STRUCTURE AND DESIGN ISSUE 81

Page 1


PUBLISHER’S MEMO

Welcome to Issue 81 of Structure & Design, showcasing the innovative achievements and sustained, ambitious growth that are actively shaping Zimbabwe’s built environment.

Among these key drivers is DripTech Irrigation, which has opened its latest branch in Bulawayo, located at 21 Doncaster Road, Belmont, significantly expanding its national footprint and providing a major boost for regional economic activity. This new facility, one of 11 branches across Zimbabwe, establishes DripTech as a critical partner in the ongoing transformation of the Bulawayo region’s industrial and agricultural sectors, timed perfectly to coincide with a notable revival of commercial and industrial activities in Zimbabwe’s industrial capital.

Looking beyond traditional construction, we see groundbreaking work in infrastructure and sustainability. Brown Engineering recently played a key role in the transformative Geo Pomona Waste Management (Private) Limited initiative by installing steel structures. This project at the Pomona Landfill, established as a Joint Venture Concession Agreement between the City of Harare and Geogenix BV, has the crucial mission of converting waste into energy. The project’s vision is "to be Southern Africa's first, best, and most efficient waste management and power generation project, and to adopt a 'Zero waste-to-landfill' approach."

Finally, we turn our attention to the elements that define and finish a space. Lighting World has raised the bar by unveiling its most prestigious branch yet—a 1,000-square-metre Pomona Flagship Showroom. Carefully curated into 15 collections, including the luxurious Dark Velvet, opulent Gilded Gold, and creative Bohemian, the showroom demonstrates how lighting can transform spaces and elevate interiors.

For internal finishing, Eva-last TIER indoor flooring offers products suitable for any project. Designed to be Fabulous, Functional, and Forever, Eva-last’s TIER flooring is an SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) that mimics the natural warmth and texture of timber without the environmental cost of deforestation. Its unique ground mineral polymer CarbideCore provides enhanced rigidity and stability, making the material both heat and water-resistant.

Continue to flip through for a good read!

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its content, neither editor nor publisher can be held responsible for any omissions or errors: or for any misfortune, injury, or damages which may arise there-of.

rights reserved. Copyright 2025 No Part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electric or mechanical, including photocopying or recording.

OUR SERVICES

MANUFACTURERS OF ROLLER SHUTTER DOORS, GARAGE & SLIDING DOORS. SUPPLIERS OF SLIDING DOORS SYSTEM

*Waterproofing

*Roof Repairs

*Joint Sealants

*Epoxy Flooring

680 SOUTTER ROAD, NEW ARDBENNIE

CALL MARLENE ON 0772 311 791

ONWARD 0773 579 521

AFRICOM NUMBER 08644219682

E-mail: molpol@zol.co.zw

*Concrete Admixture

*Concrete Cutting

*Concrete Repairs

*Non Shriking Grout

construction of the New St George’s Science dept and supplies of DIY prodducts no one can do it better than Specialised

PUBLISHER

Caast Media Group

MARKETING

Tinashe Mafiko

Newton Musara +263 781 421 866 +263 789 532 918

DESIGN, LAYOUT & VIDEOGRAPHY WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA

Saul Chidakwa

Zimiso Geoffrey Nyamande

Olga Gertrude Dzingo

Princess Kuvengurwa

Tinaani Francis Garikayi

Albert Chitumba

JOURNALISTS

Martin Chemhere

DISTRIBUTION

Itai Kanyemba Gift Sepi

PHOTOGRAPHY

CAAST MEDIA GROUP

EMAIL

marketing1@caastmedia.org markerting@structureanddesign.co.zw

FIND US AT 31 Alexander Rd, Highlands, Harare

Zimbabwe PAGE 8

Text - Martin Chemhere Images – Caast Media Group

DripTech Irrigation has opened its latest branch in Bulawayo, located at 21 Doncaster Road, Belmont, in an expansion drive of its national footprint and a major boost for regional economic activity.

