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December/January 2013
African Review of Business and Technology
P38
December/January 2013
Nairobi’s technology incubator
Volume 47 Number 20
P45
Work on
South African www.africanreview.com
Investment on Kenya’s Thika superhighway P24
wastewater Finance:
Logistics:
Power:
East Africa’s capital markets P26
Materials handling with lift trucks P40
SCADA systems for large-scale operations P42
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UP FRONT
Editor’s Note
www.africanreview.com
Europe €10, Ghana C1.8, Kenya Ksh200, Nigeria N330, South Africa R25, UK £7, USA $12
December/January 2013
P38
Nairobi’s technology incubator
I
n this issue of African Review of Business and Technology, from page 24 to page 30, we addresse measures affecting finance and investment vehicles for developing infrastructure to support East African commerce - including financial solutions to support capital asset acquisition, and technical support for brokerages. Pages 31 to 38 of this magazine offer insights, also, into technological developments - in markets for mobile money, in printer technology, in enterprise software, in education, and also in support of start-up businesses in communications industries. Logistics is covered on pages 39 and 40, and offers an account of the expansion of port facilities, and guidance on the use and misue of forklift trucks. Page 42 outlines options for large-scale commercial and industrial power management, using SCADA systems. Articles on construction projects and solutions, from page 43 to page 48 of this issue, detail the expansion of multi-modal transport networks, the improvement of a wastewater treatment facility, and also the prospect of ever more advanced machines in the near future. Andrew Croft, Managing Editor
Contents
P45
Work on
South African
wastewater
Investment on Kenya’s Thika superhighway P24
Finance:
Logistics:
Power:
East Africa’s capital markets P26
Materials handling with lift trucks P40
SCADA systems for large-scale operations P42
Cover picture: Infrastructure investment for commercial and community gain Images: Andrew Mentis (Main); Stephen W Wanjau (Inset, bottom left); Outi Einola-Head (Inset, top right)
REGULARS 04 Agenda:
14 Bulletin:
Public and private sector developments
50 Solutions:
Expertise in machinery and engineering
Information technology and the environment
P26 FEATURES 24 Finance and Investment Infrastructure investment to support East African trading; financial solutions to support capital procurement in construction; investment in cement production; and technical support for commodity and currency exchanges in Somalia and Kenya
31 Technology The vibrant market for mobile money; evolution in printer technology; expertise and solutions to support an educational initiative; and a technology incubator in the Kenyan capital
P43
39 Logistics Building up port facilities in Mombasa; and notes on the usefulness - and the dangerousness - of the forklift truck
42 Power Options for enterprise-level management of energy supply
43 Construction Expanding transport networks for a multi-modal economy; upgrading and expanding a wastewater treatment facility; and a look ahead to the building tools of the future
Audit Bureau of Circulations Business Magazines
Managing Editor: Andrew Croft andrew.croft@alaincharles.com Editorial and Design team: Bob Adams, Lizzie Carroll, David Clancy, Kasturi Gupta, Ranganath GS, Prashant AP, Meenakshi Nambiar, Genaro Santos, Zsa Tebbit, Nicky Valsamakis, Julian Walker and Ben Watts Publisher: Nick Fordham Advertising Sales Director: Pallavi Pandey Advertising Sales Manager: Jane Wellman Tel: +44 114 262 1523 Fax: +44 7976 232791 Email: Jane.wellman@alaincharles.com
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NEWS
Agenda / North Energy firm awarded in Rabat for Ait-Baha project Working within the consortium with CIMAR (Italcementi Group), ItalgenEner (Italcementi Group), University Ibn Zohr of Agadir (UIZ), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ), Airlight Energy has been commended for the applied research programmes that IRESEN (Institut de recherche en énergies solaires et en energies nouvelles) presented recently in the framework of the InnoTherm competitions (I and II), which support applied research and development projects in the field of renewable energy. Both competitions are part of the energy
development strategy of Morocco, which wants to become the standard-bearer of green energy production in North Africa. Among the 72 participants from Universities and Moroccan and foreign industrial and research centers, eight projects have been selected, including the consortium in which Airlight Energy is involved. The project was awarded with 4.5mn MAD (around US$532,000) and resumes the construction of the CSP plant that Airlight Energy is building in Ait-baha that will provide energy to the cement plant of the Italcementi Group.
Steam turbine supply for Suez Alstom is committed to the supply of equipment for a 650 MW steam cycle thermal power plant in the vicinity of Suez city in Egypt, 150km east of Cairo. The plant will provide electricity to more than half million people residing in the Suez city district and will also be connected to the Egyptian national grid. It will be commissioned in 2015. The scope of the contract includes engineering, manufacturing, erection and commissioning of the steam turbine and generator including auxiliaries like the condenser and the delivery of spare parts. EDEPC provides electricity for the eastern part of the country from areas like the Mediterranean city of Damietta until Egypt’s southern border with Sudan. Alstom has previously supplied equipment to EDEPC for their Damietta combined cycle and the Attaka steam power plant projects. Alstom’s total installed base in Egypt is approximately 4.5GW having supplied its power generation equipment to projects such as the Abu Quir, El Tebbin and Sidi Krir steam power plants and Cairo North, Nubaria III, Kureimat and Talkha gas-fired plants.
Investing in Arabic innovators Deutsche Bank’s Middle East Foundation is working in partnership with Synergos to support an Arab World Social Innovators (AWSI) programme, which aims to increase the scale and sustainability of successful initiatives that bring social and economic change to poor and marginalised communities. Launched by Synergos in 2008, the programme selects and supports exceptional entrepreneurs, providing them with tailored services to enhance
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their leadership and expand the impact of their initiatives. Social innovators are highly motivated, resourceful individuals who are passionate about solving problems affecting their communities. They combine a business approach with a strong determination to achieve a social impact in areas ranging from education, youth development, employment, the environment, health and empowerment of disadvantaged groups in society.
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Economy and North African food security
T
he recent global food price shock, combined with the political upheaval in North Africa, provides an opportune moment for the North African countries, along with the international community, to take stock of the food security status of the region and to reappraise food security strategies in countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Algeria, Morocco and Mauritania. A paper published by the African Development Bank (AfDB) - titled ‘The Political Economy of Food Security in North Africa’ - clearly highlights that food security or food sovereignty in the North Africa region cannot be approached from a purely economic perspective. It also has deep political connotations – as seen by the role that food prices played in the domestic politics of the Arab Spring, as well as by the geopolitical implications of relying on a small number of international grain suppliers for a large part of the region’s food requirements. Although there is some evidence that the region is becoming more concerned with food sovereignty, as reflected in increased interest in domestic food production and land acquisition overseas, food imports will continue to play a significant role in food security for the region, with Morocco being the only country for which cereal imports are predicted to decline over the next 20 years. Hence, future approaches to food security will need to focus on ways in which the North African countries can better position themselves to take advantage of global food markets. This needs to be combined with effective programs to boost domestic productivity of food production and agriculture more generally, mindful of the economic costs and resource allocation implications of such programs. In addition, social safety nets and social protection policy needs to be reformed to become more effective and efficient at alleviating poverty and enhancing the food security of poor and vulnerable individuals. This is because food security is intimately linked with income security.
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coming through Of course, nothing’s unstoppable. But the Volvo A40F will conquer more terrain than practically any other hauler on the market. A combination of powerful Volvo engine, “dog clutch” differential locks, rotating hitch, automatic traction control and the unique Volvo steering system means that if any vehicle can get through – at speed – it will be the Volvo A40F. See it in unstoppable action. Discover a new way.
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NEWS
Agenda / East Ethiopian unveils business class lounge in Addis Ababa airport Ethiopian Airlines has opened the first phase of its new business class (Cloud Nine) lounge at its main hub, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, with modern facilities and amenities comfortable for premium travellers. In line with its vision 2025 fast growth plan and with the exponential growth in passenger numbers, it has become necessary to build a brand new lounge that gives premium travellers the best possible on-ground experience while waiting for their flights. When fully completed, the new Cloud Nine lounge will be three times bigger than the existing one. It has a quiet corner with sleeping cots and individual reading lamps; massage chairs, where passengers can relax and rest; an internet corner with fixed stations as well as free and fast Wi-Fi connection. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said, "Our new Cloud Nine Lounge will enable us to greatly enhance our premium passengers’ on-ground experience with facilities and amenities that will make their airport departure and transit time as enjoyable as possible. As a customer focused airline, we will continue to invest towards customer service excellence."
Tanzanian airline flies to Zimbabwe A Tanzanian airline is operating flights to Zimbabwe - beginning in December 2012 plying the Harare-Dar es Salaam route three times a week. Precision Air sales officer Yvonne Baldwin said the route had enormous potential, and shortens travel times between the two countries - which, until now, were via Nairobi in Kenya. The Harare-Dar es Salaam route was previously plied by the national carriers of the two countries, but both pulled out due to operational difficulties.
Baldwin said that, apart from catering for business travellers, Precision Air would help promote tourism between Tanzania and Zimbabwe. The coming of Precision Air, Baldwin said, would help boost tourism in the two countries. “We are convinced this will further enhance our tourism and bilateral co-operation with Zimbabwe in all spheres of life including trade and commerce," she said, adding that Precision Air would deploy a Boeing 737-300 on the route.
Ethiopian radio goes digital The Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency (ERTA) is using Radio-Assist 8 - developed by NETIA, a software manufacturer of media asset management and radio automation solutions to overhaul and upgrade its nationwide radio service. ERTA, which broadcasts daily in the 11 languages spoken by ethnic groups among the country's population, is implementing a project "Radio-Assist 8 is the ideal platform for a broadcaster like to boost its transmission coverage and migrate ERTA to move from analogue to digital operations," said Michael Shebelle, general manager, USI from tape to file-based operations. Local integrator United System Integrators (USI) has worked with ERTA to create a new workflow based around Radio-Assist 8, encompassing all stages from production to broadcast, including acquisition, sound file editing, scheduling, multicasting, and administration.
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African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Shantui signs deal with Eritrean government
A
fter three rounds of negotiations conducted at Bauma China in Shanghai in November 2012, Shantui has signed a deal with Eritrean procurement agents worth six million dollars (US). The deal is for 22 units of Shantui construction machinery, 10 SD42-3 bulldozers and 12 SG21-3 bulldozers.
Shantui signed a deal with Eritrean procurement agents in Shanghai at Bauma China 2012
The government of Eritrea aims to use this equipment to develop mining operations - primarily its gold mining operations. Shantui has a history of good relations with the nation; this is the second deal Shantui has made with the government of Eritrea. The first order was placed in 2011, for 30 SD32W bulldozers and one SD42-3 bulldozer, worth a total of US$7.5mn. A multinational brand, a company of note In China, Shantui’s name has long been synonymous with the word “bulldozer”. Today, Shantui is not only the world’s largest maker and seller of brand name dozers, but also offers a highly diversified line of construction, road, public utility vehicles and cement handling machinery, making everything from wheel loaders and road rollers to truck cranes and motor graders, to forklifts and excavators. Shantui is a distinguished Chinese brand, a leading Chinese multinational corporation with sales in more than 120 countries and regions worldwide. In 2012, the company reached the US$2.5bn milestone in revenue. The Company is publicly listed on the ShanghaiShenzhen 300 Index, and is headquartered in Jining, Shandong Province.
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S02 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Agenda_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:00 Page 8
NEWS
Agenda / South Where the world’s investors connect with African mining Taking place next on 4-7 February 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa, over 19 years African Mining Indaba has channelled billions of dollars towards Africa's mining opportunities, from small diamond deposits to mega coal projects. Mining Indaba has become the platform of choice for governments, mining companies, and investors and analysts to break market sensitive information. 2012 was a record breaking year, with more than 7,000 individuals representing more than 1,500 international companies from 100 countries and approximately 45 African and non-African government delegations. Investing in African Mining Indaba is where the world connects with African mining. Key mining analysts, fund managers, investment specialists, and governments define Mining Indaba as their preferred venue for mining information and networking. www.miningindaba.com
Hannover Fair organisers support SA industry and technology fair Exhibition Management Services (EMS) is preparing a European-style trade event based on research it has been conducting for the last three years. Designed as an umbrella event for African industrialists, the South African Industry and Technology Fair, or Indutec for short, consists of 10 compatible, co-located title events targeting different sectors of Industry. Indutec will take place from 14 to 16 May 2013 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Based on four of EMS’s already successful and long-established industrial shows, Indutec 2013 will be adding
six more industry focus sectors to its line-up. Three of these have attracted the attention and support of one of Germany’s largest trade fair organisers. “Hannover Fairs International, a subsidiary of Deutsche Messe, is supporting Intermac Africa, Manutec Africa, and Smart Automation Africa as suitable platforms for their international clients to access the South African market,” said Gotz Dormann, the company’s Managing Director. “We recommend Exhibition Management Services.” Visit www.exhibitionsafrica.com
Forex trading for ACM gold traders ZuluTrade.com, a social forex autotrading platform that enables traders to follow and copy the trades of elite Forex experts, has entered into a partnership arrangement with forex and commodities broker ACM Gold. With a long and reputable history in gold trading, ACM Gold launched world class forex trading facilities, including both a proprietary and an MT4 platform, to offer retail and institutional customers alike a simple, transparent and secure trading experience, governed by rules set up by financial services regulators such as the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius and the Financial Services Board of South Africa. ACM Gold holds segregated accounts in Cyprus and Mauritius. And its clients can follow ZuluTrade’s network of 55,000 signal providers and copy in their own broker accounts the trades of any of these experts, whose performance is ranked algorithmically and evaluated by a thriving community of 60,000 live users.
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African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Tourism for growth and development
“I
n terms of Johannesburg’s Growth and Development Strategy [GDS] – the Joburg 2040 - tourism remains an economic growth imperative on the city’s agenda. It is an important catalyst to encourage the development of the SMME sector in order to stimulate the growth and development of a vibrant second economy. It is Johannesburg Tourism’s strategy mission to attract visitors to Joburg, encourage them to stay longer, spend more, improve seasonality patterns and the spread of visitors across the city.” So says Phelisa Mangcu, Acting CEO of Joburg Tourism. In line with these developments and as part of the institutional review process to effect closer alignment with City goals, this year Joburg Tourism Company is being incorporated into the City’s Communication & Tourism Group. The GDS is coupled to the city’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and both are aligned with the National
Johannesburg’s economic prospects are bolstered by an extensive bus network
Planning Commission’s New Growth Path. “Our ongoing local and international promotional campaigns include exhibiting at business and leisure trade exhibitions where Joburg Tourism shares its plans to maintain, defend and grow its market share,” says Mangcu. “As the City of Johannesburg’s destination marketing organisation, Joburg Tourism remains focused on positioning the not only as the continent’s leading business hub, but also as an exciting, vibrant year-round destination for signature events, lifestyle, the arts, culture, fashion, sports – and of course, mega-events.”
