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Sep - Oct 2016 | Vol. 1 / No 5
Stimulating urban
landmarks
Platz am Meer opens for business
Bicon part of green building in Swakopmund
Okahandja - Windhoek freeway construction progressing well
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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CREDITS ----------Publisher Young Press Multimedia Editor Henry Masuku editor@constructionnam.com +264 81 599 5081 Business Developer Roxy Silta Tjarukua info@constructionnam.com +264 81 432 8467
CONTENTS Page 5 Page 6 Page 7
Okahandja - Windhoek freeway construction progressing well Platz am Meer opens for business Stakeholders call for more robust measures to conserve water
Page 9
Safety at workplace tops for OJ Construction
Page 10
Multi-storey apartments on the rise in Windhoek
Page 11
Green Building members honoured
Page 14
NamPower in massive power saving drive
Printers John Meinert Printers
Page 19
Net-metering and the Metering Challenges
Physical address 24 Mozart Street, Windhoek West, Windhoek, Namibia
Page 23
ISSN: 2026-819X
Page 24
Neckartal Dam construction at advanced stage
Page 30
Moroff & KĂźhne redifining Windhoek Skies
Marketing Caryn Chanengeta marketing@constructionnam.com +264 81 2967087 Content Developer Emmanuel Ndlovu emmanuel@constructionnam.com Design and Layout Marcolino Justino designer@constructionnam.com
Š2016 Young Press Multimedia cc. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of Young Press Multimedia cc.
DBN supports infrastructure development in Kunene Region
Advertisers Index
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
----------Pupkewitz - 1 DBN - 4 Dynamic Concrete - 7 Greywall - 8 Bicon - 13 Radial Truss - 15 Aqua Services - 16 OmniTel - 18 RDJ Consulting - 22 Ediva Real Estates - 26 WHSS - 29 Roads Authority - 31 FNB - 32
E D I TO R’ S N OT E Robust prospects of success are still visible in Namibia’s construction sector particularly through company initiatives embracing the demands of the new digital age. There is no doubt that the construction sector in Namibia is set for growth, yet this growth largely depend on how far the company exposes its success story and history to the market. Construction Namibia Magazine will in the coming edition, seek to bring together in a more holistic approach the success story of construction projects in Namibia. Our eyes are always glued on the future, fixing our gaze on those prospects that make the sector grow to new heights. In this edition, we focus on the current construction of the freeway from Windhoek to Okahandja. Thanks to Roads Authority, more lives are set to be saved, time and stress reduced and convenience promoted after the successful completion of this road. We also carry the Nerckatal Dam construction, a project set to provide water to a region ravaged by massive droughts. We highlight the importance of safety in the workplace, focusing on how OJ Construction has managed to ensure that worker safety remains at the top of the priority list. Safety at the workplace remains key and means of harnessing safety measures around the workplace are paramount to preserve lives. The need to preserve water remains a key priority to the construction sector. Calls have been made to this effect and we look forward to the successful implementation of recommendations made to ensure that the sector survives through this difficult period. NamPower has also come up with a raft of measures to promote the minimum use of energy by introducing power saving bulbs in homes. We appreciate these noble measures and hope that the whole country benefits from them. Enjoy
Henry
CALL FOR ARTICLES Our end of year edition is already underway. We are calling on companies to take this opportunity to send in articles and images of their finished construction projects. Let the world know about the success story you had in 2016. No matter how small a project is, letting the world know it’s you who made it makes all the difference. Let me take this opportunity to thank all our stakeholders who have actively participated in making this magazine a success. As we continue to build a stronger partnership together, we fully recognize that your support and the continued trust that you place in us is the foundation of this magazine's success. Driven by a desire to promote the construction industry and help players in the sector keep up to date with developments and practical matters, Construction Namibia covers topics including contracts, cost management, procurement, construction law and regulations, communication and project management skills. The turn of the new millennium has set on course numerous routes for growth in the construction sector characterised by massive investment in green buildings, low cost housing, optimisation of power utilities and development of sound business. Construction magazine is driven by a strong editorial team with a vision to ensure expansion of clients business through reportage of significant events and developments in the world of construction including the newest methods of construction intended to improve efficiency, performance and reduce construction waste. Construction magazine is the largest construction magazine in Namibia edited exclusively to guide CEOs, owners of small-to-midsize companies, engineers, technological experts and policy makers to success. Stars can only be seen because they shine in darkness far above the hustle and bustle. Join us as we let success do the talking. For those who wish to be added to our mailing list for a free soft copy of Construction Namibia please do not hesitate to drop me an email at info@constructionnam.com
Caryn
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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There is more to the North than cattle, craft and cuca shops. Our finance proves it. The Development Bank of Namibia has a proud record of finance for successful enterprises and development of infrastructure, in Northern Namibia. We understand the business environment, it’s cultures, its markets and the vast potential of its regions. If you have a business plan for manufacturing. transport and logistics, tourism or agri-industry in the North, we want to hear from you. Visit www.dbn.com.na for more information then call us in Ongwediva on + 264 65 - 230 129.
Good business is good for development. 4
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
INFRASTRUCTURE
Okahandja - Windhoek freeway construction progressing well: Roads Authority
R
oads Authority has given an update on construction of Okahandja - Windhoek dual carriageway revealing that Section 3 (the first 10km of new freeway extending the existing one at Brakwater) is nearing completion and is scheduled for opening to traffic in the first week of October. “Construction of the next Section (4a) has commenced, and the detailed design of the last section (4b) to Okahandja still has to be completed. Section 1 became part of the freeway to the HKI Airport and section 2 the existing road will be rehabilitated and upgraded last," states RA. The RA is still upbeat about the completion of the new freeway (entire project) by the end 2019 to early 2020. This project is set to culminate in a significant reduction of accidents common on this stretch by offering a free way that is safe for transport users.
