that the demand for electricity in sub-Saharan Africa will increase by 4.6 percent annually.

Africa is also arguably the most vulnerable continent to the impacts of global warming and so needs to consider how it will address climate change in the future. All 54 African

HOPE Christian Hellmund of global law firm DWF explains why Africa is ripe for investment in its abundant potential for renewable energy generation

Writer: Tom Wadlow Union countries have already come together to promote the Paris accord, demonstrating a fundamental commitment to a renewable future.

The African markets are also rich in the natural resources needed to produce renewable energy.

Additionally, innovations in raising finance are creating new and exciting opportunities for developers and investors, meaning that renewable projects are now competitive with conventional projects.

AfO: I see you have identified four key challenges in your research. What, for you, is the single biggest challenge facing Africa and its implementation of renewable energy?

CH: While the political environments in African countries will continue to be highly influential in site selection, it is in the financing and bankability of projects where the biggest challenge lies.

There is a mismatch between the number of developers who need funding and the number of funders who need projects. Developers rely on equity and grants for early-stage project funding and are desperate for investors to get involved earlier

in the process. Often, investors have a lot of money to deploy for a project but are not willing to put funds into the development of the project due to the small size of the investment and the high risks and possibility of low returns involved with any venture in emerging markets. Developing projects in Africa can take up to ten years and subsequently developers often run out of financing before securing long-term investment.

AfO: Briefly outline the other three challenge areas.

CH: The other challenge areas are site selection, feasibility and planning; construction and commissioning; and distribution and technology.

Finding a stable and supportive political environment is the most important factor to consider when selecting a location to invest in such projects. Getting this right has a significant influence on the success of renewable energy projects in Africa. The potential impact of an electoral cycle on the momentum, stability and ongoing security of a development is immense.

Sound fundamentals should be sought when selecting a project location: a positive business environment, good transport, adequate grid infrastructure and stable and secure off-takers.

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Risks at the construction stage are relatively limited and manageable because once a project is financed, technical on-the-ground risks are relatively minor. This is assuming the right people are in place with the necessary skills, commitment and project management experience.

The African grid infrastructure is often poor and there is little that can be done to improve it once a project is in progress. This risk must be mitigated at the due diligence and financing stages.

‘Battery storage technology will be vital – the technology has already significantly improved, and costs are coming down’

improved price and reliability of these storage solutions also increases the opportunities for commercial, industrial and grid backup applications.

New storage technology providers may enhance the feasibility and flexibility of renewable energy projects. There will be a role for battery storage retrofitted to utility scale wind riskier projects. Blockchain peer to peer and solar projects in the future, when the costs come down. Forward-looking technology enables crowdfunding innovations and also provides the companies are adopting an active strategy of acquiring projects now, potential for African renewables projects to utilise innovative energy with the intention of adding storage AfO: How can investors and management and supply models. technology in the future. organisations overcome these But, until energy storage is widely Developers need to make the social challenges? What general advice would and community impact of the project used at a commercially attractive price you give? attractive to government and investors. point, the intermittent nature of most CH: The African market holds Developers should also allow renewables means that other energy different complexities so identifying generous time contingencies in the sources will continue to be used to effective local partners is essential construction schedule as it will inevitably provide a reliable baseload power. to navigating these. I would advise take longer than planned. In relation Realistically, we are years away from that developers network extensively completely self-sufficient, large-scale, to distribution and technologies, grid through existing contacts and visit operators should be consulted at an battery based renewable projects. regional events to build local business early stage to help avoid problems.

I also believe that blockchain is and political relationships. another exciting technology with Projects also have a greater chance AfO: What technologies have you the power to transform this sector, of getting off the ground if developers particularly as an exciting new identified as crucial to the have access to funds at an early development of the sector? crowdfunding model. Blockchain stage. Financial aggregators provide CH: Battery storage technology will uses distributed ledgers rather than a opportunities to achieve a project size central database to store information. be vital – the technology has already and reduction of risk that encourages significantly improved, and costs Because the records are distributed, investors who would not consider the information is far less vulnerable are coming down. This is enabling individual projects. Decentralised renewable energy companies to to hacking so it provides a relatively crowdfunding also provides new partner with advanced technologies safe ledger of any form of economic sources of investment for smaller and transaction. It also creates new to offer 24-seven solutions. The

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opportunities in peer-to-peer energy transactions, such as allowing projects to be split into shares and treated as tradeable assets that can change hands often and fast, as opposed to long-term investments.

Any transaction that had previously required third party validation and security has the potential for blockchain to step in. For example, the management and supply of energy provision can be decentralised. The Sun Exchange, based in South Africa, is a great example of this: it enables users to buy and earn rental income from solar panels on commercial rooftop space by feeding surplus energy into the grid.

Blockchain can also be used for managing payments and implementing ‘smart contracts’ that can be set to execute automatically based on transaction data. This fast-growing technology provides further potential for African renewable projects to ‘leapfrog’ conventional infrastructures, and invest directly in innovative and flexible decentralised energy management and supply models.

AfO: Are you optimistic about the future of renewable energy in Africa? What do you expect to see in five to 10 years’ time?

CH: Despite the significant challenges, I think there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the

Why solar power is spreading so fast in Africa

How Blockchain works Jim wants to send Mary some money

The network verifies the transaction is valid

The transaction is represented online as a block

The block is added to the chain, reconciling across the network, creating a permanent record

The block gets distributed across the network

The record of ownership of the money moves from Jim to Mary

Blockchain can also be used for managing payments and implementing ‘smart contracts’

future of renewable energy projects in Africa. As technologies become more efficient and widely adopted, the production cost is falling rapidly so global investment in renewable energy becomes more and more attractive.

The next big political change in Africa will be vast improvements in state

bureaucracy and governance. Private sector investment is currently picking up the gaps in essential energy services; and this will continue as governance improves because of the pressure from the big demand for energy.

The demand for electricity in Africa will increase and by 2030 demand will reach more than double the current electricity production. New energy sources will be needed, and it is my belief that renewable energy projects can help to satisfy this increasing demand.

In five to 10 years, I expect to see a lot of renewable energy projects in the pipeline throughout Africa. I predict these will be financed by new financial models, like crowdfunding, project aggregation and blockchain technology. Such models are crucial in closing the funding gap between investors and developers.

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T A N Z A N I A

Famed for being home to Africa’s highest point, the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s tourism industry also looks set to peak thanks to the work of numerous associations Writer: Tom Wadlow

anzania – home to Mount Kilimanjaro and the highest point in Africa. Mostly set 600 feet above sea level, the East African country plays host to some of the continent’s most spectacular scenery, from expansive plains and plateaus to beautiful offshore islands and the enormous Lake Victoria in the north.

The equatorial nation became sovereign in 1964 through the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, the former

covering 99 percent of the combined territories’ landmass and the latter still possessing a separate governmental administration.

Tanzania’s travel and tourism market is becoming increasingly important to the nation’s economy. The World Travel & Tourism Council reports that the industry contributed $1.92 billion to the country’s finances last year, a figure set to rise to more than $2.1 billion in 2018.

This projected rise of 9.4 percent is the second largest in the world.

Beyond the stunning scenic

TANZ Project Manager: Ryan Gray

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offering, wildlife and safari form a vital component of the country’s tourism sector, with many well-established operators running trips via land, water and air – some you will see later on in this guide.

In terms of city life, the major cultural and economic hub Dar es Salaam will not disappoint with its array of food, drink and landmark attractions. Off the coast, the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba are popular choices for visitors, while Mafia Island is emerging as something of a hidden gem.

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AFRICA FACTS & FIGURES President: John Magufuli Languages: Swahili, English Area: 947,303 km2 Population (2016): 55 million GDP (2016): $47.65 billion Currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS) Time zone: UTC+3 Dialling code: +255 Internet TLD: .tz

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Hotel Association of Tanzania FORMED IN 2004, the Hotel Association of Tanzania (HAT) originated from the Hotel Keepers Association of Tanzania which started in the 1970s.

“The initial vision at that point, like many other private sector association forming at the time, was to have an association that will help private sector navigate this new relationship between them and public sector in the industry,” remarks Nura Lisa Karamagi, current CEO of HAT. “There were several gaps in the laws and missing institutions, therefore the main objective was to make sure that the private sector had a say in the type of business environment that was being set.”

How has the organisation advanced since and what lies ahead for Tanzania?

Karamagi answers our questions.

Africa Outlook (AfO): Since inception, how has HAT developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across?

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NK: We promote and protect the interests of registered accommodation establishments through lobbying and advocating for laws, regulations and processes that will have positive implication on private sector, public sector and the Tanzanian economy.

The message we try to get across with government is that we are partners and need to work together in creating a viable business environment and to in assure the sustainability of the tourism industry as a whole.

The Hotels Association of Tanzania, with its members, has always worked in partnership with our ministry and its respective authorities, and

“Our ultimate objective is to make the Tanzanian hospitality industry competitive globally...”

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all other tourism associations and stakeholders to promote, strengthen and protect our industry to be not only financial, socially sustainable, but now also environmentally sustainable.

Our ultimate objective is to make the Tanzanian hospitality industry competitive globally and viable for the investors, employers, employees, local communities, suppliers and the Government.

AfO: How would you say Tanzania has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?

NK: There has been a growth in the number of familiar and revered hotel chains such as Southern Sun, Ramada, Radisson Blu, Hyatt, Marriot, Four Points, Holiday Inn to name a few. Tanzania has several diverse investment appeals and saw a lot of businesses coming in the country.

Of late there have been growing challenges in the business community, and there has been a slump, however, the private sector and government are

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working towards rectifying this.

Recently the government, through its Tourism Board, has formed a conferencing bureau. Tanzania is a bit late in tapping into this market, however, the Ministry of Tourism has focused on diversifying from Tanzania’s typical wildlife tourism and travel and is investing in other products and regions including MICE tourism. The government officially made Dodoma the new capital a few days ago and we are certain to see businesses grow there.

AfO: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector in Tanzania now compared to its condition when HAT began?

NK: The tourism sector has grown the past 14 years and is growing, but again, especially at present, perhaps not at the pace that it potentially has.

Part of the challenge has been that focus on tourism has been placed in the northern regions of the country.

Second has been the seasonality of the industry. However, as mentioned, the government has recognised this limitation and is investing in diversifying and encouraging

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“... I am confident that businesses will bounce back and investments will grow in time again. Tanzania still has untapped and unlimited potential” investments for a variety of products across the country, focusing also on promotion of the development of the coastline that Tanzania has.

The government has also opened up three new parks in the western part of the country and Urithi Festival – a month long celebration of Tanzania’s heritage – launched for the first time this year, and will be held every September, showcasing different aspects of the Tanzanian heritage throughout the country.

AfO: If we were to speak again in three-five year’s time, what progress and development would you hope and expect to be able to report back?

NK: As an association we want to grow, because representation matters in our engagements with government.

It is our aim that in five years’ time we will be representing not only all diverse products in the hospitality sector but also have a footprint in all the regions. It’s my hope that at that time some of the most pressing challenges facing the industry currently will have been resolved and we will be at a place working more with projects developing the sub sector.

In terms of the business travel industry, I expect that the conferencing bureau with the private sector partnership will have grown to see a city like Arusha become a conferencing hub again, and having succeeded in also sustaining a new hub in Dar es Salaam and other areas.

It may take a bit more than five years for Tanzania businesses to be growing as in previous years, however I am confident that businesses will bounce back and investments will grow in time again. Tanzania still has untapped and unlimited potential.

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Zanzibar Serena Hotel

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The Business End TANZANIA’S ECONOMY IS extremely reliant on agricultural production, with 40 percent of the country’s workforce employed in the industry, which in turn contributes a similar proportion to overall GDP. However, other industries like mining are also significant – gold, for instance, is the nation’s most valuable export, while several multinational companies have been involved in onshore and offshore oil exploration.

“The seriousness the government has put into curbing corruption in the

country has made Tanzania a cheaper destination compared to previously, and this has attracted investment,” comments the Tanzania Air Operators Association.

“And one could say that the government’s drive to root out vice has also attracted more visitors in the country. The ministry responsible for tourism is taking decisive measures to ensure that the tourist attractions, especially the national parks and game reserves, continue to be attractive by dealing with poachers appropriately.”

In terms of tourist numbers, Kenya provides the majority of the approximately 1.3 million annual visitors. Tanzania is a popular option for Kenyans, who often visit on day trips by crossing the border.

Downtown Dar es Salaam

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Deluxe Rooms Restaurants Conference Facilities Gym and Spa Swimming Pool Pool Bar

Upscale accommodation in the heart of the business district

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2246 / 201 Nkrumah Street P.O. Box 4267 Dar es Salaam T: +255 22 211 0629 F: +255 22 211 0615 E: info@bestwesterncbdhotel.co.tz www.bestwesterncbdhotel.co.tz

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Out & About A HISTORICALLY SPARSE human population has resulted in Tanzania becoming home to a tremendous variation of wildlife, one of the main draws for visitors. It is thought that around 350 species of mammal, 130 species of amphibian and 275 species of reptile can be found in the country – in all around four million animals live here.

National parks and conservation areas are numerous, with Serengeti, Tarangire Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara among the most popular destinations for those on the lookout for elephants, hippos, rhinos, lions and a huge variety of bird species.

Another heavily marketed activity is snorkelling and diving. The Tanzanian government is eager to encourage

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tourists to its coastline, the luxurious beaches and coral reefs being a particular highlight.

The country’s food scene is varied depending on where you are in the country. Away from the coast you are more likely to find restaurants just serving Tanzanian staples such as meat stews, chicken, green bananas and ugail, a type of maize.

Dar es Salaam, located on the coast, is more cosmopolitan with a choice of local and international cuisines. Unsurprisingly seafood is a major part of the city’s food offering, with Swahili fish-based curry also a favourite. The abundance of tropical fruit on offer also makes for delicious dishes and drinks.

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Gordon Alexander +255 754 343 834 info@alexanders-tz.com www.alexanders-tz.com

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T: +255 759 914 144, +255 652 315914 E: contact@lawnshotel.co.tz W: www.lawnshotel.co.tz

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Tanzania Society of Travel Agents TANZANIA SOCIETY OF Travel Agents (TASOTA) was registered under the Registrar of Societies in October, 1980. The society was formed with sole intention of bringing under one umbrella all IATA Accredited Travel Agents in Tanzania and to speak with one voice with the concerned authorities. Moustafa Khataw is TASOTA’s Chariman, and took time out to answer our questions.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean, 25-50 kilometres off the coast of mainland Tanzania

Africa Outlook (AfO): Since inception, how has TASOTA developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across?

Moustafa Khataw (MK): TASOTA is 38 years old now and has grown to a sizeable organisation with a membership of 44 travel agents – both IATA Accredited and non-IATA. TASOTA organises regular events for its members with a view of empowering them to execute their duties as travel agents more effectively. We also provide a platform for our members to engage with various governments institutions with a view to addressing challenging matters pertaining to our industry.

through Zanzibar. With the revival of our national carrier, Air Tanzania Company Ltd (ATCL), having acquired recently three Bombardier Q-400s and a Boeing Dreamliner – 787-800, the future is very bright for tourism. ATCL is planning to start regional routes and Julius Nyerere International Airport Terminal III is scheduled to open mid2019 will give impetus to air travel and also increase influx of tourists.

AfO: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector in Tanzania now compared to its condition when TASOTA began?

MK: Tanzania tourism has grown tremendously over the last 10 years and the aim of the fifth phase government is to reach 2.5 million tourist arrivals by year 2020, up from the 1.3 million arrivals seen in 2017.

A very ambitious task but with the current drive of the new government and involvement of Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), this target is achievable.

Infrastructure in terms of roads, airports is in the offing and will contribute substantially to the growth AfO: To this end, how would you of GDP. The tourism industry employs say Tanzania has developed in a large chunk of the labour market in recent years as a business travel hub and Tanzania. what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?

AfO: What is in store over the MK: Many international airlines, course of 2018 and beyond namely Fly Dubai, Qatar Airways, regarding new businesses and tourist Oman Air and Ethiopian now operate functions? double frequencies and also pass MK: The capital city is Dodoma

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where the seat of the government and parliament are based. Our President is scheduled to relocate there next year which will complete the full cabinet.

New opportunities will come up in Dodoma where the government is planning to enhance its airport to international level so that international flights can land there directly.

The business capital, Dar es Salaam, has large scale conference facilities available and the ambition is to make it a destination of choice for MICE and a gateway to the Zanzibar islands, as well as a hub for safari expeditions.

AfO: Looking forward, if we were to speak again in three-five years’ time, what progress and development would you hope and expect to be able to report back?

MK: Our vision is to grow TASOTA to international levels wherein its members will be privileged to access all tools and resources from its secretariat. We are revamping our website to make it user friendly. We envisage having our own offices which will act as resource centre as well as provide training facilities to new entrants in the market.

Business travel will expand and according to IATA statistics, growth in air travel for Africa is predicted at a rate of at least three percent. This means Tanzania will benefit once it has made in depth penetration of ATCL flights to its neighbouring landlocked countries.

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Outlook Recommends “More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris” – Lonely Planet

HOSPITALITY

TOUR & ACTIVITY OPERATORS

Sopa Lodges With three lodging sites in the Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro, Sopa Lodges is another operator on the doorstep of Tanzania’s natural beauty. The Serengeti site overlooking the national park allows its guests to experience magnificent sights and enjoy interaction with the land and animals difficult to find elsewhere.

Firelight Safaris Tanzania Serena Hotels With a portfolio spanning five African countries, Serena Hotels has 10 resort, camp, lodge and hotel sites in Tanzania alone. In Dar es Salaam, the Serena Hotel is located in the heart of the city centre’s business district, a perfect location for travelling businesspeople.

The five-star venue offers a garden oasis just off the beachfront and bustling markets, boutiques and restaurants. Those seeking some of the outdoors should consider the Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, set in stunning national park and wildlife surroundings.

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The Beach Club

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Firelight has been providing luxury safari tours in Tanzania since 1989 and has built up a strong network of camps in this time. Whether exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, where 30,000 animals reside, or flying over the Serengeti Plains, Firelight Safaris will be able to cater to your requirements.

The Company was founded by Belinda and Tom Lithgow, the former from the UK and in charge of the dayto-day running of operations.

Coastal Aviation Those seeking a flying safari experience should consider booking with Coast Aviation. The firm has been operating in the country for 30 years, specialising in accessing the remotest of areas where road transport cannot reach. Today it flies to around 100 airstrips around Tanzania.

Alfazulu Travel & Tours Earthlife Expeditions

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Tanzania Air Operators Association THE TANZANIA AIR Operators Association (TAOA) was established with a mission to develop and expand a sustainable aviation industry, geared towards safety, efficiency and economic prosperity.

“In mid-2002, 11 Tanzanian registered air operators considered the tremendous aviation potential which exists in Tanzania and recognised the need for national, regional and international cooperation,” says Laurence Miku Paul, Executive Secretary of TAOA. “They took the appropriate measures of forming an association which was formally registered with the Registrar of Societies of Tanzania on the 10 October, 2002.”

The TAOA’s goal is, ultimately, to advocate for a conducive environment to enable its members’ business to flourish.

Africa Outlook (AfO): Since inception, how has TAOA developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across?

Laurence Miku Paul (LMP): The primary purpose of TAOA is to facilitate, encourage and assist its members in the development of a

legal and responsible aviation industry in Tanzania with due consideration of safety, efficiency, regularity and economical implications. In order to achieve its primary purpose, TAOA is working very closely with Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) and Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA).

Today, TAOA is a member of airports (stations) and national facilitation and security committees and is able to voice air operators’ concerns in these areas.

AfO: What is in store for Tanzania 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?

LMP: As the Tanzania Government Headquarters is now formally moving to Dodoma, we expect that most of the activities like construction of buildings will be at the new city of Dodoma and a lot of investments will mostly be directed there. Most embassies in Tanzania have been AfO: How would you say Tanzania given plots to build their offices and has developed in recent years as a residences in Dodoma and the move business travel hub and what are the is expected to increase construction key reasons behind its growing appeal? businesses when the embassies LMP: In terms of the industrialisation decide to build in Dodoma. drive being undertaken by the Fifth Phase Government of Tanzania, we are AfO: If we were to speak again in facilitating investment opportunities three-five year’s time, what in the aviation industry. TAOA progress and development would you maximises the contribution of the hope and expect to be able to report aviation industry to the economic back? development of the country by LMP: In five years, a lot will have promoting its members to pay taxes. happened in this country in terms TAOA, under the umbrella of the of development considering the Tourism Confederation of Tanzania, great attention the government has sees the tourism sector having a role given in many areas of development to play in the economic sustainability such as construction, tourism, and the Government rightly treats it as mining and agriculture. Within a serious economic agent and catalyst. five years, construction of a new international airport in Dodoma and the rehabilitation of seven major domestic airports will have been completed and air movements to these airports will increase activities of TAOA members. The business travel in Tanzania will be smoother as travellers will be able to fly to every region of the country any time of the day and night, unlike now when you can only fly to a few regions during the night.

Visit the TAOA website: www.taoa-tanzania.com

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C AA N T P EZ ATNOI W A N

Landmark Attractions Mtoni Palace Ruins

“Overlooking the coast, away from the heat and hustle of Zanzibar Town, Mtoni Palace was built for Sultan Seyyid Said in 1828. It was home to the sultan’s only legitimate wife, many secondary wives and hundreds of children. According to contemporary descriptions, it was a beautiful building with a balconied exterior and a large garden courtyard complete with peacocks and gazelles” – Lonely Planet

Lake Victoria

“Tanzania’s half of Africa’s largest lake sees few visitors, but the region holds many attractions for those with a bent for the offbeat and a desire to immerse themselves in the rhythms of local life beyond the tourist trail” – Lonely Planet

Mafia Island

“While Zanzibar has become a popular tourist resort, Mafia Island lying only 160 kilometres south, remains virtually unknown. The Mafia Archipelago is scattered over the Indian Ocean 21 kilometres off the Rufiji River Delta in central Tanzania. The largest of a score of islands, atolls and tidal sandbars, Mafia itself is approximately 50 kilometres long by 15 kilometres across, and is surrounded by a barrier reef teeming with marine life” – Mafia Island

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Mount Kilimanjaro

“At 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa. This volcanic massif stands in splendid isolation above the surrounding plains, with its snowy peak looming over the savannah. The mountain is encircled by mountain forest.