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NEWS
Agenda / West Shell Gabon renews services deal Smit Lamnalco has renewed its marine support services contract with oil major Shell in Gabon, in a deal that has triggered investment in three auxiliary vessel newbuildings. The five-year contract renewal extends an uninterrupted relationship between the marine support specialist and Shell Gabon dating back to the 1990s. It covers support for Shell Gabon’s tanker operations at the remote Gamba Terminal, south of Port Gentil. “The trust Shell Gabon has in our services has sustained through the 2011 merger of Lamnalco and SMIT Terminals,” says Aart van der Wal, Managing Director Smit Lamnalco Africa. The renewal covers the deployment, crewing and management of four Smit Lamnalco support vessels, with three newbuilds ordered in mid-November 2012 to replace existing tonnage. The orders cover one ‘Shoalbuster’ and one Beach Landing Craft from Damen Shipyards, plus one Fast Offshore Crew Boat from Alnmaritec. An existing ‘Shoalrunner’ auxiliary vessel will remain in place. “Our willingness to invest in new tonnage was clearly a factor in the renewal” says Mr Van der Wal. “It is in line with our strategy to offer one of the youngest and most efficient marine and offshore support fleets in the industry.”
Renaissance Credit launches lending in the cloud Temenos, which provides banking software, is working with Renaissance Credit (RenCredit), a new microfinance institution in Lagos, Nigeria, which has launched on Temenos T24 for Microfinance and Community Banking (MCB), hosted in the cloud on Windows Azure. RenCredit is the first financial institution in West Africa to launch with a cloud-hosted core banking system. The system went live just two months from signing, demonstrating the ease of implementing cloud technology as part of the modern banking revolution. RenCredit – a subsidiary of emerging markets investment firm Renaissance Group – is supporting the aspirations of the growing middle class in Nigeria. It aims to provide broader access to consumer credit in Nigeria, which will support the country’s move from a cash to a transaction-based society. Opting for a cloud-based core banking system enables RenCredit to operate a payper-use model, meaning the bank can scale its IT infrastructure to fuel seamless expansion into other African regions, at low risk to the business. Temenos has created a model bank template and seamlessly integrated loan origination and biometric bolt-ons into the system, in addition to establishing
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connections to local electronic payments channels. This is a replicable model allowing RenCredit to access a pre-built infrastructure directly from the Internet - anywhere - and in turn, enabling it to focus on its core competence of banking. RenCredit will provide personal loans, street-level microfinancing, retail deposits and point of sale agreements whereby consumers purchasing from retailers will take a loan direct with RenCredit in exchange for goods. This triple lending function means RenCredit computes large volumes of transactions through which the business relies on a credit scoring engine provided by Experian. This software works seamlessly with the Temenos cloud solution for advanced decision making on all loans. George Taylor, Chairman of Renaissance Credit Nigeria, said, “Microfinance is serving a huge market need in Africa, bringing credit lines to the ‘unbanked’. Renaissance Credit offers a compelling proposition to Nigeria, coupling microfinance loans, with point of sale lending. Temenos delivered our core banking system in just two months – that is surely a record. We will benefit from high levels of security, reliability, availability from Temenos.”
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Freighter service set from Abu Dhabi to Lagos
E
tihad Cargo, a division of Etihad Airways, has been running its revived weekly freighter service from Abu Dhabi to Lagos since mid-November 2012. The service is complemented by the addition of 16 new interline destinations across West Africa. These additional interline connections will link Lagos with the cities of Libreville (Gabon), Pointe-Noire (CongoBrazzaville), Malabo (Equatorial Guinea), Douala (Cameroon), Accra (Ghana), Abidjan (Cote d’Ivoire), Nouakchott (Mauritania), Conakry (Guinea), Bamako (Mali), Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), Cotonou (Benin), Monrovia (Liberia), Freetown (Sierra Leone), Port Harcourt (Nigeria) and Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo). The Abu Dhabi-Lagos freighter service operates every Thursday using a Boeing 747-400F freighter, with a capacity of 124 tonnes. Etihad Airways was already operating six weekly Airbus A330 passenger services between the two cities. Kevin Knight, Etihad Airways’ chief strategy and planning officer, said, “West Africa is a hugely important market for us, and we are delighted to offer freighter services to and beyond one of its gateway cities – Lagos. “The 16 new interline destinations, with connections over Lagos, will ensure Etihad Cargo has leading logistics solutions for cargo customers into and out of the region. “Via Lagos, these new destinations will also help cement the ever expanding trade ties between West Africa and the UAE.” Etihad Cargo flies to a total of 86 destinations internationally. Its fleet of six freighters consists of one Airbus A300600F, two Airbus A330-200Fs, one McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, one Boeing B777F, and one Boeing B747-400F.
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NEWS
Events / 2013 February
18-21
11-12
Nigeria Oil & Gas
Mobile Money World Africa
4-7
Abuja, Nigeria www.cwcnog.com
Johannesburg, South Africa www.terrapinn.com
19-21
13-14
Africa Energy Indaba
Banking & Mobile Money West Africa
Africa Mining Indaba Cape Town, South Africa www.miningindaba.com 6-8
East African Petroleum Arusha, Tanzania eapce.eac.int 13-14
Banking & Mobile Money COMESA Nairobi, Kenya www.aitecafrica.com
Johannesburg, South Africa www.energyindaba.co.za
March 4-6
PetroForum Africa Cape Town, South Africa openroomevents.com
13-17
Salon Halieutis Agadir, Morocco www.salon-halieutis.com
Lagos, Nigeria aitecafrica.com 17-18
Banking & Mobile Money West Africa Accra, Ghana aitecafrica.com 20-22
5-6
Private Equity World Africa
IFSEC West Africa
London, UK www.terrapinn.com
Lagos, Nigeria www.ifsecwestafrica.com
MIHAS 2013 celebrates a decade of excellence The International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) will reach its tenth year in April 2013 of serving as the premier platform for promoting halal products and services to the world. With the theme ‘A Decade of Excellence’, the 10th MIHAS is scheduled to take place 3-6 April 2013 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. MIHAS was first inaugurated in 2004 with the aim of facilitating the sourcing and selling of quality halal products and services throughout the globe. It was the first expo in the world to focus on the global halal trade. Since 2004, MIHAS has been an annual event that attracts a following of loyal visitors and exhibitors every year. It is, in effect, the largest congregation of halal industry players - be it from the business sectors and academic institutions as well as governmental bodies and agencies. MIHAS 2012 saw the active participation of 518 exhibitors from 29 countries and attracted 17,939 visitors from
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64 countries. Over 65.5 per cent of these visitors were trade buyers - amounting to a who's who in the global halal industry. MIHAS embraces the halal concept in all its dimensions - from pharmaceuticals and herbal products, cosmetics and health care to Islamic investment, banking and takaful. Over the years, MIHAS has gained a reputation as an important platform for the promotion of world-class halal products and services globally and Malaysia is also seen as the leader in halal industry development.Malaysia’s central position in Asia makes it an ideal trading platform to draw the world’s halal players in facilitating the sourcing and selling of global quality halal products through MIHAS. Coupled with strong government support and resources, Malaysia is not only focusing on the manufacturing and trading of halal goods but also strengthening its leading position as an Islamic financial centre in the world, providing Shariah compliant banking products and services that complete the halal supply chain.
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Every year, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) hosts the Incoming Buying Mission (IBM) in conjunction with MIHAS. This successful programme matches buyers from all over the world, with MIHAS participants keen to expand their business overseas that are conducted through one-on-one business meetings. In 2012, over 507 foreign buyers were matched with 449 Malaysian companies. A total of 3,714 business meetings were conducted and this programme had resulted in sales of over US$118mn. IBM has established itself as an avenue in creating new business alliances in the trade and business industry to the global halal market. MIHAS is hosted and organised by MATRADE and the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). For further enquiries, contact MATRADE Johannesburg at johannesburg@ matrade.gov.my or +27 11 268 2380 or visit the web site www.halal.com.my
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NEWS
Bulletin / Events Industry leaders set to take the stage at Mobile World Congress
such a high regard for trust, integrity and business values.”
The CEOs of AT&T, Ericsson, Qualcomm and Viber are set to deliver keynote presentations at the 2013 GSMA Mobile World Congress,
Higher efficiency, lower emissions for constructors Taking place in Munich, Germany, 15 to 21
Hotel opening marks brand arrival in Africa
April 2013, bauma - the 30th International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery,
taking place 25-28 February 2013 in
Building Material Machines, Mining Machines,
Barcelona; throughout Mobile World
Construction Vehicles and Construction
Congress, attendees will have the
Equipment - includes many a key focus on
opportunity to experience the power of
drive technology for mobile construction
mobile firsthand, through our exhibitors’
machinery; international emissions standards
stands, event features such as the Connected
are a main factor in the push to further
City, our conference programme and
develop drive technologies for mobile
seminars, and much more,” said Michael
The St Regis Mauritius Resort
O’Hara, Chief Marketing Officer, GSMA.
construction machinery.
New finance models to address climate change
Cummins and Apriso offer strategies on growth
St Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood
An educational webinar presented by
inaugurated the St Regis Mauritius Resort, the
Microsoft has been delivered to educate how
brand’s first hotel in Africa and the 30th St.
Cummins has streamlined operations to
Regis hotel globally; the St Regis Mauritius
expand into new markets by accelerating
Resort follows recent openings in Hainan and
deployment of a next generation platform for
Shenzhen in China, Doha and Saadiyat Island
global operations; Jack Tregoning, Manager
in Abu Dhabi, and Bal Harbour in the USA - all
of Enterprise Manufacturing Systems at
within the last 12 months; “Celebrating
Cummins, and Fred Thomas, Industry Director
Mauritius’ rich and diverse cultural heritage,
at Apriso, indicated how Cummins has
we look forward to welcoming guests to the
prepared its manufacturing organisation to
best address on the island, offering bespoke
capitalise on strategic growth opportunities
service and refined elegance both befitting of
in emerging markets while expanding
the destination and true to the St Regis
The World Economic Forum and the United
continuous process improvement initiatives.
legacy,” says Paul James, Global Brand Leader
Nations Climate Change secretariat have
Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc, has
Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC
at St Regis, The Luxury Collection, and W
launched ‘Momentum for Change: Innovative
Celebrates 15-year partnership with Commercial Bank of Africa
Hotels Worldwide.
Financing for Climate-friendly Investment’, an
“We look forward to further extending our
private financing mechanisms and
strong partnership and help CBA continue
Kosmos Energy CEO speaks at Jefferies conference
to deliver an exciting range of new
Brian F Maxted, Chief Executive Officer at
adaption and mitigation activities, during the
products and services backed by our
independent oil and gas exploration and
United Nations Climate Change Conference in
renowned support and global expertise,”
production company Kosmos Energy,
Doha, Qatar, early in December 2012; “It is
said Jaffar Agha-Jaffar, managing director,
presented at the Jefferies 2012 Global
clear that the private sector needs to deliver
Middle East and Africa, TSYS, as the
Energy Conference late in November; Mr
significant investments to put the world on a
payments solutions firm celebrated its 15-
Maxted highlighted the company’s driven
path to a climate-secure future; however,
year partnership with Kenya’s Commercial
to unlock significant new petroleum
given the scale of investment needed, the
Bank of Africa (CBA); CBA chief executive
systems, and to grow and mature
newness of technology solutions and the
officer Jeremy Ngunze added, “Throughout,
discovered hydrocarbon basins through
perception of risk that exists, the current level
our relationship has been one of
additional exploration success, as well as
of investment is far too low,” said Christiana
partnership, and we are delighted to have
development and production.
Figueres, UNFCCC Executive Secretary.
initiative that showcases successful public-
chosen a people-centred company with
14
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
approaches to support climate change
S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:05 Page 15
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S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:05 Page 16
NEWS
Bulletin / Used Equipment All set to shine at the world summit for used technology
starting to see a growth of international
Machines from Marsay
buyers in the form of new hospitals and
Operating throughout Southern Africa,
In nearly 20 years since the first edition,
clinics opening up and the demand for
mainly the SADC region, Marsay Equipment
USETEC (formerly Resale) has grown into the
durable hospital equipment is consequently
(marsay.co.za) specialises in the buying,
world’s largest and most important sector
high; "Medical equipment buyers need
refurbishment and selling of used
trade fair for used technology - with around
durable used hospital equipment that will last
construction, mining, stone crushing and
500 exhibitors from every corner of the world
in the field with little or no care", said Mark
transport equipment; the company is based
present used machinery, and equipment from
Fitzgerald of 1 Used Medical Equipment,
in Johannesburg, has been in business for 36
over 20 sectors; interested buyers travel to the
which liquidates medical equipment such as
years, and has developed its business in the
event from around the globe to network and
from major Californian hospitals and medical
supply of used stone crushing and screening
buy equipment at the event, which takes
centres to its medical warehouse space in San
equipment over the last decade.
place next in Cologne, Germany, from 22-24
Diego, in the USA - including Stryker and Hill-
April 2013.
Rom hospital beds, CT scanners, x-ray
Bomag’s mobile app
equipment, patient monitors, oximeters,
This year Bomag has enabled customers on
surgical tables, surgical lighting, colposcopes,
mobile with its first app for iPhone and iPad,
surgical scopes, anesthesia machines,
so Bomag used equipment can be found any
ultrasound equipment and probes, EKGs,
time, any where; the ‘Bomag Used App’ - at
medical supplies and everything needed to
http://itunes.apple.com/app/bomag-
completely outfit an entire hospital.
used/id508419508 - enables users, with just a few clicks, to search up-to-date machine lists, look at information and pictures of machines available and get in touch directly with sellers by phone or e-mail.