It is a safe dual carriageway freeway high standard road. It is access-controlled by allowing access only at split-level interchanges. No at-level start or crossing of the two carriageways will be allowed anymore. Although the pavement design life is 20 years, the typical practical usable life will be at least 30 years with the life of bridges between 50 and 100 years. After further future rehabilitation these life spans can be extended. In order to upgrade the Windhoek-Okahandja road to freeway standards, the road was subdivided into four sections, which will be constructed in phases. Section one of the construction entails the construction of
a second carriageway between Auas Road and Main Road 52 at Sam Nujoma Drive in Windhoek. Section two will entail the rehabilitation of the current dual carriageway from Windhoek, Sam Nujoma Drive to Brakwater. Section three entails current Western Bypass extension northwards from Brakwater to the Dobra River. Section four will continue with the freeway all the way to Okahandja via the Okahandja Western Bypass linking the existing roads to Otjiwarongo and Karibib. The RA is overseeing the project, while the Grinaker-LTA is the appointed contractor for the project.
“The high accident rate due to frustration caused by very few passing opportunities, high transport and time costs due to very slow speeds on the road, long-term need of the freeway supporting economic growth, Harambee Prosperity Plan are the key reasons for this road upgrade,” RA reveals. Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Platz am Meer opens for business P
latz am Meer, the new upmarket beach front development in Swakopmund recently opened its doors for business well before the estimated opening in 2017.
This new coastal landmark offers an array of all-weather shopping amenities, sea-view restaurants and coffee shops, seafront penthouses and apartments, as well as banks. Ample parking is available for patrons. The landmark was developed by Safari Developments, designed by MPW Associates Architects and the building contractor was Namibia Construction.
Workers on site: An average of 350 per day Man hours: +- 920 000 man hours of construction work Rock placed for breakwater: 135 000 tons Concrete placed: 15 866m3 (2644 truckloads of 6m3 each-13km queue of trucks) Bricks used: 2 764 951 (923 truckloads, a 5, 5 km queue of trucks) Form Work: 100 579m2 (16 rugby fields) Brick force: 70 km used Rebar used: 1 129 tons Bags of cement: 135 565 bags/ 6780 tons Plaster: 43 139m2
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
Safari Developments is confident that the lifestyle estate will become the go-to destination for both local communities and for visitors from near. Platz am Meer will be officially opened through a grand ceremony on the 14th of October 2016.
DEVELOPMENT
Stakeholders call for more robust measures to conserve water
T
he Namibia Scientific Society recently hosted a public talk on water security at an event which brought key stakeholders together to deliberate on the current water situation.
Hydrosearch, who gave a detailed presentation on the natural and managed aquifer recharging in ephemeral river systems and water budgets in arid regions.
NamWater’s Head of the Central Business Unit, Cliff Olivier revealed water supply challenges to Central Windhoek and these can be attributed to water levels in Omatako, Von Bach and Swakoppoort dams which stand at 0,1%, 18% and 8% respectively.
This was the 3rd Water Forum stakeholder’s information meeting targeted to create public engagement on the water crisis.
“In essence Omatako dam stands empty. Infrastructural constraints have been met in transferring water to Von Bach dam and if that dam stops supplying water, only half of the Windhoek water demand will be met,” he says. Olivier revealed that water usage is currently higher than what was previously predicted and this is worsening the situation. Swakoppoort dam is expected to be the last to run dry by June 2017. He also highlighted the water demand crossed the supply line in 2012 and that is how far the water crisis can be traced back. Some thoughts and solutions to the acute water Cliff Olivier shortages were presented by Theo Wassenaar, an ecological researcher, who paid attention to demand management.
Theo Wassenaar
“It is important to understand that rain may or may not bring relief next season, but the underlying crisis remains because Windhoek has grown out of its sustainable water supply. Demand management therefore is an integral part of the strategy and is the quickest, easiest and cheapest way of solving the problem of sustainable supply, much cheaper than building new pipelines,” he says. Wassennar is of the opinion the City of Windhoek (CoW) as the primary demand managers are falling short. He points out managing demand mechanisms such as water scarcity tariffs and drought monitors as stipulated in the Drought Response plan are not being enforced. “We need much more commitment from the CoW and it is up to us the citizens to shake them up,” he says. This was echoed by the audience who unanimously called for more action from City of Windhoek, Namwater and the Ministry. Wassenaar also revealed the water crisis is a global one. According to the World Bank Water, cities may have 31 to 66% less water by 2050. Calls for active engagement from residents in saving water were made. Residents should see themselves as partners in the crisis and should therefore make conscious decisions. To end the presentation, he pointed out that the Windhoek aquifer is the most precious asset but it is not treated with the respect it deserves. “We are building on the aquifer, destroying water-protecting vegetation and I propose we should look at making the aquifer the anchor of a large multi-use protected area. This nascent idea may be further developed,” Wassenaar says. The talk was also attended by one of the founders of Namib Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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Contact us for more information: Eenhana Office | Manu | Tel: 065 - 263 922 | Cell: 081 726 2533 Ongwediva Office | Menethe | Tel: 065 - 231 970 | Cell: 081 147 4289 Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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Then buy into the new social housing project at Eenhana specially catered for low income earners.
SAFETY
Safety at workplace tops for OJ Construction
The importance of being safe at work cannot be overemphasized. Studies have revealed if workers are safe, they are happy and when they are happy productivity is amplified.
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t is then important to keep workers safe all the times. Some studies also reveal that workers in the construction industry are at greater risk when compared to other general workers. Construction companies cannot therefore afford to compromise on a safe working environment as revealed by Henco Wilson of OJ Construction.
Construction workers. Relevant personal protective equipment is readily available to all employees and a compulsory site specific safety induction is held with all employees, subcontractors and visitors before handing them relevant personal safety equipment and before entering the construction site.
Wilson reveals that to OJ Construction, the privilege of providing job opportunities to people goes hand in hand with the responsibility to keep their employees safe so they can return to their families every day.
