CRESTANKS An AquasanTec Group Company
Innovative solutions for water, sanitation & food security
Lifeline gutters
Water tanks
First rectangular design on the Ugandan market Septic tank
Every drop counts, harvest it with a crestank Road barriers
Protect under ground water sources by using septic tank
Make road safe by use of plastic road barriers
A wide range of industrial and Agricultural solutions
Blueflame BioslurriGaz
Qdesk
Gran Silo
SHOWROOM 7th Street Oxford Station Industrial Area Kampala - Uganda Mob: +256-750 766 410 www.crestanks.co.ug | info@crestanks.co.ug
Hand washing facility
Mobilet
Permawell
Plot No 265, Jinja Road, Bweyogerere - Namanve. P. O. Box 11381, Kampala - Uganda Tel: +256-393-262015/6, +256-414-235470/348973. Mob: +256-776-766571 | +256-751-766571 www.crestanks.co.ug | info@crestanks.co.ug
POWER TO BUILD
EAST AFRICA’S MOST TRUSTED STEEL D EF O RM E D B A RS ‘CU T A ND BE N D ’ T O P RE C IS IO N
CUT A N D BE N D O N S I T E
C U T A N D B E N D D E L I V ER E D
AN D I N T RO D U C IN G A PEX TM X B A R T E C C O U P L E RS
CALL +254 20 6969000 /1 /2 , + 2 5 4 7 3 3 6 4 0 1 5 0 / 722 828850 E M A I L sa l e s@ a p e x - st e e l . c om W E B w w w . a p e x- s t e e l . c o m
MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes SUB - EDITOR Lubwa Leonard COUNTRY EDITORS Kenya - Francis Makari Uganda - Betty Nabakooza Nigeria - Boladale Ademiju South Africa - Jimmy Swira WRITERS Yvonne Andiva, Christine Siamanta, Erick Mongare, Dorcas Kang'ereha, Claire Moraa WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN Augustine Ombwa, Bonface Kimunyi, Caleb Larum Sales and Marketing Manager Ken Okore ADVERTISING Kenya William Mutama, Fred Okoth, Trizah Njoroge, Joseph Mwangi, Dennis Ayemba, Pascal Musungu, Regina Kimotho
CON
A new dawn for Africa's railroads Improving transportation
In recent years, more than US$30 billion has been invested in African rail projects which are either in development or planning phases.
South Africa: Thuli Nkosi, Winnie Sentabire, Angeline Ntobeng, Uganda: Nobert Turiyo, Selina Salumah Namuli Botswana: Dickson Manyudza, Gerald Mazikana Ethiopia: Haimanot Tesfaye, Ruth Girma Tanzania: Tom Kiage Malawi: Anderson Fumulani Ghana: Samuel Hinneh, Caleb Donne Hadjah Zambia: Susan Kandeke Zimbabwe: Chiedza Chimombe Rwanda: Collison Lore Nigeria: Seni Bello China:Weng Jie
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Send your letters to: info@constructionreviewonline.com Construction Review is published eleven times a year and is circulated to members of relevant associations, governmental bodies and other personnel in the building and construction industry as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services in Africa, the Middle and Far East. The editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Material may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in the journal. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Š All rights reserved.
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10
REGULARS Editor's Comment 3 Corporate News 4 Association News 5 Events 6 Product News 7 Opinion - Three keystones in reaching Africa’s energy goals
8
Building Automation 19 Minimizing Concrete Bond Failures Caused by Moisture 22 Tactile Quality roofing products 28 Ribbed Steel Bars Reinforcement: Reliable reinforcement 29 National Water Conservation and Pipeline Corporation 30 Submersible borehole pump 32
Published by Group Africa Publishing Ltd Consolidated Bank House, 4th floor, Koinange Street, Nairobi 00100 Kenya, Tel: +254 772642042, +254-20-2213607 | Email: info@groupafricapublishing.com Uganda Agent Projects Unusual Uganda Ltd. Jemba Plaza, Luwum St. Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 776 883181 bettykatongole@yahoo.com
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TENTS
February 2017 Volume 28 No.2
Next generation bathrooms
Editor's Comment
The current trend in bathroom design is moving towards creating an oasis of relaxation by creating a more spacious environment with open plan interiors
Africa’s rail The new interest in developing Africa’s rail today is not entirely dissimilar to the one that drove the nineteenth century colonizers to lay the first tracks over a hundred years ago. But today with modern technology and a clearer understanding of the vast benefits of rail transport,
13 The Forest Front Residence for the Discerning The Forest Front provides a luxurious abode right at nature’s doorstep
the investments in this sector are being received with enthusiasm not suspicion by the locals. Rail offers a cheaper, faster mode of transporting Africa’s goods and services. It removes pressure on overtaxed road networks that collapse all too frequently due to overloaded trucks that clog major road arteries. Most importantly rail answers Africa’s call for development of infrastructure to make Africa’s goods and services competitive while opening up the hinterlands that have remained largely undeveloped. The private sector is driven by the need to tap mining resources while government objectives are to
37
improve the business environment by allowing people and goods to move more freely. Whatever the case may 40
be, benefits for Africa seem unarguably positive and it
Kings Developers: Stylish projects 42
can be hoped this is a trend that will be fully exploited
Living in Tranquil Surroundings: The Secluded Hideaway 44
in the decades to come.