This new facility, one of 11 branches across Zimbabwe, including Mutare, Marondera, and eight convenient locations across Harare, establishes the company as a critical partner in the ongoing transformation of the Bulawayo region’s industrial and agricultural sectors.

The move is perfectly timed to coincide with a notable revival of commercial and industrial activities in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s industrial capital, which is expected to greatly boost the market for DripTech’s integrated water and power solutions.

The DripTech Bulawayo Branch is housed in a modern, purpose-built facility. The structure is a large commercial building featuring a striking façade clad in dark grey corrugated metal, with the white DripTech logo prominently displayed above a long stretch of glass windows and doors.

The entrance area is sleek, presenting a modern, multipaned, dark-framed glass door (or window) set into a light grey wall, with the glass often reflecting the surrounding industrial landscape.

The facility’s commitment to self-sufficiency and integrated solutions is highlighted by a circular sign advertising “One Stop Solar”, a sister company to DripTech, emphasizing that they are a group supplying more than just irrigation needs.

This integrated approach extends to the infrastructure itself, with an array of solar panels on the roof, ensuring energyefficient and sustainable operation.

The customer-facing area is paved with light-coloured herringbone bricks. The overall warehouse and retail facility is a large, grey industrial structure with a distinctive multi-pitched roof.

The exterior’s modern aesthetic, which was finalized by workers installing grey corrugated metal cladding onto the steel frame, sharply contrasts with the older, red brick industrial buildings typical of the Belmont area.

The interior seamlessly blends a high-end retail experience with a functional warehouse environment.

The space is characterized by high ceilings, structural beams, and tall metal shelving stacked with products, including blue irrigation pipes.

The focal point is a sleek reception/ service counter featuring a wood-grain and blue geometric design.

Throughout the facility, DripTech reinforces its standing as a purveyor of world-class brands.

Large vertical banners prominently display the names of leading suppliers of irrigation, water, and tanks, such as Netafim, Dab, KSB, Reinke pivots, Jumbo tanks, Morrison pumps, Stromtec generators and Rivulis.

water pumps and control systems, all presented on elegant grey cubic pedestals.

Additionally, the power requirements of modern agriculture and industry are met by a selection of portable generator/water pump sets (including red-framed, yellow-framed, and large enclosed blue generator sets).

The structured presentation, complete with potted plants, underscores the professional and innovative nature of the solutions offered.

The opening of the new branch is especially significant for the Bulawayo region’s agricultural sector, which is currently expanding beyond its traditional crops into higher-value ventures, notably emerging tobacco farming.

The agricultural sector is recognized as a key driver for attaining economic self-sufficiency by 2030, and DripTech is committed to supporting this growth. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is actively involved in transforming Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, the Bulawayo region included, setting a bold vision for food security and economic resilience in the next 5 years (2030) and beyond.

The irrigation driven company aligns perfectly with this national strategy, offering the complete end-to-end solutions needed for this transformation.

They provide expert advice on the design and installation of irrigation and pump systems, supply all necessary equipment, and ensure ongoing support with spares and technical backup, which is crucial for maximizing productivity in Bulawayo’s often water-scarce environment.

Through equipping local farmers, extension officers, and agribusinesses with modern farming techniques and digital tools, DripTech will be instrumental in helping the Bulawayo region fulfil its regional food systems commitments.

DripTech’s comprehensive inventory, from tanks and pipes to high-tech pumps and irrigation solutions, means that customers no longer need to look outside the region for their essential supplies.

The store is open Monday to Friday 8am - 4:30pm Saturday 8am - 12pm, demonstrating a commitment to being readily accessible to the region’s partners and clients.

This expansion is a clear affirmation of the company’s strategy to build lasting relationships and create lifetime partnerships with its clients, supporting them every step of the way.

At Star Contracting, we bring engineering precision and architectural elegance to every floor we install. From industrial warehouses to luxury residences, our flooring systems are crafted to deliver durability, safety, and seamless beauty.

Concrete Flooring Installation

Our concrete floors are more than a base — they are the foundation of performance.

Screed & Self-Levelling Systems

Fast-curing and shrinkage-controlled, our screeds enhance load distribution and lifespan, Giving Value To your Property.