Wilson says they also run a program that assists all sub-contractors to create and maintain their own safety file. These files contain their company policies, checklists and a register of the equipment used and incident reporting procedures amongst others.
“We found that the ongoing efforts to promote safety awareness creates a culture amongst our work force that makes them consider the safety risk of a specific task before commencing with the task and this has had a natural general effect of planning the work well which in turn promotes more productive mindsets,” he says.
Through safe working practices, the company has successfully assured trust of its employees as safety is held in a much higher regard than production and profits. Apart from minor incidents, the company has not had any serious injuries or fatalities since its inception 10 years ago.
Numerous measures have been put in place to ensure a safe working environment for OJ
Although direct employees are cooperating well with the measures put in place, OJ
Construction has however met a few challenges in their moves to ensure workers are safe from harm mainly from subcontractors. “We are battling however to get the buy in from our subcontractors. Many of the subcontractors think that the cost of maintaining a safe environment does not always justify the advantages it brings,” Wilson says. “We have however found that the balance is shifting as more and more subcontractors are making an effort to comply with the safety legislations as contained in the Namibian Labour Act,” he adds. OJ Construction is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all personnel. It strives to continually improve the effectiveness of the health and safety system through the setting and measurement of health and safety objectives and by conforming to current, applicable occupational health and safety legislation.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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Multi-storey apartments on the rise in Windhoek
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he 3000 m2 multi-storey Merensky Towers, located in the Windhoek CBD, is a boost to NMC Construction Namibia’s positioning in the local construction Industry. The project’s central location, in conjunction with the nearby Lazarett Street Development, provides the team with ample exposure to showcase their retail and commercial capabilities. Particularly now that the rising structure
forms part of the Windhoek Horizon. The N$82 million project comprises of a seven storey apartment building with three parking levels, consisting of 91 sectional title units and ancillary site works. “Level three of the structure was cast mid-July and we are currently well on programme. With 90 columns to cast on each residential floor and a 12 day cycle on residential slabs we are working against extremely tight time lines. We’ve been working tirelessly to meet deadlines and stay on track. We are confident that the project will be
completed on programme and look forward to handing over a high quality product to the client". Richard Chatrer, Project Manager.
Breaking News The award of the N$76,4 milillion Town Lodge Windhoek project brings the tally of projects in the capital city to three. This award comes on the back of the CIty Lodge Group's exceptional experience on both the Summerstand CIty Lodge and PIetermaritzberg Road Lodge
Determining quality in bricks To know the quality of bricks, the following 7 tests can be performed. Some of these tests are performed in laboratory and the rest are on field. 1. Compressive strength test 2. Water Absorption test 3. Efflorescence test 4. Hardness test 5. Size, Shape and Color test 6. Soundness test 7. Structure test
Compressive strength test: This test is done to know the compressive strength of brick. It is also called crushing strength of brick. Generally 5 specimens of bricks are taken to laboratory for testing and tested one by one. In this test a brick specimen is put on crushing machine and applied pressure till it breaks. The ultimate pressure at which brick is crushed is taken into account. All five brick specimens are tested one by one and average result is taken as the brick's compressive/crushing strength. Water Absorption test: In this test bricks are weighed in dry condition and let them immersed in fresh water for 24 hours. After 24 hours of immersion those are taken out from water and wipe out with cloth. Then brick is weighed in wet condition. The difference between weights is the water absorbed by brick. The percentage of water absorption is then calculated. The less water absorbed by brick the greater its quality. Good quality brick does not absorb more than 20% water of its own weight. Efflorescense test: The presence of alkalies in bricks is harmful and they form a gray or white layer on brick surface by absorbing moisture. To find out the presence of alkalis in bricks this test is performed. In this test a brick is immersed in fresh water for 24 hours and then it's taken out from water and allowed to dry in shade.
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
If the whitish layer is not visible on surface it proofs that absence of alkalis in brick. If the whitish layer visible about 10% of brick surface then the presence of alkalis is in acceptable range. If that is about 50% of surface then it is moderate. If the alkalis's presence is over 50% then the brick is severely affected by alkalies. Hardness test: In this test a scratch is made on brick surface with a hard thing. If that doesn't left any impression on brick then that is good quality brick. Size, shape and color test: In this test randomly collected 20 bricks are staked along lengthwise, widthwise and heightwise and then those are measured to know the variation of sizes as per standard. Bricks are closely viewed to check if its edges are sharp and straight and uniform in shape. A good quality brick should have bright and uniform color throughout. Soundness test: In this test two bricks are held by both hands and struck with one another. If the bricks give clear metallic ringing sound and don't break then those are good quality bricks. Structure test: In this test a brick is broken or a broken brick is collected and closely observed. If there are any flows, cracks or holes present on that broken face then that isn't good quality brick.
ENVIRONMENT
Green Building members honoured
A
s Namibia grows towards greater awareness of the importance of sustainability in building, membership of the Green Building Council also increases. On the 30th of August the Green Building Council of Namibia (GBCNA) honoured its members with official membership certificates in a handover ceremony that was officiated by the Honorable Deputy Minister of Works and Transport, James Sankwasa.
Mathew Margolis from Pearl Waterfree opening the ceremony with a presentation
GBCNA’s administrator says it was a success and they look forward to the 3rd Annual Convention that will take place from the 26th to the 30th of September at the Habitat Research Deputy Minister Sankwasa, James Sankwasa hands over Bronze and Development Centre in Katutura. Membership certificate to Angula Nashandi from Bicon.