Tamarind Group to Launch Hotel
New Premises for Bank of Africa Kenya
46
Nairobi Serena Gears up for Major Upgrade
51
Ethiopia Office Haymi Advertising Services 22 Mazoria, Genet Bldg 4th Flr P.O. Box 1316 - 1110 Addis Ababa Tel: +251 118 955 855, Cell: +251 930 099 152 Email: ethiopia@groupafricapublishing.com Ghana Office Image Consortium 1st Floor, The Ecobank Building, Tesano. Tel: 233(0)30 223 2728 I 233(0)274807127 I +233(0)206299159 Fax: 233(0)24 882 8286 Email: ghana@groupafricapublishing.com, Calebhadjah@gmail.com
Robert Barnes
Kenya Office Northwest Ventures Ltd P.O. Box 16414 - 00100 G.P.O Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 20 2679809 I 2679808, 2091305 Email: kenya@groupafricapublishing.com
Kigali, Rwanda
Nigeria Office Rahma Associates B23/24, Aishetu Emoewa Plaza, 196, Iju Water Works Road, Ifako Ijaye Lga,Agege, Lagos. Tel: 234-1-7347860 Email: nigeria@groupafricapublishing.com
Zambia Office
Rwanda Office Kolline & Hemed Inc., B.P. 3328,
Tel: +250 03 748106 E-mail: rwanda@groupafricapublishing.com Website: www.kollinehemed.org
Dayflex Limited, 4th. Floor Tazara House Dedan Kimathi Road, Lusaka, Zambia. Tel: +260 211 230 529 / +260 977 756 663 Email: makukasue@mail.com, dayflex06@gmail. com
CORPORATE NEWS
Group Five partners with UK’s Aberdeen
Highgate Mall in South Africa to undergo revamp, set to become speciality mall Highgate Mall, which will be renamed Home of Africa, is expected to become a home and décor mall, creating over 2000 jobs and accommodating 250 both international and local brands after the revamp. Home Africa Mall will be a hub for wholesale distribution of construction and home-related products. The mall management said it will be a big boost in the expansion and facilitation of trade between Africa and China. Home of Africa Managing Director Nick Melrose, said the mall is the first of its kind in the country and Africa at large, and its unique offering will make a good value proposition to consumers and businesses. Melrose added that Home of Africa was not concerned about recent growing concerns about an oversaturated retail market due to other on-going shopping malls. Muriel Chinoda, analyst and MD of Business Engine said the development of Home of Africa was positive as the traditional malls were losing steam.
MANAGEMENT TIPS
Group Five recently announced a key milestone in its history. After an extended negotiation period and a lot of hard work, its Intertoll business has entered into a landmark co-operation agreement with one of the largest asset managers in the world. This transaction will see the company jointly pursuing significant new brownfield and greenfield road private public partnership (PPP) infrastructure investment and operating projects throughout Europe, Turkey and North America. The agreement involves Intertoll Europe and Aberdeen Infrastructure Funds (AIF) establishing a new company, Intertoll Capital Partners BV, as the investment vehicle to implement this strategic initiative. Intertoll will hold 50.01% and AIF 49.99%. This means that Intertoll will sell 49.99% of its current underlying European PPP infrastructure investment portfolio to AIF for EUR43mn in cash.
Terex Trucks appoints new Angolan distributor Terex Trucks has appointed Auto Maquinaria as its official distributor of articulated and rigid dump trucks in Angola. AMQA, headquartered in Luanda, will also provide factory-approved parts and other essential aftermarket care services to customers throughout
the
country.
Pleased with the addition of Terex Trucks’ machines to the company’s portfolio, Adriano David, sales director at AMQA, revealed the appointment means its hauler offering to customers in Angola now comes with an increased payload. Part of the NORS Group – which is one of the world’s largest suppliers of
industrial
equipment
for
construction and infrastructure – AMQA was chosen to be Terex Trucks’ official distributor in Angola because of its experience and knowledge of the market.
Common Mistakes Construction Managers Make on Quotes
Quotation is one of the crucial part of any construction project foundation and if a mess is done such as Inaccurate quotes cause therefore that will result to headaches for you and for your clients. Therefore when doing a quote there is a need to be accurate and quote all the essential services that you will provide. At any moment your past experience may help you to avoid common mistakes though it’s so importance to remember that no two jobs are the same. This means you must create custom estimates for each new client.Here are some tips to help you streamline and develop your process. Incomplete Plans Try to get a complete set of plans before you give a quote. Design
details and changes on the job are the leading cause of mistakes and going over budget. Knowing what you are doing will enable you to estimate more accurately, plan more precisely and complete the job in the set time so you can move on to the next client. Mistakes often come out of the contractor’s pocket, and the client’s rely on you to quote accurately and may be reticent to move beyond your discussed budget. Always get, in writing, agreements to pay for changes or additions tothe original plans. Consult your trades to ensure that all the details that they need to quote accurately are also included in the plans. Subcontractor Costs You can’t tell a sub-contractor how much to charge for a job after the fact. Instead, get a really accurate estimate from them after they have seen the plans. Ensure that they provide a clear, written estimate and always be open to more than one quote. Ask your contractors what they need to get the job done so you can adequately prepare the jobsite before they come. There is nothing more frustrating for them than arriving on a jobsite to find that it’s not prepared and they have to wait. This wastes time and money.
4
February 2017
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Tanzania urged to adopt Building Code by Architectural experts The government of Tanzania has been urged to introduce the building code system as a solution for the haphazard and unlawful real estate development in the country. The coding system was designed by the Architects Association of Tanzania (AAT) and handed over to the government in 2003. The appeal follows complaints from residents of major urban centres against violation of laws guiding real estate development, risking health, safety, and security of the people. Calls to have the building code in place gained momentum in 2013 after the collapse of a 16-storey residential apartment in Dar es Salaam, which killed 36 people and trapped over 60 under the rubble. The building code entails four key issues which the existing laws are not addressing. These are: health, safety, welfare and security. The code requires plot owners to grow trees and gardens to cover at least ten per cent of their total plot area. According to a survey conducted at three municipal councils of Ilala, Kinondoni and Temeke, residents are concerned with various violations of construction laws which needs a redress. The survey found out that most buildings were built too close to one another, lacked parking spaces, had poor drainage systems, and were unfriendly to people with disability.