Numerous mammals, many of them endangered species, live in the park” – UNESCO

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Dream of incredible destinations. Let Firelight Safaris make that dream come true...

ild equatorial weather practically year-round… a safe, peaceful country with friendly people… and natural attractions such as Zanzibar, the beaches of the Indian Ocean, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Tanganyika and Lupita private island, Mt. Kilimanjaro and fifteen national parks including the legendary Serengeti, home of the Great Migration… there is no better place in Africa to experience a safari than Tanzania. Firelight Safaris have been providing luxury safaris in Tanzania since 1989. Our itineraries include some great choices of luxury tented safari camps from all over the country and specialise in off the beaten track adventures.

These camps have customized safari vehicles many are open-sided to afford fabulous viewing of African wildlife, including the “big five” and the Great Migration of wildebeest. Explore the Ngorongoro Crater, where 30,000 animals reside, and fly over the Serengeti Plains.

For those wanting a combination of safari and beach, exclusive and remote Lupita Island on Lake Tanganyika is the perfect complement to your time in the bush. Activities here include water sports, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, diving and other water sports on request, the spa and gym, pool, beach, games room, or perhaps a cultural visit to a local fishing village. Experienced chefs prepare a dazzling array of continental and modern African cuisines, using the freshest ingredients. Plus much more.

Our selection of accommodations throughout your itinerary are the best in bush luxury and all your needs are enthusiastically met.

Choose from our all-inclusive safari itineraries or allow us to create a custom safari tour. Either way, we will ensure that your safari holiday in Africa is the absolute best.

The “big five” – buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhinoceros – and the Great Migration of wildebeest, one of nature’s most amazing

spectacles, are just some the exciting experiences we pride ourselves in delivering to our guests. Itineraries explore the Ngorongoro Crater, where 30,000 animals reside on the crater floor. The Serengeti – 5700 square miles of “endless plains”, the vast Southern parks of Selous and Ruaha; and Katavi, a beautiful park in the West of Tanzania which is little visited but teeming with game inhabiting vast marshlands and rivers full of hippos and crocodiles.

Firelight Safaris prides itself on customized personalized experiences that will stay with you forever.

Choose from our all-inclusive safari itineraries or allow us to create a customized safari just for you. Either way, we will ensure that your safari holiday in Tanzania will be the absolute best experience you could wish for.

To contact us email: E: info@firelightsafaristanzania.com T: +255 784 278639 Facebook: Tanzania by Firelight Safaris. www.firelightsafaristanzania.com For Lupita Island email: E: info@lupitaisland.com T: +255 784 278639 Lupita Island can also be booked directly or through Firelight Safaris

T A N Z A N I A

BY ROLAND, CC BY-SA 2.0,

Transport Links

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Unsurprisingly Dar es Salaam is the busiest hub with a current capacity to handle 2.5 million passengers a year, a figure set to rise to six million with the completion of a new terminal building in June 2019. After incurring several delays, the $300 million project will provided a vital boost and reduce reliance on neighbouring Kenya’s

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PHOTO: PASCAL KOBEH

FROM ROADS, SEAPORTS, airfields and railways to carrying people and loads on animals, there are many ways to navigate Tanzania’s vast and varied terrain.

Major highways tend to be found along the coastal resorts, with the majority of inland roads unpaved.

Two major rail lines bisect the country between Dar es Salaam and Kigoma and Tanga and Moshi, while another route connects Dar es Salaam to the Zambian border. For those with plenty of time on their hands, train travel is recommended given the views the routes offer of the countryside and wildlife.

Air Tanzania and other airlines provide domestic and international services, with several airports scattered around the country.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to supply tourists.

Taxis and dalla-dallas (minibuses) are common ways of getting around locally, with fixed prices ensuring customers know what they are paying before travelling. Renting cars with drivers is another popular choice for visitors.

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We are the premier outfitter for climbing Kilimanjaro operated by Tanzanian professional and experienced Mountain guides offering tailored made kilimanjaro trekking, safaris packages and beach holidays in Zanzibar. We organize climbs with a 1-2 guide to climber ratio so you get personalized attention.

The journey of lifetime... away to any East Africa destination info@amazingusambaratrekking.com | amazingusambaratrekking@gmail.com

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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.

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

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G H A N A

GHANA From the energetic streets of Accra to the scenic Gold Coast, Ghana is continuing to make strides as one of the world’s fastest growing economies Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Joe Palliser he Republic of Ghana – a leading West African nation with huge growth potential and a fastexpanding tourism industry. The country has illustrious antiquity, with historians estimating that its habitation dates back as far as 10,000 BCE. Its name, meaning “Warrior King”, was derived from the ancient Ghana Empire, previously one of the world’s most prosperous trading kingdoms.

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The country and its economy have retained this dependence on trade, motivated by its geographical location, with the world-renowned Gold Coast spanning its southern border.

In more recent years, the country has become better known for its role in precipitating the fall of empire, slavery and colonialism. Ghana’s former Pan-African nationalist leader Kwame Nkrumah, now widely celebrated across country, believed that independence was fundamental to the

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progression of not only Ghana but the wider region.

In pursuit of this, Nkrumah achieved national independence for Ghana on 6 March 1957, inspiring a significant number of other African nations to begin their own independence rallies in the process, 30 of which succeeded in this in the following decade.

Having prospered in the 60 years since, Ghana is now heralded as a key success story of independent economic recovery and political reform in Africa.

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Today, the majority of the country’s commercial activity is centred in its southern regions, particularly evident in Accra – the capital city. A place portraying high energy and industriousness, Accra has a vibrant art scene and colourful markets, alongside an abundance of street food and beaches, catering to any city-goers desires.

Main Picture: Cannons overlooking from Cape Coast Castle, a fortification built by Swedish traders for trade in timber and gold. Later the structure was used in the trans-Atlantic slave trade

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FACTS & FIGURES Languages:

English, Akan, Dagaare, Dangme, Dagbani, Ewe, Ga, Gonja, Kasem, Nzema Area: West Africa Population (2018): 29.6 million GDP (2017): $46.8 billion Currency: Cedi (GH₵) Time zone: GMT+0 Dialling code: +233 Internet TLD: .gh Climate: Tropical

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Redifining Indigenous Hospitality

Maaha Beach Resort offers travelers more than just accommodation, we offer an incredible experience with an extra touch of nature wherever you step. Experience excellent indigenous Hospitality

Opened in 2017, Maaha Beach Resort offers travelers more than just accommodation, we offer an incredible experience with an extra touch of nature wherever you step. The Beach Resort is the perfect getaway for leisure and business retreat. Our room types include Standard, Deluxe, Executive rooms and Suites.

Our grand meeting room can be customized to suite your requirement. Whether you plan for a conference, workshop, presentation, team building, private functions, our rooms are suitable for all types of seating plan for a successful event. We also have smaller size meeting rooms for smaller groups. We provide health and leisure facilities such as, swimming pool, Health Spa, Gym, tennis court, water sports at Maaha Village, an extension of Maaha Beach Resort, between the Famous Amanzule river and the Ocean. There is a comfortable cinema for our guests relaxation. Nzulezu Stilt Village, Forte Apollonia and Ankasa Nature Reserves are some of the interesting places to visit during your stay with us.

Contact us for our attractive packages and experience excellent indigenous Hospitality.

CHILD POLICY 0-5yrs stay for free, 6yrs-12yrs pay half rate and over 12yrs pay full rate.

FACILITIES • 24 Hour Security • Airport Shuttle Services • Beauty Spa • Beach bar • 30 Seat Cinema • Well-equipped Gym • Multiple Swimming Pools • Tennis Court • Kids play ground • Table tennis • Snooker • Beach Soccer and Volley Ball • Variety of indoor games • 2 Restaurants • Wireless Internet available in all rooms and public areas • Boat Ride to Maaha Village with food and drinks • Water sport activities • Party Bus ride with butler service • A night club PACKAGES • Wedding Packages • Honeymoon Packages • Family Packages • Anniversary & Special Packages • Tour Packages • Seasonal Packages

LOCATION Anokyi Near Ghana Gas (Atuabo) Ellembele Western Region of Ghana From Takoradi Airport: About 1hr From Cote D’Ivoire Boarder: 30min CONTACT DETAILS Tel: +233303977773 Mobile: +233501570684/+233501648412 Email: info@maaharesort.com sm@maaharesort.com | fo@maaharesort.com www.maaharesort.com

G H A N A

The Business End THE GHANAIAN ECONOMY has been thriving in recent years.

The country’s GDP grew from $36.2 billion to $46.8 billion between 2015 and 2017, while the World Bank has predicted that this will continue to grow 8.8 percent in 2018. With this in mind, Ghana is in the running to become the fastest growing economy of the year, with its economic forecasts only bested by Bhutan and Libya.

According to data from the World Bank released in 2017, 41 percent of the Ghanaian population currently work within the agricultural sector, making it the country’s most important sector.

Because of the variety of climatic zones, from dry savanna to wet forest, Ghana produces a diverse range of crops including oil palms, kola nuts,

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timber, grains and yams and, most importantly, cocoa.

However, despite the agricultural sector’s importance to Ghana, the recent and forecast upward economic trajectory can more readily be attributed to the country’s rich natural resource bases.

Having quickly established exportled growth built on its thriving gold, cocoa and new-found oil markets, alongside access to diamonds, manganese ore and bauxite, the abundance of key materials is expected to continue to provide tailwinds to the national economy moving forward.

Pictured below: Beautiful landscape in the mountains in Amedzofe in the Volta Region, Ghana.

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GHANA’S EXPORT MARKETS GOLD • Second biggest producer in Africa • Ninth biggest producer in the world • Accounts for 42 percent of total exports (2016) COCOA • Second biggest producer in Africa • Second biggest producer in the world • Accounts for 18 percent of total exports (2016) • Ghana and Ivory Coast supply 60 percent of the world’s cocoa CRUDE OIL • Sixth largest reserves in Africa • 25th largest reserves in the world • Accounts for 9.1 percent of total exports (2016)

STAY MORE GET MORE!

Air Miles Gift Cards Free Nights Exclusive Priviliges

International Quality - Local Affinity

G H A N A

Monument & Tomb of the Unknown Soldier A part of Independence Square, Accra, Ghana.

Independence Square has stands that have 30,000 seating capacity. The square boasts two monuments: the Independence Arch and the Black Star Monument, also known as the Black Star Gate. A statue of a soldier faces the Independence Arch symbolising the Ghanaians who lost their lives fighting for Ghana’s independence.

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www.accracityhotel.com

Accra City Hotel Barnes Road / West Ridge GA-107-5500 Accra / Greater Accra Republic of Ghana Tel:+233 (0) 302 633 863 www.accracityhotel.com info@accracityhotel.com

he 4-star Accra City Hotel; a World Luxury Hotel Award winner in 2017, 2018 and the first ISO certified Hotel in West Africa, threw its doors open to the public for the very first time in September 1988.

Accra City Hotel, with one hundred and ninety-six fully furnished guest rooms of varying sizes with good quality interiors and complimentary mini-bar, is located on Barnes Road, in the heart of the Ghanaian capital. it is in close proximity to the City’s business and entertainment districts. Also, the property is fifteen minutes away from the Kotoka International Airport.

Accra City Hotel boasts of suitable, first class facilities in place for every guest.

The hotel offers sophisticated dining experience with its award winning Fihankra Restaurant - an all-day-dining restaurant, lounge bar and a 24-hour room service that offers an extensive menu. Fihankra Restaurant is a treasure trove of subtle sensory delights; a theatre of the senses meticulously crafted to offer you an escape into serenity. Authentic traditional cuisines from around the world are exquisitely plated to harmonise with its classical architecture, minimal style and carefully selected art and craft pieces. All these glamour undoubtedly create an experience of beautiful and graceful vista. At Fihankra Restaurant, there is no separation; only a surrender to the immediacy of one’s senses.

Fihankra is a must visit restaurant in Accra with creative and exquisite gourmet dishes on offer, a wide range of the best wines, specialty cocktails and a personalized service; all harmonized in a charming ambience. The restaurant opens for breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Sunday with a live jazz band every Sunday lunch.

Here is a secret for you; the champagne breakfast buffet served at Accra City Hotel is secretly the best in town.

Accra City Hotel Guest rooms is endowed with exquisitely prepared bed linen, an interior bathed in warm light, and a relaxing bathtub in a sparkling clean bathroom. In this atmosphere, guests are sure to feel the detailed attentiveness that is the foundation of the Hotels service. Relax and enjoy your stay in a space designed to feel just like home. You are sure to relish in the best breakfast buffet in town, complimentary minibar, free international calls via handy device, a friendly service and much more…

Accra City Hotel is proud to be the first hotel in West Africa to meet international standards on food safety and hygiene and environmental performance. Guests can be assured of the hotel’s standards when visiting the restaurant, banquets and outside catering. Any guest will see plenty of evidence of the hotel’s commitment to

LUXURY PERSONIFIED

eco-friendly initiatives from its use of environmentally sensitive cleaning products, its low-flow toilets, sinks and showers and its donation of unused shampoo condition and lotions, linen, computers, furniture to social services programmes.

On top of the ISO accreditation, this year the hotel was named the eco-friendliest and most environmentally sustainable hotel in Ghana by Ghana Environmental Excellence Awards. Competition was strong, but Accra City Hotel triumphed due to its emphasis on innovation and investment in new technology to improve its sustainability and reduce its consumption footprint. The hotel was also highly commended at the Green Hotelier Awards 2018 organised by the International Tourism Partnership in London.

AWARDS Discover some of Accra City Hotels ever-expanding list of awards and accolades below.

• “4* Hotel of the Year 2016” in Greater Accra - Ghana Tourism Authority • “4* Hotel of the Year 2016” in Ghana - Ghana Hotels Association • “Best City Hotel” 2017 in Africa - World Tourism Forum, Africa Summit

With 8 management members and 188 employees, Accra City Hotel make it a priority on going beyond customer satisfaction and as such the Hotel keep growing in innovations which has won Accra City Hotel over 30 prestigious awards and accolades counting in 3 years of rebranding from Novotel to Accra City Hotel. This recognition with honours has given the Hotel team the onus to work hard and put the hotel on a higher level, focusing on the Hotel’s ongoing renovations and staff trainings to further meet the ever-changing modern trends of the hospitality industry and guests’ demands in Ghana. Therefore, in celebrating 30 years of quality service delivery in 2018, Accra City Hotel are currently undergoing renovations and expansions that will enable the Hotel to increase the restaurant space, provide more ultra-modern meeting and conference rooms as well as other facilities to meet the changing trends in the hospitality industry.

• “Guest Accommodation” of the Year 2017 – Ghana National Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Since the rebranding from Novotel to Accra City Hotel in January 2016, the hotel has been showered with awards. There are accolades praising the expert and innovative nature of the hotel’s team, with the unrivalled hospitality and service that the hotel and restaurant offers.

Accra City Hotel redefines the gold standard of hotels in Ghana. It takes hospitality to a level not seen and unheard of before, offering an extraordinary service in the heart of one of the world’s most exotic cities.

• “Best Service Hotel 2017” in Greater Accra - Ghana Tourism Authority • “Top 100 Hotels” in West Africa - ECOWAS Balafon Awards 2018 • Best Hotel Restaurant in Ghana– Haute Grandeur Global Restaurant Awards 2018 • Best City Hotel in Ghana – Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards 2018 • Best Luxury Contemporary Hotel in Ghana - World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018

G H A N A

Out & About GHANA’S THRIVING CULTURE is best reflected in Accra.

Known for its dynamism, the capital is best encapsulated by Oxford Street, famed for its hustle, bustle and bounty of shops, perfectly showcasing the local atmosphere as a true hub of Ghana.

Ghana’s market scene also gives a real sense of the place, namely through the Kejetia market in Kumasi or the Makola market in Accra. For those looking to soak up the local culture, these two destinations provide a great sense with their colourful sweeping stalls, selling anything from food to jewellery.

The street food you can find here is a big part of both urban and rural Ghanaian life, with the majority of the country’s cuisine focused around regular snacking as opposed to westernised meal times. Some of

the most popular options available include kelewele, koko, tsofi, fufu and tilapia.

The aforementioned are all readily available at some of the country’s most famous beaches, namely Labadi, again located in Accra, that provides a lively atmosphere, music and bonfires.

Away from city life, Ghana offers a range of spectacular scenery and wildlife to explore. The country is home to a variety of national parks that offer unparalleled experiences throughout its four corners, something that would likely satisfy those looking for a more rural adventure.

Equally, the country has a range of architecture stretching across its southern edges – locations that often provide insight into the country’s extensive history.

Colourful pottery at an outdoor market in Accra, Ghana

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Crowded fish market in Tema, Greater Accra

The Umbrella Rock in the Yilo Krobo District outside Accra, Ghana is sited on area of raised land, making it possible to watch the incredible nature Ghana has to offer, hundreds of miles away into the green horizon

Want to mix business with pleasure?

It is possible Experience the perfect blend of business and leisure in Accra’s‘Afropolitan’ boutique hotel. The African Regent Hotel is situated in one of the plushest suburban areas in the city less than 5 minutes away from the Kotoka International Airport, the Accra Shopping Mall and the Accra Polo Club. The Hotel provides every traveller into the city; be it business or leisure, the opportunity to explore and experience Accra in the most convenient way possible whiles learning about the dynamic Ghanaian culture.

With 109 rooms to choose from, which includes; • Presidential suite • Penthouse suite • Afropolitan suite • Executive club suite • Executive rooms • Junior suite • Club rooms • Standard rooms

African Regent Hotel has consolidated its lead in the hospitality industry by winning • Ghana Hotel Association Banqueting and Restaurant of the year 2016 • The CIMG Hospitality of the Years; 2009, 2013, & 2014 • A top 20 hotel in West Africa – Africa Travel Quarterly

Define Your Travel 237/238 Airport West, Accra +233 302 765180 Info@african-regent-hotel.com www.theafricanregenthotel.com

@AfricanRegent The African Regent africanregenthotel

Simply ‘Afropolitan’

G H A N A

Outlook Recommends "One of Africa's great success stories, the country is reaping the benefits of a stable democracy in the form of fast-paced development" – Lonely Planet

Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Alisa

HOSPITALITY Maaha Beach Resort Located on Ghana’s southwestern border, the Maaha Beach Resort is situated directly along the country’s Atlantic coastline.

The resort offers picturesque views of Ghana’s stunning shore as it leads directly onto a private white sand beach, providing the ideal getaway and unforgettable experiences to all of its guests.

Located in the Ellembele District, Maaha Beach resort is at the heart of the country’s stunning landscape, in close proximity to Ghana’s diverse cultural and historical sites.

With 135 rooms, each offering premium amenities including free wifi and 24-hour room service, guests can enjoy some of the best hospitality on the market.

The resort even features two leading restaurants that provide free breakfast and the ultimate fine dining experience in the evening.

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Accra City Hotel Accredited as an esteemed four-star hotel, Accra City Hotel offers premium accommodation and associated amenities to travellers from all over the world.

Located within the centre of Accra’s business and entertainment district, just 15 minutes away from the Kotoka International Airport, the hotel is perfectly positioned to cater to a range of travelling desires.

Alongside 196 rooms, two major restaurants and a modern bar, the building features six fully equipped meeting rooms, each able to host 100 guests for conferences, meetings, or other events.

With Oxford Street in Osu, Makola Market and the Accra Arts Centre all within walking distance, Accra City Hotel provides the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant city and experience its culture with ease.

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Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites is a 199-room luxury hotel positioned centrally within Ghana’s worldrenowned capital, close to the city’s thriving commercial district, major tourist attractions and the Kotoka International Airport.

The building houses an indoor guest pool, a fully equipped gym and spa, alongside a range of other select features that make it the hotel of choice for tourists of all backgrounds.

The African Regent Hotel Featuring stunning African-inspired decor, the African Regent Hotel really reminds you of where you’re staying.

Standing as a luxury hotel in central Accra, guests can enjoy exquisite rooms, a relaxing spa and food from an internationally acclaimed chef.

A stone’s throw from the Accra shopping mall and Accra Polo court, the hotel is often the primary choice for world leaders, celebrities and high society.

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THINGS TO DO

THINGS TO SEE

FOOD & DRINK

Mole National Park

Cape Coast Castle

Buka

Wli Waterfalls

Elmina Castle

Azmera Restaurant

Kakum National Park

Independence Square

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Transport Links

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and standard bus and coach services that are better recommended for longer trips and excursions due to being safer, more reliable and more comfortable.

Equally, air travel is recommended as an option for extensive journeys, with the country’s four commercial airports being the Kotoka International Airport, Sekondi-Takoradi Airport, Kumasi Airport and Tamale Airport.

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PHOTO: PASCAL KOBEH

MUCH LIKE THE majority of Ghana’s infrastructure, most of the established transport networks are situated throughout the country’s southern regions.

Ghana has a range of key rail networks stretching in and between Accra, Kumasi, Awaso and Takoradi, providing critical links between the country’s main settlements.

However, whilst the presence of railways may be appreciated, vehiclecentric transportation methods are the most widely used, with the country’s road networks stretching a total 40,000 kilometres, reaching the majority of the population.

A common but unique method of travel by road is tro tros – privately owned minivans that hold approximately 20 people, making up a significant proportion of the country’s public transport network.