Present to collect certificates were: Angula Nashandi for Bicon Namibia Consulting Engineers, Karen Miller for Karen Miller Architects, Frikkie Holtzhausen for Lithon Consulting Engineers, Ndishiilange Ndjoba for WCE Windhoek Consulting Engineers, Ramatoulie S. Muhammed for Jack Mutua Architects, Ronald Geiger for SCE Seelenbinder Consulting Engineers and Lukie Van Staden for Aurecon Group. The ceremony took place at the Ministry of Works and Transport offices and was opened by Mathew Margolis of Pearl Waterfree with a presentation on the current water crisis and alternative ways to create sustainable sanitation solutions. The Honorable Deputy Minister closed the ceremony with a speech on the importance of sustainability and the necessity of collaboration between all professions in order to always strive to achieve the best possible solution.
Lithon Consulting Engineers’ Frikkie Holtzhausen receives certificate while Muketi looks on
Trustees of the Green Building Council of Namibia present were Chairman Frederick Muketi and Architect Nina Maritz. Describing the ceremony, Giorgia Cacciatore,
Windhoek Consulting Engineers represented by Ndishiilange Ndjoba receives certificate
Ronald Geiger receives certificate on behalf of Seelenbinder Consulting Engineers
Karen Miller receives certificate for Karen Miller Architects
Ramatuolie S.Muhammed of Jack Mutua Architects receiving certificate
Lukie Van Staden receiving certificate on behalf Aurecon Group
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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ENVIRONMENT
Bicon part of green building in Swakopmund
B
icon Namibia, an independent multidisciplinary engineering consulting firm continues to make tremendous strides in the engineering and construction fields following the recent completion of the Ministry of Mines & Energy building in Swakopmund.
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According to one of the company's directors, Mr. von Leipzig, the brief was that the building should feature commercially available energy saving measures to demonstrate to other users what can be done to save energy. The 26 office, double storey building features two boardrooms, a large strong room and large exhibition hall. The concept was to
Construction ConstructionNamibia NamibiaSeptember September--October October2016 2016
make the building energy self-sustaining using solar and wind. The building is positioned facing north to gain heat in winter when the sun is low. Hollow walls and double glazing limit heat loss to the outside. A large number of skylights reduce the amount of lighting required during the day.
ENVIRONMENT
It is the first office building featuring under floor heating using hot water in the floors, reducing the required heating inside the rooms. A grey water system is used, collecting water from hand-wash basins and a fog wall collecting moisture from the air and augments water used for the desert garden and flushing of toilets. For this N$38 million project, Bicon partnered with Karen Miller Architects, AIJ Project Cost Consultants, Lombard Consulting Electrical Engineers and WML Coast for Civil/Structural Engineering.
The practice was founded in 1957. We are multidisciplinary Consulting Engineers and have Partners and Staff in the Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic Engineering field. The office operates in close association with the other Bicon offices in the SADC Region. Branch offices are situated at Oshakati, Swakopmund and Rundu.
(+264-61) 275 120 bicon@bicon.com.na www.bicon.com.na 13 13
Construction ConstructionNamibia Namibia September September--October October 2016 2016
ENERGY
Na m Po w e r i n m a s s i v e p ow e r s av i n g d r i v e
MD Kahenge Simson Haulofu pictured with the Switch to LED team
N
amPower is replacing incandescent bulbs nationwide in an initiative targeted at addressing escalating energy costs and critical shortage of electricity due to power demands that exceed supply. Speaking at the launch, Kahenge Simson Haulofu, NamPower Managing Director says this campaign is part of the Short Term Critical Supply Programme (STCS) and Demand Side Management (DSM) project under which a number of short to medium term initiatives are being implemented to address immediate power supply shortages until a base-load power station is commissioned - a station that is capable of operating 24 hours a day and is shut down only when routine maintenance is required or due to unforeseen circumstances. “The 1mLED Campaign aims to reduce electricity usage in residential areas during peak times, which are 06:00 – 09:00 in the morning, and 18:00 – 21:00 in the evening and the campaign will see approximately one million incandescent bulbs in residences replaced with Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs for free,” Haulofu says. He adds that energy savings created through this campaign will have a direct positive benefit on the Namibian economy through reduced electricity import costs as Namibia imports about 60% of its electricity, mostly during peak times. Through the campaign, there will be a reduced demand on the national grid during peak times, thus cutting down on the costs of electricity imports.
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Lex Technologies and NamEnergy Resources have been contracted as LED Champions to facilitate the bulbs installation process throughout the country. Bulbs to be replaced are those that are mostly switched on during peak hours in areas such as the living room, kitchen and passages. The campaign rollout will be monitored and verified by an independent Measurement and Verification Consultant to ensure that the demand and energy savings as a result of the campaign are accurately accounted. LED bulbs last longer and consume far less electricity, while giving out the same or more light-intensity when compared to other bulbs. These bulbs are also environmentally friendly as they contain non-toxic substances and are very cost effective over a period of time. Haulofu says installation schedules, which are information on when and in which town the installations will be taking place, will be frequently communicated to the public via the print and electronic media. Over 650 unemployed youths throughout the country have been recruited to do the houseto-house bulb replacements. NamPower expects this campaign to result in 30 to 50 MW saving on its energy bill, marked by ever-increasing dependence on imports.
“We envision the campaign to be finalized by May 2017,” Haulofu reveals.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
SWITCH TO LED The naTion’s bulb Demand for electricity in Namibia has increased drastically and has exceeded supply. The situation has prompted NamPower to implement various solutions to address the shortage of electricity, of which the 1mLED Campaign is an initiative. The 1mLED Campaign is aimed at reducing electricity usage in residential areas during peak times. LED bulbs last longer and use far less electricity compared to other bulbs. NamPower will be replacing incandescent bulbs in areas of your house, that are mostly on during the morning (6:00am - 9:00am) and evening (18:00pm - 21:00pm) peak times, with LED bulbs, FOR FREE. NamPower has contracted LED Champions who will be visiting your house to install the FREE LED bulbs. SAVE Electricity, SAVE Money, SAVE the Environment
www.nampower.com.na/DSM
Radial Truss
A Fast Growing Conglomerate Established in 2011 initially as a closed corporation, Radial Truss Industries (Pty) Ltd's main focus was civil engineering, mechanics and investments. Today the company has diversified into electrical engineering, mining, manufacturing and real estate and boosts technical expertise in corporate governance, civil and electrical engineering contracts, law, accounting and finance and general business under the leadership of 4 directors, all of which are experts in their respective fields. Radial Truss Industries’ vision is to become the biggest bona fide conglomerate in the country in the above mentioned fields through
excellent service delivery and realization of combined efforts in its field of operation. Maintaining a business renowned for its innovative and passionate approach to customer satisfaction and working towards a business that fulfills the aspirations of its employees by being the most sought after employer of choice are the two missions that drive Radial Truss Industries (Pty) Ltd. The company has over 300 employees and subcontractors working country wide to ensure a professional and due delivery of projects.