Dr Thandi Ndlovu elected to SAFCEC council Dr Thandi Ndlovu, CEO of Motheo Construction Group, has been elected as a council member to the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors (SAFCEC). She believes that SAFCEC continues to play a critical role in the construction industry’s ongoing efforts to transform. The appointment “bears testimony to both the transformational role that Motheo Construction Group continues to play within the industry, and the esteem in which it is held by its major players,” Dr Ndlovu commented. She was a founding member of South African Women in Construction in the early 1990s, established Motheo Construction Group in 1997, and in 2013 won the Businesswoman of the Year Award in the Entrepreneurs category, as awarded by the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa. Dr Ndlovu said her long association with SAFCEC extended to her role
Manual for funding green buildings to be introducedKenya Green Building Society A manual for funding green buildings in Kenya is set to be introduced soon. This is according to the Kenya Green Building
Society.Banks
and
other financial institutions have been asked to provide incentives to green building developers in the country. Goodman Kazoora, the regional project manager at UN-Habitat said such incentives
as president of the Black Business Council for the Built Environment
would encourage and sustain the
(BBCBE) in 2012, when both SAFCEC and the BBCBE began
constructions of such buildings.
engaging the construction industry about the so-called Voluntary
He said UN-Habitat will soon
Rebuilding Programme (VRP) or Settlement Agreement, concluded
unveil a manual aimed at helping
finally with the government in October this year.
banks in the East African region to deal with and attract green building clients. He
said
researching
that
they
and
consulting
are
widely with various stakeholders to come up with a manual that can be universally used, putting into consideration the interests of
Surveyors Solution to persistent Infrastructural decay in Nigeria In an effort to control the spate of decay in infrastructure as well as prevent the resultant colossal losses, the registrar, Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON), Surv. Suleiman Hassan has stressed the need for the involvement of surveyors from the inception of key infrastructural structures in the country. Surv. Hassan who spoke in Abuja at the quarterly lecture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (FCT Chapter) stated that the surveying and mapping profession; though silent in its operation; was the bedrock of any meaningful development in a given society. He added that the engineers, architects and other professionals involved in construction works are easily identified while the surveyor, who gives the topography of the area, identifying if the site was safe or not for such structures was hardly accorded the recognition due to him. According to him, government on its part had equally not given the profession its pride of place, stressing that if the contributions of the surveyors are properly acknowledged, it will add value in the fields of agriculture, education, health, national planning, etc. The registrar disclosed that the occasion of such lectures by the Institution provides an opportunity to sensitize the surveying community in the Federal Capital Territory with the present administration’s aspirations.
February 2017
both the green building investors, clients and the banking fraternity. A green building is one that is energy and resource efficient, as
well
as
responsible.
environmentally It
enables
the
investor save on time and cost, and at the same time creating a more comfortable, more productive and healthier environment to live and work in.A green building is a big step forward in addressing climate change.
5
EVENTS NEWS
S.A to host the African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo 2017
The 19th Africa Energy Forum to welcome Africa’s power sector leaders to Denmark in June 2017
East Africa Electricity exhibition 2017
The
annual
African
The decision to host the Forum in Denmark was made in order to
The East Africa Electricity 2017,
and
Totally
capitalise on the investment potential of Nordic countries into
an International Trade Show on
Concrete Expo will take place
Africa and to showcase the technologies being utilised across the
Electricity & Power exhibition
region to manage their cities cleanly and cost effectively. The theme
will be held in conjunction
of the conference is development financing institutions – and it is
with Trade Africa Kenya 2017
fifth
Construction
at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Gauteng from 23 -24 May 2017. Delegates from 45
countries
to
participate
are in
expected the
mega
construction and infrastructure
Denmark’s Investment Fund for Developing Countries (IFU) that plays such a central role in the development of energy projects in a number of countries, including those in Africa. Nineteen years
a
in the running, AEF brings together senior-level representatives
and
from governments, utilities, regulators, power developers, financial
provides free hands-on-technical
institutions, technology providers, consultants, law firms and large
(HOT)
training
energy consumers to form partnerships, identify opportunities and
for
built
show.
The
workshop
the
expo
offers
programme
sessions environment
professional. Some of these
collectively move the industry forward.
from 03 – 05 March 2017, at the Kenyatta International Convention
Centre,
Nairobi,
Kenya.East Africa Electricity 2017 provides delegates with a unique opportunity to expand their brand in one of the most astonishing business destinations in
Africa.
The
Exhibition
attracts exhibitors from over
sessions offer the platform for
15 countries. Over the past few
organisations and individuals
years, Kenya’s GDP has raised
to fulfill more than half their
upto 55.24bn from 37.2bn within
annual quota for continuing professional development (CPD)
5 years. Kenya is the hub of East
accreditation
architects,
African market and biggest and
engineers, project managers and
most advanced economy in east
quantity surveyors.
and central Africa.
for
Kenya - Architectural Association of Kenya
- Association of Consulting Engineers of - Kenya - Association of Professional Societies of East Africa APSEA)
Association Partners
- Kenya Property developers Association
- Concrete Manufacturers Association
Ethiopia
Nigeria - Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria - Association of Professional Women
- Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers
- The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)
Ghana - Ghana Institute of Engineers
Engineers Of Nigeria - Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region
- Green Building council of SA
- Architects Registration Council
- Nigeria Society of Engineers
- South African Property Owners Association
- Ghana Institute of Surveyors
- Nigeria Institute of Architects
- Master Builders South Africa
- Ghana Green Builders Association
- Building and Construction Skilled Artisans
Uganda Institute of Surveyors of Uganda Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE) & Uganda society of Architects
Botswana 6
and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)
- Construction Contractors Association of
- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- SAICE
- Khuthaza ( Women for Housing)
- Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects
- Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers
Zimbabwe
- Institution of Surveyors of Kenya
Surveying Profession
- Construction Regulation Board (CRB)
- Association of Ethiopian Architects
- Institute of Engineers of Kenya
- South African Council for the Quantity
- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors
Ethiopia
- Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya
South Africa - ASAQS
Tanzania
- Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors
- Ghana Institute of Planners - Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana
Namibia
Association of Nigeria (BACSAAN)
Zambia - Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA)
Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
Association of Consulting Engineers of Namibia
Contractors (ABCEC). February 2017
PRODUCTS NEWS
Laurini launches new Hammer crusher
SENNEBOGEN introduces new design for duty cycle crane for well builders and mobile pipe work
Vert Energy extends range to meet demand for portable power
Laurini Officine Meccaniche, an Italian based manufacturer of earthmoving equipment has launched its new hammer crusher. The launching comes after the great success of its Vulcano 2.0 machine, a vibrating screen on a radio-controlled crawler, of which over 100 units have been produced for use at worksites all over the world. Following numerous positive tests of the prototype under a variety of worksite conditions in Italy, there has been an increase in demand for the new Hammer, a crusher for roadbed and backfill. To date, with the great satisfaction of the clientele, the first ten Hammer units are already at work in different countries, including Albania, Greece, Turkey, Tunisia, Peru and Mexico. The product of extensive, targeted research to optimise the functional capability of the machine, Laurini Officine Meccaniche once again achieve distinction at the international level for the innovative power of its inventions, and for the effective performance and safety that its products offer and guarantee. Adaptable to many kinds of terrain, the machine is equipped with a sturdy crawler truck capable of working on steep slopes with up to 70% gradient. A special feature that contributes to increase the fame of Laurini Officine Meccaniche equipment in the earth moving and pipeline sector.