Selling construction equipment in West Africa Whether you are selling wheel loaders, A Hill-Rom 850 hospital bed as sold by 1 Used Medical Equipment at www.1usedmedicalequipment.com
excavators, dozers, compactors, backhoes, air compressors, generators, industrial pumps, and any building materials, suguci.com offers
Get Specs to get under the machine’s hood
all its dealers exposure to sellers in West
Mascus, an online marketplace sited at
looking for companies like suguci.com to help
www.mascus.co.za for the sale of
them make contact with overseas dealers, to
transportation vehicles, construction
overcome language barriers, to list products -
machinery, farming, material-handling
and to deal with sellers directly, representing
equipment and forestry, is taking its
them as potential partners.
customers under the hoods of excavators, tractors, cranes and other heavy machinery
US firm gains on growth in sales of used medical equipment
with a service called Mascus Specs, which
An American company specialising in sale
specifications; “Mascus Specs is specifically
and delivery of used medical hospital
designed to make finding the right piece of
equipment is finding international buyers
equipment even easier for our customers, no
looking for durable technology for new
matter where in the world they are,” explains
hospitals and clinics in Africa and elsewhere -
Mascus Managing Director Rickard Krøtø.
offers a technical guide for machine
as the used medical equipment industry is
16
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
African markets; many African customers are
S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:05 Page 17
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NEWS
Bulletin / Engineering Solar power plants supplied in South Africa
A new division at Mining Indaba
Power and automation technology group ABB
Mining, Oil and Gas division at the 2013
has won orders worth around US$225mn to
Mining Indaba, which is being held at the
supply two turnkey photovoltaic (PV) power
Cape Town International Convention Centre
plants to the northern province of Limpopo in
from 4 to 7 February; the African branch of
South Africa - at the Witkop and Soutpan Solar
the division will be located at SMEC South
Parks, close to the city of Polokwane; the
Africa's office in Johannesburg, and SMEC
plants will have a generating capacity of 33
Mining, Oil and Gas Africa functional head
megawatts (MW) and 31 MW respectively and
Dave Gertzen notes that key project
will be among the first utility-scale PV power
management skills and knowledge from the
plants to be built in phase 1 of the South
mining sector have been added, while
African government’s long-term renewable
additional resources will be drawn from
energy programme, which aims to reduce the
existing departments within the SMEC Group
impact of electricity generation on the
- saying, "An analysis of our personnel
environment and diversify the country’s
involved in mining projects showed that the
energy mix by encouraging independent
SMEC Group has a large number of
power producers to develop the country’s
employees worldwide who have specific
abundant renewable energy resources.
operational mining productivity,
Consultancy firm SMEC will open its new
infrastructural and project management
Cyclones technology for non-traditional minerals market
engineering experience in the international
Multotec has expanded its cyclones
knowledge-share these skills to provide a
technology base to include potassium and
highly specialised and efficient service for our
other salts; “Beneficiation of salts and
clients."
mining sector, and we aim to consolidate and
potassium is performed under in extreme viscous liquids and mechanically and
Fire-fighting system for Egyptian petroleum treatment
chemically corrosive environments - as a
Egyptian Maintenance Company (EMC)
result, there are few equipment suppliers
recently awarded Engineering Consultants
able to support this industry,” said Ryan
Group (ECG) a contract to complete
Magner, project engineer at Multotec.
consultancy services, review and detail the
conditions, including high temperatures,
design of an upgrade to fire alarm and fire fighting systems for Egyptian Petroleum Company petroleum treatment stations; the project is located in Ras Ghareb, Egypt, and comprises fire water tank, fire pump station, bladder tanks, cooling systems for 10 crude Multotec has invested extensively in ongoing research and development as well as new tooling to be able to support this growing sector of the market which demands specialised and complex application of cyclone technology as well as detailed process knowledge
18
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
oil tanks, foam fire fighting systems for 24 crude oil tanks, external fire fighting networks and carbon dioxide extinguishing system for the control buildings.
S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:06 Page 19
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NEWS
Bulletin / Education Building a library for South Africa’s young
internationally-renowned industrialist and
integrated education and training
philanthropist Ivor Ichikowitz - by
opportunities.
sponsoring Africa Aerospace & Defence’s (AAD) Youth Development Programme
A new initiative in education
(YDP), supporting the attendance of 3,000
The University of Limerick (UL) in Ireland, in
South African schoolchildren (aged four to
partnership with the United Nations
18) at AAD to learn about career prospects
Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA),
in the defence and aerospace industry; Ivor
has launched a unique programme - a
Ichikowitz, Executive Chairman and
Master of Science in Multilingual
Founder of Paramount Group, said, “The
Computing and Localization - to be
The Isibonelo Nursery School library project was an ideal fit for the M-Net Cares CSI team and the Zest WEG Group, which prioritises education-related projects; Touch Africa carried out the project management
defence and aerospace industry represents
delivered through distance learning and
the pinnacle of technology and South
co-hosted by UNECA in Addis Ababa,
Africa has an outstanding reputation for
Ethiopia; as part of the Action for Global
The Zest WEG Group recently partnered
designing and manufacturing world-
Information Sharing (AGIS) initiative, this
with Touch Africa and M-Net Cares to build
leading products - but it is critical that we
programme, dubbed AGIS Africa, aims to
a library at the Isibonelo Nursery School in
invest in the next generation of African
promote African languages in the
Ogies, Mpumalanga, in South Africa,
engineers to ensure that we continue to
information society, and is supported by
following a strategic decision to extend the
innovate and compete globally.”
the Globalization and Localization
geographic reach of Zest WEG Group’s
Association (GALA) and The Rosetta
corporate social investment (CSI) projects
Foundation.
in order to ensure the group participates in
have an internal focus, concentrating on
Bolloré Africa Logistics commits to education in Senegal
the development of our own people in the
The Bolloré Africa Logistics subsidiary in
form of Adult Basic Education Training
Dakar has signed partnership agreements
projects where it has branches and customer footprints; “Most of our projects
(ABET), in-service training, technical learnerships, registrations of professional engineers, management advancement programmes and MBAs - from an external perspective, many of our group’s external CSI initiatives have been initiated in response to requests from our employees,
The Rector of African Virtual University (AVU), Dr. Bakary Diallo (Centre Left) and the Vice Chancellor of University of Education, Winneba (UOE), Prof Akwasi AsabereAmeyaw (Center Right), the former Vice Chancellor of UOE Prof Jophus Anamuah-Mensah (4th Left), the Director, Centre for Distance Education and Open Schooling, Ministry of Education in Ghana, Mr Joshua Mallet (2nd Left), pose for a photo with staff from AVU and UOE after launching the multinational project at UOE in November 2012
with five of Senegal’s leading schools, to bring added value to courses offered by Senegal’s flagship institutions in higher education by including internships at the Bolloré subsidiary for selected students from UCAO (the Catholic University of West Africa), CESAG (African Center for Higher
who have been empowered to identify
AVU’s multinational project
Management Studies), Sup de Co Dakar
needs within their own communities and
The African Virtual University (AVU)
business school, CFMPL (the training centre
thereby become personally involved with
recently launched a multinational project
for the ports and logistics professions) and
the roll-out and sustainability of these
at the Ghana Institute of Management and
CNQP (National centre for professional
projects,” says Jamie Wilson, Zest WEG
Public Administration, the University of
qualification); “These partnerships with the
Group marketing manager.
Education – Winneba, and the Kwame
country’s top schools are part of our
Nkrumah University of Science and
committed policy of corporate social
Paramount Group invests in African engineers and leaders
Technology in Kumasi; this follows the
responsibility, notably with regard to the
successful completion of the Policy
young, and embody our aim to share our
Defence and aerospace firm Paramount
Harmonisation and Curriculum
knowhow with students who will almost
Group has been helping to educate and
Conceptualisation Workshop, which was
certainly be joining us as colleagues, going
inspire Africa’s next generation of
held in July 2012 in Nairobi, Kenya, to
forward,” said Mohamed Diop, Managing
engineers to consider a career in the
deliver initial steps in delivering and
Director of Bolloré Africa Logistics Senegal.
defence and aerospace industry - with
managing improved quality in technology-
20
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:06 Page 21
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S03 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Bulletin_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:06 Page 22
Ghana charging up! A
t the recently-held West African Conference for Clean Energy and Environment (WACEE ’12), held from 6 th to 9 th November 2012 in Accra, business opportunities in sectors of renewable energy and clean technology were the centre of interest. In this context, Ghana shows promising market potential. Particularly, waste-to-energy represents an interesting solution - but, for investors, interest feeds in tariffs are crucial. Among the 49 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana is one of the most attractive markets for German suppliers. In 2011 Ghana was, after South Africa and Nigeria, the third biggest purchaser of German goods importing for about Euro 276mn (US$358mn). And this trend is expected to carry on. Experts forecast GDP growth rates of about seven per cent. Political stability, which Ghana is well known for, is expected to continue. There are clear opportunities for supply and investment in several industries especially in oil and gas, in mining, and in different infrastructural sectors as energy,
telecommunication, water and logistics. Following such positive development, it was a logical consequence to host WACEE ’12, where companies could gain information in the field of clean energy. Mr Patrick Martens, Delegate of the German Industry and Commerce in Ghana and the event host, successfully managed operations for 68 local and international exhibitors, 250 participants and 500 visitors - ensuring positive feedback from participants. At the exhibition, about 30 of the 68 exhibitors were German companies or Ghanaian companies under German direction. Delegations came from the German Federal States of Baden-Wuertemberg, North Rhine-Westphalia and the City of Magdeburg. Also from the Ghanaian side, the event attracted high-ranking visitors. There were, among others, four ministers participating at the conference. WACEE ’12 explicitly showed that the market of renewable energy in Ghana is moving ahead. Among others, daily power outages have led the Government to pass a bill for renewable energies in order to create adequate conditions for commerce
and community. And the publication of urgently needed feed in tariffs is planned. In 2010, the Ministry of Energy set up a strategy and development plan for the sector - with the goal of raising capacity of power generation until 2020 from 2,000 MW to 5,000 MW. This initiative should ensure a broad energy supply and increase the share of renewable energy to 10 per cent by 2020. According to the Ministry of Energy, about US$640-900mn is needed to add 500 MW of renewable energy to the grid. Carsten Ehlers, Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI)
Our Expertise We combine our expertise in the Business and Industrial IT field to provide unique IT solutions for our clients. In this instance we integrate automation and process control solutions with Business solutions where we acquire requisite field data into an existing ERP system for efficient production and resource planning, customer billing, maintenance scheduling, and effective decision making among others.
Company Background iBit Soft Ltd is an IT Solutions provider in Ghana since 2001. iBit is legally registered in Ghana as a subsidiary of cbb software GmbH, (www.cbb-software.com), We provide turn-key solutions in the Business and Industrial IT Sectors.
iBit Soft Ltd currently serves a wide array of clients from SMEs, Government institutions to Multinationals not only in Ghana but also in the West African Sub-region. We employ highly trained and dedicated (both local and foreign) software and automation engineering experts to deploy our solutions.
Core Areas ■ Industrial IT Solutions (Factory Automation and Process Control Systems) ■ Business IT Solutions (Microsoft Dynamics ERP, SAP, SAGE) ■ IT Consultancy ■ Power Systems Automation ■ Smart Energy Metering Solutions ■ Automation in the Oil and Gas Sectors Ghana House, 6th Floor Ghana Multimedia Incubator Centre Accra, High Street
22
P.O. Box GP 1219, Accra – Ghana Phone: +233 30 2941 617 +233 28 9674 563 / +
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Mobile: +233 544 342 592 / +233 544 342 542 Email: info@ibit-soft.com Website: www.ibit-soft.com
S04 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Report A 01_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:09 Page 23
S04 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Report A 01_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:09 Page 24
FINANCE
Kenya
Investing in a ‘garden city’ Real estate development along Kenya’s Thika superhighway - dubbed the ‘Garden City’ - that includes a mall, homes, a park, hotels and restaurants, cinema halls, exhibition centres, clinics, and children’s play areas
F
ollowing a decision to commit undertaken in mid-2012, Actis is now investing US$150mn in a real estate development along Kenya’s Thika superhighway. Dubbed the ‘Garden City’, the development will include a 50,000 sq metre retail shopping mall, 500 homes, a three-acre central park, hotels and restaurants, cinema halls, exhibition centres, clinics and children’s play areas. The project is on a vast 32-acre piece of land less than nine kilometres from Nairobi’s Central Business District and about four kilometres from the Thika superhighway. The 41km superhighway, which will connect Nairobi to the industrial city of Thika in Central Kenya, has opened up land for real estate development and educational institutions. Constructed by three Chinese companies, the US$318mn superhighway is almost completed, giving real estate investors accessibility to vast areas for development.
Thika Road is the biggest Kenyan superhighway (Photo: Stephen W Wanjau)
Investing in East Africa Actis has invested over US$300mn in the East African region and plans to put at least US$200mn in to real estate over the next four years. The firm manages US$5bn globally across the emerging markets of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Currently, the company’s investments in East Africa include the Nairobi Business Park off Ngong Road, west of Nairobi, which is ongoing. Garden City will be another major real estate investment, with the ground-breaking ceremony scheduled for December 2012. Koome Gikunda, investment principal at Actis, said, “This is an exciting development that has the potential to be an enduring landmark in East Africa. A combination of world-class designs, acres dedicated to public green space and a value-focused tenantmix will draw visitors from all over Nairobi as well as from the region.” James Hoddell, CEO of Mentor Management, one of Nairobi’s leading development companies and Actis’ partner on the project, added, “Garden City occupies a large catchment of over one million people and is one of the fastest growing areas of Nairobi aided by the highway’s expansion.” According to Hoddell, the project is the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified retail mall in East Africa. Expansion into urban territory Willmary Development has also pitched net along the superhighway to develop new housing. Elsewhere, Russian Renaissance Group and Kenyan investors have invested US$100mn in Tatu City, transforming a coffee farm on the outskirts of Nairobi into an urban district of housing, private schools, shops, an office and a hospital. The developers expect to attract additional funding to invest in a private infrastructure system that would be mostly separate from Nairobi’s decrepit sanitation, road and electrical systems. The
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African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
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Kenya
FINANCE
Safaricom's social responsibilities Sanda Djambo, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Safaricom, spoke recently at the company's offices in Nairobi, Kenya, on the development of sustainable initiatives designed to deliver the transformation of lives through the adoption and use of its network and services. Safaricom, Ltd is a leading mobile network operator in Kenya, formed in 1997. Safaricom has developed and launched nationwide a mobile banking service called M-PESA, that allows Kenyans to transfer money via SMS. The movement of money through M-Pesa - an inclusive approach to mobile finance - delivers transformation, in the form of tangible support for the financing of social activities, community engagement and business practices. It remains a highly adaptable and extensible method for payment of funds at distance and in remote locations. It remains a creditable and practical method for money transfer domestically and internationally. Allied to this is Safaricom's use of the M-Pesa network to build capacity for agriculture, for education, for health, for sustainable energy supply and use, for the legal system, and many other areas of need in the country, within the region, and across the continent. Safaricom engages, to achieve its commitment towards social responsibility, with nongovernmental organisations such as the United Nations and USAID, and multinational enterprises such as Cisco.