Epoxy & Self-Levelling Epoxy Floors

Experience flooring innovation with our epoxy floor systems — a synergy of chemical science and craftsmanship.

Painting Excellence by

Completing the surface perfection, Star Painters offers premium painting for steel structures and walls

BROWN ENGINEERING GROUP

Text by Martin Chemhere Images by Caast Media Group

Geo Pomona Waste Management (Private)

Limited, an initiative founded under the vision of His Excellency President ED Mnangagwa, is converting waste into energy, with plans to replicate its successful model across other cities and provinces in Zimbabwe, and thereafter into the SADC region and Africa. Located at the Pomona Landfill, Alpes Road, North Harare, and approximately 13 km northeast of Harare CBD, the project was established as a Joint Venture Concession Agreement between the City of Harare and Geogenix BV (a Netherlands-based company). CEO and Executive Chairman, Dr Dilesh Nguwaya, leads the company whose project’s vision is “to be Southern Africa's first, best, and most efficient waste management and power generation project, and to adopt a 'Zero waste-tolandfill' approach.”

With a capacity to incinerate approximately 1,000 tonnes of solid municipal waste daily, the company’s waste-to-energy plant is expected to produce between 16 to 22 MW of electricity, which will be injected into the national grid (ZESA). Geo Pomona Waste Management is therefore significantly contributing to Vision 2030 by simultaneously

providing clean energy and fostering a clean and safe environment essential for an empowered and prosperous upper-middle-income society.

The waste management pioneers utilise Innovative Technologies and Best Practices from local and international experts to create a healthier and safer environment for communities.

Their forward-looking technology solutions aim to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment, while their best practices draw on the best from both local and international experts to ensure that their waste management solutions are effective, sustainable, and innovative.

In their ongoing quest to keep abreast of global standards and raise the efficiency standards of Harare’s waste management system, they recently contracted local and regional steel structure installation company Brown Engineering to work on a new garage-cum-workshop for their newly acquired trucks.

BROWN ENGINEERING GROUP

The appropriately sized members were used for load bearing capacity, and the structure was painted with two coats of corrosion resistant paint.

The fabrication of the steel components were done at Brown Engineering, and there were no logistical challenges faced in transporting and rigging the large structures at the waste management company site. Overall working timelines were efficiently managed, spanning from 13 to 28 August 2025 for everything including the three major components of fabrication, installation and project handover to the client.

Another steel installation was for a new stores shop at the same premises.

Both structures have significantly enhanced the broader outlook of the waste management facilities.

Given the complex nature of a waste management facility, the project's engineering and design specifications accounted for factors like corrosion resistance, heavy load-bearing capacity, and facility-specific ventilation requirements.

They used whirlybirds for better ventilation and translucent sheets for natural lighting.

The project was even more beneficial for the local communities as more than 40 jobs were created from fabrication to installation stages, over and above the already hired employees. Spearheading the project were local talent involved from design to implementation stages and through these technically demanding processes, the teams ensured the local steel structures seamlessly integrated with the cutting-edge waste processing equipment.

As required in these projects, all quality control and safety standards were strictly adhered to during the fabrication and on-site erection of the steel structures, especially given the site's environment. The fabrication was mainly compliant with SANS and British codes, while the installation was mainly in line with general building guidelines.

The successful completion of these steel structures will assist in making the waste management operations run seamlessly from waste collection in the city to processing the waste. As for Brown Engineering, working with yet another global standard company has added further weight to its huge reputation in the design and manufacture of steel structures used across industries in Zimbabwe and the SADC region.

For the specialized rigging techniques, they made use of a 20-tonne crane to install the structure. The rafters were assembled on the ground and then safely hoisted with the crane, ensuring efficiency and precision during erection.

Brown Engineering's experience in other heavy industrial structures prepared them for the unique demands of a modern waste management facility project like this one. Success of the project was possible due to Brown Engineering’s versatility in delivering various structures, whether industrial, agricultural, mining or residential to clients. Proper research from their research and development team about waste to energy structures was useful in the design and installation of these structures.