Compact, multifunctional application and assembled faster than any
Having identified a growing
other duty cycle crane before – by introducing the new SENNEBOGEN
need for dependable portable
624, the machine manufacturer opened a new category: a duty cycle crane based on the idea of “You-call-we’ll-be-there” and designed for water engineering and well construction or pipe installation. If
power, Vert Energy is extending its range of electric power generation (EPG) components. New to the company’s product
numerous holes must be drilled at short intervals, or if the work must
offering
be accomplished in tight spaces, a small and flexible duty cycle crane
NSM’s synchronous alternators,
is ideal. In the fall of 2016, SENNEBOGEN will introduce the new 624. A compact basic unit that is quickly available for the installation to piping machines and for rope operations. The new machine will
are
manufacturer
welding sets, permanent magnet generators (PMGs) and power takeoff
(PTO)
generators,
all of which help to ensure a
be referred to as “taxi” duty cycle crane and uses a foldable box-type
reliable, clean and stable power
boom that can be assembled into its transport position in three simple
supply. The company’s product
steps.
portfolio, which is extended on an ongoing basis to meet exact market demand, now includes NSM’s two- pole 3 000 rpm alternators, from 2.2 kVA to 22 kVA in the 220 V and 380 V versions respectively. NSM single- and three-phase two-pole precisions brushless synchronous alternators with a capacitor are suitable for basic power supply applications. For more
complex
applications,
such as units with electronics like uninterrupted power supply
Link-Belt launches new telecrawler crane Crane specialist Link-Belt has launched the highest capacity telecrawler crane currently available in the market – the all-new TCC-2500, a 250t telescopic crawler crane. According to an announcement by the
systems, single- and three-phase two-pole alternators
brush with
synchronous automatic
voltage regulators (AVRs) are recommended. AVR units ensure voltage regulation is consistent,
company, the TCC-2500 is ideally suited to general construction,
which is critical for units that are
power transmission, wind farm and power industrial operations and
sensitive to voltage ripples and
has been designed to be part of crane rental fleets. With its seven-
spikes, says Robertson. Solutions
section 13.8m to 67.9m pin-and-latch boom, the TCC-2500 has the longest boom in its class and can be equipped with a three-piece offsettable fly extending to 3.6m, 12.1m or 20.4m, or two 7.62m boom extensions for an overall tip height of 105.46m. In a boost to the TCC-
for dependable portable power in the agriculture sector also include NSM Tractorwatt PTO generators.
2500’s jobsite flexibility, these attachments can also be delivered with hydraulic luffing functionality to provide operators with the “up-andover” capabilities of a large fixed-boom luffing lattice crawler – while retaining the option to retract the boom. February 2017
7
OPINION
Three keystones in reaching Africa’s energy goals
A
Fola Esan, CEO Schneider Electric East Africa
The transformation of the energy value chain is picking up global momentum, and innovation at every level is driving it. African governments must not fall behind in this revolution. 8
frican countries have in the past several years worked round the clock spending millions on energy projects that aim to increase access and distribution of energy. However, meeting its energy goals is still one of the greatest challenges facing Africa that has 13% of the world’s population, but 48% of the share of the global population without access to electricity. Governments and their agency planners are always looking to spend wisely in order to not only provide energy to its citizens but also achieve clean energy goals. However, transitioning to clean energies is not always easy considering they always have citizens whose standard of living is often tied to cheap, yet environmentally harmful fossil fuels. In addition, their utilities depend on existing grids based on fossil fuel infrastructure. However big changes are underway. Innovation is helping utilities to digitise, decarbonise, and decentralise their modern grids to address expanding energy needs. All these at affordable costs. Between 2006 and 2014, the average market price of solar modules, for example, declined from $4/ Watt peak to $0,50/Watt peak. It has been calculated that prices have decreased by approximately 24% each time the installed capacity has doubled. Utilities are taking these cost reductions and technology innovations to improve grid efficiency, to enable demand response mechanisms that allow adjustment of energy consumption when required, and for designing bi-directional power streams that recognize the new requirements of renewables on the grid “edge”. Energy-consuming citizens now accept some degree of flexibility in their consumption patterns in order to assure a future clean planet for the generations that will follow. Utilities are bridging the gap between information systems and operational systems to leverage data for improved customer service. New technologies, including weather forecasting software, remote management, and energy storage are redefining the reliability of renewable energy sources. A grid operator can now evaluate the
performance of an individual wind turbine and make adjustments from his control centre thousands of kilometres away. The transition to clean energy is a step-by step-process, but three key elements are in place that ease the transition: Interim solutions In order for the global community to achieve its goal of limiting global warming to under 2°C – the mandate reached at COP21 – lowemission alternatives to coal must be quickly embraced and integrated. About 41% of the world’s electricity today is coal-powered. Natural gas offers a rapid, relatively clean, and inexpensive interim step in the global transition from high CO2 emissions fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Innovation at every level New innovation in the domains of smart meters,
energy
storage
systems,
and
microgrids are enabling the transition to renewables and higher levels of energy efficiency. Home offices, industrial sites, office buildings and healthcare facilities, can all benefit in terms of lower costs and higher reliability. From the utility side, benefits include faster uptimes in the event of a blackout, more insight into customer energy behavior, and a means to bring more stability to the larger grid. Marketplace changes Traditional oil and coal access sites are complex, costly and located in remote areas far from human populations. Solar energy generation, on the other hand, is available and cost effective in those geographies where 98% of humans live. In a growing number of situations, users can even buy electricity from parties other than their traditional utilities. These traditional utilities could see a future of millions of small- and mediumsized competitors trading electricity between themselves,
thanks
to
interconnected
technologies and real-time spot markets. February 2017
COVER STORY
A new dawn for Africa's railroads Improving transportation
I