As previously disadvantaged professionals and business people, Radial Truss Industries is largely involved in social responsibility efforts. The company has commenced the process of inducting students at tertiary institutions and so far 15 students have been inducted in the different fields of business administration, civil/structural engineering, electrical engineering and mechanics. A Radial Truss Employee and Social Development Trust Fund is in place and it enables the company’s employees to become partners and shareholders, and further assist the public via social grants and endowments.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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Our Mission “It is our mission to provide quality service through the implementation of the latest environmentally conscious water treatment technologies using local and dedicated Namibian expertise. ASE is committed to offering customized water treatment solutions and to optimize and maintain the present water treatment infrastructure in Namibia, and beyond its borders.”
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It is our Vision to be YOUR ULTIMATE TECHNOLOGICAL PARTNER AND SERVICE PROVIDER IN THE WATER TREATMENT FIELD.
Luther Rukira
Thomas Honer
Alex Busch
Driaan Esterhuyzen
Managing Director
General Manager: Chemicals
General Manager: Projects
General Manager: Finance & Admin
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
Chemicals
Projects
Hydrex (boiler, cooling tower, and membrane treatment chemicals), Coagulants and Flocculants, Disinfectants, Ion Exchange Resins, Solvent Extractants, various Speciality and Commodity Chemicals.
Service
Products
Operations
Potable Water Treatment, Municipal and Industrial Waste Water Treatment, Process Water Treatment, Reverse Osmosis, Ion Exchange, Pool Filtration, Pumpstations.
Water analysis, plant optimisation, planned maintenance,service & repair, emergency assistance.
Grundfos Dosing, Hach Analytical, OTT Hydromet, Elster Kent Prepaid Meters, Aquafab Standard Plants, membranes, filters.
Management of plant operations, operator training, operational adjustmets and optimisations, build-own-operate-transfer schemes.
Namibia 15 Brahman Street . Northern Industrial Area, Windhoek . Tel: +264-61-261-143 Fax: +264-61-257-628 . Email: ase@ase.com.na . www.ase.com.na
South Africa
Botswana
Modderfontein Head Office:
Unit 5, Plot 50629
Golf View Office Park, 13 Pressburg Road,
Block 3, Industrial Estate, Gaborone
Founders View, Modderfontein, 1609
Tel: +267-395-3888
Tel: +27-11-663-3600
Fax: +267-397-4703
E-mail: info.southafrica@veolia.com
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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OmniTel Namibia - In Namibia. For Namibia.
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
Tel: +264 (61) 278 700 Fax: +264 (61) 278 799 info@omnitel.com.na
ENERGY
Net-metering and the metering challenges! N
et-metering has generated a “buzz” in the general electricity consumer at large and the renewable / solar community specifically. This is in response to the economics of electricity provision, ability to self-generate and the related tariffs for consumption. Here in Namibia, electricity matters are handled by the Electricity Control Board (ECB) that is a statutory regulatory authority with a mandate to exercise control over the electricity supply industry (http:// www.ecb.org.na). The ECB defines Net-metering as; a methodology under which electricity is generated by a customer-generator and delivered to an electricity distribution licensee’s local distribution facilities and may be used to offset electric energy provided by the electricity distribution licensee to the consumer‐generator during an applicable billing period. The ECB further goes on to state that; All distribution utilities shall offer net metering to customer‐generators subject to these rules and other applicable laws, rules and regulations of Namibia. Applicable law is currently governed by the Electricity Act of 2007, which was preceded by the Electricity Act of 2000. Customer or Generator? Most self-generating systems will be classified as Small - Scale Embedded Generation which means that an essence of self-consumption is expected. This brings us to the relevance of metering and its related Tariff issues.
measure in one direction (import from the utility) only and this is further complicated by pre-paid meters being widely used in Namibia. Current pre-paid meters have a specific problem as they are uni-directional unlike unlatched” conventional meters. Net-metering however requires bi-directional metering (referred to as four-quadrant metering) or the installation of two uni-directional meters. Either way, bi-directional or two unidirectional meters increase the complexity of administration of accounts and so utilities are not fond of them.
Standard metering used by the utilities are currently uni-directional, meaning that they
Revenue impacts tend to however be the real “road block” against permitting customers to interconnect with utilities although there are specific safety and other technical challenges. This then leads to charges by the utility to the customer for their modelled apportionment of the utilities cost of service. Any metering arrangement therefore has to be able to record
An example of bi-directional net-metering
‘http://www.nalsunenergy.com/faq/
and collate the import and export information to allow for effective billing. A further complication is the need for metering that can also facilitate “Time of Use” tariffs in a bi-directional context. Off-grid migration is thus a real possibility resulting from the current dilemma facing the industry and the consumers. Next move is thus up to the utilities and technology providers! Note: The reader is reminded however that Net-metering is a complex issue and so this article has only scratched the surface. *David Jarrett is a freelance Energy and Sustainability Adviser and Managing Consultant at RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Namibia. He can be reached at info@electricity-africa.co.za / consultant@ rdjconsulting.co.za*
David Jarrett
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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INNOVATION
WV - Construction brings
revolution to construction industry
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V-Construction (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned and proudly Namibian company. They are proud members of the Namibian Manufacturing Association, Team Namibia and have been awarded Manufacturing Status by Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Finance. WV has pioneered, and continues to successfully lead, the way in lightweight steel framing technology in Namibia. Their technology serves as an innovative alternative to conventional brick and mortar construction techniques. The professional team at WVConstruction believes in their motto of “bringing efficient and affordable construction solutions to the Namibian people”. The company is proud of their state of the art manufacturing facility in Windhoek’s Northern Industrial area, where all the lightweight steel components are designed, manufactured and assembled.