Thika, north of Nairobi, offers abundant natural resources (Photo: Hansueli Krapf)
entire project is expected to take a decade and cost about US$5bn to complete. Several projects smaller than Tatu are in various stages of financing and development, including Migaa Estates, a planned 774-acre gated golf estate 10 miles from Nairobi’s city centre, and Bahati Ridge, a planned gated neighbourhood around a manmade lake with 337 homes. These developments have taken advantage of the expanded superhighway as the middle-class move away from city estates that are serviced by traffic-clogged roads like Juja, Mombasa and Ngong roads. George Maina, a 35-year-old Nairobi resident working for a multinational bank, said, “This is where young investors are moving to. You will have time to pay for your mortgage as your family enjoys good facilities such as schools, hospitals and golf courses.” He plans to buy a residential house in one of the new estates along the superhighway. Other investors have also set eyes on real estate close by, including PepsiCo Ltd, which is establishing a US$28mn bottling plant, and European furniture chain, IKEA. Kenya’s firms interested in establishing businesses near the superhighway include Deacons Kenya, a lifestyle fashion retailer, and supermarket chains Uchumi and Nakumatt. ■ Mwangi Mumero
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S04 ATR Dec_Jan 2013 Report A 01_Layout 1 20/12/2012 12:09 Page 26
FINANCE
Kenya
Capital solutions for construction firms Cat Financial builds on successful operation in South Africa with its debut in Kenya, in collaboration with CFC Stanbic Bank
N
ovember 7 2012 was a splendid day for the whole of Mantrac Cat fraternity in the Eastern Africa region, as a group of 60 VIP Mantrac Cat clients in Kenya were invited for a half-day briefing and familiarisation tour of the Mantrac facility, and received the news that Caterpillar Financial Services (Dubai) Limited, trading as Cat Financial, had committed to enter into a collaboration with both the Mantrac/Unatrac Group and the Standard Bank Group to provide a range of financial services to Mantrac/Unatrac Group Cat dealership customers in six African countries - Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana and Sierra Leone. Cat Financial made its debut in the Kenyan market through collaboration with CfC Stanbic Bank, a member of the Standard Bank Group operating in the country. Cat Financial’s first entry into Africa was in South Africa five years ago, where to date a successful operation has been in progress. Mantrac/Unatrac Group East Africa Managing Director Mr Adel Selim presented critical facts about Mantrac/Unatrac Group operations in the region over the years. In addition to customers and journalists, those attending the presentation included: Jed Reeve (Project Manager, Cat Financial); Ferdinand Van Noort (Alliance Manager, Cat Financial); Elly Odhong (CfC Stanbic Bank Head of Personal & Business Banking); and Marian Ochieng (CfC Stanbic Bank Head of
26
Vehicle Asset Financing). The event took place at Mantrac’s Nairobi head office – the Mansour Complex premises along Witu Road in Nairobi’s industrial hub, just off the busy Likoni and Mombasa Roads. Making a difference for customers in Kenya Courtesy of the new collaboration, customers in Kenya may enjoy unique benefits accruing from a considerable combined knowledge base. Mantrac has been supplying the Kenyan market for over 100 years while CfC Stanbic Bank has over 100 banking and financial services experience in Africa. On the other hand, Cat Financial has dedicated its financial services to Cat customers for more than 30 years globally. Cat Financial is also cognisant of the changes expected in Kenya and eastern Africa, first due to the adoption of a new constitution in Kenya and next the increasing integration of the EAC market and its attendant great potential. Kenyan customers shall also enjoy the competitive advantage of accessing dedicated point of sale Cat Finance representatives to be present in Mantrac premises. They shall also live with top-class customer experience given that Mantrac is now uniquely positioned to offer a total solution viz. Equipment Sales & Service; Repair & Maintenance; Warranty; Finance and Insurance. Mr Reeve emphasised the institution’s commitment and focus to continue providing tailored solutions to its customers.
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
“Kenya is the first phase of this new structure to formally go live, and the remaining Mantrac sales territories will follow over the coming weeks,” he said. Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation: Commencing services on 8 Dec 1981 in the USA as the Cat Leasing Company and established in 1983 as Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, the company now has operations in 40 countries globally. Over the years, the company has received a strong pull from both Caterpillar and its dealer network to provide branded financial solutions wherever Cat equipment is sold. Currently, the company provides financial services for major international customers in most of Africa, parts of Asia and Middle East on a cross-border basis. The absence of local presence in the areas results from various challenges including complex and widely differing legal requirements encouraging Cat Financial to seek alliances with financial institutions with a strong local presence and the local Cat dealer to deliver branded financial solutions. The institution’s key focus remains its customers and the delivery of tailored solutions at the points of sale. Essentially, Cat Financial provides asset finance support for customers purchasing new or used Cat equipment from the local Cat Dealer. It also provides financing for certain OEM products equipped with Cat components
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Kenya and, as well as its traditional construction markets, is active in the marine, power and mining sectors. Cat Insurance provides additional services (where permitted) to support the global operations and strategy of Caterpillar, Cat dealers and customers. Caterpillar Financial Services saw steady global expansion: during 1986-87, when it commenced operations in Canada, Australia and Germany. Its financial products division was formed in 1990 and it relocated to Nashville, in the USA, in 1991. From 1992 to 2001, the institution expanded across several locations in Europe, South America and Asia. Cat Financial began offering capital solutions in 2002 and earned the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2003. In 2005 the Cat Financial Commercial Account was introduced and in 2009, the Caterpillar Financial Centre became certified Leadership in Energy and Environment Design for Existing Buildings (LEED-EB) Gold. Its Customer Business Centre celebrated 10 years in 2010 and in 2011, the North America Business Centre was formed; the same year Cat Financial celebrated 30 years of service. Cat Financial’s new retail financing business has grown from US$3,619mn (US$850mn international and US$2,769mn North America) to US$15,879mn in 2008 (US$84,960mn international and US$73,830mn North America) showing an increase in international business relative to North America business over time. Due to the global economic crisis in October 2008, the business dipped to US$7,623mn (US$42,240mn international and US$33,980mn North America) but improved to US$11,323mn in 2011 (US$49,560mn international and US$63,670mn North America) reflecting the buoyant market in North America. The Mantrac Group Part of the Mansour Group, the internationally renowned giant with operations in automotive, capital markets, consumer & retail, industrial
equipment and services and with turnover of over US$7bn, the Mantrac Group operates in 10 countries in Europe, Asia, Gulf region & Middle East and Africa. The countries include UK (the international sales office is located here); Egypt, Nigeria; Sierra Leone; Ghana; Tanzania; Kenya; Uganda; Iraq and Russia. According to Mr Selim’s presentation, the Group’s revenue trends has been on the rise over the years; the revenue rose from US$695mn, for instance, in 2006 to US$1,690mn in 2011 representing different earnings in its different operation areas. The Group’s global Machine Market Share has also continued to rise over time. The Group’s global Power Systems market share has also continued rising and moved from 19 per cent in 2010 to 23 per cent in 2011 with Egypt taking 35 per cent of the share and Kenya 24 per cent. Since 2006 the group’s CAT genuine Parts market share has been over 50 per cent picking at 54 per cent in 2011. In Kenya, Mantrac Kenya is committed to a ’Building for the Future’ strategy; it is keen to attain and sustain market leadership, profitable growth and customer loyalty. Its 2011-2015 Strategic Plan is guided by eight imperatives. Operating principles that guide the company include segment specialism; customercentricity; valued products and services; CAT alignment; communication; differentiated investments; accountability for results and sales & marketing excellence. The values of integrity, excellence, teamwork and commitment guide operations at Mantrac Kenya. With three branches in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, Mantrac Kenya provides employment for 133 people and runs a fleet of 45 vehicles that can cover the whole country in service provision and product delivery. Its key revenue segments include sales and servicing of new, used and rental machines; power systems; parts sales and servicing. “We have great confidence in this market and have recently invested heavily in Kenya
FINANCE
especially through refurbishment of the Nairobi office which is the best in Africa,” Mr Selim told this writer after the press briefing at an interview in his Nairobi office. Posted to Nairobi in September 2012 after about 10 years as the Mantrac Russia MD, Mr Selim is enjoying Kenya’s wonderful climate and her friendly people. Regarding increasing competition in the market, he observed that most contractors working in the country from the far east regions are opting to import cheap and often sub-standard equipment which wear off fast and get dumped here. Yet most Indian contractors recognise and value the Cat brand for its quality, reliability and long life. Cat machines and equipment are re-usable and the most definite to be found in used equipment selling points. Eighty (80) per cent of all used equipment offered for re-sale and re-use are Cat with almost none from China,” he averred. “If you are looking for real business go for Cat machines and equipment.” And though the initial cost may appear to be high, the equipment and machines have added advantages such as fuel efficiency of between 40 and 45 per cent. On the other hand, equipment and machines other than Cat ones are less productive and have more downtime. Cat equipment customers also do not require backup machines. “Most of the contractors and other users who buy machines other than Cat tend to buy a back-up for every two equipment they buy,” he observed. Furthermore, Cat machines, part and other equipment have higher resale values, low running costs and are easy to re-sell.” Mantrac Kenya is encouraging more financing activity by Cat Financial in the region. The debut of Cat Financial in Kenya indicates the confidence investors have in the country’s potential as the fastest growing economy in this region. ■
John F N Ng’ang’a
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CONSTRUCTION
Cement
Standard Industrie supports cement firm
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elping the bulk industry to optimise the performance of its production tools has been Standard Industrie’s motto for more than 30 years. In constant pursuit of innovation, the company has developed a wide range of products relating to conveying, declogging and industrial cleaning. On the Kenyan market, Standard Industrie International works with Bamburi Cement, subsidiary of the Lafarge group. The factory with two production lines solved its cleaning issues thanks to an industrial vacuum truck CAM150M06I. A GAD50MVS (moveable vacuum unit) also helped to support the firm National Cement. This African grinding centre producing approximately 1.5 million tonnes of cement per year, has reduced its dust emission towards the nearby natural reserve. Still in industrial vacuum cleaning, Standard Industrie has worked on the production lines of Mombasa Cement, one of the biggest cement producers in East Africa. Their problem was related to the cleaning
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costs, the safety along the conveyors and the recovery of the product. Using a GAD50MVC and two preseparators, the packing zone and the areas along the conveyors have been cleaned. The presence of the pre-separators was justified by the desire of the client to treat separately these two networks. With a capacity of 2m3, they are used to recycle the noble product and are placed on a frame between the vacuum unit and the product that needs to be vacuumed. In case of explosive product, the pre-separator can be equipped with an explosion vent. However this option has not been chosen by Mombasa Cement as their product is not explosive. Therefore, during the commissioning (in the presence of a technical sales manager
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
and a technical assistant), two tonnes of material were vacuumed in twenty minutes at a distance of five metres underground and fifty metres of hose. In effect, Standard Industrie International offers complete solutions: from the technical recommendation, to the installation and the maintenance of the equipment, the sales and technical teams are always available to their customers. In terms of declogging, Standard Industrie International‘s Airchoc Wireless have also given great results at EAPCC. Thirteen ACW 510 came to the end of a clogging problem at the kiln inlet, following the revamping of their line. The control panel is situated in the control room about 60 m away from the air cannons. The Airchoc Wireless was perfectly appropriate because it avoided the creation of cable tray. Thus, for a clean and safe working environment, our complete range is perfectly adapted and every solution can be envisaged to handle powdery products regardless of their process. ■
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Investment
FINANCE
Stocks that show signs of the times Developments at the Somalia Stock Exchange are representative of the robust regional growth now in play
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Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Somalia Stock Exchange Investment Corporation (SSE) and the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in Q3 2012 has opened the way for the establishment of the first ever Somali stock exchange. The NSE – the largest exchange in East Africa – committed to providing essential technical expertise in the early stages of the project. This move is a strong endorsement of the success and growing strength of the Somali business sector. The Somali territories are rich in investment opportunities despite the challenges they have faced over the last twenty years. It often surprises Westerners to learn that many sectors of the Somali economy have experienced rapid growth over this period. Our company, Dahabshiil Group, spans money transfer, banking, telecoms and import/export, and includes one of Africa’s largest remittance firms – Dahabshiil Money Transfer. These and other industries, such as livestock and energy, are booming thanks to the innate resourcefulness and business acumen of the Somali people. Continuous inflows of financial and human capital from the diaspora have also played a crucial role. A thriving formal market for shares and other securities could be an additional boost to business confidence, helping to drive growth and investment. Systemic considerations Although the potential benefits are clear enough, there are some reservations concerning the timing of the venture in the Somali territories. The commonly accepted preconditions for a functioning stock market include strong institutions, macroeconomic stability and a mature financial system. It is true that these foundations are beginning to take shape. A draft constitution, a new government and recent economic progress
Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil Group
are all reasons to be optimistic, but the fact remains that these developments are still in their earliest phase. Given the right conditions, stock markets can mobilise savings and channel investment into the most efficient sectors of an economy. High volumes of trade mean higher liquidity – share holdings can easily be sold and so projects with longer payback periods have better access to equity finance. Opportunities for debt financing are also opened up. Corporate bonds are issued everywhere in the East African Community (EAC) except Burundi, and are traded on the local stock exchanges. There is virtually no secondary market for sovereign debt, but all five countries of the EAC issue government
securities – either over-the-counter or on the national bourses. Kenya issues treasury bills with maturities of up to 30 years, while Tanzania and Uganda have managed to extend their maturities to ten years. These are significant achievements that demonstrate the continuous advances in the ability of those governments to borrow and to implement effective monetary policy. The market liberalising reforms that have taken place throughout much of Africa over the last two decades have resulted in a sharp rise in the number of stock exchanges on the continent, from just eight in 1989 to 29 today. Structural constraints such as limited income and the high costs of floating have prevented a wide distribution of efficiency gains, but
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FINANCE
Investment
there is evidence that capital markets can play a vital role in accelerating growth in developing economies, and that they have done so in sub-Saharan Africa. Creating confidence, maintaining trust The regulatory requirements of a formal stock exchange are stringent, but rigorous standards are essential to winning the confidence of investors. Furthermore, the rise in demand for IT, legal and accountancy services provides a massive opportunity for growth in a range of industries, creating jobs in specialised sectors and helping to improve the viability of the financial system as a whole. Development of the skills base and diversification into new sectors are important additional benefits that cannot be understated. The market capitalisation of the new African exchanges has grown quickly, but in most cases is still very low in relation to GDP and is largely confined to a few large companies. Smaller firms, on the other hand, have often found themselves unable to participate. Scarcity of issuers and investors has resulted in low liquidity. These factors have been significant drags on stock market development, and have been the main reasons behind efforts to promote greater integration. Serving eight West African countries, the Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières (BRVM) is the world’s first regional stock exchange. Its modern electronic trading and clearing systems use satellite links to
transmit orders to the central site. The South African Development Community (SADC) has also pushed ahead with reforms, working to align the regulatory frameworks of its nine national bourses and to boost interconnectivity between them. Capitalising on collaboration The lesson from the BRVM and SADC seems to be that integration is the key to deepening markets. Closer alignment of regulatory and market infrastructures increases trading efficiency and encourages greater crossborder capital mobility. While low capitalisation and low liquidity are deterrents to investment, more listings and better liquidity mean higher rates of private participation and larger inflows of portfolio capital from overseas. The assurance that the Somalia Stock Exchange will be open to all investors, local and international, is therefore a positive sign. We welcome the collaboration with the Nairobi Stock Exchange, which in conjunction with the East African Securities Exchange Association (EASEA) has played a central role in developing the capital markets of its EAC neighbours and in guiding the region’s own programme of harmonisation. A Somali exchange would enjoy many of the associated benefits regardless of EAC membership status. We also hope to see similar partnerships between the Somali business community and other businesses and institutions in the EAC.