By Anthony Kiganda t has been a century since the early iron rails were first layed in Africa fueled by the need to open up the interior to the colonialists in order to exploit the dark continents vast resources but over the years the lines were left to deteriorate to the extent that currently rail carries under 20 percent of all freight outside South Africa from its heydays when it was the transport mode of choice. Even in South Africa a 2013 overview of South Africa's economy, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa deplored the current state of the country's railways, saying: "South Africa had the capacity to design, manufacture and maintain trains back in the 1960s and 1970s, 10
but that capacity has been lost over three decades of underinvestment in passenger and freight rails." The picture has begun to change however as Africa has come under the limelight as the new global investment destination attracted by high returns and attractive growth prospects. The growth is mainly driven by establishment of new mines, gas and oil fields as well as the increase in intra regional and international trade coupled with the demand for infrastructure posed by a growing population. These however, require elaborate transport systems to thrive with rail transport taking centre stage. In recent years, more than US$30 billion has been invested in African rail projects which are either in development or planning phases. February 2017
In East Africa, Kenya is almost completing the construction of the standard gauge railway line linking Mombasa and the capital Nairobi. Considered as the most ambitious project in the country since independence, the railway line has been constructed at a cost of US$4 billion. Tanzania on the other hand is constructing a railway line connecting the country and its neighbours-Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda on its part has already secured funding from China Exim Bank for the construction of its SGR project from Kenya’s border of Malaba to its capital Kampala. In Ethiopia, the completion of the first electrified rail line in Sub Saharan Africa was launched in October 2016. The 765km railway connects Addis Ababa and Djibouti. Meanwhile Zambia and China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) signed a USD 2.3 billion contract for the construction of 388km railway line connecting the country and Malawi. The railway line is also intended to link Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. The discovery of minerals gas and oil across Africa has driven the revitalization of railway networks in Africa. A 3,000-km rail line that will link Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Togo and Ghana is being partially funded by BollorÊ Africa Logistics to ensure that the capacity of mineral exports is increased from 109,000 tons a year to 3.4 million tons by 2020. It is a situation that is replicated in Tanzania,Kenya and Uganda where natural gas and oil finds have turned East Africa into an exploration hotspot for oil firms requiring elaborate infrastructure for easier movement of products. Shorter travel Time The advantages of rail transport cannot be over emphasized for example while freight moving from Addis Ababa
New Rails Right across the continent rail is experiencing a rebirth. In West Africa for instance, a massive rail project by the name of West African rail corridor is being planned. When completed, the 3,000 km long rail project will link Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and Togo. South Africa has embarked on an ambitious plan aimed at transforming rail transport in the country. In 2012 Transnet, South Africa's state-owned ports and railcompany, launched the Market Development Strategy, a seven-year $33.82bn investment scheme with a clear strategy to rejuvenate the country's ports, rail and pipelines infrastructure with a big portion of this investment dedicated to rail.
Africa is quickly embracing the rebirth of railway transport
February 2017
11
COVER STORY
the government in partnership with China is sponsoring Kenyan youth to study courses in railway engineering and management at Chinese universities. Julius Li, External Resources Manager of CRBC, reckons that Kenyan workers continue to acquire technical skills that will secure them gainful employment even after the railway project is completed. "We have an elaborate training program for Kenyan employees. They are awarded certificates after the training to enable them remains relevant in the job market after the Standard Gauge Railway project is over," he says. Over 1,000 Kenyan youth have been trained on railway technology and operation skills. The same skills transfer programme is being used in Ethiopia, Tanzania, Zambia, and Nigeria. Legal battles Passenger trains can reach speeds as high as 160km/h
to Ethiopia by road took 3 days, with the new EthiopiaDjibouti railway line the journey has been reduced to 12 hours, notes Getachew Betru,the chief executive of Ethiopia Railways. Passenger trains will reach speeds of 160km/h, while 3,000t gross capacity freight trains will run at 120km/h. This is much better compared to the century-old railway completed by the British colonial authorities in 1901 that operated at a leisurely pace of about 30 km/h. In Kenya the SGR will reduce the journey between the cities of Mombasa and Nairobi from 12 hours to four hours. According to Kenya Railway Corporation, passenger trains will travel at 120km/h, and freight trains will be able to carry 25 million tonnes per year. Skills Transfer Also of great benefit to Africa is the aspect of skills transfer that comes with rail construction. In Kenya,
Casting a dark cloud on these projects are regular legal battles. A case in point is West Africa where plans to construct a 2,700-kilometer West African rail corridor linking Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Niger and Benin has been facing legal battles from rivals companies. In Kenya the construction of a section of the SGR that is slated to pass through a national park had to be temporarily halted over environmental concerns raised by conservationists. Delays on the railway project have also been caused by land compensation issues often ending in the corridors of justice. The slow down in the global economy coupled to the reduced demand from extractive minerals has had the effect of easing the gas pedal on many projects. All companies, regardless of commodity diversification or size, have felt the pinch with traditional miners taking the biggest hit. In 2016 research firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said the Chinese demand for raw commodities seen during its economic boom in 2000 will not be replicated as growth is forecast to hover around six per cent annually to 2020. “Africa is a tough market at the moment with low commodity prices. Lower oil and gas prices will certainly dent the ability of many mineral resource dependent countries to spend on infrastructure,�says Andries Rossouw Director at Price water house Coopers. With all the obstacles being faced however, the development of rail transport is a welcome boon for Africa that will offer cheaper freight costs, faster travel times and save road
The Standard Gauge Railway is the most ambitious project in Kenya's history.