is more cost effective than conventional brick and mortar and the time saved to complete construction projects is significant. WV-Construction also designs, manufactures, assembles, delivers and installs light gauge steel roof trusses. Their clientele includes various construction companies, contractors and property developers throughout Namibia. WV also manufactures light gauge steel purlins, brandering, lipped-channels and C-channels. WV-Construction designs roof structures and manufactures trusses for a wide range of projects in various locations in Namibia. WV sells their steel products to any individual or company and also uses this technology to complete a wide range of construction projects. WV steel roof trusses offer a wide range of benefits over timber trusses. The trusses
“We have been operating in Namibia for about 5 years, starting with the factory in Otavi but we have recently moved our manufacturing operations to Windhoek. One of our steel manufacturing machines was previously based in Luanda, Angola but has recently also been brought to Windhoek. As such, our production capacity in Windhoek has been doubled,” says Armandt Ferreira, Logistics Manager. This technology involves the manufacturing of various steel profiles, used to erect wall panels and roof structures. The steel wall panels are clad with fibre-cement boards and the wall cavities are pumped full of 7MPa lightweight concrete. An insulation material, known as Rockwool, is also offered to clients, as a cheaper alternative to the concrete wall infill option. The Rockwool material proves effective, especially in low cost structures and has good sound proofing and heat insulation properties. The concrete infill wall solution
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
are lightweight, easier to transport, easier to install onsite and have a longer service lifetime, when compared to timber trusses, which prove to be vulnerable to moisture and insects. The steel trusses can be delivered and installed in any location in Namibia and are weather and termite proof. There has been quite a lot of interest in this technology in Namibia, following the successful completion of various projects by WV-Construction. The projects have been a wide range in the private, government and parastatal sectors. These include infrastructure construction on mines, affordable housing, residential developments, barracks and soldier accommodation, classrooms and schools, commercial and retail projects, as well as warehouses and aircraft hangers all over the country.
INNOVATION
Ferreira says this technology is well known and established in Europe, America and in South Africa. The technology has also been well accepted in Namibia, with commercial banks financing approval in place. To date, a number of projects have successfully been completed and these include the WVConstruction offices in Windhoek. These offices are a perfect illustration of the different technologies offered by WV-Construction as they have made use of lightweight concrete walls, lightweight steel staircases and lightweight steel furniture. WV-Construction also has a patented light gauge steel slab system, which is used as permanent shuttering. The WV-Slab concept has gained traction with various construction companies and developers making use of the system. The WVSlab permanent shuttering system is very cost effective and time efficient to install. There are many ways that WV-Construction is unique. Not only is it the only one of it’s kind in the country, it is very focused on maintaining professional and personal relationships with its clients. It is also unique in that only SMEs are used to provide the labour aspect to the construction projects, giving a lot of people work opportunities. An interest free loan account for these SMEs is also in place, to assist them to purchase the required tools and equipment. “We also offer in house design services. Our design department can take a project from concept stage to final completion,” adds Ferreira.
This technology is well in line with green building, as steel is widely employed and water consumption is significantly less, when compared to conventional building. This is valuable, specifically considering the water crisis in the country at the moment. WV-Construction is in the process of importing another steel forming machine, which will be focused on the production of larger span roof trusses. This will complement the product offering to the WV client base, as WV will then be able to produce another steel profile and increase production capacity significantly.
Ferreira also reveals that they are in the process of developing mobile units, making use of the lightweight steel technology, instead of merely converting shipping containers, as is currently the convention. This can serve as temporary accommodation, site offices, guard houses and ablutions. WV-Construction has a website containing various images and descriptions of completed and on going projects. Prospective clients can also contact the company by email or through the contact page on the site, which can be found at: www.wv-construction.com
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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Established in 2010 to help clients meet their energy and sustainability objectives. We are a knowledgeable team, exposed and trained in the various International best practices having worked and trained over 25 years in the Caribbean, USA, Europe and Southern Africa. RDJ therefore operates for a worldwide audience and has handled projects in excess of USD 5 million
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www.rdjconsulting.co.za
SERVICES • Consulting & Advisory Services • Project Management • Maintenance Services (via EPC Contractors) • Information Services 22
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
DEVELOPMENT
DBN supports infrastructure development in Kunene Region
Martin Inkumbi CEO of Development Bank of Namibia
T
he Development bank of Namibia recently toured Kunene region driven by the region’s development potential in enterprise and infrastructure with the aim to provide financing support to enterprises, local and regional authorities.
approximately 20 per cent to the hotels and restaurants sector. The Bank has also provided finance to small-scale manufacturing, smallscale mining and quarrying, real estate and business services, and wholesale, retail trade and repairs.
Martin Inkumbi, DBN CEO says the region is in an excellent position to further develop itself citing a need for development of roads, as well as power infrastructure to reach the region's community. In terms of enterprise, he adds that the Bank believes there is room for growth particularly in tourism.
In a separate event, DBN also recently donated N$50,000 towards construction of a school hall for Romanus Kamunoko Secondary School in Rundu. The school currently has to rent larger premises when its learners are required to sit for exams.