The diaspora, as the primary source of funding for Somali enterprise, will of course be central to the success of the project. Remittance finance accounts for a large proportion of start-up capital in the Somali territories, and has enabled the private sector to be the ‘great survivor’ of the last two decades. An active bourse would sharpen the efficiency of that investment and would open up local markets to even more Improvements in employment prospects are evident from the fact that a growing number of young people are choosing to stay in the Somali territories to study. New service industries springing up around a flourishing exchange would create a wide range of skilled jobs for a new generation of educated Somalis. These are, of course, early days. Recent steps towards political stability are hugely encouraging, but the Somali territories’ financial and legal infrastructures are embryonic by regional standards and will take time to support a fully-fledged market for shares. If recent advances are built upon, however, and the right foundations are laid for good governance as well as continued economic development, then Somalis have every reason to look forward to the new opportunities that would arise from local and diaspora Somali investment, financing from international companies including Dahabshiil Bank, and a possible formalised stock market. ■ Abdirashid Duale, CEO of Dahabshiil Group
Digital development amid cyber concerns Banks underestimate the need to educate Africa’s mobile bank users and risk being vulnerable to growing security threats on the continent. Of the nearly 500mn adults living in subSaharan Africa, 95 per cent earn less than R80 a day and have no access to bank accounts. The extent of Africa’s unbanked is set to change as the region drives forward in the development of mobile banking, which has proved to be a thriving venture as it fills a gap in the African financial services market. However, as mobile banking develops and as more services and products are offered on mobile platforms, new opportunities for theft and fraud exist. This is according to Llewellyn Hartnick, Cyber Security Specialist at Thales SA, the global technology provider. Hartnick believes that the general financial illiteracy of Africa’s mobile banking users has made human error the most overwhelming security risk for mobile banking in Africa.
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Mobile growth means more money management “The growth rate of mobile banking in Africa is set to continue as Africa becomes more digital. For example, more Africans have access to mobile phones than to clean drinking water. However, positive growth does come with increased risks as cyber criminals continue to improve their methods of attacking banking systems. Due to Africa’s limited infrastructure, the geographical remoteness of many communities and the financial illiteracy of most people on the continent, many do not know how to prevent falling prey to cyber-attacks,” says Hartnick. “Computer-based Trojan applications are rapidly migrating to the smartphone market and the lack of access to information has created a vulnerability within the continent’s mobile banking space. Banks need to be more aggressive and creative in educating its mobile banking users. Updates on safe mobile banking practices is vital while the
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Llewellyn Hartnick, Cyber Security Specialist at Thales SA
popularity for mobile financial services continues to grow. Other countries in Africa would be wise to look to Kenya’s MPESA example on how to not only grow mobile banking but grow it in a manner than supports customer security.”
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ICT TECHNOLOGY
Ready for mobile money I
an Steyn, Account Manager – Value Added Sales at ZunguZ joined a panel of ICT industry experts at AfricaCom 2012, a premier ICT and telecommunications conference held recently in Cape Town, to discuss the topic: How to take advantage of new opportunities in Africa’s dynamic mobile money market. The panel included Martin Ras, CoFounder of Ching Payments, Samson Isa, Head of Value Added Services, Globacom, and Grant van Wyk, Head of Mobile Design and Development, Pbel. Steyn represented ZunguZ, a multi-tier mobile payment platform and established offering connected to Facebook that has taken the South African and African markets by storm. He joined keynote speakers and explained why now is the time for developing markets across Africa to better understand and benefit from the
convergence of payment systems and relevant technology with the social graph. The point of contact between financial services and social networks facilitated by mobile money platforms is a high-growth market across the global ICT sector – and Africa has a role to play. Steyn said the continent has a very strong, growing mobile user base that is well-acquainted with social networks. “There are many cases of mobile users not having access to email, but they have Facebook to connect their friends. This is the same market that has explosive needs to payment and banking services and the next growth market for smart phone technology. These are the three areas that ZunguZ connects. Africa’s mobile penetration continues to escalate, with user figures in excess of 700mn. Access to personal financial management through secure, costfree platforms makes sense,” he commented.
A vibrant market, a developing interest “The panel discussion was vibrant and of great interest because it covered a number of aspects of the mobile money market that people want to know more about. These aspects include partnerships between operators and financial institutions, as well as new services being rolled out that add value to consumers and that continue to shape the industry across Africa.” ZunguZ is tightly integrated into Facebook and was one of the first African published social payment applications to be officially incorporated into the social network giant’s app store. Management at ZunguZ says there is consensus in the industry that the growth of mobile payment technology will help drive development within the financial sectors of regions throughout Africa. ■
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TECHNOLOGY
Printers
Faster, greener, more efficient, more reliable Printers still form a vital part of day to day business, and printer technology continues to evolve - with more devices, print types and applications
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hile concept of the paperless office may never have materialised, and printers still form a vital part of day to day business, printer technology has by no means remained static over the years. Computers, processors and the latest gadgets often get all of the publicity, but behind the scenes the humble printer has continued to evolve. New features, new functionality and enhancements, as well as innovative twists on tested technology have made these unsung office heroes faster, greener, more efficient and more reliable than ever, enabling many businesses to simply take for granted that printers are there and will work as and when they are needed. Variety and affordability One of the evolutions in the printer industry has been the sheer variety of different devices, different print types and different applications which are now available. Targeted printers are now available to appeal to the home user, the small or home office, small and medium businesses, large enterprises and even specialist printing applications such as large formats, in both colour and black and white. Old technology such as the dot matrix printer has become super efficient, perfect for printing multiple copies of invoices and bills of sale, while laser printers now deliver affordable, professional print quality for businesses at lightning speeds on a variety of paper sizes. Both dot matrix and lasers have also become more eco-friendly as a result of increasing environmental awareness, and these devices act as an integral part of the modern business across industry sectors. From slow, single line at a time and noisy printing, the dot matrix device has come along in leaps and bounds. While this technology, as mentioned, is old, it is also mature and is still widely used particularly
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in applications where reliability is key and high volumes of multi-part forms need to be printed at a low cost per print. Using ribbon technology and impact printing, dot matrix devices easily produce multiple copies simultaneously, and can feed both cut sheet paper and continuous forms for versatile paper handling. The economy of evolution The latest evolution of the dot matrix can now print up to 700 characters per second, using up to nine pins on a print head, enabling fast throughput that is perfect for demanding environments such as warehouses, factories, repair and service centres, wholesalers and more. These devices also incorporate supreme durability and reliability, and can both push and pull paper through the feeder, using roll paper to economically print logs and other large data streams. Eco friendly features on new devices include sleep mode to keep running costs and energy consumption to a minimum, reducing carbon footprint, and long life ribbon technology means more prints per ribbon. When it comes to laser printers, colour is the name of the game for business, and the ability to deliver crisp, clear text and vibrant realistic images in vibrant colour are of the utmost importance. Where colour used to be an expensive print technology, it has become increasingly affordable and is now available for all size of business, enabling organisations to print professional quality documents from the office. Resolution on office printers has vastly improved, with dots per inch of up to 1200 by 1200 now standard features, and photo enhancing tools to ensure lifelike images can be printed with ease. High speeds, high capacity toner cartridges and lowered running costs have made colour printing more affordable than ever.
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The ability to print on multiple paper sizes is another print innovation that has revolutionised office printing, as users can now print from A6 to A3 on the same device, and various thicknesses of paper are also supported for added versatility. Mobile printing has become a standard feature, enabling wireless printing from notebooks, tablets and even smartphones, and added security features such as print release, secure printing and colour access management ensure that confidential documents do not fall into the wrong hands and wasteful colour printing is avoided. Eco-friendly features such as standard duplex (double sided) printing, compact design, energy efficient technology, sleep mode and auto off help to minimise carbon footprint, and toner save features help organisations get the most of their print supplies. New features such as the ability to print in monochrome when colour cartridges are empty, rather than the printer not functioning at all, help to increase productivity and efficiency. When it comes to printers, efficiency and eco-friendliness are key, and most of the developments in the industry have evolved around improving these features, as well as improving speed. The printer is often the heart of the business, so organisations would do well to select a device from the wide range available that meets their specific needs, whether this is for high volume, multi-copy invoicing or professional colour documents and printing. Whatever your needs, there is a printer that fits the bills, and by selecting a new model substantial savings and reduced carbon footprint are often easy goals to achieve. â– Heinrich Pretorius, OKI Product Specialist at Drive Control Corporation
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TECHNOLOGY
Communications
Savvy, informed, educated, employed How Craft Silicon Foundation supports efforts to deliver the information and communication technology needed to educate the less fortunate
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n affiliate of Craft Silicon Limited, Craft Silicon Foundation is perhaps the only institution fully committed to providing free-of-charge information and communication technology (ICT) education to young people in Kenyan slums. Craft Silicon Limited is a software development company internationally renowned but hardly recognised in Kenya, where it was founded by Mr Kamal Budhabatti - undoubtedly, a software development guru today. This writer recently chatted with the Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Priya Budhabatti and the free computer education bus Project Manager Alex Chege at the Craft Silicon Campus a few kilometers from Nairobi’s CBD and to the west of the city and past the fast-growing Westlands suburbs. Priya explained that the company had encountered overwhelming appeal for material support from the needy but decided to instead provide empowering and lifetime assistance in the form of ICT education and training. “We used to provide foods and clothing among other materials but these only had only momentary benefit to the poor in slum areas as opposed to life skills that come with education and training and which last for longer and assist many more people apart from the individual beneficiary,” Priya explained. Founded in 2008, the Foundation provides an opportunity for employees of its parent company to give back to society ICT skills and expertise and inculcates a sense of corporate giving among them. Uniquely, the project uses a solar-powered computer-fitted bus that has a class set-up with training amenities including a white board and relevant academic literature. Easily noticeable, the white and huge bus bears the distinct logo and branding “Craft Silicon Foundation - Nurturing Future” followed by the tagline, ‘Free Computer Bus for Young Kenyans’. It tours seven slum areas in Nairobi - Kibera, Kawangware, Kangemi,
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Waithaka, Mathare, Huruma, and Mukuru kwa Nyayo - throughout the week on a schedule that provides information technology (IT) training to needy members of the society, independent professionals and schoolchildren throughout the mobile computer bus programme. It is fitted with three servers each running four monitor screens (translating to 12 monitor screens), education courseware, Internet connectivity, printers and scanners. The bus is also equipped with portable tents that can be fixed outside to allow more students access to Internet, printing and scanning services.