12
infrastructure from collapse due to heavy truck loads that exceed recommended weight limits. February 2017
BATHROOMS
Next Generation Bathrooms
T
By Lubwa Leonard he bathroom of a house is often the only room in the house that offers a sense of pure relaxation and it should therefore be seen as a priority to add touches of luxury to when decorating. There are a number of amazing luxury features found in world-class bathrooms including walled fish tanks ,fireplaces, Jacuzzis, personal saunas as well as his and hers vanity dressers fitted with sinks. The current day bathroom unlike the cold hidden space at the back of the house of years gone by has grown into a personal sanctuary. Elements that make up bathrooms have also changed shape and function with passing of time. The current trend in bathroom design is moving towards creating an oasis of relaxation by creating a more spacious environment with open plan interiors. One of the ways to achieve this is with a floor-even bathrooms and open shower. In most cases these features are quite often out of the price range or space availability for many people. It’s therefore of importance to identify alternative areas which can provide a luxury feel to a bathroom within the affordable budgetary limits and space. The current day bathroom unlike the cold hidden space at the back of the house of years gone by has grown into a personal sanctuary. Elements that make up bathrooms have also changed shape and function with the passing
of time. The bathroom is where one’s day starts and ends, and should therefore be designed considering your requirements and with an element of personalization. Walk-in shower Installing a walk in shower offers extra showering space and a more contemporary look. If the bathroom is small a versatile wet room can add the illusion of more space. The sleek appearance and ease of use offers a feel of luxury. The luxury feel originates from a less cramped shower experience as there will be no more smacking of elbows against the wall/screen. A walk in shower or wet room is a great luxury alternative option to using more traditional space hungry bathroom fittings. Themostatic Shower Irrespective of your space and installation, thermostatic showers offer an essential luxury feel and maximize the pleasure of your daily shower experience. There are attractive and elegant thermostatic shower designs available and can be installed in the bathroom easily. A thermostatic mixer shower helps maintain the water temperatures once set by the user, offering luxurious protection from fluctuating water temperatures and scalding water.
February 2017
13
BATHROOMS
LED tiles and door handles
A heated floor once installed frees up the space used by
In order to create a personalized feel to the bathroom you
traditional heating systems.
can selectively use LEDs to highlight features, within tiles or even for a busy signal in the door handle. The star like quality that a few carefully placed LEDs can provide is a
Jacuzzi
sure fire way to add a luxury experience to the bathroom.
Jacuzzis are lavish home fixtures that are meant to offer both mental and physical relaxation. The Jacuzzi hot tubs
Under floor heating Under floor heating adds a luxury experience to any
can help reduce several body pains especially muscle and
bathroom. Sometimes the shock of a cold floor after some
joint pains. Jacuzzi’s have been found to increase blood
luxury time of relaxation in the tub or a long hot shower
and air circulation in the body. The combination of heat
is just enough to undo all the good experience you’ve just
and movement of water in a Jacuzzi help in improving the
had in relaxing yourself! You can benefit from warm, cosy tiles under your feet first thing in the morning right
body’s circulatory system. Using a Jacuzzi helps relieve
through to last thing at night. The warmth fills the whole
stress, takes away anxiety and apprehension that one may
room allowing the area to dry out quickly and effectively.
be feeling.
What are the top bathroom trends for 2017? Simple pure human trend This trend remains firmly grounded and is fast moving into all areas of the home including the lounge, kitchen and bathroom. The simple beauty trend is underpinned by clean lines, perfect proportions and concealment of storage and functional detail. It becomes a strong design statement when detail is refined and intersections between different materials are perfected for feel and function. Confident use of bleached neutral and natural colours with inviting surface textures brings elevated luxury and emotional experience at the leading edge. Nomadic & Authentic Designs The world has truly become nomadic with change being the only constant. Inspired by global encounters and travel there has been a substantial shift towards decoration with artisanal pieces infused with personality and memory, colour and pattern - found pieces of art craft , cultural relics which make an interior come alive. Designers are experimenting from minimal to maximal expressions, each having equal merit. When the fabric of your home is infused with deep meaning almost anything goes. Statement Spaces Driven by creating a memorable experience the bathroom can be more than just a space in a home. A bathroom can be a sensory experience waiting to be unlocked, 14
triggering a passion deep inside you that is unique and true to your identity. This space is tailored to make an impact and a statement so bold and strong that it leaves a lasting impression on you and your guests. What are the most popular colour schemes? We are rediscovering the power of colour in the bathroom. It can be pivotal in enhancing the experience and evoking emotions. Some popular colour schemes trending for 2017 include: Keeping it natural and neutral: Pale tones all contributing to the total serenity of the space. Drawn from neutral elements that one can find in nature, such as stone or driftwood or sand with a variety of textures. Other colour options to explore include light grey, beige, light mauve, and stone. What advancements have been made in terms of bathroom tech? A tech-savvy life does not end in the office, with technology creeping into every aspect of our life the bathroom is no exception. Bathroom technology has advanced at a momentous space shifting the paradigm completely, making the bathroom a complete living and not just a functional space. Significant focus is placed on making your shower truly a multi-sensory space. This is done by combining water, music, light and steam to create the ultimate
shower experience with DTV Digital. Every element of your showering experience is completely customizable to your needs and controlled by the touch-screen interface. Giving you a one of its kind heavenly experience, DTV+ stands apart like none other. There is also a big movement to include an intelligent toilet into your bathroom space that offers cutting edge technology without losing sight of the comfort features user’s desire – a sensor automatically opens and closes the seat cover as users approach and depart from the toilet. Veil Intelligent Toilet Wall Hung has just been launched in South Africa, with its clean, refined design lines and concealed tank, the Veil toilet offers smart toilet functionality within a beautiful product - no need compromise on one aspect for another. Veil’s remote control is designed to comfortably fit into the user’s hand for one-touch control from its full menu of cleansing features including adjustable water temperature, nozzle position and function type, heated seat, dryer, deodorizer, night light and flush control. For enhanced hygiene, the bidet nozzle is self-cleaning and uses sterilized water. For
more
information
visit
www.
africa.kohler.com or for inspiration @ kohlerafrica on Instagram. February 2017
Globally Designed. Locally Specified.