With a lack of timetables and maps attached, tro tros can be confusing and daunting for those used to a more rigid western culture but are all part of the experience and are particularly handy for short journeys.

Tro tros are present alongside taxis

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Landmark Attractions Wli falls

“Ghana's tallest waterfalls, the Wli falls stand amid an exquisite landscape of rolling hills, forests and bubbling streams. The falls are most impressive from April to October, when you can hear – and feel – the flow of water thundering down” – Lonely Planet

Cape Coast Castle

“The Cape Coast Castle has served as the West African headquarters of the president of the Committee of Merchants; the seat of the British governor; and a school. Open to the public, it is currently a historical museum with a Ghanaian arts and crafts gift shop, and it is the regional headquarters of Ghana Museums and Monuments Board” – Ghana Museums

Independence Arch

“The sculpture is a nod to Ghana’s acclaim as the ‘Black Star of Africa’: it was an inspiration to other African countries vying for independence and the Flame of African Liberation, lit by Nkrumah, still burns strongly nearby” – Timeout

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

“This is a place you wouldn’t want to miss during your stay in Ghana, since the transition of Gold Coast to Ghana happened on this same location.

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, is what some scholars call the “genesis” of the actual history Of Ghana” – Touring Ghana

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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

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BELGOTEX

Embarking on a cultural journey

For Love of

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of leading manufacturer Belgotex, South Africa’s on a cultural l grass, is embarking carpets and artificia ce society to positively influen revolution as it seeks

Belgotex, South Africa’s leading manufacturer of carpets and artificial grass, is embarking on a cultural revolution as it seeks to positively influence society Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Vivek Valmiki

LD 00 MOTT MACDONA Africa’s Working to tackle infrastructure deficit

ALSO FEATURI

00 TRAVEL GUIDE

BUSINESS summit of Africa Tanzania: The

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BROLL NAMIBIA the ground up Growth from

000 THE GREENS answer to Ghana’s

A responsible housing deficit

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A BIOGAS ES | AGAM HNOLOGI LLAC TEC | HAREL MA NG: A B B

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

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B E L G O T E X

For Love of

COUNTRY Belgotex, South Africa’s leading manufacturer of carpets and artificial grass, is embarking on a cultural revolution as it seeks to positively influence society Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Vivek Valmiki

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B E L G O T E X

TRINSEO’S LIGOS™ BINDERS

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rinseo is the world’s largest supplier of latex binders for textiles and carpets bringing nearly seven decades of industry leadership to customers all over the world. Trinseo’s LIGOS™ Binders range offers performance, processing efficiency, and environmental and regulatory compliance, all while exceeding individual customer needs.

Every day, manufacturers in the key carpet and textile applications rely on our innovative latex binders solutions to deliver high binding strength, low VOC, and versatility. We ensure access to proven Trinseo technology that can be tailored to local application, testing, and processing needs. We work closely with our customers to develop more effective and sustainable solutions together.

Global capabilities. Local relationships.

With global supplies and capabilities to help you wherever you are, Trinseo is the right partner for all carpet and textile applications needs.

Artificial grass and turf binders are designed based on industry-standard styrene butadiene latexes that continue to improve the quality of artificial playing fields, as well as residential and landscaped spaces.

Unless humans start walking on ceilings, there will always be a demand for flooring,” says Edward Colle, CEO of Belgotex, one of South Africa’s largest producers of vinyl floors, carpet and artificial grass.

“Providing we are ready for disruption, open to experimentation and optimistic, I think we can double our business over the next five years.”

This would represent some spike in growth for the division of a family business set up by Colle’s grandfather more than 50 years ago.

From a humble producer and seller of raw materials to conglomerate manufacturers, Belgotex has

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transformed through the decades into a one-stop-shop flooring operation, supplying residential and commercial customers all over South Africa.

But the Company’s remit now stretches far beyond growing profits and building out its footprint, already a formidable one as a member of Belgotex International, home to seven companies spanning four continents.

For Colle, the past two years have been about serving a wider, more important purpose. “Society all around the world is dysfunctional, and South Africa 24 years on from gaining democracy has not made the progress it should have done,” he says. “There is a lot of blame, but somebody needs to do something about it.

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Needlepunched carpet binders are designed for enhanced durability and versatility by bringing low process and final-product odor to both full-bath impregnation and one-side coating applications, while providing variable levels of end-product stiffness.

Tufted carpet binders deliver what customers need: high dry and wet binding strength, excellent adhesion properties, low VOC levels, strong filler loading capability, and versatility.

Woven carpet binders offer high binding strength, low process and final-product odor, and low tack, while maintaining tuft bind and bundle penetration.

T +31-115-67-2601 E CIG@trinseo.com

www.trinseo.com

Trinseo LIGOS™ Binders bringing latex innovation to carpet and textile applications

1. Artificial Grass

4. Needlepunched Carpet

2. Attached Cushion / Underlay

5. Carpet Tile

3. Automotive

6. Tufted Carpet

7. Woven Carpet

B E L G O T E X

ADONAI SHIPPING

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heo Muthusamy is the founder and Director of Adonai Shipping and is assisted by a team of skilled and experienced individuals.

Our established relationship with major air and shipping lines enables us to pass on the added value to our clients.

Commitment: To provide a service that is unique to our industry, ensuring that customers enjoy personalised, efficient and reliable service.

Services offered: • Imports and exports • Customs clearance • International freight forwarding • Warehousing • Logistics

Belgotex’s manufacturing operations are based in KwaZulu-Natal province

Belgotex Floorcoverings is one of our esteemed clients and it is an honour to partner with them and add value to the business.

“For me this is our core purpose.

Yes, we create products, make our margins and pay the bills, but what is our purpose? We have 750 employees, a melting pot of diversity. Let’s have our own discussions at work and create our own little society. If we can do this then I believe our business can have an impact.”

CONCORDE CARRIERS

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oncorde Carriers is the leading flooring solutions logistics supplier in Southern Africa.

We are partnered with Belgotex and other leading industry role players in the flooring solutions sector. We are targeting the rest of the flooring solution suppliers in a quest to create enhanced economies of scale by virtue of innovation, optimisation and consolidation.

Remaining relevant

Materially, Belgotex has also had to move with the times. Although carpet still represents the lion’s share of business, with hospitality being a key area of focus moving forwards, the firm has had to diversify its offering into the likes of vinyl and artificial grass to ensure longevity and keep up with consumer demand.

“The evolution into three main product areas is due to trends in the industry and market changes over a prolonged period,” Colle says. “When we first started up 30 years ago the carpet sector was enormous, probably

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around 80 percent of total flooring.

“As market dynamics have changed, the carpet industry has contracted and therefore we’ve had to diversify into other areas. This said, carpet still provides two significant lines of business in commercial and residential – two very different products and applications.

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We will then impact less upon the environment and reach more of your clients, with more frequent deliveries thus ensuring shorter lead times of product availability, resulting in increased sales in a dynamic and responsible manner.

T +27 21 948 4031, +27 21 948 4043, +27 21 948 4045 E info@concordecarriers.co.za

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Theo Muthusamy - Director Mobile: + 27 79 696 8699 Email: theo@adonaishipping.co.za Office: +27 31 5663291 / +27 31 5663352 Fax: +27 31 5663938

Imports • Exports • Customs clearance • International freight forwarding by sea or air • Warehousing • Groupage • Logistics

The Leader of Distribution & Long Haul logistics in the Flooring Solutions Industry

www.concordecarriers.co.za

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B E L G O T E X

FLOWEPAC

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lowePac was founded in 2000 by Anthony Mccleary and is strategically located in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal (between Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Johannesburg, Gauteng).

Our business has grown from strength to strength through the support of local blue-chip customers, such as Belgotex Carpets.

FlowePac is proudly associated with Belgotex Carpets, having been its preferred supplier for the past 15 years.

Belgotex Carpets has inspired us with its high-quality floor coverings, produced in a world-class factory with state-of-theart equipment and sound processes.

We live by our motto “By Service we Grow”, which has been instrumental in our growth over the years.

www.flowepac.co.za “The commercial space is still very active because of the benefits it provides regarding acoustics, air quality and warmth. In the consumer space, the sheer variety of offering has caused the carpet market to shrink.”

Demand for artificial grass, whether it be the in the sports and landscaping arena, has gathered pace over the course of the past decade or so.

“I would say the past five years especially have seen artificial grass gather good traction,” Colle adds. “It has been around as a category for a while, and AstroTurf the brand initially had a first mover advantage.

“On the sports side, we have partnered with a European entity which we represent in South Africa by producing and installing under license. We offer a turnkey solution in this area – we have the bulldozers and the engineers to carry out projects from start to finish. From a technical knowhow point of view, we use the same machinery as we do for carpet. It

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JLT SOUTH AFRICA

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LT South Africa (JLT SA) is a corporate and specialist insurance, reinsurance and employee benefits broker, with more than 140 employees across our offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

has been a fairly natural plug and play for us.”

Living our DNA

This diversification in product offering has been underpinned by a reemphasis of company values, with Colle stating the importance of courage, focus, togetherness and generosity in the day to day operations of employees throughout the whole organisation.

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We are a subsidiary of JLT plc, a global organisation of specialists and one of the world’s leading providers of insurance, reinsurance and employee benefits related advice, brokerage and associated services. JLT is quoted on the LSE, has over 10,000 colleagues and owns offices in over 40 countries.

Supported by the JLT International Network, we service clients in more than 135 countries.

T +27 11 361 0000

www.za.jlt.com

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LEADING THE WAY GLOBAL SPECIALIST RISK ADVISER & BROKER JLT SOUTH AFRICA

www.za.jlt.com | T: +27 (0)11 361 0000

JLT South Africa (Pty) Ltd is An Authorised Financial Services Provider and Member of the JLT Group plc.

Registered office: Nicol Main Office Park, 2 Bruton Road, Bryanston, Gauteng, South Africa, 2191.

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B E L G O T E X

“We have an old school, fairly asset heavy business model and in order for us to remain relevant we need to see what the next 10 years look like,” Colle says. “A lot of the change we are going through allows us to do that, and with that we want to create a brand, speak to people and have meaningful conversations.

“We are focussing on the human trends – what are people wanting, when are they wanting it. Our job is not done when a product comes off the machine. And it was my first two years at the business, working at the machines on the frontline, that were arguably the two most useful years in terms of identifying how we can culturally adapt to ensure fairness throughout the organisation.”

Beyond investing in state-of-theart machinery at its manufacturing facilities, one of the most significant resourcing commitments made recently has been in HR. The department now holds a place on the Company’s board, while internal communications has also been pushed high up the agenda.

Further, Belgotex has been working with external professionals during this phase of cultural revitalisation. “We have called it living our DNA – it goes beyond creating a document in our bottom drawer,” Colle adds.

PRODUCT PORTFOLIO Belgotex’s manufacturing operation, based in KwaZulu-Natal province, can be divided into three major categories…

Carpet: Serving residential and commercial customers, carpet remains the core pillar of business for Belgotex.

Vinyl: From cushion and specialised to luxury tiles, the vinyl part of the business is growing strongly.

Artificial grass: Main customer segments include sports, hospitality and residential gardens.

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INTERNATIONAL TUBE TECHNOLOGY

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hether your organisation is big or small, a scientific operation or driven by mere passion, International Tube Technology prides itself in understanding your business, and to add value where it is best utilised.

With more than 40 years’ experience in making cores, The Company puts its best interest at the centre of its clients’ product.

Highly specialised, and precisely engineered, its cores and tubes are spirally wound, which are carefully finished to meet any custom requirements and its technologically advanced quality labs ensures standards are not only met but kept.

Being leaders in the paper tube and core technology fields, don’t take our word for it. Our products and service speaks for itself.

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• Textile tubes • Mill cores • Tape cores • Film cores • Storage cores • Construction cores • Honipak boards • Plastic end caps • Postal tubes • Paper slitting • Edge board

Cape Town (Head Office) +27 21 534 4779 | Johannesburg +27 11 826 3311 | Durban +27 31 700 4797 | Email: sales@ittsa.co.za

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Powerful parent

With Colle having been inspired by his parents to immerse himself in the family business from a very young age, Belgotex itself also benefits from its parent in the form of Belgotex International, which has been in operation for more than five decades.

The six other companies under the group’s umbrella include Belgotex Australia, Belgotex Fabrics, Nyobe Polymers & Yarns, Belgotex Brasil, Belgotex India, Irvine International, Associated Weavers and Balsan Carpets and Tiles.

Such a presence has boosted Belgotex in South Africa. For instance, in the vinyl category, Belgotex imports

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products from around the world, including from its sister organisations, allowing it to play a leading distribution role across the country.

“I am a third-generation family member in the Company,” Colle says.

“My grandfather started up a group of companies in Europe during the course of the 1950s and 1960s – he was an incredible man and wanted to basically floor the world.

“He had six children and when they grew up he sent them all over the world and that is how my parents landed in South Africa 35 years ago.

From here we’ve set up in Brazil, New Zealand and Australia and have sales offices in India and the Middle East.”

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CEO Trevor Wishart.

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B E L G O T E X

Sustainable footing

The CEO is also determined to make a positive ecological impact on South African society.

“We have done some really exciting stuff on the sustainability side of things so far,” says Colle. “This not only has a positive impact environmentally but also for our bottom line – we are able to reuse and repurpose more resources than ever before.

“But we don’t want this just to benefit us. We are living in a fragile environment and if we are to make a meaningful difference we need to share our IP with

others, even companies in our sector.

We are proud of what we have done so far and welcome anyone to come in and see for themselves.”

The numbers back this up. By embracing change in its traditional manufacturing process, Belgotex has been able to repurpose harvested rainwater and reduce overall water consumption by 35-45 percent since 2015.

Some R20 million has been invested in solar power, resource efficiency and plant upgrades to date, part of a continual bid to reduce Belgotex’s

carbon footprint. Further, more than R5 million has been invested in waste management, with wide-reaching recycling programmes allowing the Company to reduce material waste rates to near zero.

“We used to send out a lot of waste material to external waste converters, but now almost nothing leaves the factory apart from canteen waste,” Colle says. “This all helps to add an authenticity to the Company, and the future consumer is certainly going to be sensitive to these issues.”

Such investment in sustainability has been enabled by an altruistic family-backed leadership – Colle’s parents have not taken a dividend out of the business for 32 years; the funds instead being channelled back into the organisation.

Investing in people

Another vital component in ensuring Belgotex enjoys another 35 years of success is investment in human capital, with BEE becoming a particular focus for Colle and the family business.

Examples of this include a plan to establish a shareholding system, while a specialist BEE team has been set up to scrutinise the Company’s supply chain network, shifting suppliers to local providers if the price and quality is up to standard.

“We are also focussed heavily on upskilling our own team of employees, readying them for industry 4.0,” Colle adds. “For me, success on this journey looks like employing double the amount of people and making a difference to more lives. But there are challenges, and there is a fascinating discussion to be had about the role of automation, a moral discussion more than anything else.”

Beyond changing lives through direct employment, Colle also details ways in which Belgotex is investing in its surrounding communities.

“We are heavily invested in a food security programme, so much so it has

Edward Colle, CEO

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Specialist manufacturers of custom made presentation & promotional products.

For 50 years Profile Creations has been one of South Africa’s leading manufacturer of presentation, promotion and packaging products. As such we understand quality counts and first impressions last. We offer our customers a wide range of products for the hospitality, printing, publishing and manufacturing industry, corporate world and a host of other industries.

We custom make PVC (vinyl plastic), PU (leatherette), leather, polyprop, wood, perspex, board and paper products, which can be screen printed, digital printed, foiled, embossed, laser engraved and debossed.

Specialising in Intellectual Property Law. We are proud legal service providers to Belgotex (since 1993).

We wish to congratulate Edward Colle as the new CEO of Belgotex.

T: +27 12 346 8020/1 | F: +27 12 346 8060 E: shirlaine@farrellattorneys.com

the potential to become a shareholder in the business,” he explains. “We live on some of the most fertile land in the world but are a net importer of produce – this is ridiculous situation we find ourselves in. The population growth forecast for Africa is incredible, and we need to produce much more

www.profilecreations.co.za

food to sustain it.

“We have a piece of family land near Durban that we want to open up to the local community to grow produce and train people in how to grow sustainably. Once it’s up and running it will be a great example of how the private sector can connect with the

community to make a real difference.”

Another programme being keenly supported is the development of early childhood development centres through provision of Belgotex products to help upgrade facilities across the country.

From its internal cultural transformation to sustainable investments and care in the community, Colle and his team’s work is ultimately motivated by a love of country.

He concludes: “There are many challenges in South Africa at the moment, but I firmly believe the opportunities are greater. We all love this country, but we have to collectively believe in ourselves.

“For us, the business and the people in and around our business is our life.

I have officially been on the payroll for 10 years, but it feels like I’ve been involved for all 31 years of my life to date, and long may that continue.”

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TATA

C H E M I C A L S

SA’s Chemical

CURATOR Roderick Mpofu, Managing Director of Tata Chemicals South Africa, explains how the firm’s expansive chemicals portfolio is helping to facilitate economic prosperity across the country Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Donovan Smith he chemicals industry is continuing to grow in significance across Africa, now standing as a key component of the continent’s industrial base.

“In South Africa specifically, petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products contribute immensely to national GDP, accounting for approximately 23 percent of total manufacturing sales,” says Roderick Mpofu, the Managing Director of Tata Chemicals South Africa (TCSA), a Company playing a crucial role in powering the growth of the industry regionally.

As a key division of the $100 billion Tata Group, Tata Chemicals is currently responsible for roughly 35 percent of the world’s low-cost and sustainable natural sodium carbonate (soda ash) capacity.

“Our total global soda ash capacity is more than five million tonnes per year, of which 60 percent is from natural deposits in Wyoming, US and Lake Magadi, Kenya,” Mpofu explains. “Through this, we have a strong foothold in the chemicals industry the world over that has an estimated value of more than $4.6 trillion.”

THE COMMON USES OF SODIUM CARBONATE In the manufacture of glass, reducing the melting temperature of the sand used in glass formation and helps in the workability of glass articles such as tableware.

Making soaps and detergents, where it is used as a builder or filler to give a smoother surface.

Producing other chemicals such as sodium silicate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium percarbonate, sodium chromate and sodium dichromate.

In the manufacture of pulp and paper, in water treatment, in effluent treatment, and in metallurgy and drugs.

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T A T A

C H E M I C A L S

AMFI FREIGHT INTERNATIONAL

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mfi Freight International lives by its motto “Understanding Expectations, Delivering Quality” and is proud to be associated with Tata Chemicals in providing it with an efficient and effective customs clearing solution.

The Amfi Freight International ELITE (Excellence Leadership Integrity Teamwork and Enjoyment) values form the foundation of the Company’s solution driven service.

The Company strongly believe that it is information that moves cargo and our focus on efficient and streamlined communication, underpinned by strong client relationships, industry knowledge and experience, is what allows Amfi Freight International to deliver consistent and dependable service.

Dean Lailvaux +27 82 825 0728 Office +27 31 563 3049 E sales@amfi.co.za

www.amfi.co.za

TATA CHEMICALS’ PRODUCTS ARE APPLICABLE ACROSS A BROAD RANGE OF INDUSTRIES, INCLUDING: • Agriculture • Animal nutrition • Chemicals • Construction • Food and nutrition • Glass • Metals • Pharmaceuticals • Safety and environment • Soaps and detergents • Textiles and leather • Water purifiers • Oil & gas exploration models including the use of clinical associates

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Fuelling growth

Situated in the Port of Durban precinct, Mpofu heads up TCSA’s operations, overseeing the discharge of bulk cargoes and the Company’s national development.

“I have been in the port since the dawn of the new millennium and was employed in 2006 to manage operations, later assuming the role of General Manager in 2012.”

Joining the firm during the relatively early stages of his career after spending six years maintaining pneumatic discharge off-loaders, Mpofu moved to TCSA after seeking new opportunities at companies using similar equipment.

Having gained substantial expertise before joining the Company, Mpofu played a crucial role in enhancing TCSA’s cost benefits, implementing a simple conveyor operated discharge system that critically allowed for increased discharge rates and lower maintenance costs.

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FAIRSHIP SA

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airship SA was founded in 1996 to provide the maritime industry with a highly specialised, hands on service for all sectors of the industry.

Our strong team specialises in various bulk commodities including steel, mineral sands, coal, iron ore, grains, breakbulk and general cargoes. It has become increasingly apparent that many customers require professional agency services, cargo clearing and logistical support around the South African coast and we are pleased to be able to provide professional coverage in all South African ports.

T +27 10 010 7700 E glenn@fairshipsa.net

www.fairshipsa.net

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WAREHOUSING

Understanding Expectations …

Delivering Quality

Direct: Dean Lailvaux +27 82 825 0728

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Office: +27 31 563 3049

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sales@amfi.co.za

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www.amfi.co.za

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Such technology has since become revolutionary for the Company due to its expansive operations at the Port of Durban.

With Tata Chemicals manufacturing soda ash and a diverse range of other chemicals all over the globe, from India to the UK to Kenya, shipments arrive at the port’s terminal for discharge storage where the product is then sold to local and neighbouring markets in Africa.

“We have a diversified portfolio of products that we have recently handled including fertilisers, gypsum, bauxite, sulphates and other alkali chemicals,” Mpofu explains. “We

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are situated on the wharf-side where our conveying appliance feeds a 30 kilotonne storage warehouse. Here, we bag bulk products into various bag sizes or load it in to tankers and tippers before dispatching to our clients.”

In total, the Company handled close to 200 kilotonnes of third-party products in Durban alone in the past year, fuelling the growth of South Africa’s chemicals market.

An eye to innovation

With such a substantial presence across South Africa already, TCSA is having to come up with new and innovative ways to ensure that

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its growth journey continues – an initiative that Mpofu highlights as a top priority.