Priya Budhabatti, Craft Silicon Foundation CEO
Encouraging women to equip communities Committed to encouraging and equipping women with the necessary skills to fight poverty, CEO Priya believes that empowering women leads to the flourishment of families, strengthening of communities and success of nations. Notably and perhaps consequently, lessons are tailored for 9 to 13 year old girls, and youths aged between 18 and 24 years in three mornings, mid-morning and evening sessions. While each class holding 36 students, a full course takes three months with four intakes each year. So far, over 5,000 students have graduated since the programme started with many gaining employment and others pursuing other relevant and advanced ICT courses. Forty-five per cent of the graduates are in employment,
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self-employment and business. Currently about 500 are undergoing training. In recent months, the project has provided a classroom at the Westlands campus where the best graduates of the bus project are given further training. I spoke to some of the keen and enthusiastic students who expressed great appreciation to the Foundation for providing them with a chance to study and attain ICT skills. Most expressed a desire to complete the advanced programme and later pursue self-employment by opening cybercafes or software development firms or seek employment in other established institutions. From the discussions, I learnt a lot about the project and the Foundation. Its vision, mission and objectives respectively include to empower communities with the ICT skills that will create opportunities for them and foster a culture of self-reliance; achieve universal computer literacy across all sectors of the society by bridging the existing digital divide among communities; and to empower children and the youth in Kenya with computer skills for self-reliance and development. Its specific objectives include- promoting universal computer literacy; conducting ICT training to the poor and vulnerable within the slum areas; providing ICT services including internet browsing, printing, and scanning among others for free and promoting community-based initiatives and programs through ICT infrastructure such as internet, multi-media and other digital forms. Using ICT skills, the project has empowered beneficiaries by giving those that were initially idle an occupation. It has also created employment for many youths in call centres, reception areas and in graphic among other designs and as trainers and workers in research & development. The project has also fostered self-dependency in business/ employment and nurtured entrepreneurship in ICT. ■ John F N Ng’ang’a
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TECHNOLOGY
Commerce
Interacting with Kenyan entrepreneurs How iHub Nairobi offers high speed connectivity for commercially-focused technology workers
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Hub Nairobi is a community space, designed for interaction between enterprising individuals interested in working with information and communication technologies (ICTs). The centre operates a membership system, and currently counts a little less than 10,000 individuals amongst its members. The membership is stratified by white, red and green colour coding - and white membership is free. As of September 2012, there were around 9,100 white members, with several hundred paying red and green members taking the business of technology forward. Like-minded innovators The centre operates a 30MB connection - which supports ICT education and business training, and mobile business development through a innovation incubator called m:lab. Members are afforded free access to WiFi connectivity. Key to iHub's approach to development is sustainability through governance, through trial and error and peer review by contact with like-minded operations in countries as far afield as India and Germany. iHub developed from the operation of Ushahidi and crowdmapping for humanitarian response. Ushahidi is a non-profit technology company that seeks to change the way information flows around the world - developing free and open source software for information collection, visualisation and interactive mapping. It uses crowdsourcing for social activism and public accountability, for 'activist mapping' – a combination of social activism, citizen journalism and geospatial information. Ushahidi offers products that enable local observers to submit reports using their mobile phones or the Internet, creating a temporal and geospatial archive of events. iHub has generated 62 jobs since starting. Kopo Kopo is its first success story - a start-up that has developed from graduation to incubation, through iHub and m:lab, providing low-cost softwareas-a-service to microfinance operations. Kenyan financial stakeholders have proved responsive, to Kopo Kopo as to the need to engage with existing and potential customers. Accessibility and simplicity have become watchwords for the financial community Kopo Kopo engages with. Kenyan banks have been quick, for example, to recognise the need to offer services that compliment customer behaviour. Equity Bank now offers a suite of financial services via multiple mobile money systems including M-Pesa, Orange Money, yuCash, and Airtel Money. Its mobile banking service, Eazzy 24/7, enables customers to remotely access financial services and to transact with a network of over 3,000 agents. Kenya Commercial Bank has also launched services - Connect, and Mtaani– and has advertised these via social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
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iHub offers sustainability through governance, trial and error and peer review (Photo: Outi Einola-Head)
Technology training for the public sector Back at iHub, 23 apps had been developed by July 2012, and hence within its first year is operation - with 17 developers and product managers trained during the same period. iHub hosts, also, the African Leadership in ICT Course (ALICT), which is part-funded by the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Participants come from across Africa, from ministries, public sector organisations, research bodies, and universities. (ref ALICT) The ALICT curriculum is informed by research conducted on a country-by-country basis, to tailor training to specific national and regional needs for public sector technology utilisation and governance. The intended impact of ALICT is to create a network of informed public sector staffs and cements, to deliver a knowledge society that parallels the aims of administrations in Kenya, Rwanda and elsewhere across the continent. It represents a new model for capacity-building - with sessions and communication principally online, connecting up to 200 participants at any one time from any number of disparate locations. Such communication forms the basis for an alumni, a post-training community of public sector and academic individuals and organisations that may be seen already in Finland - where blogging and use of online channels already serves well the Finnish population and the nation's economic and societal stakeholders across the world. â–
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Ports
LOGISTICS
Improving onshore seaport facilities BSP Hammer is used to drive steel piles for a new port extension serving Mombasa in Kenya
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onstruction work on Kenya’s largest and busiest seaport at Mombasa has contributed to the expansion of existing facilities and build the new Berth 19 which is expected to be completed by the early next year and, when completed, will increase the Port’s facilities and cargo space. In addition the Port will be dredged of mud and silt to accommodate larger ships. The port serves the Kenya hinterland by exporting important agricultural products and supporting the foundation of the country’s economy. In addition to serving Kenya, the port serves countries in inland Africa such as Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and even further afield. Inland onward transportation is
provided by truck and train, and special railtainer services operate from the port to inland container depots. Dredging and construction of the new berth and extension of the existing facilities both commenced in June last year with dredging scheduled to be also completed at the end of this year. Dutch-based Van Ord Dredging won the dredging contract. The two projects are being funded by the Kenyan Government and will, cost in excess of £71mn (US$115.5mn). Dredging alone will cost nearly £39mn (US$63.5mn). China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) won the contract to construct Berth 19 and associated works. To drive the piles required for the berth’s foundations the company purchased a BSP International Foundations (BSP) piling hammer and power pack through BSP’s Chinese dealer, Shanghai Trust Machinery. The CG240 hammer with a dropweight of 16t and powered by a BSP HP250 power pack was used to drive approximately 300 tubular steel piles, 813mm in diameter, a wall thickness of 16mm and ranging in length from 20m to 36m. Each pile is designed to take a bearing load of 240t. The CG range of BSP’s heavy-duty impact piling hammers offers dropweights from 12t up to 40t are designed for driving a variety of bearing piles including steel tube, combi piles, H-sections and reinforced/pre-stressed concrete piles and can be operated from piling rig leaders or crane suspended. Key features include total control of hammer stroke and blow rate, allows precise matching of energy to suit the pile driving requirements and easy access to the cylinder
and dropweight connection for servicing. In addition, an optional digital readout of hammer performance is offered in a choice of units – stroke or energy. Maximising performance in port A choice of three Hydro Packs is available which are powered by either turbocharged Perkins or Caterpillar diesel engines developing 71kW up to 250kW. These BSP units have been specifically developed by the UK-based company to maximise the performance of its piling hammers. The existing container terminal berths at Mombasa were designed to accommodate ships 180m long but most now calling at the Port today measure 230m. The three container berths have a total length of 600m and are being extended to 760m which will allow three vessels each with a length of 235m and leave a 215m safety allowance. The existing container terminal berths at Mombasa were designed to accommodate ships 180m long but most now calling at the Port today measure 230m. The three container berths have a total length of 600m and are being extended to 760m which will allow three vessels each with a length of 235m and leave a 215m safety allowance. This project is the first port construction project undertaken by CRBC in Kenya with a construction period of two years and will further expand the throughput of Mombasa, consolidate its role as the largest port in East Africa, optimise CRBC’s business structure in Kenya and lay the foundation for future development of the Kenyan infrastructural construction market. ■
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LOGISTICS
Lift Trucks
The logic of industrial lift trucks Fork lifts are invaluable aids to business productivity - but they can also be dangerous machines
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o medium-sized business dealing with physical commodities of any kind in Africa can do without a lift truck today. Whether it is a standard counter-balanced industrial machine, a specialised reach or side-loading truck or a sophisticated telescopic materials handler, this is the standard way of moving materials in large quantities around an outdoor site or warehouse these days. However use of these machines is potentially hazardous, the problems coming from the use of a powerful engine- or electricallypowered machine in a confined space, the consequences of misunderstanding the basic physics of ‘levers and moments’ – tipping over and/or dropping the load - and not being aware of the dangers of using an unfamiliar attachment. There is simply no substitute for adequate training; no way can a casual employee be drafted in to operate a lift truck on your premises in 2013. Pluses and minuses in practical management There are a number of essential ‘Dos’ and ‘Don’t dos’ connected with lift truck operations. On the positive side, the first is to test and use the horn on every occasion when there is a potential danger lurking. This means when approaching doorways and changes of direction around the corners of buildings; a few short blasts are best. Stop and look if there is any doubt. Take special care whenever co-workers and visitors are in the vicinity, especially those on foot who may be carrying a high visibility-restricting load or be otherwise pre-occupied. On a paved site it is often best to restrict forklift movements to painted-on routeways. Within a warehouse take special precautions at the end of storage aisles. And avoid sudden jerky movements at all times (braking and corner turning) as these can cause the load – or part of it – to fall off, or the whole machine to tip over. Lift trucks are designed to move in both directions, and to turn in a very tight circle. But whenever they are being moved more than a very short distance, loaded or not, this should always be forwards with the operator having a clear line of vision not obstructed by the load or the need to turn round. Move up or down a slope slowly with the arms of the fork facing up the gradient if the machine is loaded. If it is travelling ‘light’, the advice is always to operate with the arms pointing downhill, bearing in mind that they may strike the ground at the bottom. Special care should always be taken when travelling across a slope. Finally, the key should be kept under control at all times, issued only to authorised operators for the period of use only, and kept in a secure store overnight. When leaving the lift truck for a short time the parking brake should always be applied, the controls set to neutral and the fork arms lowered to the ground. For any more than a few minutes the key should be removed and safely pocketed.
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The typical medium-sized business dealing with physical commodities in Africa need a lift truck (Photo: Compliance and Safety LLC)
Causes to be careful The main activities to avoid begin with the instruction to never ever allow a person to travel on the forks, walk beneath a load which is being lifted or moved, or operate a lift truck in the vicinity of children or farm animals. The load should never be lifted or shifted until it has been properly inspected to make sure the machine itself is capable of lifting it safely, it is properly placed on the forks, and it is in safe condition itself (damaged pallets have been the source of many industrial accidents overseas). The operator should always avoid travelling with the load in the raised position on the mast because this is one of the most common causes of overturning. The exception is of course when stacking items like pallets and building materials, at which time the machine should be set to move forwards or backwards at ‘creep’ speed only. Similarly, the machine should never be moved when the operator does not have full visibility in the direction of travel. This is another reason for not moving with the forks half-way up the mast. If the load blocks the line of vision – a bale or tall box, for example – it should be turned on its side, but not until the nature of the contents have been checked of course. The safe alternative is to move the machine in reverse, having taken the special precautions needed to allow this. Finally, the controls of the lift truck should only be operated from within the cab or driving position, and the machine should never be left on a gradient with the wheels unchocked. This is particularly important to remember if the operator has to leave his seat or other control position to deal with a problem with the load or visibility. ■
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POWER
SCADA
Comparing enterprisescale control systems With a wide range of controllers to choose from, system engineers face several challenges in deciding which types of units offer optimal functionality, expandability, and cost-effectiveness
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any industrial and infrastructure-scale enterprises depend on equipment located at multiple sites dispersed over a large geographical area. Around the world, the vast majority of large infrastructure and industrial-scale ventures use supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. “The role of communications-centric control systems used for power delivery (transmission and distribution) will continue to serve as the cornerstone of smart grid development,” said Chuck Newton, president of Newton-Evans Research. “Whether we discuss distribution automation, substation automation or even infrastructure equipment,
New generator and light tower products at World of Concrete
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oosan Portable Power is exhibiting new portable lighting and generator products at the 2013 World of Concrete Exhibition in Las Vegas, in the USA, 5-8 February 2013. Its new LSC light tower is designed for the rental market, for illumination of road and bridge and general construction applications. The heavy-duty galvanised steel tower of the LSC extends upwards from 3.66-9.14 m in height and the mast is raised by dual, hand-operated winches and an automatic safety brake. Four 1,000 W metal-halide floodlights provide a NEMA 6 x 7 beam spread for better light distribution and area coverage. Complementing the light tower range from Doosan Portable Power, the BL2000 balloon light is designed for construction site and other temporary lighting requirements. The balloon light is a low capital investment product based on a practical ‘plug and light’ concept. Packaged in a small, easy to carry bag and weighing less than 10 kg, the balloon light is simple to install in a one-man process, taking less than five minutes to complete. The unit requires only a small 3.5 kVA generator for power and it can be mounted on virtually any piece of equipment, allowing it to move with the job in hand. Doosan Portable Power will also be showing the new G25 mobile generator at the show. Like the other models in the range, the G25 mobile generator has been designed for continuous use in harsh environments and is ideal for demanding applications such as those in construction and rental. Powered by the Mitsubishi S4Q2Y362 23 kW (31 HP) diesel engine, the G25 mobile generator has prime power output of 25 kVA.
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African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
as our primary field equipment becomes ‘smarter’ with each new generation of product development, we continue to rely on the extension of SCADA-based technologies and the applications software that drives operational performance excellence.” SCADA systems provide monitoring, control, and automation functions that allow the enterprise to improve operational reliability, reduce costs through eased work force requirements, enhance overall Quality of Service (QoS), or meet expected QoS or other key performance factors as well as boost employee and customer safety. In SCADA systems, remote terminal units (RTUs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) perform the majority of on-site control. As implemented, RTUs and PLCs serve overlapping application niches and share some design details. PLCs, RTUs, complex systems, intelligence and flexibility Originally designed to replace relay logic, PLCs acquire analogue and/or digital data through input modules, and execute a programme loop while scanning the inputs and taking actions based on these inputs. PLCs perform well in sequential logic control applications with high discrete I/O data counts, but suffer from overly specialised design, which results in limited CPU performance, inadequate communication flexibility, and lack of easy scalability when it comes to adding future requirements other than I/O. RTUs and PLCs have slowly progressed toward a common design and usage point. Still, primary markets determine the amount of change that systems can accommodate. In practice, the typical PLC usage model revolves around localized fast control of discrete variables. RTU usage focuses on remote monitoring with control, but with a higher demand for application communications and protocol flexibility. As a result, RTU designs tend to have greater CPU horsepower. ■
Key examples of SCADA applications Public or Private Infrastructure: ● Water treatment and distribution ● Waste water collection and treatment ● Electrical power transmission and distribution ● Oil and gas pipeline monitoring and control Industrial Processes (continuous, batch, or repetitive): ● Remote monitoring and control of oil and gas production, pumping, and storage ● Electrical power distribution from nuclear, gas-fired, coal, or renewable resources
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Roads
CONSTRUCTION
Building out a way to trade Efforts are underway to accelerate East African infrastructure with respect to energy, roads, and railway lines Better roads are critical as intra-EAC trade has grown exponentially (Photo: EAC)
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he US$560mn newly improved ArushaNamanga-Athi River Road has been commissioned at a recent event attended by the East African Community’s (EAC) Heads of State. The improvement, which started three years ago, involved re-carpeting, widening of the road, construction of drainage systems and bridges as well as other developments. The road connects the Kenya’s industrial town of Athi River- located just under 30 km from Nairobi- to Tanzania’s city of Arusha, the seat of the East African Community. It passes through the Namanga town on the Kenya-Tanzania border. Athi River is home to five cement plants that manufacture over 50 per cent of total regional cement output. The road is a vital artery in regional trade between Kenya and Tanzania and to the Great Lakes Region’s of Rwanda and Burundi. Goods and passengers from Dar es Salaam destined to the Lake Victoria regions of Musoma and Mwanza have also extensively used the road rather than the longer route through Central Tanzania. “EAC regional trade bloc thrives on the ability of its people to move and work within the region freely. There is a need to accelerate regional infrastructure, especially in energy, roads, railway to improve the lives of our people,” noted Kenya’s President Mwai Kibaki, the outgoing Chairman of the EAC Heads of State. The improvement was partly funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) to the tune of US$300mn and is part of the EAC Secretariat’s overall infrastructure development.
Critical trade networks Better roads in the EAC are critical as intra-EAC trade has doubled from US$2.2bn in 2005 to US$4.1bn in 2010, according to statistics, with most of the cargo passing through the numerous interstate road networks. Meanwhile, the EAC recently unveiled a new US$18mn, headquarters complex in Arusha covers 15,025sqm, made up of three wings of four-storey each. All the EAC staff are expected to move to the new building designed with maximum flexibility in case of future expansion and suited to local climatic conditions. Constructed with a German Government grant, the new three-wing block will house the three arms of the EAC, which include the East African Legislative Assembly, the East African Court of Justice, and the Secretariat. With a population of over 140mn, the EAC has grown in bounds in recent years with trade increasing. In the last year, the EAC has been looking for ways to accommodate South Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo and widen the market further. At the recently-concluded 14th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State in Nairobi, the regional leaders approved a verification report of South Sudan and also called on the EAC council of ministers to look into Somalia’s application. “The ministers should explore things for the EAC to work closely with Somalia on the matter”, said Richard Sezibera, EAC Secretary General. Meanwhile, during the summit, EAC reported that 36 barriers to trade had been eliminated in the last year in a bid to attract investment from other economic blocs to the expanded local market. To ease the movement of people across regional borders,
the East African Passport has been put in effect, student visas for East Africans abolished and issuance of temporary travel documents within the region eased. Regional concerns over construction costs Kenya has also passed the Citizen and Immigration Act and together with Rwanda, the two countries have removed requirement for work permits for East Africans. Regional leaders however lament that delays in ports and borders have remained barriers in trade. Analysts say that it costs about US$400 to transport a 40-foot container from Hong Kong to Mombasa by ship, but a hefty US$10,000 to move the same from Mombasa to Bujumbura by road. Use of trucks-instead of rail – increased cost of transportation, analysts note, adding that rail transport remain the most viable even with huge investments being put to road construction. A recent Business Climate Index (BCI) survey conducted by the East African Business Council (EABC) also noted that access to affordable and reliable energy is the most serious obstacle to business operations in the region. The survey also found that procedures and administrative requirements are considered by businesses as the most severe non tariff barriers to regional trade. According to the BCI survey, the police, Weighbridges, immigration, technical standards, business registration and licensing are also major hurdles in regional trade. Customs procedures are considered too lengthy, increasing time and cost of freight. ■ Mwangi Mumero
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Facilities
CONSTRUCTION
Working on wastewater I
n South Africa, Tshwane’s Zeekoegat wastewater treatment works (WWTW) stage 1 upgrade and expansion project bears testimony to the service and product quality offered by Andrew Mentis. The project commenced in October 2010, and sees the construction of a new 40 Mℓ/day BNRAS (Biological Nutrient
Removal Activated Sludge) module to boost the existing capacity of the WWTW. Completion is scheduled for early 2013. The main contractor on the project is Concor Civils, a Murray & Roberts Construction company. Towards the end of 2011 structural steel specialist Vital Steel Projects was sub-
Mentis handrailing has been used along all walkways at the Zeekoegat WWTW as this product has aesthetic appeal without sacrificing on safety.