From New York to Shanghai to Nairobi, Kohler’s leading-edge products help today’s most forward-thinking designers and architects realize their visions. With internationally located associates and design studios, Kohler makes it easy for you to build and specify inspired spaces anywhere in the world for nearly any aesthetic and need.
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lift systems open at a single touch and close again at the press of a switch. The system brings the same user convenience to handleless drawers and pull-outs – also made of wood. www.blum.com/designtrends
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Infinite possibilities: For handle-less furniture throughout the home
16
February 2017
WATER-EFFICIENT TOILET SYSTEMS
The team behind the ground-breaking water-efficient technology has been on an aggressive marketing drive.
Innovative partnership advances water-saving and responsible use The seamless combination between Vaal’s Afsan toilet pan and the Wash-O-TOI system results in a sustainable solution for the use of recycled greywater for toilet-flushing.
A
toilet is among the most essential practical devices in the household, but it is also responsible for using the largest amount of clean water for nondrinking purposes. However, a partnership between Vaal Sanitary ware and Atlas Plastics has introduced a cost effective way of saving water by using grey water for toilet flushing. The seamless combination between Vaal’s Afsan toilet pan and the Wash-O-TOI system results in a sustainable solution for the use of recycled greywater for toilet-flushing. With this innovative greywater technology, clean water is saved as the system utilises used water from basins and bathtubs for toilet-flushing. The Wash-O-Toi is a NWID patented product, manufactured under licence by Atlas Plastics. In addition to Vaal’s Afsan toilet pan, the Wash-O-TOI system also works well with Vaal’s high-quality basins and bathtubs to create a greywater recycling system that, not only saves water and money, but is also good for the environment. “This partnership is about bringing useful innovation into an area that is in great need of forward-thinking technologies that can help with preserving the limited water supplies that we have. We are mindful of the fact that South Africa is experiencing its worst
drought in memory, therefore we hope that this water-saving measure will go a long way in mitigating the effects of the drought,” says Gerard Deeb, Product Services & Specifications Vaal Sanitaryware. Another benefit of the system is that its low-cost nature makes it accessible for low income communities. This makes it ideal for installation in low-cost housing developments, that have become a necessity in South Africa as a developmental state. In addition, the system is versatile, as it is also compatible with new building techniques and technologies. Furthermore, its versatility also makes it gel seamlessly with any modern renovation styles and in-fashion alterations done to existing structures. This effective greywater recycling technology is 100% developed and manufactured in South Africa. The WashO-TOI unit consists of a holding tank that is connected to a 40L wash trough, with its holding tank connected to Vaal’s Afsan toilet pan, that can either be in the main house or the outhouse. The system is equipped to be able to incorporate waste-water from handwash basins, as well as from pipes from the gutters of the house. Additionally, it can be modified to be able to collect greywater from the shower and feed it up to the holding tank which would require a pump.
February 2017
“The benefits for the user are endless. This system allows for the flushing of the toilet with recycled water only, which saves the household money as the same water is used multiple times instead of using more freshwater. You are also able to have the ability to flush the toilet as usual even when there are municipal water-supply breaks. Ultimately, in the bigger scheme of things, you will be able to contribute positively to the urgent national drive to save water, and also stop the sometimes recurring problem of overflowing sewers,” notes Deeb. This innovative greywater toilet-flushing technology will be exhibited at the upcoming UN Toilet Day Exhibition, on 24 November. In addition, Vaal will also be exhibiting its impressive line-up of green and water saving toilets, that includes Aquasave Suit, Aquasave Slimline, Sweetpea Waterless Urinal, Ilali loo 1.5 litre Flushing Toilet and Enviro Loo Waterless Toilet. “We are hoping that through the exhibition we will be able to partner further with government organisations to ensure that communities benefit from these watersaving and green products. We are mindful of the fact that they have to be cost-effective, hence we have made them affordable for all – especially in those communities where the need is greatest,” concludes Deeb. 17
Taking the hassle out of specifying
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Telephone: (016) 360 6000 Facsimile: (016) 362 1167 Email: vaalsan@dawnltd.co.za • Web: www.vaalsan.co.za Sales Office: Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.