“We intend to grow our footprint as a preferred terminal for the handling of all free-flowing bulk chemicals as well as maintaining our status as a leader in handling of bulk and break bulk,” he states. “Further, we also want to increase our offering to our clients in the form of supplementary and complimentary products to our in-house chemicals.”

In achieving this, the firm is exploring a number of new projects that are geared towards providing more efficient volume throughout

and alleviating other pressures as the Company nears its current productive capacity at Durban.

“The port in its current state has no more room for the terminals to expand, so creative ways to move products in and out of the port which eliminate congestion are needed,” adds Mpofu. “This is something that we will be looking to address through 2018 and beyond.”

In pursuing further expansions, TCSA will implement its LIFE culture, focussed on considering living, industrial and farming essentials throughout all of its operations.

Leveraging the latest innovations and scientific developments, TCSA ensures that it continuously bolsters its product portfolio whilst bettering the lives of communities that it serves whilst remaining sustainable.

“We will continue to focus on harnessing the fruits of science for goals that go beyond business in everything we do,” Mpofu concludes, reflecting the Tata Chemicals motto of ‘serving society through science’.

Tata Chemicals Tel: +27 31 205 9252 rmpofu@tatachemicals.com www.tatachemicals.com

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S O N A

G R O U P

PRIDE OF

Nigeria Having revitalised the fortunes of local beer producers over the past two decades, Sona Group is diversifying into food production in a bid to reduce the country’s reliance on imported goods Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Vivek Valmiki espite being one of Africa’s most prolific exporters of oil, agriculture remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s

economy.

The sector employs two thirds of the country’s labour force, and is the largest producer of cassava in the world, growing around 50 million tonnes a year from a cultivated area of approximately 3.7 million hectares.

However, the food production industry is not without its considerable challenges. Nigeria is the continent’s leading consumer of rice, one of its largest producers and simultaneously one of the largest rice importers in the world. Over the past 20 years it is estimated that $10 billion of export opportunities have been lost due to underproduction.

Diversified companies like Sona Group are vital to ensuring Nigeria journeys successfully towards selfsufficiency. Established in 1994 with two breweries to its name, the Group expanded to six sites and a packaging division, specialising in taking over ailing businesses and reversing their fortunes.

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Now the focus is very much on the untapped potential of Nigeria’s FMCG sector, as Chief Operating Officer Ashok Kumar Manghnani explains: “Africa, and Nigeria in particular, should be self-sufficient, especially in food sectors as agriculture is untapped here and the population is increasing.

“Government policies must be consistent for the next 25 years for continued economic growth. The government must be committed to improving and investing in essential areas like road transport, railways, infrastructure and power. Concessions to non-oil export for exporters so they can be competitive in pricing is also crucial.”

Belief in local

Sona Group is one of Nigeria’s fastest growing groups, grounded in a long-established plastic and glass manufacturing operation.

Fitted out with the latest stateof-the-art machines and modern management techniques, these elements have also been installed at the numerous companies Sona has revitalised along this journey.

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“The Group’s success lies in local content production, reflected in the fact our logo carries the strapline ‘Pride of Nigeria’,” Manghnani says. “Our emphasis is on local raw materials, and our supply chain team always prioritise local over imported.

“We have confidence in the economy, which is still growing and had a GDP growth rate of 1.5 percent in the second quarter of 2018. Also, Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and has large domestic consumption.”

Sona currently exports to neighbouring African countries, Europe and even as far away as New Zealand, where it sends high quality malt extract.

The Group aims to increase export revenues from five percent of total turnover to 30 percent in the coming years, and has set up a separate export

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team to deliver on this target.

Key to this growth journey has been sound management. “When we entered into the Nigerian market, we realised that the industries were not managed well and in Nigeria, you cannot remote control industries,” Manghnani explains.

“We appointed a team of confident and professional managers with continuous supervision and monitoring. We also brought in the latest technology and machines from Europe for our production with financial support from core investors at a time when the banking sector worldwide, and particularly in Nigeria, was not doing well.”

Supplying a shortage

Such was the success of transforming local breweries, Sona Group attracted

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the attention of Dutch multinational giant Heineken, which bought all of its brewing operations in 2011. Sona has since ploughed back the proceeds in diversified industries based on local raw materials.

The funds from the sale have been used to invest in new machinery (to the tune of tens of millions of euros) and diversify activities in other segments, notably FMCG. “The future of Africa lies in agriculture,” Manghnani says. “We are planning and in fact have already started the process of planting hybrid coconut trees and have procured land for cassava farming as these are core raw materials for our production.

“We now have a diverse range of products, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, biscuits and confectionery, plastic packaging,

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industrial gasses, sorghum malt extracts, sugar syrup and even our own independent power.

“One of our packaging companies, Shongai Technologies Ltd, won a prestigious award, ‘Worldstar for Packaging’, for packaging excellence from the World Packaging Organisation at the Gold Coast in Australia this year.”

Manghnani also outlines plans to invest in other industries such as edible oil refining, soaps and detergent manufacturing, among others.

Futureproofing

This diverse portfolio of investments and operations will not only pave Sona Group’s own sustainable development path, but also help reverse the trend of import reliance that has held Nigeria’s growth back in recent decades.

This includes supporting local farmers and producers, as well as upskilling its own community of

employees. “As we are into food industries like biscuits, malt extract and distilling based on cassava, farmers play a vital role in sourcing our raw material,” Manghnani adds.

“We source goods like sorghum from farmers through intermediaries and local suppliers. We also hire skilled workers, as they are vital to run our latest machinery and equipment. Our workers are constantly updated with the latest technology through training locally and with machinery suppliers.”

And it will be the drive into FMCG sectors that propels company activity in the immediate future.

Manghnani concludes: “Our emphasis is on FMCG, especially the food industry. We have a high growth rate, at least double-digit year on year and as we continue to start new projects, our business will grow tremendously. It will play a key role in developing the Nigerian labour market.”

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GROWTH

from the ground up country’s property market is usually a sound indicator of its general economic wellbeing. In Namibia, 2018 has seen property prices drop by 8.8 percent following a decade of enormous growth.

This market correction, which has been in progress for the last three years, is opening up the possibility of ownership to more Namibian consumers and enterprises, but also

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Broll Namibia continues to be a top performing unit of Ohlthaver & List, the country’s largest privately-owned company. Managing Director Marco Wenk tells us more

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Writer: Tom Wadlow Project Manager: Lewis Bush

highlights the pressure currently on the country’s economy.

GDP growth for the second quarter of 2018 was negative, and government spending since 2016 is reflecting this overall picture. However, an upswing is expected to return by the end of 2019, and private enterprise is crucial in realising future growth.

This is where companies such as Broll Namibia have a vital role to play. From a single shopping mall project to a property portfolio under

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management exceeding N$5 billion, the firm has risen to the top of the country’s property services market since it opened for business in 2003.

Part of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) conglomerate, the largest privatelyowned group of companies in Namibia, the property services firm specialises in a range of areas, including shopping centre management, commercial and retail leasing, development management and leasing, facilities management, asset management and more.

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This also includes its own patented Broll-Online property management software and search solution, containing a large database of properties across Sub-Saharan Africa and designed to provide clients with accurate, up to date information at all times.

Setting the standard

Marco Wenk has been Broll Namibia’s Managing Director since 2005, moving over from Ohlthaver & List in 2003

when a joint venture with Broll South Africa created the Namibian firm that stands today.

“The performance of any company is a combined effort of all individuals serving the organisation,” he explains.

“Our winning recipe is thus the display of ownership which each person within Broll Namibia takes, not only regarding their own responsibilities, but that of all others as well.

“It is this ownership culture, our drive towards excellence through

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continuous leadership growth and a breakthrough spirit which allows us to build on and exceed past successes.”

Broll Namibia is just one part of the wider Broll Property Group, carrying with it a strong reputation on the African continent which has been built up since 1975. Today, Broll has a physical presence in Cameroon, Ghana, Indian Ocean Islands, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Swaziland, Uganda and Zambia, and provides real estate services in other African countries.

“Broll South Africa is also affiliated to

CBRE,” says Wenk. “CBRE is a renowned global commercial real estate and investment firm, and this affiliation enables us to offer unrivalled local expertise and global market knowledge with the sole purpose of maximising the potential of clients’ property.”

Wernhil Park

Wenk also highlights the significant progress made on one of the Company’s flagship properties under management, the Wernhil Park project, since last speaking to Africa Outlook in 2015.

Mid-2003: Broll Namibia formed by way of a joint venture between the O&L- and SA-based Broll Property Group.

Each of the five registered professional quantity surveyors have been personally involved with all major architects, engineers and contractors across Namibia and know what to expect in terms of technical ability, quality and commercial risk to objectively advise their clients.

May 2012: Joint venture established with South African project management firm SIP, targeting investor and property owner clients.

The partnership is well versed in corporate reporting, green star target requirements and the latest commercial building agreements, which includes JBCC, FIDIC and GCC.

April 2013: Expansion into facilities management through Broll Property Group’s acquisition of a division of WSP Group Africa.

The most important facet of the firm is our ability to provide early and solid cost advice, saving our clients’ time and money.

July 2016: First participation in Great Place to Work. Previously, O&L was for three consecutive years named first in Deloitte’s Best Company to Work For rankings in the SADC region in the large business category.

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As a partnership of experienced specialists in their field, HHQS scrutinises and tests a project brief against the design as it matures. The Company understands the importance of trade off scenarios and insightful options to both developers and building owners.

To ensure the pro-active services expected from a quantity surveying practice, HHQS employs the latest interface and teamwork technologies.

2006: Investments of N$280 million made into strategic properties – milestones achieved include the upgrade and extension to Alexander Forbes House/Carl List Mall, upgrade to the Pick n Pay Centre in Walvis Bay, upgrade to the Standard Bank Centre, and the Wernhil Park Shopping Centre 3rd phase.

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endrik Herselman Quantity Surveyors (HHQS) was founded in 1994 and specialises in providing quantity surveying services on building projects in addition to property development consulting.

The prime objective of a QS is to preempt unforeseen cost implications and provide overall cost control on each of the building trades as it evolves during the project stages.

BROLL NAMIBIA – KEY EVENTS AND MILESTONES

July 2017: The Phase four extension to the Wernhil Park Shopping Centre to the value of N$500 million due to be completed in June 2019.

HENDRIK HERSELMAN

As preferred quantity surveyors for the largest and most varied commercial property endeavours, our team is proud to also serve Broll Namibia in their vision for growth in our country.

Marco Wenk, Managing Director

T +264 61 235 021 E fvangreunen@hhqs.com.na

www.hendrikherselmanqs.com

The Construction Cost Specialists PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • • • • • •

Cost planning and detail brief development with consultant team Estimates of building cost with risk analysis and cashflow plan Financial design criteria advice and scrutiny against brief objectives Tender documentation (bills of quantities) for building projects including multiple procurement of specialist trades Cost control/management and financial risk reporting Progress payment valuation and final account close out ADDITIONAL SERVICES TO SUIT CLIENT NEEDS

• • • • • • •

Property feasibilities and building replacement valuations Residual land value and development risk analysis Project feasibilities, development planning with scenario reports Finance application documentation, business case and credit board reports Project management support and principal agency Green star reports, innovation research and collaboration in conjunction with specialists Resource and spending audit for PDN analysis and SME empowerment objectives

T: +264 61 235 021 | E: hhqs@hhqs.com.na | www.hendrikherselmanqs.com

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Located in Windhoek’s central business district (CBD), Wernhil Park is one of Namibia’s most popular shopping malls, first opening its doors in 1990 and today receiving over a million visitors a month. The site, managed by Broll Namibia since 2003, has been subject to continual upgrades and expansions, including the upgrades carried out in 2005 and 2011 which saw over N$350 million invested.

Phase Four of the scheme has progressed from feasibility study stage in 2015 to a point where the entire development is currently on track for completion by June 2019.

This involves a total investment of around N$500 million and the creation of 19,000 square metres of prime retail space (enough for 50 shops), a medical centre, 800 parking bays and a public transport facility, all spanning over more than a hectare of land, making it Broll Namibia’s most ambitious project

to date.

Wenk adds: “Wernhil Park has for many years been a crucial catalyst for Windhoek’s central business district growth and the Phase Four extension, together with the recently established Windhoek Central Improvement Partnership, will be vital in supporting the CBD’s growth strategy into the future.

“This will ensure the Windhoek CBD area is a sought-after destination and at all times which remains competitive with decentralised nodes in Windhoek.”

The work is being carried out in two stages and, once completed, will take the site’s tally of shops up to 130 tenants. “The expansion to Wernhil Park will significantly enhance the overall shopping experience by not only offering more variety, but also more space, thus significantly reducing congestion within the mall,” Wenk continues.

Broll Namibia manages a range of property assets across the country

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SIP PROJECT MANAGERS

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ince inception in 2012, SIP Project Managers (Namibia) have been the leaders in providing professional, independent and impartial project and construction management services in Namibia.

SIP Project Managers (Namibia) is not part of a multifunctional consultancy firm, thereby our focus and commitment is solely towards completing projects successfully. Our decision making is thus not clouded, we remain objective and focused in providing independent and impartial project decision making that is vital and to the best interest of the project and project stakeholders.

Some of SIP Project Managers (Namibia) past and current projects in Namibia, to name a few include the FNB Namibia Head Office and Standard Bank Head Office both situated in Windhoek, The Strand Hotel in Swakopmund and Wernhil Park Mall in Windhoek.

www.sippm.co.za

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Alexander Forbes House, c/o Independence Avenue & Fidel Castro Street, 5th Floor, North Block, Windhoek, Namibia.

PO Box 2309, Windhoek, Namibia Office telephone: +264 61 235 651 Cell number: +264 81 453 5570 Email: jacky.jacobs@sipnamibia.com.n

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The MD also reveals that the construction phase has created around 400-500 job opportunities, with 600700 permanent positions available once all the retail outlets are up and running.

This is not the only way in which Wernhil Park has supported the surrounding Windhoek community. In March, the shopping centre donated a series of water hygiene goods to two local primary schools following an outbreak of Hepatitis E.

People power

Broll Namibia also places a strong emphasis on looking out for the wellbeing of its own staff. The Company aspires to international employee welfare standards, reflected by the fact it has taken part in Great Place to Work surveys since 2016.

Prior to this, between 2010 and 2015, Ohlthaver & List participated in the Deloitte Best Company to Work

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“We have placed great emphasis on evoking a long-term sustainable approach by committing to closing the internal workforce skills, knowledge and exposure gaps�

For survey, ranking first in the SADC region in the large business category for three consecutive years. During this time, Broll Namibia was on several occasions awarded either the first or second Best Company To Work For within the O&L Group.

In 2017, 10 Companies under the O&L umbrella took part in the Great Place To Work survey, and Broll Namibia achieved an overall score of 77 percent, placing it in second place within the O&L conglomerate which

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consists of 13 companies in total.

A large contributing factor has been a focus on education. Due to the commercial property management industry in Namibia still being in its infancy stage, readily available skills are difficult to come by, making internal staff development of paramount importance. “We have placed great emphasis on evoking a long-term sustainable approach by committing to closing the internal workforce skills, knowledge

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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.

HUB Parking Technology products and solutions are developed around the world and designated for long term performance, bringing together global knowledge and local expertise. Building on two decades’ of successful projects across South Africa, HUB local team can help you streamline your operations and tailor your installation to satisfy all your requirements in a cost efficient way: from smaller parking areas to multiple sites managed through a centralized control room, our equipment and software management JMS will grant you a stressfree experience and total control of your parking sites.

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

and exposure gaps,” Wenk adds.

“We are partnering up with our local universities to build a talent pipeline that feeds into the business needs of Broll Namibia. This will enhance the growth of our developing industry and ultimately contribute towards our purpose of ‘creating a future, enhancing life’.”

And it is this purpose which will drive the organisation’s priorities over its next 15 years of existence.

“Broll Namibia’s inspirational journey and tremendous growth has not come without facing many challenges along the way,” Wenk continues. “Our success could not have been achieved without a meaningful purpose, strong values and a highly motivated team who continually strive to create value for our clients.

“I am extremely proud to have been able to play my part in contributing to Broll Namibia’s unbelievable growth over the years and am confident that Broll Namibia will only go from strength to strength.”

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A Responsible Answer to Ghana’s Housing Deficit Kiran Daswani, Founder of The Greens residential project, discusses its progress to date and why it signals a shift in direction for the country’s real estate market Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Kane Weller

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hana’s construction sector has been booming for years. Since 2010, the industry has grown by more than 70 percent and employs over 300,000 people, according to the government’s statistical body. In 2015 alone, the

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Ghanaian construction market enjoyed a growth rate of 30.6 percent and accounted for 14.8 percent of GDP. Much of this growth can be attributed to a rising demand for housing, a deficit the country still struggles to overturn to this day.

However, companies such as The

Greens are looking to reverse this trend through responsible housing projects. Located in the bustling port city of Tema just outside of the capital city Accra, The Greens is a seven-acre gated community with the security, amenities and conveniences of modern living.

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Once all four phases are complete, 125 homes of varying sizes and finishes will be occupied by predominantly young, aspiring Ghanaian families. With the land purchased a little over a year ago in July 2017, Phase 1 (12 homes) has now been completed, with a further 50 homes (Phase 2) due for handover between December this year and May 2019.

Having built up considerable real estate experience working in the UAE, Kiran Daswani, the Company Founder, is determined to provide a fundamentally different offering to Ghana’s property market – a proposition centred around trust.

“It is very hard to find quality housing in Ghana for the right price,” she says. “There are generally no vetting or minimum standards to adhere by, so we have to build that trust ourselves.

“What has helped is that we haven’t taken any loans from banks or taken on any debt, so we are comfortable

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Homes start at $69,000, far more affordable than those situated in Accra

financially with the construction. Some property developments are dependent on sales in order to continue building, but we do not have that issue, so we can keep confidence with our buyers and investors.

“Our buyers have been very happy so far – we are sold out on Phase 1 and

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around 80 percent have sold on Phase 2.”

The quality Daswani refers to is also, crucially, not out of reach of ordinary Ghanaians from a financial point of view.

Starting at $69,000, the homes are far more affordable than their equivalent dwellings 30 kilometres away in Accra.

The first choice of façade, glazing and cladding solutions

At Red Point, we thrive on our impressive track record of consistent and successful delivery of projects, in time with required quality and within budget to the client.

We are passionate about staying abreast with the latest technological developments in the industry. We constantly collaborate with specialists at every stage of the project value chain to bring our customers the most up-to-date solutions for their requirements.

Al Nuqta Al Hamra Aluminium and Glazing Contracting LLC, popularly referred as ‘Red Point’ is recognized as a leading supplier of façade and glazing solutions in the

UAE, Oman and India.

In addition to façade solutions, we also design, fabricate and install doors and windows, louvered structures, canopies and conservatories, skylights, shop-fronts, entrances, automatic opening systems, and metal and stone wall cladding systems.

With a strong presence throughout our area of operations, we are capable to efficiently and effectively serve the needs of our customers. With our profound engineering capabilities, we offer an array of bespoke solutions for aluminium and glazing structure work.

OUR SERVICES CURTAIN WALL We specialize in fabrication of all types of curtain wall facades.

Our standard as well as bespoke curtain wall systems range from conventional system to semi and fully unitized systems.

CLADDING SOLUTIONS We specialize in metal composite wall claddings including ACP, SS, Zinc, and wood composite panels. We also execute stonecladding facades.

STRUCTURAL GLAZING We design fabricate and install rain-screens, climate façade solution and glazed skylights. We cover the full spectrum of twosided and four-sided structurally glazed systems.

GLASS AND GLAZING We offer services to design, fabricate and install precise glazing requirements of any complexity. In active collaboration with our global supply partners, we offer up-front technical expertise in the realm of photometric data, thermal performance, shading calculations, solar impact computation and bespoke aesthetic solutions that include ceramic fritted, sand blasted and thermally insulated glass formations.

OPENINGS AND PARTITIONS We execute doors, windows, partitions, canopies, conservatories and louvered structures.

P.O.Box 4302 Sharjah United Arab Emirates

Tel: 123-456-7890 Fax: 123-456-7890

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B5 PLUS LTD

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5 Plus Ltd was started more than a decade ago by its Founder and Chairman, Mr Mukesh Thakwani, gradually emerging to be a cynosure for African steel owing to its highquality finished products.

As a supplier, the Company gives priority to ensuring quality as well as the security of supply and its integrated supply chain helps the Company maintain a high standard of product quality and service delivery.

This in turn reduces the potential need for rework, increases reliability of service and saves its customers valuable time and money.

T +233 244 331 635 | +233 244 342600

www.b5plus.com

The Greens by numbers Situated just 30 kilometres from Accra, The Greens lies in Community 25 of Tema, a busy industrial hub on the Ghanaian coast. Key facts include: • 125 homes to be built in four phases • Prices start from $69,000 • Range of houses include: 3-bedroom detached, 3-bedroom duplex, 2-bedroom duplex and 2-bedroom terrace • Each house fitted with solar battery power backup • Located 10 kilometres from the heart of Tema, home to numerous vital amenities such as banks, hospitals, schools and shopping centres and effectively.

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Championing Local

Building up confidence with homebuyers is just one element of the authenticity The Greens has established to date.

The project has also embedded itself into the Southern Ghanaian community by employing and procuring locally where possible, with 100 percent of site workers and almost all back-office workers being Ghana nationals.

“We buy a lot of materials locally, especially from Accra where a lot of materials have either been made locally or imported already,” says Daswani. “Not only do we save time, we support local traders.

“For instance, we make our solid wooden doors here rather than importing them. Ghana is known for its quality of wood, and we make sure it is well-treated and up to the standards we set ourselves.”

Daswani and The Greens’ approach has been recognised in the form of

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a Best Property Investment Award at December 2017’s Ghana Property Awards, an event showcasing the best examples of public-private partnerships coming to fruition.