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CONSTRUCTION
Facilities
contracted by Concor Civils to fabricate, supply and erect all structural steel components for the Zeekoegat expansion. A large portion of this contract includes handrailing and stainless steel floor grating. Vital Steel Projects was first established in 1995 and is based in Olifantsfontein. It caters to both small and large structural steel projects across the SADC region. “When it comes to handrailing or stainless steel floor grating, Andrew Mentis is our supplier of choice. We have dealt and worked with the company for over 10 years. They always provide an excellent service and their product quality is superior,” says Chris Garside, Vital Steel Projects general manager. Manufactured for integrity The Andrew Mentis’ contract includes the supply of galvanised and stainless steel handrailing systems, as well as 3CR12 stainless steel floor grating for the inspection pits. Andrew Mentis’ Rectagrid RS40 floor grating is the ideal solution for wastewater treatment plants due to its corrosion resistance. It is manufactured using a pressure locking system pioneered by the company. Quality control during the
manufacturing process ensures that close tolerances are maintained, and that the round transversal bar fits tightly through the pierced bearer bar. “Our manufacturing process produces unquestionable locking characteristics guaranteeing the structural integrity of the product, and further enhancing its integrity in a corrosive environment such as that found in wastewater treatment works,” says Elaine van Rooyen, marketing manager of Andrew Mentis. “Load bearing capacity is vital when floor grating used in environments where personnel safety is of primary concern, and the integrity of manufacture is nonnegotiable. The transversals are positively and permanently locked to the bearer bars and the locking method at the intersections is designed to use the full depth of the bearer bar when calculating loads,” she adds. Quality without compromise The advantages offered by the company’s stainless steel tubular handrailing outweigh competitors’ products in every regard. It is corrosion resistant, maintenance free, has stain-resistant properties and is ideal for
damp environments, making it ideal for the Zeekoegat WWTW. The stanchions’ base plates are designed to allow moisture to drain from the stanchion itself, enhancing the corrosion-resistant benefits. Wastewater treatment plants such as Zeekoegat require hard-wearing materials, but that does not mean quality and aesthetics have to be compromised, and Andrew Mentis handrailing systems have clean, modern lines. Mentis' 304 stainless steel and 3CR12 handrailing systems are completely different to the company's standard mild steel handrailing system. The stanchion is 44.5 mm in diameter with a 2 mm wall thickness and is formed from one length of tube. The centre hole for the knee rail is drilled and then flared on both sides. The top is also flared and a half round cap is welded into place. The base plate is 8 mm thick and welded to the tube. “Andrew Mentis handrailing is often a standard industry requirement because of its superior quality. And the company goes the extra mile to customise product to meet specific application requirements, and they always deliver within the timeframes they promise,” Garside notes. ■
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Machines
CONSTRUCTION
No compromises on construction equipment What will construction machines look like in the 2020s? A team of Volvo CE’s designers offers ideas on what to expect
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ndustrial designers are a troubled bunch. They constantly have to balance the possible with the practical when creating the products that come to market. The outcome is ultimately a compromise between the two factors. And it can be very frustrating for designers, poor things - that's why they always wear black. But their serious faces break into wide smiles when they are given free rein to indulge their creativity to the full and the outcomes can be truly startling. Such is the case at Volvo Construction Equipment, whose designers, in partnership with Perspectives Design, have been charged with the task of looking 15 years into the future and hypothesising what Volvo equipment might look like in the 2020s. Managed by Robert Bourghardt and overseen by chief designer Hans Zachau, the team has looked closely at excavators and come up with some radical solutions. Some of these innovations probably won't make it off the drawing board, but others could become reality in the near future. The team talked to operators to find out what they would like to see in future machines; to the engineers in the product divisions at Volvo and also to the company's Advanced Engineering unit. The latter of these was important because the designers wanted to know what the potential engineering reality looked like - so they could design an excavator that really could happen. "It's very important that we tie it back to Volvo," believes Hans. "It's important that we demonstrate it's a Volvo machine, one that reflects Volvo's core values. Otherwise it doesn't connect to the present product range - and that's key in concept vehicles: people must be able to make the connection." The study was used to create a 'wow' factor at a show - but if it were left just as a marketing tool, it would be an opportunity missed. Happily though, the intention is to incorporate the study into Design Lab, a
virtual discussion room for design thinking within Volvo CE. But what was the main learning of this study? "We learned not to be scared of new technology and radical concepts," says Hans. "Construction equipment is quite a conservative business but there are lots of possibilities. We can't promise that in 15 years time all our ideas will have come true. We had to guess sometimes that's the whole idea, to imagine possible outcomes. But if only 10 per cent of what we have thought about ends up in future machines then we will really have achieved something!"
says chief designer, Hans Zachau. "It should be efficient, lean and hungry to dig. Purposeful and a little mean looking. But we have to remember that it's a Volvo machine and therefore it still has to reflect its core values of quality, safety and environmental care." The machine is still recognizably an excavator, and the design updates current concepts of boom, cab, tracks and superstructure - but in an innovative way. The familiar Volvo logo and colour scheme ties the design back to the current machines. The omission of hydraulics makes for a cleaner looking machine that means business.
So, what we have is the following criteria: Appearance: The final design of the excavator is a mixture between space age and primordial, like a prehistoric moon buggy. "The animalistic look is intentional,"
Engine: The future machines may no longer use diesel engines. The designers toyed with the idea of using gas turbine engines but settled on the idea of fuel cells. Fuel cells convert a hydrogene's energy into usable
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CONSTRUCTION
Machines Aurecon, Khuthaza promote women in construction
electricity and heat - without combustion. Because hydrogen reacts with oxygen to produce electricity, it is the optimal fuel to use, as its only emissions are water vapour and heat. They are like batteries that don't run down as long as you keep feeding them hydrogen. They are currently in the development stage but it has been calculated that to power an excavator a fuel cell the size of two normal suitcases would be needed. This frees up a lot of space on the superstructure where the diesel engine would normally sit - hence the machine's ability to have such a large cutaway section. The engine acts as the machine counter weight, which moves all the time to compensate for the forces on the boom. By moving it towards the centre of the excavator, it could be made small for transport, moving it right out would give maximum stability. (Zero swing or large swing.) Hydraulics: The introduction of electricity could also do away with some of the hydraulics. Some systems that are currently hydraulic could be converted to electric motors. Notice how hydraulic cylinders have been removed as much as possible and hydraulic piping abandoned. This would obviate the need to circulate oil all over the machine. Boom: The central concept was to make a light boom - because everything in weight on the boom is lost in capacity for lifting or digging. The see-through lattice allows visibility through the boom, aiding safety by reducing the operator's blind spot caused by solid metal booms. While current steels would struggle to cope with the large forces imposed on the boom the designers are expecting a new generation of high strength steels to be available that could make this a design possibility. Hydraulics have been removed from the boom as much as possible to reduce clutter and keep the look of the machine as clean as possible. The main cylinder has been hidden within the boom. Not much room for contractors' name stickers on that boom though!
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Undercarriage: The adoption of four tracks is to make them more wheel-like. When driving on rough ground, traditional tracks 'tiptoe' and the contact area is quite small. Four tracks have a much higher contact area with the ground, aided by independent suspension to each track, suspended via a swing arm from a central pivot. Each track has a separate wheel motor, which can brake, accelerate and even turn. On traditional tracks you either brake or accelerate, left or right. Tracks will also use a non-metal rubberlike material that can cope with high abrasion surfaces. The four tracks can be moved to form a traditional two-track appearance to distribute the weight better when on soft ground. This system (powered by electric motors) can also be used to extend the tracks for working or contract them for transportation. Main bearing: the juncture between the undercarriage and superstructure would eschew the current arrangement of a large roller bearing. Instead, the concept excavator hovers on an electro-magnetic field. The advantages of this are that there would be zero friction and high-speed turning of the superstructure. (The boom forces could be compensated by varying the magnetic field.) While a clever idea, one area of concern is that by having so many electrical motors in a small area, a too-large electro-magnetic field would be created. Cab: The cab on the concept excavator is cantilevered to improve all round visibility. But it can also tilt the cab, move it away from the machine to improve visibility (as some waste handling machines already do) - or be left on the ground entirely. This latter attribute is for operating the excavator remotely, such as where there is a high level of radioactivity - or if the machine is working underwater. "In the morning the cab comes down to meet the operator," says chief designer Hans Zachau. "It then opens the door and says 'hello, how are you today?'!" ■ Brian O’Sullivan
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
Engineering, management and specialist technical services group Aurecon believes that much of a country’s success lies in the close involvement of the private sector in their local communities. “Because of the economic sway these enterprises hold, they are in a position to make a real difference when it comes to tackling the many challenges our country faces,” explains Ronnie Khoza, Aurecon's Head of Offices, South Africa. Through a contribution to the South African Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors’ (SAFCEC) Construction Cares Fund, Aurecon recently partnered with non-profit organisation Khuthaza, which offers career and enterprise development services within the construction industry, to empower learner contractors with enhanced skills with which to grow their businesses.
The South African Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors’ (SAFCEC) Construction Cares Fund, Aurecon and Khuthaza career and enterprise development services within the construction industry
Founded informally in 1995, Khuthaza has grown to offer a number of programmes and support services aimed primarily at promoting the empowerment of women within industry. Aurecon’s financial contribution has enabled a group of 60 contractors to undergo an eightmonth contractor development programme with Khuthaza. In addition, this funding has contributed towards the establishment of Khuthaza’s Construction Career and Enterprise Development Centre in Johannesburg. “We are deeply grateful for support from the private sector, which make initiatives like ours sustainable. Working together is the key to ensuring we enable people in our industry to live up to their potential, to keep momentum in transformation and to ensure we have the businesses and professionals available to deliver the building and infrastructure our nation will need in the future,” commented Elizabeth O’Leary, Executive Director of Khuthaza.
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SOLUTIONS
Software Combining payment and transport on mobile
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emalto, which specialises in digital security, is providing Standard Bank, a financial institution in South Africa, with a multifunction EMV contactless payment card enabling users to pay for transit fares and other goods and services with one digital wallet. Standard Bank customers can now use a MasterCard debit card to wave and pay directly at the gates in the public transport stations, without needing to carry cash or a separate travel card. The ‘Muvo’ card initiative will help cardholders gain greater convenience while at the same time provide competitive advantages to Standard Bank and reduce the burden of managing cash on public transportation in the city of Durban.
The Standard Bank Muvo card
The partnership has already resulted in the provision of more than 100,000 cards for the Ethekwini Municipality, which is looking to dramatically improve ticketless payments for its public transport system in the coastal city of Durban. Commuters can load funds into their cards at around 30 sales points throughout the city. The ‘Muvo’ card complies with the exacting requirements of the National Department of Transport (NDoT), which mandates the combination of payment and transport in one single application. It can also be customized to reflect the profile of individual public transport users, enabling NDoT to adapt its fares accordingly. The “Muvo” card adds value for existing account holders, and offers considerable potential to acquire new customers. These will include many who previously have been excluded from mainstream banking.
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The next generation in cargo management IT solutions provider to the global aviation industry, IBS Software, recently entered into a contract with Lufthansa Cargo AG (LCAG), the airline cargo service provider in the Lufthansa Group, for the implementation of its iCargo solution, to manage the airline's entire air cargo movement worldwide. IBS' iCargo system replaces the legacy Unisys based MOSAIK application which Lufthansa has used for the past 30 years. Once implemented, iCargo will have a user base of over 4,000 staff members and will interface seamlessly with a host of other system applications within the IT landscape of the airline. Lufthansa Systems will provide comprehensive consulting services during and after the implementation phase. The provider will also host the solution at its own data center in Kelsterbach near Frankfurt
and will ensure compatibility with the remaining IT landscape of Lufthansa Cargo. IBM is in charge of the system integration. iCargo will manage the key business functions of the airline - from sales processes up to the cargo terminal operations functions. The real time availability of operational information through iCargo will help generate actionable intelligence which will vastly improve the overall utilisation of assets and improve revenue generation and operational efficiencies. "iCargo is unique in offering consistent process support with its single platform ranging from sales processes to handling as well as ULD management and up to revenue accounting. This mix of strengths has clearly convinced us," said Dr Roland Schütz, CIO of Lufthansa Cargo AG.
Cloud-based core banking solution deployed in Kenya Temenos, which provides banking software, recently worked with Fountain Credit Services on the launch of a new microfinance institution (MFI) in Kenya - operating on Temenos T24 for Microfinancing, hosted in the cloud. Fountain becames the first institution in Kenya to adopt cloud-based banking services. By running in the cloud, Fountain has significantly reduced its initial capital outlay - which typically accounts for two-thirds of start-up costs - as well as its ongoing operating costs, through a 'pay-per-use' model. In addition, the cloud supports Fountain's plans for rapid expansion - as new users and branches can be added seamlessly onto T24, which is running on the Microsoft Windows Azure platform. In adopting a cloud-based model, Fountain demonstrates the viability of performing credit and lending in the cloud without an on-premise system - a trend likely to become commonplace among banks and other financial services providers in the region. The managed service for Fountain is hosted in Europe and operated by Temenos, delivered through an online connection to Fountain. Relieving Fountain of onsite technology maintenance allows it to concentrate on delivering the highest quality service and products to its customer base. T24 also contains powerful and robust fraud detection capabilities which will help protect Fountain from one of the major issues affecting financial institutions in East Africa. Arch John Kithaka, CEO, FEP Group (Fountain Enterprises Programme), said, "Our vision for launching Fountain Credit Services Ltd was to deliver the best possible services and products to our customers - Temenos T24 Microfinance and Community Banking (MCB) enables us to do exactly that."
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
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SOLUTIONS
Software Retail services for online customer engagement
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D Group - a southern African retailer and financial services provider - has selected CoreMedia CMS and CoreMedia LiveContext to optimise its online customer engagement channels and leverage the SAP Web Channel Experience Management application. With mobile solutions increasingly becoming the online access channel of choice for many consumers in southern Africa, JD Group will be able to provide its customers with context-aware, online experiences across any channel or touchpoint. The selection builds on CoreMedia's partnership with SAP, and underscores the strength of CoreMedia LiveContext's contextual marketing solution.