Images by Caast Media Group

Zimbabwe’s lighting industry has a new benchmark.

Lighting World has unveiled its most prestigious branch yet, a 1,000-squaremetre Pomona showroom that combines designexcellence, innovation, and an immersive retail experience.

The new flagship is carefully curated into 15 collections, each telling a story of mood, style,and atmosphere.

To highlight a few of these amazing collections we have the luxurious Dark Velvet Collection, the opulent Gilded Gold, the serene Ivory, bold Midnight, rustic charm, and the creative Bohemian, the showroom demonstrates how lighting can transform spaces and elevate interiors.

According to Dion Yatras, CEO of Lighting World, the branch is about more than product display.

“Lighting is one of the most powerful design tools.

Not only does it illuminate a room, it defines atmosphere, enhances emotion, and connects people to their spaces. That is why our tagline, “Be the Light’’, is at the heart of everything we do.”

Lighting World goes beyond decorative lighting.

The Pomona branch showcases over 35 models of prestigious sockets and switches in metallic gold, silver, black, and white, as well as extensive ranges of downlighters, strip and LED lighting, panel lighting, commercial solutions, and smart lighting systems.

Outdoor lighting also features prominently, with the Italian Fumagalli range offering lifetime warranties and premium craftsmanship.

The branch integrates Prime Flooring, Lighting World’s sister brand, which presents seven new imported colour decors, SPC vinyl, laminates, herringbone and chevron patterns, engineered wood, large plank designs, and complimented by luxury Belgian carpets distributed across Zimbabwe.

“Visitors can now experience complete interior solutions, from floors to ceilings, textures to lighting, every element harmonized,” Yatras explains.

The new store reflects Lighting World’s philosophy that lighting is transformative.

“Our second tagline, “Light Changes Everything”, captures the emotional and Functional power of light,” Yatras says. “It can redefine a space, influence mood, and elevate a design.

Every product, every collection in Pomona embodies that principle.” With this launch, Lighting World solidifies its position as Zimbabwe’s market leader in lighting solutions. The brand has set a standard not only in product range but in quality, design expertise, and in-store experience. From bespoke collections to high-end technical lighting, the Pomona showroom exemplifies how innovation and style can coexist with practical solutions for homeowners, designers, and developers alike.

“At Lighting World, we don’t just sell lights,” Yatras concludes. “We offer inspiration, ambience, and design freedom.

Our vision is that all clients to walk out empowered and ready to “Be the Light in their own World.”

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DION YATRAS, CEO OF LIGHTING WORLD

Q: Dion, congratulations on the launch of the new Pomona branch. What inspired this new space, and how does it differ from your other showrooms?

Dion: Thank you. The Pomona branch represents the culmination of everything Lighting World stands for … excellence, diversity, and design sophistication. We wanted to create more than just a lighting store. This is an experience centre — a place where homeowners, designers, and developers can immerse themselves in the art of lighting and see how different styles transform a space.

We’ve curated 15 unique lighting collections, each with its own design language — from the dramatic tones of our Dark Velvet Collection to the understated elegance of Ivory, the contemporary boldness of Midnight, and the relaxed charm of Rustic and Bohemian. Each collection is styled in-room settings so clients can visualize how these pieces work in real environments.

Q: The layout feels very thoughtfully curated, how did you approach the design concept for the showroom?

Dion: Our approach was guided by how customers actually experience design. Lighting is emotional, it changes how a space feels. So we wanted every section to evoke a mood or a story.

The collections are displayed in zones that flow naturally, moving from modern minimalism to timeless luxury.

We’ve also showcased the full ecosystem of lighting, from decorative pendants and chandeliers to downlighters, strip lighting, panel and smart lighting, and even commercial and outdoor ranges, including the prestigious Italian Fumagalli range with its lifetime warranty.

It’s a visual journey through every aspect of illumination.

Q: Lighting World has become known for its innovation and diversity. How do you maintain that edge in such a competitive market?