Firm foundations

Another key component to the successful delivery of the project to date has been the autonomy with which Daswani and her team operates.

“All our contracting is managed in-house,” she explains. “If we were to subcontract then our costs would be higher and we would have less control on quality.”

Keeping a firm handle on supply chain costs in turn allows The Greens to offer quality at affordable prices, with all houses even inclusive of a small solar panel designed to safeguard against power outages.

With the entire country heavily dependent on hydro power from the Akosombo dam, outages can have costly effects on homeowners, making

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Where Quality costs Less

HEAD OFFICE Kpone Barrier, Aflao Rd, Opp Kingdom Transport, Kpone - Tema Tel: (+233) 244 331 635 | (+233) 244 342600 (+233) 244 333 511 | (+233) 544 313 204

www.b5plus.com

the addition of a solar battery unit a sustainable backup. Communal streetlamps are also purely powered by solar.

“The solar panels and batteries are also upgradable,” Daswani adds.

“We believe a good proportion of our buyers will want to upgrade their systems so they can generate more power themselves.”

Daswani confirms that phases three and four will begin following the successful handover of Phase 2 properties, confident that interest in the project will continue to be strong. “It is crucial to investor confidence that we do not stop once Phase 2 has completed,” she adds.

But what about further afield?

Is Daswani looking elsewhere to replicate the model example of The Greens?

“We are actively looking for more land, so this is the first of many,” she concludes.

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Safeguarding

Southern Africa’s Water Naas du Preez, MD of the Oasis Group, reveals how the Company’s innovative approach is fundamentally changing the region’s bottled water industry Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Lewis Bush

lastic pollution is quickly becoming one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century.

Every day approximately eight million pieces of plastic enter our oceans, with estimates predicting that there are now around 5.25 trillion items contaminating the marine environment globally, accounting for up to 90 percent of all ocean debris.

With plastic production set to double from current levels to more than 640 million tonnes each year by 2034, the need for solutions is becoming increasingly urgent.

Africa is one region where this is starkly clear. Tap water across the continent has long been deemed to be unsafe to drink, with the use of bottled water having been normalised across the continent as a cleaner, safer and more convenient alternative.

Recognising the growing problem, environmentalists are calling for companies to take greater action – a role that Oasis Water has been thriving within.

A company that prides itself on being a good corporate citizen, Oasis Water is pursuing a number

of initiatives on this front, namely through its refill concept.

All of the firm’s 290 locations across South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, consumers are able to utilise these refill stations to access the same clean and safe water that they would normally drink from bottled water whilst being able to reuse their existing containers.

“We are proud to say that we recently opened two refill stations within the Kruger National Park,

encouraging visitors to reduce their plastic impact by refilling their bottles,” says Naas du Preez, Managing Director of the Oasis Water Group, providing one of the latest examples of the Company’s good work.

“In association with PETCO, a global leader in the recycling of postconsumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET), we are also assisting the park in recycling PET materials that are 100 percent recyclable.”

Naas du Preez, Koos De La Rey, Alet di Polo and Mynhardt Oosthuizen

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Reputation is key

Oasis Water’s other offerings readily complement its refill concept.

Selling PETCO approved bottles as large as 10 litres and for-life containers as sizeable as 25 litres, the Company aims to provide its customers with a more environmentally-conscious solution.

Du Preez explains: “All our products are manufactured using plastic PET packaging, but we actively encourage those that purchase our products to recycle and reuse where possible as responsible members of PETCO.” Founded in 2003, Oasis Water has grown rapidly, driven by this ethos, referred to as its triple bottom line philosophy of “people, planet, profit”, alongside its franchise business model.

Building the brand through this structure, Oasis Water has been readily positioned to connect with customers and expand its market potential, now accounting for approximately 23 percent of South Africa’s water market

and offering 53 trademarked beverage products.

“We provide full beverage solutions from refill water, bulk water, bottled water, fruit juices, energy drinks, ice teas, sports drinks, flavoured waters and carbonated soft drinks,” says du Preez.

“However, not only do we have a greater range of options than our competitors, but we value our franchise relationships and ensure our products are the best on the market through our rigorous quality control process.

“We have 15 years’ experience in our industry and we understand the retail and franchise environment extensively. It has been integral to the development of our brand and our continued success.”

By fundamentally catering to the demands of its consumers and changes in the market where possible, it is easy to see why the Oasis Water brand has grown so substantially, offering premium products and conscious solutions.

An important part of Oasis Water’s identity comes from its work in local communities

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JAVA PRINT

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ava Print is a BRC accredited (AA rating) company that specialises in the print and finishing of selfadhesive labels for optimum product differentiation in various market sectors.

Continually building its business around the concept of enhancement, the Company sees a label as an adornment of the vision, hopes and aspirations of its clients.

Unique to Java Print is a system of printing called Opaltone – it implements an increased colour gambit and ink controls to enhance the vibrance and consistency of printed labels providing a crucial in-store advantage.

T +27 11 608 1984 E mark@javaprint.co.za

www.javaprint.co.za

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Java specialises in the print and finishing of self adhesive labels, sleeves & tags. Providing optimum product differentiation in all the market sectors. BRC accredited and HACCP approved.

Phone: 011 608 1984 Email: mark@javaprint.co.za

self

An industry leader, with state of the art machinery, allowing us to give you the absolute best in quality and service. Quality brands need quality suppliers, so why not make the change.

abel specialists l e v i s e a dh

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Oasis Water is able to produce several different sized products

“We are proud to be known as a reputable Group with a substantial national footprint, and our ‘green edge’ is something that really differentiates us from our competitors within the market,” du Preez states.

“We recognise the demand for sustainable solutions and have proven that we can deliver.”

Oasis Water’s purification process: • Sand filtration • Element filtration • Reverse osmosis • Carbon filtration • UV protection • Ozonation

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Differentiation through innovation

Through this, the Company has grown to provide an extensive footprint across Southern Africa, now providing 80 percent coverage across South Africa, acting as the primary vendor for a large number of its customers.

Whilst the brand has been crucial within this, Oasis Water also leverages innovative low-cost methods to ensure that it has remained ahead of its rivals with a competitive pricing structure.

Leveraging municipal and recycled water sources, Oasis Water is able to purify and package its water using osmosis techniques onsite in many cases, reducing the risk of

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Soft drinks are part of the firm’s product range

contamination whilst allowing the firm to keep its costs down.

Oasis Water’s leveraging of public distribution systems is a technique that has been heralded by industry experts, demonstrated when the firm recently secured Frost & Sullivan’s 2018 Company of the Year Award in the bottled water and hydration industry in Southern Africa.

Deemed to be an industry progressive, these differentiated methods allow the Company to expand almost anywhere – something that du Preez hopes to continue to pursue moving forward.

“Now, in September we expanded

our carbonated soft drink range to include 330ml products, and have rolled our new sports and kids drinks in the past year, as well as working on sports drinks sachets and other products,” he explains.

“Looking ahead, we are hoping to sell the Oasis franchises more aggressively,” he says. “We plan to further diversify our offerings, implementing ecommerce for our whole franchise group and launching more express stores within retailers.

“Ultimately, our growth strategy has been a success to date, and we expect this to continue as we grow in new and different exciting ways.”

Oasis Water Tel: +27 12 807 1984/1460 frontdesk@oasiswater.co.za www.oasiswater.co.za

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EQUATORIAL COCA- COLA BOTTLING COMPANY IN GHANA

Seamless

REALITY Passion, Excellence and

DIVERSITY

Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Ghana is providing impeccable service to the community, while putting in place initiatives to develop the local skills and ensuring continuity for the future of the Company Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Joshua Mann

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s part of a partnership between the Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company (ECCBC) Group and the Government of Ghana, The Coca-Cola Bottling Company Ghana (TCCBCG) was created in 1997 with a core focus on people and a commitment to sustainable business growth.

In 2003, ECCBC acquired 100 percent ownership of the Company and since that point TCCBCG’s bottling plant has been situated at Spintex, Accra. Located there are two glass lines and two PET lines that produce 40 store keeping units (SKU) of non-alcoholic beverages.

“At present we produce and distribute our products across four categories,” explains Seth Adu-Baah, Managing Director of The Coca-Cola Bottling Company Ghana Limited.

“Within these categories are some of the world’s most famous brands, such as Coke, Fanta, Sprite and Schweppes.

“Our four main depots are strategically located in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and Tamale, as well as 170 strategic customers (mini distribution centres) across the country that serve more than 100,000 retail outlets and contribute to provide approximately 102,300 jobs.”

With Seth Adu-Baah at the helm - as the first Ghanaian Managing Director of TCCBCG - the Company has made significant contributions to the business environment, to consumers and to the country as a whole.

Adu-Baah continues: “We pride ourselves on being a great employer, taking on more than 800 Ghanaians across the country and indirectly employing many others through outlets, sales points and opportunities for jobs across our value chain.

“The recent success seen at TCCBCG have been driven by its focus on people and commitment to sustainable business growth, as well as the resilient leadership demonstrated by the entire management team within the Company.”

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T: +233 (0) 303 212 627 | F: +233 (0) 303 212 626 2nd Floor Wing A, Nicholas Plaza off Meridian Road, Comm.1, Tema P. O. Box BT 160, Comm 2,Tema

Movis Ghana’s Fleet of 50 inluding Trucks, Trailers, Low beds, supports us in servicing our clients in an efficient, secured safe and affordable manner.

We have a robust HSSE Regime in place that guides our Transport Operations and ensures full Compliance with all Safety Requirements.

Services offered: • Containerised Cargo Transport.

• Break Bulk (BB) & Ro-Ro Cargo Transport.

• Heavy Lift Transport.

• Out of Gauge Cargo Transport.

• Dedicated Services Transport.

• Inland Transport.

• Project Cargo Transport • Dangerous Goods Cargo Transport including Sodium Cyanide and Explosives.

• Heavy Lift Transport • Distribution Services

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In order to continue on with this success rate, the Company has put in place strategies and business process improvements with staff development at its core.

Adu-Baah adds: “We will continue to develop and maintain strategic business relationships with our customers and consumers, focusing on creating value for our mutual benefit at all levels.

“We have developed robust training plans and talent management initiatives that will enable us to address the developmental needs of our team, bridging capability gaps while supporting young talent with high potential for the future that ensures business continuity.

“Both our talent management programmes and trainings are specifically designed with a strong emphasis on on-the-job training, strengthening the skills of our employees in alignment with the strategic business plan.”

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As a Company with such extensive history in the industry, TCCBCG works hard to ensure that it does not stray away from the values that have made it the great brand that it is today.

“When it comes to incorporating new products into our portfolio, we ensure that they remain true to our original brand identity,” affirms Adu-Baah. “For example, we have incorporated a new non-caloric product - Coca-Cola Zero Sugar which enables us to reach our target consumers that are looking for the same great taste of regular Coca-Cola but without the sugar.

“We are serving the Ghanaian market to the best of our abilities, ensuring that our beverages are available to everyone and at a reasonable price, while also giving back to the communities that we proudly serve, investing in sustainability through our corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.”

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OVIS is an emerging brand with a group of passionate freight forwarders with expertise and experience in various sectors of our industry.

We are part of the GEODIS Network and are present in over 150 countries around the world.

Our global reach allows us to offer door-to-door services to our customers with freight collect options.

We are fully committed on our promise to our clients to help them optimise their operations by bringing efficiency to their complex supply chains as well as major cost savings.

MOVIS offices are in various countries in West Africa: • Cote D’Ivoire • Ghana • Liberia • Cameroon • Burkina Faso MOVIS operates in the various sectors listed below: • Oil & Gas • Mining • Energy • FMCG • Automotive • Power • Manufacturing • Consumer • Agro Business • Pharmaceuticals • Rail MOVIS Ghana operates out of five offices servicing the various regions and ports: • Accra • Tema • Kumasi • Takoradi • Tamale The Accra office is responsible for all air business in and out of Ghana. The Tema and Takoradi offices are responsible for any sea imports and exports at the Tema and Takoradi Ports and the Kumasi and Tamale offices responsible for our Inland Distribution activities.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited: The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited entered into a Service Partnership with MOVIS in 2016 to provide and implement a full cycle logistics solution.

This Partnership was to allow the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited to focus on its core business of manufacturing and sales whilst MOVIS implements the full cycle logistics solution in stages.

This Partnership started off with Empties Warehouse Management at the main factory of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited. The relationship has since evolved to include Empties Management in the Coca-Cola Bottling Company’s Kumasi Site, as well as being the sole Partner responsible for distribution in Kumasi and its environs as well as all the areas in-between Kumasi and Tamale (the whole Northern Belt).

We have witnessed massive growth in our partnership which has been driven by the strong contractual KPIs which MOVIS has consistently and the duty of care that both parties have shown in the Partnership.

We are proud to say that volumes distributed from Kumasi have increased two-fold and we are extremely excited to be associated with this level of achievement. We continue to strive to improve on our current service levels, through rigid cost controls, continuous improvement processes and customer engagement. These have always been the three main drivers of our success story.

There are ongoing discussions to expand the scope of our operations and we look forward to realising the goal of handling the full cycle logistics of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited.

CONTACT DETAILS T +233 (0) 303 212 627 F +233 (0) 303 212 626

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KHS

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HS is one of the world’s leading suppliers of packaging and filling technology for products including glass bottles, plastic bottles, kegs and cans.

Having pioneered in the industry for more than 150 years, our trendsetting technological developments are mirrored in the more than 4.400 patents and applications as well as in more than 570 IP rights KHS has registered to date throughout the world. This success would, however, not be feasible without the passion and enthusiasm of our more than 4,800 employees worldwide.

Our portfolio includes filling and packaging systems for water, beer, soft drinks, juice, wine, and highly sensitive beverages and dairy products. Our Company’s core competence lies in the development and production of both single machines and complete lines.

Our products include machines that manufacture plastic bottles, fillers, labelers, packers, and palletisers.

Conveying systems for various types of packs and containers complement our many products and systems.

Nurturing talent

Due to the Company’s rich history, candidates for employment within TCCBCG will go through a stringent interview process that is based on their qualifications and work experience.

“Over time we have developed our training schemes to ensure that talent is nurtured and never neglected,” explains Adu-Baah. “We place a lot of emphasis on making sure that a greater number of the workforce are Ghanaian nationals, with a current 99.1 percent of our current workers being local.”

A large part of the Company’s HR strategy involves the development of local talent and high-potential employees into a talent pool that ensures complete continuity within the business.

“From the moment a new employee is welcomed into the TCCBCG family, we provide them with a planned induction and training programme,” states Adu-Baah. “Following on from

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Over time we have developed our training schemes to ensure that talent is nurtured and never neglected

With a network of more than 40 service offices in 35 countries and increasingly through remote diagnosis using our ReDiS remote maintenance tool and the internet, we can ensure reliable regional support; smooth production being a crucial factor.

It is thus logical that we aim to serve clients and their markets directly and efficiently through the many plants installed at international locations including the USA, Mexico, Brazil, China, and India.

Our sales and after-sales business are structured to cover the needs and requirements of all our valued customers globally. The responsible contacts for the Central Africa Region includes Ghana.

www.khs.com

KHS Machines Nigeria Ltd. No. 50 Oduduwa Crescent, GRA, Ikeja Lagos

www.khs.com

PLASMAX KHS INNOPET FRESHSAFE BLOCK The innovative Plasmax coating system combines the weight benefits of a PET bottle with the protective barrier properties of a glass container. In this process the PET bottle interior is finished with a protective, ultrathin coating of silicon oxide (SiOx) or chemically pure glass.

Following the successful market launch of our rotary InnoPET Plasmax 12D and 20Q machines we now offer the compact laboratory InnoPET Plasmax 2Q/4Q machine as a cyclic machine variant which provides the same technology for the low-capacity segment cost effectively while saving on space. With the cyclic machine up to 1,800 or 3,600 bottles per hour holding between 80 milliliters and 1.5 liters and with a maximum bottle opening of 38 mm can be processed.

Alexander Fuchs RC Service Director Central Africa

Bello Maruf Service Manager KHS Machines Nigeria LTD

Michael Kloss Managing Director KHS Machines Nigeria LTD

Benedict Jatto Sales Manager Central Africa

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NOUVELLE AUTOMOBILE

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ouvelle Automotive Co. Ltd is a Ghanaian-based transport and haulage company that aims to be one of the largest transport companies in West Africa. Nouvelle serves several different market segments in providing transport services across West Africa through partnerships with STC as well as Inter-City transport services in Ghana.

Years of regional experience and intersecting work efforts ultimately brought us to the realisation that a gap exists in the transport service continuity required to provide A-Z support for governments and various organisations located in West Africa.

This motivated our owners to create a company that has never lost sight of the understanding that a contractor’s obligation is to proactively manage expectations, timeline requirements, and expert delivery. This is why at Nouvelle Automotive Co. Ltd, meeting expectations is our minimal allowable standard for performance.

the initial stages of employment, each member of the team is placed on a six-month probationary period, during which time they are working to a robust appraisal system which becomes bi-annual in order to encourage continuous improvement.

“Key employees are identified to go on our flagship management trainee and leadership programs, called The Hawks. Other leadership development trainings within the Company and executive training programs in collaboration with top business schools are also done. These employees are placed on specific projects (in technical, quality and effective trade executions) at the end of their training. This facilitates the development of key skills and capabilities that enables them address specific issues for customers and the business thereby creating value.

“We pride ourselves on having some of the best trained manufacturing professionals in the industry, and

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LEASE SERVICES Whether you require a full turnkey solution or simple dry lease options, Nouvelle Automobile can masterfully develop and provide a strategic operational capability to support and enhance its clients’ businesses. Nouvelle automobile currently serves the logistics and transport needs of Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Guinness Ghana.

SOURCING AND PROCUREMENT Nouvelle Automobile offers its clients access to an extensive global inventory of new and pre-owned equipment.

We have sourced, sold and procured a range of vehicles from armoured cars to trucks and trailers.

LOGISTICS Working closely with its partners, Nouvelle Automobile has built a wealth of experience handling large-scale logistics projects since its formation.

To date, more than 800 pieces of cargo have been handled by the Company.

Nouvelle Automotive Co. Limited is a Ghanaian based transport and haulage company that aims to be one of the largest transport companies in West Africa.

Nouvelle Automobile has a range of skilled professionals with extensive exposure in the fields of heavy equipment, vehicle sales and transport services available to offer superior quality to our customers. Our experienced operators, accompanied by experienced technicians and managers, deliver services that are beneficial as well as cost effective.

Nouvelle Automobile Focuses on these key areas of business: • Haulage of Mineral Raw Materials • Haulage of Fast Moving consumer goods • Haulage of finished cement products • Sales and Leasing of Vehicles and Heavy Equipment • Transport of passengers, through coaches, buses and commercial transport services

Nouvelle Automobile, Challenge House, Abelenkpe, Accra-Ghana +233 503 888 645 | +233 560 707 070 ppsme2002@gmail.com

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KANE-EM INDUSTRIES

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s one of Ghana’s most prestigious manufacturers, KANE-EM produces a range of plastic products, serving the packaging needs of numerous industries and domestic markets.

With more than 40 years’ experience, KANE-EM stands as one of the most substantial players in the region, reflected by its 800-strong workforce and 20,000 square meter factory that produces anything from preforms to bottles to films.

The Company prides itself on consistently delivering the highest quality products, executed with ease by its skilled workforce, advanced systems and sophisticated machines.

Some of its major clients include Coca-Cola, Voltic, AB InBev, Danone, Kasapreko, Joy Dadi, Twellium, Multipac, Special Ice and Praise Export, amongst others.

combined with our long-standing reputation, we believe this puts us in a strong position against the competition.”

Socially responsible

Over the years it has become increasingly important to TCCBCG to fully involve itself in CSR initiatives, as a human-centred company it is driven by a passion to positively impact both the community and the environment in order to make it more sustainable for generations to come.

“We hold ourselves socially responsible for the millions of consumers that we serve by improving the quality of their lives, predominantly implemented through sustainable development initiatives,” continues Adu-Baah. “We direct our efforts and resources into areas such as education, health and wellbeing, economic female empowerment, youth in entrepreneurship, conservation of the natural environment and an increasing

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We hold ourselves socially responsible for the millions of consumers that we serve by improving the quality of their lives, predominantly implemented through sustainable development initiatives

Working with such big-name brands, KANE-EM has received a host of awards, named as the Best in Rubber and Plastics of the year 2015, Best Plastic Manufacturing Company and Best Packaging Product of the Year 2016 and 2017 in Ghana.

Aside from its high-grade production, KANE-EM readily embarks on a multitude of initiatives in the aim of ensuring it is a good corporate citizen.

As part of this vision, the firm tries to help the poor and needy in society where possible by serving less privileged children, the aged, physically challenged and sick.

Further, the firm provides gifts to its employees at the end of each year to demonstrate its gratitude, and consistently participates in programs in the pursuit of improving its sustainable waste management solutions, such as improving its plastic waste, waste recovery, renewable energy and energy management practices.

E info@kane-em.com

www.kane-em.com

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AVIS FLEET A valued partnership of more than four years Avis Fleet Ghana’s relationship with The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited stems back to July, 2014 when we officially partnered with them in the supply of a fleet management solution for their managerial and operational vehicles.

This partnership allows them to focus on their core activities, whilst they have peace of mind that their fleet is taken care of by a professional outsourced fleet partner – Avis Fleet Ghana.

T +233 302 213 555

www.avisfleet.com.gh accessibility to potable water. We committed about US$2 million last year towards these initiatives.”

In pursuit of continued success with CSR initiatives, the Organisation has also positioned itself as a learning centre. It is there that local students are able to gain academic support, providing it for those that are seeking to acquire knowledge in the area of manufacturing and its related fields.