A hedge fund system in SA Canadian software vendor SGGG Portfolio Systems, SynOps Investment Operations and Deutsche Securities Johannesburg recently implemented its Portfolio System across Deutsche's hedge fund client base in South Africa. Graeme Lappin Director of SynOps commented, "The SGGG system is ideal for the South African hedge fund industry. It is a front office portfolio management tool that integrates the trading, operations and management functions across the company, simply yet extremely effectively. The software has been designed specifically for hedge funds and small to medium-sized asset managers, and is available with a highly attractive pricing and licensing structure. SGGG Portfolio Systems and SynOps have a
partnership agreement under which SynOps Investment Operations has exclusive rights to market and support the SGGG software in South Africa and neighboring regions. The partnership provides South African hedge fund managers with world class order management and portfolio management tools, together with local support and knowledge of South African market conventions. The system integrates fully with local custodians and market data as well as supporting international service providers and electronic connections to brokers and other institutions worldwide. Brent Thornton-Dibb of Deutsche Bank said, "This system gives our clients best of breed functionality, fully supported by a South African team. We are receiving positive feedback from users."
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
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SOLUTIONS
Software Running M-Pesa’s new mobile banking service
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he banking application T24 - which has been developed by Temenos - is being used as the platform for M-Shwari, the latest iteration of the hugely successful M-Pesa mobile money offering. Launched in 2007, M-Pesa’s basic mobile banking services have been a massive hit, attracting more than 17mn subscribers or more than 80 per cent of the adult population in Kenya.(1) M-Shwari is a partnership between Safaricom, Vodafone, and long-standing Temenos client Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA). It uses the Temenos T24 R12 core banking solution to help support the processing of electronic loan and bank account transactions made through the MPesa platform. This is a crucial next step for the M-Pesa initiative, ensuring an increase in access to a wider range of financial services by providing customers with convenient and efficient access to savings accounts and small loans through their mobile phones. Safaricom customers can sign up to the M-Shwari interest bearing savings account or apply for micro loans, provided by CBA, directly through the M-Pesa menu on their phone. There are no forms to complete or any need to visit a bank branch. If successful, the loan money is sent by CBA to the customer’s M-Pesa account immediately, highlighting the convenience and simplicity of M-Shwari. Based on its success in Kenya, the solution will now be considered for other African markets and beyond. David Arnott, CEO, Temenos, says, “Our involvement advances two of our most important corporate objectives: firstly, to be at the forefront of technology innovation in the financial services industry and, secondly, to advance technology as a means of lowering costs and making banking services more accessible.” Note: 1. Source: http://www.cck.go.ke/news/2012/sector_sta tistics.html
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Emerginov innovates mobile services development Orange demonstrated, at the 4th InnovAfrica forum in Dakar, Senegal, late in November 2012, how it is contributing to the development of innovative online services, by providing the source code for a software solution called Emerginov to African organisations – institutions, academic organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), etc - and assisting them in their mobile services development projects Emerginov is produced by Orange Labs. It incorporates multiple open source software components and enables the development of applications based on SMS or on vocal interfaces. Together with mobile-embedded technologies, the solution can provide simple services, giving the mobile user access to expertise or to content in different fields such as health, agriculture and trade. The partners also benefit from an open-ended solution combining conventional telephone resources with access to IT services (web hosting, content storage, access to third-party APIs) from a simple web browser. The Emerginov platform is already used for competitive programming as well as research contracts with African universities (including
University of Dakar, ESMT and Université Gaston Berger in Senegal, University of Technology and University of Mauritius, and the University of Botswana). Emerginov is also used extensively in connection with cooperative projects with NGOs and local and international institutional players, including: 1. A remote training initiative for Madagascan teachers. Equipped with a mobile phone and a solar recharger, teachers can access educational content embedded in their phones and may leave questions on a voice server; they receive an SMS when the answers are available. 2. Experiments with m-health in Senegal and m-agriculture in Mali using features of Emerginov are in progress as part of the VOICES project (VOIce-based Community cEntric mobile Services for social development) funded by the European Commission. Orange publishes the Emerginov source code and promotes co-innovation. By opening up the code, Orange is following through on its commitment to providing innovation players in Africa with a set of customized open tools enabling rapid prototyping of services over telecom networks.
InnovAfrica’s philosophy is to make the forum participants not only knowledgeable but purposeful in developing the future (Photo: Sylvain Maire)
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SOLUTIONS
Communications Making satellite solutions exciting
I
n January 2012, Spacecom's AMOS-5 satellite at 17°E began servicing the African market and penetrating the telecoms, government services, mobile operators and broadcast industry markets. AMOS-5 is a game changer. It is one of the first and strongest satellites constructed and in an orbit specifically for the African market. Its three Ku-band and single powerful pan-African C-band beams reach all of Africa, with connectivity to Europe and the Middle East, making the satellite an exciting solution for broadcasters and other communication providers requiring An AMOS dish in Africa, forming part of the continent’s core communciations infrastructure
Flexible, cost-effective mobile service for the unconnected Pan-African satellite operator RascomStar and communications company ViaSat Inc demonstrated an innovative cellular service at the AfricaCom, a event held recently in Cape Town, South Africa, to promote information and communications technologies (ICTs). Thanks to a low-power mobile telecommunications site, visitors could talk to the world through the RascomQAF1R satellite (RQ1R) from their common AfricaCom booth. The wholesale managed service developed by ViaSat and RascomStar provides both voice and data connectivity to mobile operators to address Africa’s underserved communities. AfricaCom was a great opportunity to showcase the performance of this advanced system. RascomStar and ViaSat are making a difference by delivering profitable and sustainable voice, messaging and data services over bandwidth efficient, low-power infrastructure to hitherto unserved areas. Mobile telecommunications service operators RascomStar and ViaSat are can, therefore, increase their profits and delivering profitable and limit their risks by using this innovative, sustainable communications services over bandwidth efficient, low-cost service, which is billed only by low-power infrastructure to hitherto unserved areas the effective minutes of usage.
Satellite connections for commerce a regional or total African reach. Since beginning operations, AMOS-5 has created a growing and exciting French broadcast neighborhood as well as contribution and distribution solutions for European TV channels into Africa and regional ethnic African TV channels, and is bringing services to VSAT providers, retail and commercial multinationals, mobile backhaul providers, and government agencies, among others. As a multi-regional satellite operator, Spacecom views Africa as an important element of its business strategy. The continent's growing population, expanding communications market and increasing investments modernizing communications infrastructure, make Africa very attractive for AMOS-5 business development.
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Gilat Satellite Networks sees Africa as an important market for VSAT (Very Small Aperture Technology) in the cellular communications, commercial, e-government and security markets. As Africa's cellular market becomes more aggressive, operators can generate more revenue by expanding to remote rural areas. A VSAT is a solution not only for the main connection but also provides backup and redundancy for base stations in populated areas. VSATs provide very high availability and have the advantage of supplying a pipeline for important traffic and still continue regular service for voice or other critical applications. In the commercial arena, we see more private networks. Distribution and consumer companies, food and drinks suppliers, restaurant chains, supermarkets and others are
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
using private critical mission networks to be independent and ensure that their network is always up. Yes, it may cost more but many companies can’t compromise on up time. For banks, VSATs are the only solution which provides them with a high availability network. Some banks even employ two alternate VSATs in each branch for full redundancy. Soon, much more Ka-band will be available over Africa. It will take time and happen gradually and this change will focus on the consumer market and bring lower prices and more VSAT users. Governments and international organisations are continuing their push to bring services, including distance learning, and rural government services to all regions. Benny Glazer – RVP Sales, EMEA, Gilat Satellite Networks (www.gilat.com)
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SOLUTIONS
Environment Technology to support water programmes the usage of the LifeStraw and consumption of safe In a project by Vestergaard Frandsen, Carbon for drinking water. It was also used for managing Water - aimed at providing over 91 per cent of ongoing program activities including; community Kenya’s west province population with fresh drinking use and repair and replacement, stock and inventory. water through the supply of LifeStraw water filters – Furthermore, all Health Impact Data is collected from Samsung Electronics Africa supplied the company the Provincial General Hospital and clinics to with 4,000 Samsung smartphone devices to monitor measure the impact of LifeStraw on children under the programme, to manage the activities of the five and people living with HIV and AIDS, using this programme and to conduct essential health impact application. research. Together, the initiation of the project and “As a business we are constantly finding new ways the support of the technology devices has positively to use our technology in bettering the lives of as affected about 900,000 households and about 4.5mn Robert Ngeru, Kenyans in a community where clean water was Commercial Director for many people within our local communities and Samsung Electronics empowering the success of life altering projects – previously scarce. East and Central Africa and this project is another way we are able to do just The programme required 4,000 community health workers and drivers to reach 877,505 households in 25 and a half days this,” says Robert Ngeru, Commercial Director for Samsung Electronics East and Central Africa. “Through the use of mobile technology not - to install LifeStraw water filters, train the residents and periodically only was the team able to generate 50 records per minute, which was monitor the impact of the solutions. In addition, it required effective transferred back to the servers for immediate analysis, but so too did monitoring of the programme and management of the activities this information transfer into valuable information used to ensure through a reliable technology framework. This was all done through optimal use of the equipment for better results.” Samsung smartphones installed with an application used to measure
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SOLUTIONS
Industry New Doosan and Bobcat Dealer in Mauritius Prime Plant Co. Ltd (PPCL) has been appointed by Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment as the new authorised dealer for the Doosan, Bobcat and Doosan Portable Power ranges of equipment on the island of Mauritius. Headed up by Managing Director Patrick Webb, who has over 20 years of experience in the market, PPCL is now responsible for sales and service of the Doosan Heavy range of crawler and wheeled excavators, wheel loaders and articulated dump trucks; the Bobcat range of compact loaders, excavators and telescopic handlers; as well as the Doosan Portable Power range of compressors, generators, light towers and light compaction equipment. PPCL intends to focus on the key markets of construction, public works, landscaping, general industry and agriculture on Mauritius. “We are already planning an expansion in our operations, because the demand is there. To begin with, we are concentrating on the customers who are our partners and we want to bring added value to the relationships we have with them,” Patrick Webb explained. To celebrate the appointment, PPCL recently held an Opening Ceremony attended by more than 70 customers, who were joined by Daniel Dupuy and Adem Urer, the Regional Director Africa and District Manager Africa, respectively, for Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment. Daniel Dupuy said, “I was very impressed with the way that PPLC has taken on this challenging appointment as setting up simultaneously a joint Doosan Heavy, Bobcat and Portable Power dealership is not an easy task. But from day one, Patrick Webb and Charles Derblay, the Technical Director at PPLC, have been very efficient and proactive in getting ready for the opening. They have organised very rapidly - from the personnel point of view, all the required staff including parts customer service representatives, service engineers, accounts, parts and sales people and, of course, the receptionist were in place from day one. At the same time, the company ensured the premises were fully operational
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with customer service desks for parts, parts shelves, the service workshop for light maintenance and repairs and a show room with machines, attachments, accessories and parts on display were all up and running well before the opening ceremony.” Patrick Webb agreed, “Complementing our sales department, PPCL has a professional aftermarket service. We have tried to make sure that everything is in favour of the customers, with qualified personnel, customised service and a thorough knowledge of the business and the world leading Bobcat and Doosan brands. We appreciate the confidence expressed in us by Doosan as demonstrated by the presence of both Daniel Dupuy and Adem Urer at the Opening Ceremony. The presentation by Daniel at the ceremony caught the attention of all the audience of company staff and customers who stayed late into the night at the event. “The audience was also riveted by a presentation given by Adem Urer, in which he described the Products and Attachments in both the Doosan and Bobcat ranges. Following Adem’s speech, there was a clamour for further information and interest in the products which kept us busy all night.” Presenting a variety of innovations At the opening, PPCL had a wide variety of equipment on display, including two Doosan DX225LC crawler excavators; Bobcat S130, S300 and S650 skid-steer loaders; and DX700 light compactors, G20 generators and 7/41 compressors from the Doosan Portable Power range. The official opening was followed by a
African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
‘hands-on’ session with more than 50 operators attending, all of whom had taken the time on a Saturday morning to attend a joint presentation from Patrick Webb and Adem Urer. Patrick presented an innovative finance package designed to enable operators to become owners of their own skid-steer loaders with a small advance deposit, and hence giving them a route to being independent entrepreneurs in their own rights. In his speech, Adem emphasised the importance of operational safety when handling a Bobcat skid-steer loader on a work site. Following the presentations, a contest took place to test the skills of the operators when handling a Bobcat skid-steer loader. To make it very exciting, the test involved five tennis balls sitting precariously on a small stand in the bucket on the loader and the aim of the game was not only to keep all the balls on the stand but also to travel along a special course designed by Doosan Expert Demonstrator, Patrick Mansard, who led the way by completing a perfect round without losing any balls and in a record time. The best operator was Weissler Moineau from Dhiraj Earthmoving Contractors Co Ltd which has a fleet of six Bobcat and two Doosan machines. Weissler earned the respect of his peers at the same time as taking the winner’s prize of a remote controlled model of a Bobcat compact tracked loader. www.doosanequipment.eu
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EQUIPMENT/ CLASSIFIED
Flexible pipe rehabilitation The Jetvac sewer cleaning company in South Africa was tasked with repairing multiple defects in a fourkilometre-long sewer pipe in Cape Town. Using conventional Tel: +27 82 837 2973 technology would mean installing a www.shuttlescapetown.com cured-in-place pipe lining between each set of manholes along the pipe – at a cost that would bust the annual budget for such work several times over. Instead, Trelleborg’s epros DrainPacker method offered a much more flexible and costeffective solution. The epros DrainPacker system consists of two products, a silicate resin and a fibreglass sheet, which combine to make sectional repairs of damaged pipes and sewers. The resin is applied to both sides of the sheet, and once the sheet is impregnated and folded into three layers, it is rolled around an inflatable packer. The packer is lowered into the sewer pipe and pulled into position, where it expands, pressing the patch against the pipe wall. The resin cures, creating a strong and impermeable bond. “The heat in Cape Town was a problem, so we specified a silicate resin with a longer reaction time,” said Andreas Bichler, Technical Leader with Trelleborg in Duisburg, Germany, who supervised
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Jetvac’s first installations, points out that Trelleborg provides a unique service. “We sell the complete system, including the packer and all accessories, and provide in-house training as standard.”
Preparing to roll the impregnated sheet around an inflatable packer
Packer and sheet are maneuvered through a manhole into the sewer pipe
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African Review of Business and Technology - Dec 12/Jan 13
The impregnated sheet rolled around the inflatable packer
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Jetvac Director Peter Salomons pours silicate resin onto a fibre-glass sheet
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