“The bank is also promoting itself to new enterprises with annual turnovers of more than N$10 million, and existing enterprises seeking to expand. We are providing finance for serviced land, and this will be prioritised for local authorities in Kunene as well. DBN is aware that its finance is subject to regional demand; however visits to regions are seen as key to stimulating demand. We therefore urge entrepreneurs and local authorities to find out more about the Bank's products,� Inkumbi says Since its inception, the Bank has allocated more than N$76 million in finance to the region. Of this, approximately 68 per cent was allocated to construction and
Talking at the handover, Inkumbi said that
determination to learn, they were able to rise to the challenge of learning, and improve their prospects in life. Addressing the learners, Inkumbi said that the outcome of diligent study would lead to a higher quality of life in adulthood. He told the learners that although they should set aside some time for relaxation, they should place a high degree of emphasis on their studies. He added that learning was a partnership between the parent, the teacher and the learner, and that all three should be actively engaged in the education of the learner. He said that parents and guardians should take an active interest in the progress of learners, and endeavor to assist if learners fell behind. Inkumbi concluded by saying that he hoped that some of the learners would join the Bank as valued, knowledgeable employees.
he and many of his colleagues attended schools with limited facilities. However with
In addition to finance provided for private tertiary, secondary and primary educational facilities, the Bank provides support for public sector schools through its social responsibility programs, including assistance with upgrading of hostel facilities for one school, and support to a school damaged in flooding in the north.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Neckartal Dam construction at advanced stage
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he Engineering Professions Association of Namibia (EPA) Led by EPA President, Frederick Muketi, recently organised a site visit to Neckartal Dam as part of a series of educational tours to understand the extent of engineering progress at the site. The delegation was received at the dam site by Antonio Nitti, the Assistant Site Manager and Günter Lecher, engineering consultant from Knight Piésold Consulting who took the group around whilst clarifying issues on progress on the construction of the dam. Nitti said the project is progressing well regardless of a few setbacks such as the
workers’ strike a while back and is expected to be completed by next year. Located in the Karas region along the Fish River in the south of the country, the Neckartal Dam project (Phase 1) is a construction of an 83 m high, 518 m long Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) gravity arch dam. At full supply level, the dam will hold 857 million cubic metres of water, covering an area of close to 40 000 hectares, making it by far the largest dam in Namibia. Upon completion of the project, water from the dam will be used to irrigate 5 000 hectares of land.
As construction is going on, aggregate and sand are sourced from a dolerite quarry 10 km from site and processed through a plant capable of producing 600 tons of aggregates per hour. Construction also includes a 393 m long RCC abstraction weir located 13 km downstream of the dam extracts water that is released from the upstream dam. From there and 8, 7 km long rising main conveys the water at a rate of 2, 1 cubic metres per second to an embankment balancing dam. In attendance were representatives from Lithon Consulting Engineers, Asher Consulting Engineers, Conselect Engineering, Artee Project Engineers and Aurecon Group. This visit comes after a group of dam specialists and engineers from various countries visited the dam as part of a pre-conference technical tour arranged for the 84th International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) Annual Meeting Symposium, which was held in Johannesburg, South Africa in May 2016. Besides Neckartal dam the 2 day tour also stopped at Naute dam in the same region before passing through Hardap dam in Mariental the following day.
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016
INFRASTRUCTURE
Name of Project: Neckartal Dam Project Project Partners: Salini Namibia (Pty) Ltd, Knight PiĂŠsold Consulting
MAIN TECHNICAL DATA: Open excavations: approximately 700,000 m3 Concrete (including RCC): approximately 1,075,000 m3 Embankments: approximately 250,000 m3 Steel reinforcement: approximately 7,000 tons Formworks: approximately 115,000 m2
Client: Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry Total value: N$2, 4 Billion Start of works: September 2013 Expected duration: 36 months
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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PLEASE CALL: 0811286082 /0812007825 E-mail: edivare@iway.na 26
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
Tips for recycling construction waste
Safety Checklist: CRANES CRANES Hazard: Significant and serious injuries may occur if cranes are not inspected before use and if they are not used properly. Often these injuries occur when a worker is struck by an overhead load or caught within the crane’s swing radius. Many crane fatalities occur when the boom of a crane or its load line contact an overhead power line. Solutions: • • • • • • • • • •
Check all crane controls to insure proper operation before use. Inspect wire rope, chains and hook for any damage. Know the weight of the load that the crane is to lift. Ensure that the load does not exceed the crane’s rated capacity. Raise the load a few inches to verify balance and the effectiveness of the brake system. Check all rigging prior to use; do not wrap hoist ropes or chains around the load. Fully extend outriggers. Do not move a load over workers. Barricade accessible areas within the crane’s swing radius. Watch for overhead electrical distribution and transmission lines and maintain a safe working clearance of at least 10 feet from energized electrical lines.