Adu-Baah continues: “Our weekly plant tours for schools, churches, non-governmental organisations and the public create the uncommon opportunity for patrons to obtain firsthand experience of our production processes, providing them with a better appreciation of the effort and precision that goes into the full process.

“We also offer internship opportunities for students that intend to obtain practical knowledge, supporting the education they have already received in the classroom.

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The Company is driven by a passion for people

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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.

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

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“We have also activated a reading project that will see us move from school to school, encouraging reading with students, which we have been able to do with thanks to the donation of reading materials prescribed by the Ghana Education Service. As a Company we recognise that we still have a long way to go when it comes to improving the quality of life of the people we serve, but our commitment to implementing this initiative in other parts of the sub-region will not become weak.”

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Corporate culture

As we are customercentric and have a unique brand, we pay close attention to the needs of our consumers...

With such an extensive history of success in the industry, TCCBCG has been the proud recipients of numerous rewards. The Ghana Manufacturing awards provided the Company with Bottling Manufacturing Company of the year in 2016 and 2017 and Beverage Manufacturing Company of the year in the same years.

The Company has also taken home awards for Manufacturing Award of the Year, Outstanding Customer Award and the Platinum Award from the

“As we are customer-centric and have a unique brand, we pay close attention to the needs of our consumers...”

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Centre Point N K was incorporated in 1990 as a trading company specializing in Industrial

Raw Materials and Chemicals. It is part of Tropical General Investment group of companies. We represent the business interests of top Multinational Companies who wish to do business in Ghana. We import, stock and CENTRE POINT LTDdistribute chemicals and other Raw Materials for the in industries.

Centre Point was incorporated 1990 as CENTREspecializing POINT LTD in Industrial a trading company FOOD, BEVERAGE BREWERIES Incorporated in 1990,&Centre Point Raw Materials and with Chemicals.

It is part Together our International Limited specializes in Industrial partners we provide world of Tropical General Investment group of unique expertise to enhance class products and services, and Materials and Chemicals. companies.your Wepart represent business brands andthe actualize your goals. Our technical team As of Tropical General Investment interests ofsearch top Multinational Companies the most cost effectivewho approach, tailored to meet Group offor Companies, we import wish to do your business in Ghana.

Weand import, business need without compromising the quality of and distribute chemicals other hygiene. cover cip, cop, lubrication, descaling, stock and distribute chemicals and materialsOur for aservices wide range ofother industries. water treatment, labelling and packaging adhesives etc. We Raw Materials for the industries.

FOOD, BEVERAGE & BREWERIES can support your operation with cutting edge technology and We provide range products and and unique dosing systems aim atofoptimizing yourservices, processes.

In today’s FOOD, BEVERAGE &wide BREWERIES expertise to enhance brandsand andglobal actualize your goals world where water stress warming are concerns; Together with our International partners we provide world through application of cutting-edge technology and on water, we havethe various technologies that enhance savings class products and services, and unique expertise to enhance closing systems to enhance savings on water, energy and Henkel energy and process time. Our Partners: Ecolab, Nalco,

your brands and actualize your goals. Ecolab, Our technical team processing time. Our Partners: Nalco, Henkel search for FLAVOUR, the most cost effective approach, tailored to meet FRAGRANCES AND COLOURS FLAVOUR, FRAGRANCES AND of COLOURS your business need compromising the of used by We are thewithout leaders in the supply finequality fragrances Weservices are the leaders incip, the cop, supply of fine EDT fragrances used by the hygiene. Our cover lubrication, descaling, the cosmetics industries to produce body perfumes and cosmetics industry to product EDTcare body perfumes and water treatment, labelling packaging adhesives etc.

Wesprays body sprays, skinand care and hair cosmetics.

Also flavours and skin and used hair care cosmetics. also produce flavours and colours extensively

by We the food, confectionery, can support your operation with cutting edge technology and and colours usedand extensively by the food andOur beverage, pharmaceutical beverage industries.

Partners: dosing systems aim at optimizing your processes.

In today’s confectionery and pharmaceutical industries.

European Flavours and fragrances. world where water stress and global warming are concerns; Our Partners: European Flavours & Fragrances we have various technologies that enhance savings on water, energy and process time.

OurPoint Partners: Ecolab, Nalco, Henkel Centre Point Limited, House 77/2 Centre Limited, House NoNo EAEA 77/2 House , House BeforeOak OakCity CityInternational International College, Before College, Adenta SDA Junction,

Adenta SDA junction, UK Highway Adenta,Accra, JJ Rawlings Off JJ Rawlings HighwayOff Adenta, Accra, Ghana FLAVOUR, FRAGRANCES AND COLOURS Ghana.

Tel. Nos 0302501650 Tel: 0302501650 / 0302501652// 0302501652 0302501653 / 0302501653 We are the leaders in the supply ofMinistries, fine fragrances used by P.O.Box MB12,Ministries, Accra P.O.Box MB12, Accra centrepoint14@yahoo.com the cosmetics industriescentrepoint14@yahoo.com to produce EDT body perfumes and body sprays, skin care and hair care cosmetics. Also flavours and colours used extensively by the food, confectionery, pharmaceutical and beverage industries. Our Partners: European“We Flavours hope to and fragrances.

continue on as the preferred choice Centre Point Limited, House No EA 77/2, House of consumers in Before Oak City International College, the market, and SDA junction, Off UK Adenta JJ Rawlings Highway Adenta,Accra, subsequently it is Ghana.

Tel. Nos 0302501650 / 0302501652 / 0302501653 important to us atMB12,Ministries, Accra P.O.Box centrepoint14@yahoo.com Coca-Cola to ensure that our products are available everywhere that they might be craved”

Ashanti Business Excellence Awards.

“As we are customer-centric and have a unique brand, we pay close attention to the needs of our consumers and swiftly respond to their concerns,” Adu-Baah describes. “We have provided our consumers with six key pack sizes that range from 20 centilitres to two litres, enhancing the product availability and furthermore

presenting the consumer with extensive choices.”

The corporate culture at TCCBCG is made to achieve sustainability through diversity and leadership in products, packaging and pricing, while also encouraging passion, excellence and accountability for its people.

“We hope to continue on as the preferred choice of consumers

in the market, and subsequently it is important to us at Coca-Cola to ensure that our products are available everywhere that they might be craved,” concludes Adu-Baah.

“We desire to create value for our stakeholders, including shareholders, while giving back to the communities that have supported us for many years to come.”

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Transforming African Business Through its unique culture and an innovative approach, Harel Mallac Technologies is expertly promoting technological progression on a broad scale Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Kane Weller

018 has signified an acceleration of the fourth industrial revolution across the African continent.

The past 10 months have seen Uber pledge $20 million towards an operational expansion in Cairo, Microsoft announce plans to open two new data centres in South Africa, and Facebook unveil its hopes of laying 500 miles of fibre cable in Uganda.

This growing technological presence is testament to the expanding regional opportunity, driven by rising innovation and a readiness from local firms to adopt new technologies.

According to reports, nine in 10 businesses in South Africa revealed that they had increased their cloud budgets last year, whilst 94 percent of firms in Nigeria and 98 percent of companies in Kenya stated that they would be raising their cloud expenditures through 2018.

With digitisation posing as a complex challenge for many companies, service providers are set to play an increasingly crucial role in facilitating operational transformation throughout African businesses – a position that Harel Mallac Technologies is thriving within.

An established presence

Founded in 1988 as Harel Mallac Computers, later renamed Harel Mallac Technologies in 2004, the Company has established itself as a leading regional technology integrator.

The firm specialises in the three key verticals of IT infrastructure, automation and cloud technologies, enabling the implementation of key solutions to its clientele across a diverse variety of industries.

“As a subsidiary of Harel Mallac Group, Harel Mallac Technologies has a 30-year proven track record of riding on the cusp of innovation and expertise in the realm of information technology,” says Shateeaum Sewpaul, the Company’s General Manager.

“We are proud to say that we have a strong backbone of expertise, encompassing a wide and comprehensive range of solutions that address the needs of all organisations, no matter the size or task.”

With a physical presence in Mauritius, Rwanda, Burundi and Madagascar and an established network of partners across various other specific African territories, Harel Mallac Technologies has become a renowned regional brand, operating directly within a number of different locations.

HAREL MALLAC TECHNOLOGIES’ THREE KEY OFFERINGS ARE: Advanced infrastructure services Provides clients with the access to the core IT Infrastructure that they need in order to achieve their goals.

Business automation services Provides clients with access to the necessary expertise in order to streamline their processes through automation in industry specific operations.

Cloud and managed services Specialises in delivering software, infrastructure and platform as a service in a flexible pay as you go model anywhere, anytime and on any device.

Such stature is reflected in the number of high-profile projects that the Company has been involved with, working for the National Assembly of Mauritius, the country’s airports and the region’s banking and financial players on a multitude of different initiatives.

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VERIFONE

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erifone is transforming every day transactions into new and engaging opportunities for merchants and consumers at the last inch of payments and commerce. Our products and services are used by merchants, processors and acquirers in developed and emerging economies.

Our people are trusted experts working with the world’s best-known retail brands, financial institutions, and payment providers. Verifone is connecting more products to an integrated platform to better meet the evolving needs of our clients and partners.

HAREL MALLAC TECHNOLOGIES’ KEY PROJECTS INCLUDE: • Live Broadcast System at the National Assembly of Mauritius.

• Digitalisation of all sessions and processes at the National Assembly of Mauritius.

• Perimeter intrusion detection system for the airports of Mauritius.

• Passport printing solution for the passport and immigration office of Mauritius.

• ATMs and point of sales solutions distribution.

• Digital customer onboarding and branch transformation solutions for banking and financial sectors.

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Further, the Company is regularly named alongside some of the world’s leading technology brands, partnering with the likes of Oracle, Avaya, Bosch and Lenovo, amongst others.

Proactive coordination

These partnerships, alongside other internal and external methods, are vital in enabling the firm’s continual progression.

Sewpaul explains: “We have looked to accelerate our own transformation in a range of ways, from market developments to these partnerships to acquisitions throughout Africa.

“Similarly, we have been enhancing our culture to ensure that we pursue business excellence whilst simultaneously focusing on improving our management of talents.”

This is reinforced by the emphasis placed on employee development at the Company, reflected by the investments made into an incubator that allows young talent and experts

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We’ve established strategic partnerships like that with the Mauritius-based IT leader Harel Mallac Technologies Ltd. It’s collaborations like this one that facilitate on-the-ground support and customised solutions that are adapted to our clients’ local requirements.

Around the world we help our clients accept electronic payments by deploying bespoke solutions that specifically tailored to their unique markets. Whether we are supporting banks or corporate retail customers, Verifone can provide services that add incremental value to the point of transaction and provide additional convenience to the customer.

Verifone supports terminal solutions, Payment-as-a-Service and commerce enablement in Sub-Equatorial Africa and the Indian Oecan islands. We have a robust and extended direct support infrastructure within the South African environment and support Sub-Equatrial Africa through our distributors in the local markets.

Our merchant-operated and selfservice payment systems are designed for the financial, retail, hospitality, governement, and healthcare industries worldwide. Built on a 35-year history of uncompromised security, we are committed to consistently solving the most complex payment challenges.

Contact us for industry-leading payment solutions built for performance and design to help you do business wherever and whenever.

www.verifone.com/africa

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to research and develop new technologies whilst leveraging Harel Mallac Technologies’ unique design thinking methodology.

“We are constantly encouraging our staff to expand their skillsets and have recently invested in the latest tools and cloud solutions, allowing internal creativity to thrive,” Sewpaul adds.

This development ethos is no better reflected than by Harel Mallac

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Technologies’ willingness to adapt, proactively aligning its offerings with key trends and changes in the market to ensure that it maintains the best possible customer experience.

Such has led to the Company working with numerous emerging technologies including the internet of things, automation, AI, fintech, blockchain and cybersecurity.

“We ensure we take an innovative

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co-creation approach and design thinking process in all of our work, where customer experience remains the focal point of our business.”

Staying ahead of the curve

It is this culture, geared to address the changing demands of its customers and the industry, that truly differentiates Harel Mallac Technologies.

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“We offer fully-integrated technologies and solutions adapted to specific environments, with our team of quality and experienced specialists delivering reliable and sustainable performances,” says Sewpaul.

“Under our corporate umbrella, we foster innovation, allow talent to flourish, facilitate research and development, and continually work towards creating the next big idea.

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“Agility, flexibility and innovation are all part of our DNA.” Moving forward, Sewpaul hopes that the Company will continue to display these same characteristics that have been so effective in bolstering its esteemed reputation to date.

He concludes: “We are establishing ourselves as the digital partner of reference for effective business transformation, customer experience

and sustainable growth.

“Ultimately, we will remain focused on transforming customer experience, transforming operational processes and transforming our customers business models.”

Harel Mallac Technologies Tel: (230) 207 3300 hmtinfo@harelmallac.com harelmallactechnologies.com

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Scaling New Heights Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority continues to propel industry standards in the country, led by the work of Director General Hamza Johari Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Vivek Valmiki

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anzania is a nation full of ambition. Home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the summit of Africa, the country and its government are looking to reach new economic heights and become a semi-industrialised, mid-income nation by 2025.

This is no mean task – Tanzania is the largest landmass in East Africa, scaling 945,000 square kilometres

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domestic and international trade of goods, empowers community cohesion via rapid transit and directly contributes revenue to the treasury in the form of taxation, safety fees, and air navigation, parking and landing charges.

Flying the flag

Responsible for providing air navigation services and ensuring sustainable regulation of economic, safety and security aspects of the country’s aviation sector is the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA).

Officially established in 2003 by an act of parliament and headquartered in Dar es Salaam just outside the Julius Nyerere International Airport, the organisation has evolved into a crucial service provider, as Director General Hamza Johari explains.

“The Authority ensures the capacity building of its technical personnel by providing intensive training as well as deployment of modernized CNS/ATM systems to enhance the safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic.

“We also run the Civil Aviation Training Centre, which is located at the Julius Nyerere International Airport in Terminal 1. The school offers various aviation courses in air traffic control, aeronautical information service, aviation security, airport and flight operations.”

and populated by 55 million people.

However, it is also no secret that the country houses incredible natural assets that draw in tourists in their thousands.

And it is this rapidly advancing tourism industry that will prove vital in ensuring these government objectives are met. Already contributing more than 15 percent of GDP and more than four percent of total employment, the sector is a mainstay of Tanzania’s

economy, and one which is ably supported by a progressive aviation industry.

It is estimated that 90 percent of international tourists arrive in the country by air, and it is through this form of transport that the likes of Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ruaha National Park and Kilimanjaro can be reached.

Beyond serving the tourism market, air transport also contributes to

Hamza Johari

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HAMZA JOHARI AND THE TCAA Director General Hamza Johari was appointed in February 2016 and has quickly championed massive reforms in the sector within Tanzania.

Less than three years in office, and TCAA looks better positioned to provide quality services to its stakeholders and industry in Tanzania and elsewhere.

Johari introduced a different culture and way of doing things, preceded by a mindset change journey in tandem with the 5th Phase Government’s call for better, efficient and effective services.

The TCAA also embarked on a huge brand improvement campaign which was designed to position it among the top aviation industry regulators on the continent. This has resulted in improved messaging and brand identity.

To qualify as a top aviation industry regulator in the region and the world at large, TCAA had to undergo a rigorous audit exercise and, under Johari’s leadership, has emerged with better ratings.

Prior to his appointment, Johari was Executive Secretary of the TCAA – Consumer Consultative Council, a capacity which he held for 10 years.

Throughout his career, he has been involved in transport and aviation related work.

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Hitting international heights

In developing Tanzania’s aviation industry into a sustainable, reliable and watertight operation, TCAA has been focusing on safety and security by providing effective oversight and efficient air navigation services.

This includes implementation of various civil aviation projects such as the installation of primary surveillance S-Band radars with monopulse secondary surveillance radar system mode at four airports – these systems will improve surveillance coverage and enhance safety for aircraft flying in Tanzanian airspace.

“We are also carrying out installation of an instrument landing system in Aman Abeid Karume International Airport in Zanzibar, along with VHF Main and VCCS and automated billing systems,” adds Johari.

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“We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with and deliver multiple projects to the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority.

Harnessing technology, we constantly strive to develop innovative and smart solutions that meet the challenging demands of the aviation industry.”

- Ravinder Singh, President, Electronics, ST Engineering

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that air passenger activity will double by 2035. Africa’s growth of 5.4% per annum is expected to outstrip the global average of less than 5% over this period.

With travel and tourism representing one of the largest growth opportunities, Africa is also home to 15% of the world’s population. The robust air traffic growth and underlying opportunity spur the inevitable need to advance aviation development to manage the increase in capacity.

Broader infrastructure development and investment in airports, as well as improved interoperability of equipment, systems and procedures, are key in enabling a safer, more efficient and harmonised flow of air traffic in Africa with fewer disruptions and delays.

Technical and Operational Collaboration ST Engineering’s Electronics sector has played a part in advancing Africa’s aviation sector with the delivery of multiple aviation projects in the region. As a strong partner with an extensive track record in realising complex airport projects, ST Engineering has helped to enhance the aviation industry with its first-class suite of innovative and integrated aviation solutions tailored to the needs

of airports and Air Navigation Service organisations.

Key technologies and capabilities from ST Engineering support the development of the aviation infrastructure today.

Enabling Smooth Airport Operations and “It is our responsibility to provide effective Increasing Passenger Satisfaction oversight, efficient and safe air navigation services. As a trusted partner, ST Engineer- Smart Airport Operations Centre System ing supports us in improving the customer The sharing and pro-active management experience and delivering operational efficiencies with next-generation digital of airport operations data using the Smart airport solutions,” says Hamza Johari, Airport Operations Centre (AOCS) provides Director General of Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with and deliver multiple projects to the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority.

Harnessing technology, we constantly strive to develop innovative and smart solutions that meet the challenging demands of the aviation industry,” says Mr Ravinder Singh, President, Electronics, ST Engineering.

“It is our responsibility to provide effective oversight, efficient and safe air navigation services. As a trusted partner, ST Engineering supports us in improving the customer experience and delivering operational efficiencies with next-generation digital airport solutions.”

- Hamza Johari, Director General of

Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority

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standards is the Electronics arm of ST Engineering, a global technology, defence and engineering group.

Drawing on this expertise and resultant technological improvements have led to a greatly improved TCAA performance in safety audit accreditations measured by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Having recorded an overall Effective Implementation (EI) of 37.8 percent in 2013, in 2017 the TCAA’s rating soared to 64.35 percent.

“Suffice it to say, we are well positioned regionally and are sitting at the global average, which is now about 60 percent, with a potential to climb higher by organising state sponsored activities,” Johari continues.

“This is recognition that our state oversight capability has increased, our state performance dashboard has improved, and that there will be less surveillance required from ICAO. We are also eligible for an ICAO Presidential award.

Air traffic control centre

“When the dust settled, celebrations ended, and the final report came out, the Authority took a hard look back, drew lessons from it and mapped out the way forward. It won’t be business as usual, as it took a concerted effort and recourses to reach the top – the real challenge is to stay at the top.”

New opportunities

Training forms an important part of TCAA’s work

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Keeping abreast of major industry trends will prove key in retaining and building on this high-flying status.

Unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, are a new and evolutionary

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component of the aviation system, offering several new and exciting opportunities, as well as a number of challenges which bodies such as TCAA must address.

“As a country we are not behind in this area,” Johari states. “The Authority is integrating unmanned aircraft systems within our existing airspace structure. We have been implementing the integration through guidance and procedures which are in conformance with ICAO, but focusing on ensuring safety, security, efficiency and regulatory compliance.

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“So far this has been done by providing effective oversight and efficient air navigation services, while maintaining quality, protecting the environment and safeguarding the interests of consumers and the public.”

Currently TCAA only authorises drone applicants who have fulfilled the requirements in Aeronautical Information Circular 5/18, which is available on TCAA’s website and publicised through media and forums.

Johari explains that, at a global level, detailed drone guidance and procedures are still being drafted, and that TCAA regulations are also entering final stages before publication.

He adds: “An implementation

Safety Inspectors’ meeting

plan has been prepared which includes creating public awareness, centralisation of government organs involved in application process, automation of application processes and looking at various drone tracking options like GSM-based transponders.”

Flying towards 2025

With a strong ICAO audit secured and plans afoot for integration of drones into Tanzania airspace, TCAA looks well-placed to continue serving the country’s aviation industry and ensuring it contributes to the bigger picture of wider economic development.

Expanding current air travel infrastructure has been identified as a priority by governing authorities, who are looking to build on the existing 125 airports and air strips serving domestic and international traffic.

Other notable advancements include expansion of airports such as Julius Nyerere and the revival of national carrier Air Tanzania.

All of this and more, Johari states, will pave the way for making the nation’s aviation industry even more vibrant for years to come.

Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority Tel: (255) 22 2198196 tcaa@tcaa.go.tz www.tcaa.go.tz

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THE POWER to Transform AGAMA Biogas has embarked head-on into an ambitious programme to supply 22,300 South African schools with the means to generate their own energy and operate sustainably Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Callam Waller hangezile Primary School, Mpumalanga province, eastern South Africa – educational home to 515 pupils largely from surrounding disadvantaged communities.

Situated around 30 kilometres east of Johannesburg, many of the children arrive at the school in the morning having had no breakfast to fuel their day. Hungry to learn, the importance of simple food subsistence to these young people’s life chances cannot be understated.

The answer? Biogas.

Fed with food waste, Khangezile Primary School’s biogas digestor, installed and maintained by AGAMA Biogas, has so far enabled it to cut its gas bill in half. In monetary terms, the saving equates to R2,500 a month, effectively financing the growing of ingredients on site and preparation of twice-daily nutritious meals for its pupils.

Long term, the school hopes to completely eradicate the use of conventional gas, instead relying solely on renewable forms of energy.