Dion: We’re constantly evolving. The lighting industry moves fast, and we make it our mission to stay ahead of global design trends. We work closely with international suppliers and attend key international shows to ensure Zimbabwe has access to the latest styles and technologies, from energy-efficient LED systems to the newest smart lighting integrations.

Equally important is our local expertise, our in-house design and installation teams, who bring these products to life in homes and commercial projects across the country. We’re proud to say that every range we offer is selected with both style and reliability in mind.

Q: You’ve also expanded into other product lines such as sockets, switches, and even flooring. How does that fit into Lighting World’s vision?

Dion: Absolutely. Our vision has always been to offer complete design solutions, everything from the floor to the ceiling.

Within Lighting World, we now showcase an extensive range of sockets and switches, over 35 models in metallic gold, silver, black, and white, offering clients the chance to coordinate their finishes seamlessly with their interiors.

Alongside this, our Prime Flooring division is featured prominently within the Pomona store.

We’re displaying seven new imported vinyl decors, and a range that includes SPC vinyl, laminates, engineered wood, herringbone and chevron, and even luxury Belgiancarpets that we’ve distributed across Zimbabwe for years.

It gives customers an opportunity to see complete room concepts, lighting paired beautifully with flooring textures and finishes.

Q: What message would you like to share with designers, builders, and homeowners who visit the new Pomona showroom?

Dion: I would love them to see that Lighting World is not just a supplier, we are a partner in design.

Whether you are building your dream home, renovating a space, or designing a commercial project, this new branch is a resource centre where ideas come to life.

Every light, every texture, every finish you see here has been carefully selected to inspire creativity and elevate design standards in Zimbabwe. We are incredibly proud of what this store represents, essentially a celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and passion for lighting and interiors.

Q: Finally, what’s next for Lighting World?

Dion: The Pomona branch sets the benchmark for what is to come. We’re expanding our digital platforms to make our collections more accessible online and working on interactive tools that help customers plan and visualize their lighting layouts. We are also continuing to invest in training our teams, collaborating with designers, and supporting our dealer network countrywide.

At the end of the day, our goal is simple, to make great design accessible to everyone, and to keep lighting up Zimbabwe, one beautiful space at a time.

DADO STORM 1700 IOF F-S BATH WHITE
Dado Lara Bath Tub IOF Pearl White

TIER INDOOR FLOORING HAVE PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR ANY PROJECT.

Designed to be Fabulous, Functional and Forever, Eva-last’s TIER flooring is an SPC (Stone Polymer Composite) flooring that mimics the natural warmth and texture of timber without the environmental impact of deforestation.

Put simply, it is a luxurious, lowmaintenance and easy-to-install indoor flooring material with a unique ground mineral polymer CarbideCore that provides enhanced rigidity and stability whilst also allowing it to be both heat and water-resistant.

Produced in an eco-conscious factory, TIER is manufactured using solar energy, what is more, no harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) such as glues or adhesives are used during production, keeping the air safe and hygienic.

In fact, TIER is accredited by FloorScore for Outstanding Indoor Air Quality. This means we are producing a holistically sustainable product.

TIER flooring is also safe to be installed in any environment, boasting a EuroClass Bfl-s1 fire rating.

With the two TIER ranges on offer, TIER can accommodate a variety of flooring requirements.

The TIER Classic range is available in a residential and commercial offering.

They are designed for versatility as well as durability and offers a cost-effective, robust flooring that installs efficiently with its 2G click system.

The TIER Element range provides a more robust profile, that emulates the beauty of wood with advanced digital print technology that prints both the pattern and texture directly onto the core of the board.

This means real timber can be digitally replicated giving you the most natural looking floor, covered with a wear coating. This advanced technology results in a minimal repeat pattern for up to 20m2. underfoot.

TIER Element is suitable for use in both residential and commercial applications.Its 2G click system prevents moisture ingress through the joins and is easy to install.

TIER really is much more than just another indoor flooring offering.

www.tierflooring.co.za

Ceiling Boards, Drywall & Partioning

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
STRUCTURE AND DESIGN ISSUE 81 by Caast Media Group - Issuu