Construction waste in Africa is rarely accounted for. On the contrary, in developed nations such as USA, construction waste accounts for about one third of all refuse nationwide. However, sensitizing people on how to utilize construction waste in Africa can go a long way to helping the situation. Even if you are starting from a Greenfield site, construction waste will always occur. Some materials even lead to a negative impact on health and the environment if they are simply disposed of as landfill. For example, lead in contact with water makes the water toxic. Plasterboard in landfills releases hydrogen sulfide, which is a poisonous gas. Here we find out top 3 tips for recycling construction waste. Build It Back Into the New Building After completing your construction project the remains can be integrated to make up a new building or a new building site. The process of cycling the materials can be made in a natural way some others can be used in remodeling projects, walls are not necessarily demolished Locate Your Local Recycling Center The key word here is local. If it takes too much time, effort, and gas to transport construction waste for recycling, look for another solution (like avoiding waste instead). If the recycling center is close enough, find out what they take and when they open. Then add necessary trips to your overall construction schedule and planning to minimize overall impact. Take waste to the recycling center on the way out when you go to fetch new building materials, for instance. Practice Deconstruction Instead of Demolition As a constructor when trying to come up with a new site or coming up with another project instead of demolition do destruction so that the existing materials can be used in your new site.This will reduce your tax and reduce the cost of the client who wants to uplift his project. Calculate the Savings There is no doubt that recycling construction materials cuts costs. Recycling construction waste in Africa is the only way of boosting profitability in African construction industry.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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INNOVATION
MOME modular homes
a solution to informal settlements
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right Design CC’s architect and building systems engineer from the Netherlands, Roel Rutgers, has joined ventures with LIC Pool Centre CC, the biggest Namibian swimming pool company, to develop flexible modular homes. This affordable housing system addresses the country’s housing problem, and is a step well in line with Namibia’s Vision 2030 goals. Rutgers recently revealed in an exclusive interview that he wants to improve the housing and sanitation conditions in informal settlements. The collaboration with LIC Pool is a result of a mutual vision between the two parties. “Housing backlog is a real issue and it will not be solved overnight. Our product comes to address this backlog. It is a step in the right direction towards dealing with this challenge,” he says. Observing that informal settlements have been in existence for many years in Namibia, as an architect he is convinced that corrugated steel used for housing in a country with extreme temperatures is definitely not the best technology that mankind can come up with. The modular home concept is designed as a modular system which can be constructed room by room. Thereby the house can be expanded over time within the needs and budget of its owner. The design includes a prefabricated sanitary unit, solar energy, veranda or carport as built in options. “We use durable isolated panels produced in the LIC Pool Fiberglass factory. These panels are made of fireproof insulation material
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cladded with fiberglass on both sides, painted both inside and outside. The insulation keeps the house cool during the day and warm overnight. The house also allows the use of standard window and door frames, burglar bars for the windows and security doors to increase security levels,” Rutgers says. These partners are also working closely with Omuramba Impact Investment CC to employ the Enviro Loo technology, a South African manufactured water friendly sanitation solution, as a way of improving sanitation in the informal settlements along with these modular homes. There are a number of advantages that are coupled with MOME modular homes technology. The homes are easy and quick to build. He says, “We have done a onebedroom house with a solar geyser, tiling on the floor, painted inside and out, and it took 5 days to complete.” The standardized system allows for easy planning and extension. The lightweight panels are easy to transport. The units can be moved if necessary. And the use of water for construction is reduced by 80% as it is only used for floors. Since this initiative is still in its development, Rutgers is extensively involved in market research. He is meeting a lot of people from informal settlements around Windhoek, so he can get a good insight into the needs of the shack dwellers. Designs are then made to best suit these needs. He describes the market response as very positive so far. “Shack dwellers are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve their quality of living and they see our system as a very feasible way to achieve this.”
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
Bright Design CC engages commercial banks, the municipality and other relevant stakeholders to recognize the MOME technology and introduce bank financing for those that want to acquire these homes. Rutgers says a set of rules for both permanent and temporary buildings exists in Europe. The absence of the same scenario in Namibia makes it hard for the market to create solutions for those living on leased or occupied land. Setting up relevant rules and regulations to govern temporary structures will help formalize informal settlements and this will be an important step going forward. “We would like to investigate with the Namibian government how we can create an alternative strategy for temporary housing as a bridging solution.” Besides informal settlements, the MOME housing solution also targets construction sites, mines and farmlands, where building with bricks is considered too expensive due to the temporary nature of the structures at these respective areas. A brick structure cannot be moved, while the MOME house can have a second or even third life in a different location.
INNOVATION
The technology is being developed as a Namibian product with current focus on Windhoek. That said, and while starting small, Rutgers is ambitious and hopes to take this technology to other regions of the country. The SADC will also be pursued.
WINDHOEK HIRE SALES & SERVICES
“I want to build everyone a decent house by 2030, that will be my contribution to the Harambee Prosperity Plan,” Rutgers says.
Why buy ... if you can hire ...
Rutgers is also challenging other companies to come up with solutions to help alleviate the housing problem.
*Roel Rutgers has worked as an architect in the Netherlands for 9 years in a firm that specializes in sustainable architecture. He has been working on this innovative project for more than a year now. For more information about MOME modular homes, go to www.momehousing.com *
Te
a O hssn w n @ en i shakati
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International Award for Business Excellence Madrid - Spain 2014
iom t a k sha mibia.c
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www.whssnamibia.com
Tel: +264-(0)61-233693 • infowhk@whssnamibia.com • 5 Nickel Street • Prosperita • Windhoek Tel: +264-(0)64-462020 • infoswakop@whssnamibia.com • 36 Hidipo Hamutenya St. • Swakopmund Tel: +264-(0)65-226212 • info-oshakati@whssnamibia.com • Main Road • Oshakati
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Moroff & KĂźhne redefining Windhoek skies
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elson Mandela's larger than life personality and iconic legacy is reflected in the recently completed Madiba's Corner development situated on the corner of Nelson Mandela Avenue and Hugo Hahn Street, Windhoek, Namibia.
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The key design feature of this three story building is it's 14m cantilever which has no functional purpose other than to make a statement. This small boutique office complex is setting the record for the largest cantilever on a building in Namibia.
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
More than 48 000 kilometres of road to explore.
Into whichever direction you may look, there are thousands of bitumen, gravel and district roads to choose from. Each one expertly planned and constructed to ensure there’s always an endless supply of safe roads leading to boundless possibilities. We Build The Journey.
Roads Authority
Construction Namibia September - October 2016
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get customised property finance.
No two properties are the same. Which is why you need customized finance solutions from FNB to make your dreams a reality. Our extensive national footprint means a team of experienced property experts are available to attend to your needs anywhere in Namibia. So choose FNB Commercial Property Finance for your next development or to re-finance an existing property and experience the best in tailor-made finance solutions.
Call Axel Cramer on +264 61 299 7560 or Margot van Schalkwyk on +264 61 299 2828 for more information.
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Construction Namibia September - October 2016