For Managing Director Gordon Ayres, catching up three years on from first speaking to Africa Outlook, the Company in 2018 represents a wholly different proposition.

“We are chalk and cheese from 2015,” he states. “Back then we were still trying to break into a lot of places in a sort of shotgun approach, taking pot shots and seeing how the market would respond.

“A decision was made to laser focus onto the schools project, and with that our culture changed also. For example, we have moved from a totally male dominated entity and now we are a 75 percent female-owned organisation.

“Our approach has changed in terms of how we look at the market and target social issues – we are much more of a consulting and education company than we were, going beyond simply selling a product. Today, we are an empowering company. It is our job to empower people with biogas.”

Although Ayres admits AGAMA Biogas is physically no larger than it was three years ago, this a purposeful design and one which will preserve its identity as a true pillar of rural Chalk and cheese communities in South Africa.

The Khangezile project lies at the heart Crucially, the firm’s reach has greatly of what AGAMA Biogas stands for today. increased in this time thanks to the

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establishment and handing over of projects in numerous parts of the country, with BEE companies a particular focus. AGAMA has even started rolling out small-scale projects in neighbouring Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Sustainable schooling

Thousands more projects could come in the form of schools.

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across South Africa could be recipients of AGAMA Biogas digestors, and Ayres wants systems installed in all of them.

“Total investment in this project, from both government and investors, will total R5.1 billion,” he reveals.

“We estimate that the return on this investment, just in terms of gas saving alone, will be half a billion rand a year.

“And this is ignoring all the nutritional, educational and environmental benefits that come

with it. It is a fantastic project that has the ability to reach into all these small communities, and all it requires is some of the country’s LPG budget, LPG being an imported product.”

Installing these systems at more than 22,000 sites is an enormous ambition, but one which Ayres has started to work towards with government backing and a growing network of agents running their own projects. For instance, in the Eastern

Cape, AGAMA Biogas is installing generators in 36 schools with another 100 in the pipeline.

Ayres is also quick to point out that this is not simply a case of manufacturing, fitting and maintaining thousands of pieces of machinery.

“This is a three-pronged solution to a social problem,” he explains, “and the success of a biogas project in a school relies on it not being a

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standalone project, i.e. just a biogas generator. It has to be a unit with a growing garden and water harvesting, and have community support and education at its core.”

Education exercise

From rural enterprises to the children benefiting from biogas in schools, educating South Africans in the processes and benefits of this form of power has become top priority for AGAMA. Indeed, the schools project has been a learning curve for all involved.

The current programme, including the Khangezile example, is a progression from a United Nations-backed attempt in 2015 to roll out seven schemes, the biggest lesson learned being the need to properly educate potential users of biogas’s many benefits.

Now, thanks to invaluable support from USAID, AGAMA Biogas has the proof of concept and educational materials available to make convincing cases to schools and enterprises up and down South Africa.

“Our focus is on customer knowledge building,” Ayres says. “I would estimate that around 50 percent of our entire operation goes into

helping customers understand the technology and telling people about biogas.

“With Khangezile, we also showed them how to grow produce sustainably and to cook. It is about joining this up with the biogas digestor. Crucially, we implemented an auditing system into the school so we can prove our numbers and show others what they can achieve and save. USAID and its Low Emissions Development Program have been phenomenal partners in doing this.”

BIOGAS BASICS Typically, biogas relates to the mix of gases produced by the breaking down of organic matter, such as food waste, in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic digestion).

Other materials commonly used to create biogas include sewage, municipal waste, plant material and manure produced by cows.

In South Africa, biogas has the potential to displace 2,500MW of grid electricity, equivalent to the capacity of Eskom’s Arnot coal-fired power station in Mpumalanga.

There is also a global warming benefit to be realised, not least because methane, a large part of the biogas mix and 20 times more potent a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide, can be used as fuel instead of seeping into the atmosphere.

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The technology of the digester itself has become easier to use over the past three years, with the Mark 7 BP 6 model representing a simplified system which AGAMA Biogas is eager to enhance further.

Social enabler

While the nationwide schools project is undoubtedly Ayres’s primary focus for AGAMA Biogas, he realises the potential for the Company’s digestors to impact society more widely, not least regarding rural connectivity.

“There is no industry that is so well poised to solve social problems in South Africa,” he says. “Firstly, the cost of energy is a big problem, and this addresses that. Secondly, biogas lowers the threshold for enterprise and employment. We don’t need to cluster people in cities and towns – biogas allows somebody to set up almost anywhere.

“We have to get that message across that you don’t have to leave your family and move to a city in order to work or establish a business. This could have a massive social impact in rural communities, and we are working very closely with government to deliver this. They have been tremendously supportive.”

Another area of society Ayres is

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AGAMA works closely with South African schools

impassioned to transform is South Africa’s prison community, and he sees AGAMA’s biogas systems and educational programmes as a tool which can contribute.

“Prisoners coming out of prison and reoffending is a big puzzle,” Ayres says.

“We need to put biogas in prisons so they can say to farmers when they come out that they have a useful skill to offer.

“I took a team from the Department of Correctional Affairs to Khangezile and they can see that the model works. The way to ensure our country’s security is not to build high fences around our houses, but to empower people who have nothing.”

And it is this societal impact which is driving AGAMA Biogas into the future. Ayres is an optimist, and cites work in partnership with the Southern African Biogas Industry Association which is helping to create legislative direction, vital if biogas is to maximise its transformative potential.

Asked what he would like to report back if we were to catch up once more in three years’ time, he responds: “I would rather you wouldn’t be talking to me, but some of our BEE project owners about what they are getting up to. South Africa has unbelievable labour ability, and biogas will help to unlock this potential.”

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Elevating ECOWAS Economies

From humble yet ambitious beginnings, Abdoulaye Diallo, GM of SFTP Mining, reveals how the Company is now conquering the West African mining industry Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

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or years, the resource rich African continent has been in the spotlight, perhaps more so today than ever before.

It is estimated that the continent accounts for approximately 12 percent of global oil production, has the world’s most extensive precious metal reserves, and is home to roughly 30 percent of the planet’s total mineral resources.

Accommodating some of the most substantial reserves of gold, bauxite, cobalt and diamond, mineral exploration is a significant economic contributor for a vast number of African countries.

And whilst international players are increasingly looking to access this illustrious market, a number of local firms have already established themselves as key players in the region.

In steps Societe de Forage et des travaux Publics (SFTP).

Part of the Diallo and Sons Group (DSG), SFTP has been fundamental to the development of major mining and civil construction operations throughout West Africa, accounting for 80 percent of the total mining output in both Mali and Burkina Faso alone.

“We began from modest beginnings during the gold exploration boom in Mali as a small Malian-based Genting HK, Zouk earthmoving and equipment company Clark Quay, Singapore in 1990,” reveals Abdoulaye Diallo, the Company’s General Manager.

“But, I am proud to say that through a focus on fostering strong client relationships and delivering quality projects, the business has grown into one of West Africa’s premier mining and civil contractors and is a leading player in the provision of these services across the resources, government infrastructure, building and manufacturing industry sectors.”

An esteemed ethos

In the years since its inception, SFTP

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The Company is one of Europe’s leading suppliers of genuine and original equipment manufacturer spare parts to the mining, quarrying, civil engineering and plant hire industries.

The Company specialises in the supply spares for heavy earth moving machinery, trucks, drilling machines, road making machines, cranes, engines, transmissions, undercarriage, forklift trucks, and filters.

As well as our extensive range of parts, we are also very proud to work in partnership with SFTP Mining fulfilling their order requirements.

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www.tms-worldwide.com Mining has consistently maintained a positive growth trajectory, working to develop some of the continent’s largest mining and civil construction projects.

However, despite the evident progress that SFTP Mining has made, Diallo believes that there is more to come, owed to the Company’s successful ethos and ambitious mindset.

“Having developed our portfolio, we now have extensive operational experience in major projects in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), made up of 15 member countries that are located in the West African region,” Diallo states.

“As a local contractor, it quickly became clear that we needed a reputation that was on par with multinational companies, and from here on out we will continue to retain this approach in achieving our longterm goals.”

“Simply, our vision is to be a leading African mining and civil construction company.”

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Advocating efficiency

This local-centric philosophy is reflected throughout the SFTP’s operations, evident in the firm’s employment strategy.

“As part of our flexible and innovative approach to contracting we look to employ local people from villages close to the mines where we operate, providing them with the necessary skills and expertise through stringent training methods,” says Diallo.

“Our project teams are backed by an experienced local corporate management team, an integrated and innovative contract management system, and a strong commitment to safety and the environment.

“In my eyes, our diversified people are our key asset and will enable us to be the leading mining contractor in Africa, improving the lives of all of our stakeholders.”

By the operating on the ground in local communities, SFTP Mining

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is not only able to help develop local economies, but it is also better positioned to help identify what its client’s needs are, based on low overheads and the implementation of simple but effective systems.

“I believe that this focus is key to our success,” Diallo continues. “Our trademark is an ease of doing business with zero arbitration and provides a great deal of flexibility to the owners.”

This approach has been particularly successful in the Company’s work with junior miners, such as Perseus Mining, providing a full range of services, from construction to planning to rehabilitation.

Using SFTP’s expertise to minimise capital exposure, client mine owners are able to focus their own core capabilities on other areas such as exploration, sales and marketing practices.

SFTP has worked with some of the world’s leading engineering and resource firms

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Offering such an expansive range of solutions, SFTP has worked with some of the world’s leading engineering and resource firms including Randgold Resources, Endeavour Mining, Newcrest Mining, IAMGOLD, Anglo Gold, SENET and Lycopodium.

“Contract mining is fundamentally about managing risk and we manage risks around workforce availability, OHS and environmental incidents,” Diallo adds.

To the future

SFTP Mining has equally established a successful supply chain through these methods, collaborating with local partners in landlocked countries to quickly deploy the necessary expertise that its clients require.

Most recently, the firm successfully

secured two five-year contracts from the Endeavour Mining Group at its location in Hounde, Burkina Faso and its new CIL project in the Ivory Coast.

Through benchmarks operations such as these, SFTP Mining expects that it will be able to further strengthen its regional position and spread its marketability – a prospect that should allow the firm to secure a range of new major projects.

Diallo concludes: “The last couple of months have been very exciting as we have begun implementing our strategic goals in the aim of becoming the leading mining contractor in Africa.

“In the next five years, we expect to roll these strategies out across all 15 countries in the ECOWAS region. It’s certainly going to be exciting times ahead.”

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Multifaceted

Healthcare Making strides

ER Group, South Africa’s largest emergency medicine management company, is continuing to thrive through strategic investments, aligned partnerships and a mature ethos Writer: Jonathan Dyble Project Manager: Callam Waller

t is unquestionable that the vast and expanding array of niches within the global healthcare industry has been key in facilitating medical progression in recent years.

According to data from the World Bank, the death rate per 1,000 people has dropped from 8.529 to 7.649 between 2000 and 2016, with this downward trajectory only set to continue in line with growing innovation.

Much of this can be attributed to growing competition within the industry, a key example of which can be seen with the emergence of the ER Group – a group of companies that has come to position itself as South Africa’s largest emergency medicine management group.

Borne out of a doctor’s partnership at Mediclinic Sandton in 2001, the ER Group has grown exponentially from

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Dr Steve Holt, Managing Director, ER Group

its humble beginnings, now standing as a group formed of six companies providing one of the most extensive emergency healthcare portfolios to its customers throughout South Africa and the wider continent.

“Our journey has been a rollercoaster as we’ve learned the private healthcare sector, the medical aid industry and all the pitfalls of business,” says Dr Steve Holt, Managing Director, ER Group. “The biggest challenge has always been the commercialisation of medicine to achieve scale, balancing the need for good quality medicine with good business practice to achieve value for all parties. Today we continue to face this challenge, only with bigger numbers and higher stakes.”

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In dealing with this dilemma, amongst others, ER Group has always stayed true to its values, gradually building up a firm of likeminded individuals with leading expertise and a commitment to relentless innovation and consistent systemised quality care.

“We believe economies of scale is the answer to cost effective quality,” Holt states. “We prioritise care over profit and we look after our people.”

This attitude is readily reflected in the Company’s approach to industry partnerships, with ER Group and its six subsidiaries openly seeking collaborative agreements as a means of improving and diversifying both its own services and developing the regional industry.

“We have partnered with Medaire International to service the airline industry through a medical call centre and are looking to partner with the government to upskill more emergency medicine specialists,” Holt reveals.

By recognising the benefits of cooperation, ER Group is able to proactively position itself ahead of the industry curve, working to identify new technologies, practices and techniques whilst broadening its own expertise.

Further, the firm strategically pursues investment across a range of verticals to expand its offerings, most namely through its foray with Urgent Care as a convenient alternative to

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emergency unit management of minor cases.

Holt continues: “We have also invested in the development of a bespoke system called Effortless ER, a solution that aims to optimise the flow of patients, enhance follow up and move emergency department management into a real time environment.

“Moreover, we have invested in handheld ultrasound machines to develop point of care ultrasound in emergency medicine to help reduce costs and develop our doctors, and in our doctors themselves through a

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wellness program that seeks to reward our employees for various good lifestyle behaviours, good medicine and good service.”

Emphasising education

It is the recognition of staff, alongside the implementation of state-of-theart equipment and an agile work environment, that Holt considers to be fundamental to the ER Group’s success.

The firm offers extensive inhouse training, such as the medical development programme (CEM), to all its doctors, whilst its administrative

teams are also afforded a number of development opportunities that are aligned to their roles in the business.

Further, ER Group pursues partnerships in the way of bolstering its own education practices, currently looking to collaborate with the University of the Witwatersrand to train more emergency medicine specialists through a formal sponsorship programme.

“We believe that such a programme would be good for South Africa and if it’s good for the country it will be good for us,” Holt states.

Having spent his whole working

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ONE GROUP, SIX COMPANIES ER Consulting Inc. An emergency unit management company operating 25 emergency units nationally in South Africa, managing more than 35,000 patients monthly. ER Consulting Inc also provides medical doctor services to events, telehealth and aeromedical platforms.

First Care Solutions (Pty) Ltd. A Medical administration company offering turnkey administration management of medical practices and specialised medical consulting services to schools, corporates and remote sites.

Africa Institute of Emergency Medicine (Pty) Ltd. Operates an AHA and Department of Labour accredited medical short course training academy alongside other training courses developed in house. AIEM (Pty) ltd also provides medical event services and paramedic clinics at entertainment facilities, corporates and remote sites.

ER Advantage Medical Investments (Pty) Ltd. As the investment vehicle of the ER Group, this company looks at opportunities in the medical space and seeks to develop further investments in the future.

ER Specialist Governance Inc. A specialist emergency medical practice that offers a bouquet of specialist clinical and governance services, designed to deliver a complementary service offering to ER Consulting.

Urgent Care (Pty) ltd A convenience healthcare concept practice that is currently developing its business case for national rollout. life in the industry, Holt’s own outlook is reflected by the ER Group’s emphasis on enabling its employees to expand their skillsets.

“I feel like I learn every day,” he reveals. “Although I have no post graduate education in business management, my 20 years in this industry have taught me finance, HR, marketing, PR and many other business skills. I have attended and continue to attend workshops and conferences to learn new skills and I read at every opportunity.

“Although an MBA would have been beneficial to have studied formally, I do believe that my ‘on the shop floor training’ has taught me everything I need to know and more.

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“For me, this business has been my MBA.” To ER Group, understanding its employees’ needs is imperative to maintaining growth, playing a fundamental part in the businesses’ talent retention strategy.

Driving development

This sound approach is also reflected in the Company’s corporate social responsibility practices, encouraging its staff to readily become more involved in local projects and communities.

“These initiatives involve things like recycling projects, supporting creches and homes for the underprivileged,” Holt explains. “On the medical side we support projects near to our emergency units – homes for people with disabilities and children’s refuges by providing medical care pro deo, for example.

“Our model provides our staff, doctors and others, with the perfect platform to work within their communities on projects that make a meaningful impact on South Africans.”

Thanks to this outlook on local communities, its employees, and the movements of the market and industry, ER Group is well set to not

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only maintain its position at the helm of the South Africa’s emergency medical market, but continue to expand into the wider continent and beyond.

Holt concludes: “In short, we believe that healthcare in the emergency space is best served by a scaled organisation that can offer all the

facets required in an emergency medicine environment – an ethos we will continue to hold dear in everything we do.”

ER Group Tel: +27 11 7064049 info@erconsulting.co.za www.erconsulting.co.za

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A Patient-First

Mentality KeyHealth Medical Scheme continues to excel within South Africa’s competitive private healthcare market, focusing on personalised offerings and quality care Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Josh Mann

edical schemes are on the up in South Africa, driven by a rising recognition of the premium services that private healthcare can offer.

Renowned for short wait times, state-of-the-art facilities and quality care, a reported 97.3 percent of households on private medical schemes are satisfied with the services that they receive, provided with greater peace of mind and a more comfortable, personalised healthcare experience.

However, with more than 270 options available across South Africa, choosing between such a vast number of different schemes with an even great range of packages can give consumers a headache.

With companies often outlining products using complex medical jargon, patients can be found frustrated in the realisation that they haven’t been adequately medically covered or that they have been paying over the odds for what they have requested.

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This is where KeyHealth Medical Scheme truly thrives.

Priding itself on catering to the needs of its customers, KeyHealth centres its business around an effective ethos that ensures that its patients are put first in the aim of going beyond basic levels of satisfaction.

Medical transparency

In pursuit of this, KeyHealth provides patients its in-house smart choice services, ensuring that their medical requirements are identified before anything else, then tailoring its packages to meet these demands on a case by case basis.

“Smart choice is first to understand why you need a medical scheme and then what is important to consider when evaluating the value proposition of different individual schemes,” the Company’s website reads. “This takes a few minutes of your time, but ensures that you make an informed, smart decision when choosing your medical scheme.”

With six different levels of private

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medical cover to choose between, ranging from the basic Essence plan to the firm’s premium Platinum membership, consumers are readily able to find the personalised healthcare solutions that they desire.

Alongside this extensive product personalisation, transparency is also fundamentally key to KeyHealth when working in such a personal environment.

By cooperating with its patients openly, the Company is able to ensure that no unexpected costs are incurred for its customers, whilst the highest levels of service are maintained.

“With transparency at its core, KeyHealth focuses on delivering products devoid of loyalty programmes, bonuses and frivolous add-ons – schemes stripped of misguided fringe benefits, so that what remains is pure medical aid,” the Company states on its website.

“What you see is what you get.

Essentially, it is real value for money as opposed to perceived value for money. It’s Medical Aid without the extras and empty promises.”

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Patient care

This attitude is also reflected in KeyHealth’s offerings, placing significant emphasis on competitively differentiating its products to ensure that it goes above and beyond to provide care for its clientele.

“The truth is that many schemes are giving you many reasons to join them, but for the most part, these reasons are not even very compelling – they are generic and offered by the majority of schemes out there,” KeyHealth continues.

In avoiding this trend, the Company not only provides customers with access to KeyHealth’s renowned services, from Oncology to MRI and CT scans to other specialist consultation, but also offers free additional benefits – benefits that further highlight the Company’s esteemed practices.

One such benefit is the Health Booster programme, a service that offers customers with the chance to speak to consultants, such as in its free health assessment. Within this, KeyHealth’s practitioners will analyse a patient’s body mass index, blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, determining how to improve their general health.

PRODUCT PACKAGES • Essence • Origin • Equilibrium • Silver • Gold • Platinum

FREE BENEFITS • Health Booster • Smart Baby Programme • Easy-ER

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‘Reaching its 10th anniversary in 2018, the stage is set for KeyHealth to continue to excel as a simple, authentic and smart South African medical scheme’

In doing so, patients are able to proactively improve their lifestyle with tailored weight loss and exercise programmes that are designed to prevent future medical problems.

Further, KeyHealth’s free Easy-ER package is a first of its kind offering, in place to protect customers from incurring any unnecessary or unexpected expenses when they receive emergency treatment.

Expanded from servicing just children to all customers in 2016, Easy-ER ensures that KeyHealth patients are provided with priority access to a hospital’s emergency room where possible without any hassle or unexpected fees, as these are covered by the Company itself.

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From car accidents to sporting injuries to sudden illnesses, customers of KeyHealth are able to rest assured that they will receive emergency treatment without any financial worry as part of the Company’s membership schemes.

Combined with the firm’s free Smart Baby programme that supports new families with leading maternity care, advice and guidance, alongside its app, live chat and web chat, KeyHealth upholds its customer-first philosophy in a multitude of different ways.

Reaching its 10th anniversary in 2018, the stage is set for KeyHealth to continue to excel as a simple, authentic and smart South African medical scheme.

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U G A N D A

Peace of Mind Liberty Life Assurance Uganda has been providing affordable health and life cover since 2007, diversifying into corporate offerings in recent years Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Josh Mann

ganda’s insurance industry is growing at a steady pace. According to the latest figures from the country’s Insurers Association, the sector was worth UGX675 billion (US$180 million) last year, up 16 percent on 2016.

In the life insurance subcategory, 2017 saw even greater growth, up 28 percent to UGX169 billion (US$44 million).

With more Ugandans choosing to be insured with life and health cover, it is the work of companies such as Liberty Life Assurance Uganda that is making such peace of mind more accessible to both the public and corporations.

Set up in 2007 specialising in life cover, the Company has diversified into the health space and now insures more than half a million lives across the two strands.

“Today we mainly serve corporates, multinationals and financial institutions,” says Agatha Namara, Head of Marketing and Retail Business Development. “However, in 2015 we

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launched into the retail space and are growing there steadily.”

Decade milestone

From local and international health insurance for businesses to individual and family funeral cover, Liberty Life has been able to greatly expand its remit thanks to building up a reputation over the past 10 years.

“This is a big milestone for us,” Namara comments. “We see ourselves now as a trusted brand in our market and we are looking forward to growing and providing financial freedom to our clients by continually being innovative and improving our service offerings.

“We must also ensure we continue to remain relevant and cater to the ever-changing needs of the market.”

Crucial to Liberty Life’s longevity, and what for Namara sets the firm apart from others, is an unwavering pride in professionalism, efficiency and solid financial performance. These three ingredients have enabled the business to enjoy the market leading position it does today.

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Liberty Life’s products are underpinned by services which reflect Namara’s drive for professionalism and efficiency.

Web-based platforms for retail customers help them to set up a policy within in a day, with those taking out health cover able to access a portal with utilisation reports and accessible hospitals or clinics.

“We shall be rolling out our financial literacy programme to both our clients and the market at large in order to spread understanding on insurance and its benefits,” Namara adds. “As well as this, we provide wellness

services for clients to help them gain knowledge on how to stay healthy.

“We are also looking at ways to serve our clients better and are working on a system for claims processing and payments – this will enable us to improve the turnaround time for claims settlement.”

Responding to demand

Namara also cited the need to remain relevant, and its newest offerings are testament to the energy dedicated to market research.

All factors, from mortality rates and retirement ages to economic growth

LIBERTY LIFE ASSURANCE UGANDA – KEY OFFERINGS CORPORATE: Includes health insurance provision both locally and abroad, and group life insurance including benefits for disability both temporary and permanent, critical illness, permanent health insurance and funeral benefit. For financial institutions, Liberty Life now offers bancassurance products – for example, embedded life covers to enhance their own product offerings and various transactional retail products like hospital cash, education and funeral cover.

RETAIL: Includes family and funeral cover, standalone critical illness, disability, business owners, hospital cash and simple life covers. In the education space, the firm offers both a full risk education cover policy and a savings product called Soma, where parents can put aside some money to support the education of their children.

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and average earnings, are considered when rolling out a new product, the latest being the Soma Plan.

“The Soma Plan is an education savings plan starting as low as UGX50,000,” Namara says. “We recognised that the majority in the market need a flexible savings product, since many people face a challenge in raising school fees for their children “We are also aware that people go through all kinds of financial challenges and may need to stop their instalments for a few months and continue later, flexibility which Soma provides.”

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In the health insurance space, Liberty Life has recently launched Essential and Essential Plus, designed to provide corporates with lower benefits but competitive premiums, a direct response to customer feedback.

Futureproofing

As well as listening to local consumers, the Company also backs its local communities when it comes to hiring staff and supporting educational institutions and health awareness programmes.

“As a company we prefer to hire locally as we believe we do have qualified people in country,” Namara explains. “Training is key to developing talent and we do leverage from our regional offices in terms of knowledge exchange.

“We have a very low employee turnover because we value all our employees and ensure an opendoor policy with management, good

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“We have a very low employee turnover because we value all our employees and ensure an open-door policy with management”

and free communication both horizontally and vertically. We also reward good performance.”

A motivated, loyal team of workers will no doubt prove crucial in realising Namara’s short and medium-term ambitions for Liberty Life.

Top of the list is to continue growth in retail and bancassurance segments, while the opening up of Uganda’s oil & gas industry represents another avenue for corporate cover exploration.

Namara concludes: “I want us to have achieved a bigger brand visibility in a larger part of the country over the next few years. We expect to be the market leader in our space for both retail and corporate life business.”

Liberty Life Assurance Uganda Limited Tel: +256 414 233 794 libertylife@liberty.co.ug www.liberty.co.ug

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Cardinal Refinery With an illustrious history as one of the country’s most substantial oil & gas players, Tema Oil Refinery is continuing to empower economic progression through an adaptive mentality and an expansive product portfolio Writer: Jonathan Dyble | Project Manager: Josh Hyland hana is unquestionably on the up.

As the country’s economy has maintained a steady growth rate throughout the past decade, so too has its industries, a trend that is particularly evident within the national energy market.

According to figures from the country’s Energy Commission, Ghana’s total energy consumption rose to 6,984.2 kilotonnes of oil equivalent (ktoe), up from the 5,186.8 ktoe recorded in 2008.

Crucial to this growth has been an expansion in the production of petroleum-based fuels, accounting for 44.6 percent of all energy consumed in Ghana last year. In fact, when looking at statistics, petroleum usage alone in Ghana has grown by over 1,000 ktoe in the past 10 years.

Key to satisfying this rising demand has been Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).

Established in 1963, TOR is not only a leading refinery in Ghana but

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one of the most substantial oil & gas players across the whole of the African continent, having been one of the region’s first eight refineries.

“Being the premier and stellar refinery in Africa, Tema Oil Refinery has been the engine of growth for the economy,” the Company states on its website.

With a production capacity of 45,000 barrels per stream day (bpsd) at its crude distillation unit, the majority of Ghana’s demand of 65,000 bpsd can be satisfied by TOR’s capabilities alone, upholding national energy security by selling directly to bulk distribution companies across the country.

Enhanced quality and expanded quantity

TEMA OIL REFINERY’S REFINED PRODUCTS: • Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) • Gasoline (petrol) • Kerosene • Aviation turbine kerosene (jet A1) • Gas oil (diesel) • Premix • Naphtha • Fuel oil • Cracked fuels

TOR was originally named the Ghanaian Italian Petroleum (GHAIP) Company, having been 100 percent owned by the ENI Group of Italy.

However, with the Government of Ghana having bought the entirety of the firm in April 1977, the Company was later rebranded to TOR in 1990.

Over the years, the refinery’s capacity to produce and store LPG has risen from 7,560 tonnes to 10,560 tonnes, whilst its storage capacity for both crude oil and other finished petroleum products has almost tripled, up from 340,000 tonnes to more than 1,000,000.

Strategically situated just 24 kilometres from Accra, this expansion has allowed TOR to maintain its market stature, providing the fundamental footing that has significantly helped facilitate national economic prosperity.

However, it has not only been an improved to quantity but also quality that has enabled TOR to retain such a position, reflected in the broad range of leading services and solutions that the Company offers to its clientele.

Whilst the expanded storage capacity has allowed TOR to better serve its customers, offering enhanced storage solutions to the vast number of bulk distribution companies that

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source their fuel from TOR, the Company prides itself on maintaining a best-in-market status.

Implementing stringent quality control procedures, the firm readily meets both international standards and specifications outlined by the African Refiners Association.

These procedures include offering assurances by certifying the products that are transferred to the refinery’s storage tanks, then recertifying them again before the products are distributed to market.

These services, alongside TOR’s premium in-house loading, maintenance and professional consultancy offerings, have been crucial in bolstering its reputation – a reputation that has led to TOR’s

TEMA OIL REFINERY’S PARTNERSHIP WITH GRACE • Grace has supplied residue fluid catalytic cracking (RFCC) catalysts to TOR since 2002.

• RFCC is key to the TOR’s profitability as the primary process unit that produces gasoline.

• Grace is a strategic partner with TOR, providing technical expertise on troubleshooting, unit optimisation and industry best practices.

• Grace engages in knowledge transfer by way of workshops, conferences, and two-way site visits.

• Grace continues to add value to TOR by providing best-inclass RFCC catalyst solutions, continuing to invest in its research and development to meet this end.

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products being used to refuel Airforce One on three different occasions for the national visitations of US presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama.

Exciting times

TOR’s ability to retain its status as Ghana’s most substantial refinery has largely been driven by the Company’s ethos that is centred around avoiding complacency and retaining an emphasis on market orientation.

“TOR strives to achieve the President’s vision of reforming and transforming the country’s oil & gas sector to ensure efficiency while meeting the energy demands of Ghana and the sub-region,” the Company reveals on its website.

After the refinery reopened in January following a period of planned maintenance, the facility and crude distillation unit is expected to remain online until early 2019 when further maintenance is set to take place, allowing TOR to adapt its own operations in line with industry trends.

For TOR, this flexibility is key in becoming the first choice of bulk distribution companies for finished petroleum products.

“We are positioning ourselves to take advantage of the discovery of crude oil in Ghana to improve and expand our infrastructure to be able to meet and exceed the market demand of petroleum products,” the Company states. “Predictive and preventive maintenance will be at the core of our operations.”

Further, moving forward, the firm’s plans also include exploring the petrochemical area of the petroleum business, working more readily with its partners and monitoring the rising discovery of oil & gas in Ghana.

With revenues currently standing at over $320 million and more than 650 employees powering these ambitions, TOR is readily positioned to continue to make headway in the Ghanaian market and beyond.

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GRACE Grace Catalyst Technology: Tested.

Proven. Valued.

In an industry where success is about profits as well as performance, refiners need a partner they can trust to provide value. Grace’s custom catalyst solutions, co-developed with our refinery partners, are about more than chemistry. They are designed to lift financial performance and build trust in our product and the technical customer service we provide.

We’re proud that we have been able to help the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) meet its goals of transforming Ghana’s oil & gas sector to ensure efficiency while meeting the energy demands of the region. Grace has worked with TOR since the commissioning of their RFCC in 2002. As the refining landscape became more challenging, with heavier, more difficult feeds and increased margin pressure on refiners, Grace has worked with TOR to stay on track by developing tailor-made catalyst solutions that continually deliver value by increasing gasoline octane barrels in addition to maximising bottoms upgrading. Our catalyst expertise, continuous technical and operational support and deep knowledge of our customer’s refineries enables us to deliver truly differentiated products to TOR and to the broader refining industry.

Grace is looking forward to continuing our work with TOR to develop the next generation of high-performance catalyst with improved metals tolerance function and maximum bottoms upgrading. Find out more about Grace’s refining technologies at www.grace. com.

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Compete at a higher level.

In an industry where success is about profits as well as performance, you want to trust a partner who can lift you to the next level.

Grace custom catalyst solutions, co-developed with you, are about more than chemistry. They’re designed to lift your financial performance.

In some cases, the difference between our refinery customers’ financial return on Grace technologies versus the alternative has reached into seven figures.

If you’re ready to finish on top, call us to show you how we can help.

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and thousands of qualified maritime, transport and logistics professionals to optimise hinterland and maritime connectivity, improve efficiency of rail networks and define the future of maritime and overland shipping across the continent. Efficient and effective transport systems and modern ports and railways are key to unlocking new trade opportunities and export markets.

New in 2018:

Exploring opportunities to upgrade

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 2-3 October WHERE: Durban, South Africa WEBSITE: www.transportevolution.com

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NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT plans across the continent are prioritising transport infrastructure upgrade and development projects.

Substantial growth in trade volumes is predicted with total corridor volumes on road and rail expected to increase from 13.6 million tonnes by 2020 to 40 million tonnes by 2040.

Further, the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCTFA) is set to create the largest free trade zone in the world and increase intra-Africa trade by 52 percent by 2020.

Against this backdrop, Africa’s largest transport event, African Ports and Rail Evolution, welcomes dozens of African ports and rail authorities

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Five new dedicated sectors across the exhibition floor: Port infrastructure and expansion, port operations, maintenance security and IT, rolling stock and locomotives and rail infrastructure.

Interactive content including strategy sessions for ports and rail project finance in Africa, smart ports development, integrated intelligent mobility systems, rail maintenance and upgrade generating new and alternative revenue streams for Africa’s ports and harbours and more.

Keynote session dedicated to the support and development of South Africa’s Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy and its inception across Africa’s southern region.

CPD accredited education for conference delegates. Professional registered engineers operating in maritime, transport and logistics qualify for up to two CPD points when attending the conference. Points are awarded after the event and are based upon attendance.

Transport Evolution presents

2 - 3 October 2018 | Durban International Convention Centre, South Africa

Engage with over 15 African Ports and Rail authorities Secure one-on-one meetings with African port and rail authorities and government officials.

Showcase and launch your latest products, technologies and services.

Raise your brand awareness by positioning yourself in front of your key buyers and partners.

Generate qualified leads by networking with key stakeholders who attend the event.

There are only a few stands available. Book now!

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Primary Features of the RED Summit:

Arrowing in on Africa’s property industry

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 29-30 October WHERE: Accra, Ghana CONTACT: marketing@gbbventure.com WEBSITE: www.redevelopmentsummit.com/west-africa

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WEST AFRICA IS opening its doors to the world and demand for investment in African real estate is to reach a fever pitch in 2018 and beyond, as the continent’s markets turn to growth after years of trying trading conditions.

GBB is hosting the 2nd Edition Real Estate Development (RED) Summit 2018 – West Africa on 29-30 October at The Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra, Ghana, where we will assist you to engage and portray your vision to the C-level decision makers who are hotel owners, hotel operators, developers, architects, contractors, consultants, designers and construction companies under one roof who cater to 3,000-plus projects across Africa.

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• Attendance of over 100-plus buyer profiles where you can pre-determine the type of profile you would like to interact with, so that you could tailor-make your presentations accordingly.

• Minimum of 1,800-plus face-toface business meetings therefore streamlining months of your sales cycle.

• Prior notification of 400-plus hospitality residential, commercial and mixed-use projects with their requirements, budget, contact details and a lot of key information regarding their projects.

• An opportune experience to build long-term relationship with the buyers, hence repeated business.

• A chance to personally present your products and services to 200-plus decision makers • An opportunity to showcase and exhibit your products.

• A key account manager personally designated to each company where we will assist you in maintaining your visibility and nurture your prospective buyers.

• A cocktail dinner where you can network and mingle with the “Crème de la Crème” of the real estate business fraternity.

• Panel discussions revolving around sustainability, affordable housing and technological advancement in West Africa.

5TH SENEGAL INTERNATIONAL MINING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION

E V E N T

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 6-8 November WHERE: Dakar, Senegal WEBSITE: www.ametrade.org/simsenegal

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Unveiling Senegal’s mining potential 5TH SENEGAL INTERNATIONAL Mining Conference & Exhibition (SIM Senegal 2018) is one of the country’s leading events in the mining industry.

The event is organised by the Ministry of Industry & Mines, Senegal in association with AME Trade Ltd. The showcase will feature a three-day conference, exhibition and provide attendees with the option to visit some

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of Senegal’s key mining sites.

SIM Senegal has already established itself as one of the largest mining events in West Africa. The third edition of the event in 2014, was opened by His Excellency Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal.

This year SIM Senegal is being hosted at the Hotel King Fahd Palace in Dakar, Senegal’s capital.

5TH SENEGAL INTERNATIONAL MINING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION UNDER THE HIGH PATRONAGE OF HIS EXCELLENCY MONSIEUR MACKY SALL PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL UNDER THE AEGIS OF MINISTRY OF MINES AND GEOLOGY

GEOLOGY AND MINES, FACTORS OF PROGRESS AND EMPLOYMENT IN AN EMERGING SENEGAL

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F O C U S

Addressing challenges in Nigeria’s power industry

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 13-14 November WHERE: Lagos, Nigeria WEBSITE: www.future-energy-nigeria.com

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FUTURE ENERGY Nigeria has evolved from the West African Power Industry Convention (WAPIC).

This energy conference and expo addresses the Nigerian power sector challenges through industry connectivity and creative solutions.

A country going through a tough economic cycle, compounded by a struggling energy sector, it is now that the platform of a meeting place to engage industry stakeholders keen to represent the sector is more important than ever.

This refreshed project will continue to drive collaboration, networking, solutions and positive results for a sector that begins to emerge from crisis.

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This is the only industry meeting point that discusses, debates and provides answers to the future development of the sector.

Delivering a conference arena for consultative content, an exhibition platform for trade deals and networking for business growth, Future Energy Nigeria is the dedicated professional project that Nigeria needs to support its ascent from its current challenges.

13 – 14 NOVEMBER 2018 Eko Hotel & Suites Lagos, Nigeria

CONNECTING YOU TO THE HUB OF THE NIGERIAN POWER SECTOR GAS FINANCE SOLAR T&D

JOIN NIGERIA’S POWER REVOLUTION IN 2018 13 – 14 NOVEMBER 2018 Lagos, Nigeria

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The future of gas in Africa

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 14-15 November WHERE: Marrakech, Morocco WEBSITE: www.gasoptions-nwafrica.com

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PART OF EnergyWeek Morocco, Gas Options North and West Africa will take place on 14-15 November in Marrakech. The event is a platform for decision makers in the energy sector to discuss the progress of regional power projects.

The event is endorsed by Hon. Aziz Rabbah, Minister of Energy, Mines & Sustainable Development in Morocco, with the support of leading private sector companies MASEN, Cheniere, Fieldstone Africa, Skypower, ENGIE and Wartsila.

With gas widely considered the most affordable and clean base-load energy source, new discoveries in the gas sector are stimulating sector growth

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and infrastructure development, paving the way for the emergence of new players such as Senegal and Mauritania.

With African countries both importing and exporting gas, the development of regional projects is set to benefit both gas producing and non-producing countries by supporting industrial and economic development.

Africa

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Official Partners of the Energy Week: Morocco

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All readers of Africa Outlook are entitled to an exclusive 15% off on registration. To claim your exclusive discount, email: GO-NWA@energynet.co.uk using the code: AO15 #GONWA18 | WWW.GASOPTIONS-NWAFRICA.COM

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Discussing power projects in North and West Africa

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 14-15 November WHERE: Lusaka, Zambia CONTACT: murray@apievents.com WEBSITE: www.zamreal.com

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AFRICA RENEWABLE Energy Forum forms part of EnergyWeek: Morocco, a two-day event held in Marrakech.

Recent estimates from IRENA indicated US$32 billion is required each year from 2015 to 2030 to fully exploit Africa’s renewable energy potential.

With many North and West African countries harbouring significant untapped natural resources, vast potential exists for the continued development of and investment in renewable power projects.

Ambitious goals have been set by governments to increase renewable energy generation, such as Morocco’s targets of achieving 52 percent clean energy from sources such as solar and

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wind by 2030, or Nigeria’s vision of renewables accounting for 10 percent total energy consumption by 2025.

Milestone projects are now driving forward this momentum, such as Morocco’s 580MW Noor Ouarzazate IV power station, scheduled to be fully commissioned by October 2018, or Senegal’s 29 MW Senergy 1 solar PV plant – currently the largest solar farm in West Africa.

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PARTNER

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Africa

HONOURABLE AZIZ RABBAH MINISTER OF ENERGY, MINES AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO

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E L E C T R I C X

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North Africa’s leading power exhibition and conference

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 17-19 November WHERE: Cairo, Egypt WEBSITE: www.electricxegypt.com

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SINCE ITS inauguration back in 1991, Electricx has set itself as the central business hub for the top regional and international market leaders in power generation, transmission and distribution. With the growth to cover more than 12,500 square metres, the exhibition will be a truly international gathering of more than 10,000 power distributors and retailers, consultants, government representatives, electrical engineers and purchasers from Egypt.

For exhibitors, Electricx draws on the strengths of Informa Industrial Group’s foothold in the Middle East and Africa through its long established and reputable exhibition, Middle East Electricity. Electricx allows

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companies to gain brand recognition in the Egyptian power market which is a critical factor in establishing new business. The exhibition provides exhibitors with the opportunity to meet in a convenient regional location to generate quality leads and continue ongoing negotiations with potential customers.

Also, Electricx is considered important to attend by regional power professionals. It offers the opportunity for visitors to efficiently use their time by providing a hands-on experience to discover and compare products and services from multiple brands all in one place. It allows them to conveniently gain access to free educational sessions to further enhance their knowledge of the Egyptian power market.

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Africa’s premier mining industry showcase

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 4-7 February 2019 WHERE: Cape Town, South Africa WEBSITE: http://bit.ly/2w8l3HI

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INVESTING IN African Mining Indaba will be celebrating its 25th anniversary from 4-7 February 2019 in Cape Town.

The event will look back at the best moments in African mining over the past 25 years, and ahead to new innovations taking place in the industry.

Since 1994 Mining Indaba has connected African mining companies with investors from around the world and has been the platform for important industry discussions, facilitating the sustainable growth and long-term development of the industry.

In 2018 the event saw a 15 percent overall increase in attendance, with

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34 government ministers, 308 mining companies and 474 investors attending from 95 different countries. In 2019 we will be expecting even more.

Be a part of the world’s largest mining investment event and help us celebrate 25 years of progress for African mining.

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Business Travel Guides A complete guide to Africa’s leading business travel destinations

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T A N Z A N I A

Famed for being home to Africa’s highest point, the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s tourism industry also looks set to peak thanks to the work of numerous associations Writer: Tom Wadlow

anzania – home to Mount Kilimanjaro and the highest point in Africa. Mostly set 600 feet above sea level, the East African country plays host to some of the continent’s most spectacular scenery, from expansive plains and plateaus to beautiful offshore islands and the enormous Lake Victoria in the north.

The equatorial nation became sovereign in 1964 through the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, the former

covering 99 percent of the combined territories’ landmass and the latter still possessing a separate governmental administration.

Tanzania’s travel and tourism market is becoming increasingly important to the nation’s economy. The World Travel & Tourism Council reports that the industry contributed $1.92 billion to the country’s finances last year, a figure set to rise to more than $2.1 billion in 2018.

This projected rise of 9.4 percent is the second largest in the world.

Beyond the stunning scenic

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offering, wildlife and safari form a vital component of the country’s tourism sector, with many well-established operators running trips via land, water and air – some you will see later on in this guide.

In terms of city life, the major cultural and economic hub Dar es Salaam will not disappoint with its array of food, drink and landmark attractions. Off the coast, the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba are popular choices for visitors, while Mafia Island is emerging as something of a hidden gem.

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AFRICA FACTS & FIGURES President: John Magufuli Languages: Swahili, English Area: 947,303 km2 Population (2016): 55 million GDP (2016): $47.65 billion Currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS) Time zone: UTC+3 Dialling code: +255 Internet TLD: .tz

TANZ ANIA Project Manager: Ryan Gray

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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, Ryan Gray or Jordan Levey to find out more. joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

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