CONTROLS
Building Automation
A
By Lubwa Leonard frica’s middle class population has increasingly become automated and more receptive to emerging technological trends like building automation. The need to monitor and control building’s systems from the press of a button has raised the demand for Building Automation Systems. Complete autonomous control of an entire facility is the goal that any modern automation system attempts to achieve. To get deeper understanding into this matter, Construction Review talked to Mr. Abdul Rahman Al Hur from Delta Control Inc. Components of Automation Systems As Mr. Abdul says, most building automation networks consist of a primary and secondary bus which connect high-level controllers with lower-level controllers input/output devices and a user interface devices. He adds that modern systems use BACnet protocol which is ASHREA standard and open protocol that allow seamless integration of devices from different manufacturers into one network. Air handlers Most air handlers mix return and outside air so less temperature/humidity conditioning is needed. This can save money by using less chilled or heated water (not all AHUs use
chilled/hot water circuits). Some external air is needed to keep the building's air healthy. To optimize energy efficiency while maintaining healthy indoor air quality (IAQ), demand control (or controlled) ventilation (DCV) adjusts the amount of outside air based on measured levels of occupancy. Analog or digital temperature sensors may be placed in the space or room, the return and supply air ducts, and sometimes the external air. Actuators are placed on the hot and chilled water valves, the outside air and return air dampers. The supply fan (and return if applicable) is started and stopped based on either time of day, temperatures, building pressures or a combination. Variable volume air-handling units A more efficient unit is a "variable air volume (VAV) air-handling unit," or VAV. VAVs
supply pressurized air to VAV boxes, usually one box per room or area. A VAV air handler can change the pressure to the VAV boxes by changing the speed of a fan or blower with a variable frequency drive. The amount of air is determined by the needs of the spaces served by the VAV boxes. Each VAV box supply air to a small space, like an office. Each box has a damper that is opened or closed based on how much heating or cooling is required in its space. The more boxes are open, the more air is required, and a greater amount of air is supplied by the VAV air-handling unit. Some VAV boxes also have hot water valves and an internal heat exchanger. The valves for hot and cold water are opened or closed based on the heat demand for the spaces it is supplying. These heated VAV boxes are sometimes used on the perimeter only and the interior zones are cooling only. A minimum and maximum CFM must be set
enteliBUS-TopView
February 2017
19
CONTROLS
Complete autonomous control of an entire facility is the goal that any modern automation system attempts to achieve.
on VAV boxes to assure adequate ventilation and proper air balance. Applying the right technology Mr. Abdul advices potential clients to look for the right and latest technology including ability to access the system remotely through internet or mobile applications to support internet of things functionality ( IOT). He further advices clients to keenly evaluate the proposed system based on technical details and try to implement the energy part of building automation which includes energy dashboards and reports as well as Analytics and fault detection Don’t by cheap, buy high quality It is important for potential clients to be aware of cheap imported alternatives which in most cases do not come with support services in addition to being of substandard quality. To avoid being a victim of counterfeit products, it is advisable to work with reputable brands especially in remote areas where technical support can be lacking. The African market With the expansion of Africa’s economy and subsequent rise of the middle class population, the demand for Building Automation Systems has with no doubt gone up. Despite the challenges encountered on the continent like lack of electricity in some places, a number of companies have also 20
come up to take advantage of the raising opportunities especially in South Africa and several urban centres around the continent. These include GOAP, Gira and Dormakaba among others. As a trend in Africa, many people are increasingly going for glass interiors and open plan design. Delta Controls Inc Delta Controls is the world's leading BACnet open protocol building management system (BMS) manufacturer, offering the most complete range of native BACnet controllers for building automation applications including HVAC, lighting and card access CCTV control in a seamlessly integrated system. With almost 30 years of experience in developing and manufacturing BMS solutions, Delta Controls is firmly established as a global company with an extensive network of Delta Partners covering 85 countries on six continents. Delta’s BACnet building control systems are completely scalable in size and complexity, providing cost effective solutions for all facility types, ranging from small low-rise buildings to large high-rise office towers and campus facilities. Delta systems have automated tens of thousands of facilities worldwide, including corporate and government office buildings; schools, colleges and universities; hospitals and health care facilities; sports, entertainment and recreation centres; hotels, casinos
and convention centres; laboratories and manufacturing plants; airports and transportation. At Delta Controls, we research, develop, manufacture and support all of our products from our Canadian headquarters. We invest an above-average percentage of our revenue back into research and development because we are driven to make buildings easier to manage and more energy efficient. Delta Controls actively participated in the creation of the BACnet Protocol and is a major contributor to the ongoing enhancement of ISO Standards for building automation. Our systems easily incorporate other BACnet devices and our products are easy to integrate into any BACnet system. With our gateways, we are able to expand the boundaries of building automation. We believe in your right to choose the system that meets your specific needs, which is why our website details our fully programmable controllers, open protocols and our intuitive “single seat” building operations software. Our systems employ a wide variety of fully programmable controllers and configurable devices. You’ll always be able to find the right product for your building’s needs. We employ industry leading technology such as wireless connectivity and PoE to give you the flexibility to take on any challenge. Seamless integration between different vendors’ devices can pose a large challenge. Delta gives you options for integration at the system level or the room level to provide access to the diverse array of devices in your building. We are conducting our business through certified system integrators (partners). For more details, please contact:
Delta Regional Office Abdul Rahman Al Hur Regional Sales Manager Arhalhur@deltacontrols.com +962-799858900
February 2017
Tile Centre Ltd.
Our services ● Tiles & sanitary ware ● Curtain walling ● False ceilings
● Structural glazing ● Aluminium works ● Partitioning
● Glass works ● Skylights & wall cladding ● Balustrades
P.O. Box 4009, Kampala, Uganda, Plot No. 91/93, 6th Sreet, Industrial Area Phone: +256-414-348232/3/4. Fax: +256-414-342388 February 2017
21
CONCRETE
Minimizing Concrete Bond Failures Caused by Moisture
C
By Dennis Ayemba oncrete bonding with impermeable coatings requires special attention to avert failure. As far as steel substrates protective coating is concerned, there are set guidelines in place to assure good adhesion throughout service life. Elaborate standards for steel surface preparation and cleanliness have been put in place to ensure coating adhesion and performance is predictable. When it comes to concrete surfaces, nevertheless, every slab possesses its own chemistry and performance profile. The variance in concrete formula, subsoil conditions, placement, curing and finishing; makes predictability of coating adhesion very tricky. A large percentage of coating failures on concrete are caused by excess moisture in or below the concrete slab. Given the importance criterion of moisture in concrete 22
during the application of floor surfacings, it is not the main cause of bond failure months later. The failure can be attributed to moisture vapor transmission; that is, the flow of moisture or moisture vapor. Most epoxy adhesives can maintain their bond strength to a concrete slab with relatively high moisture content. There have been some cases of bond failures on above grade slabs, but almost all are as a result of moisture vapor transmission rather than moisture content. The main area of interest is concrete slabs-on-grade and how to dry out and minimize the vapor transmission. Measuring Moisture Transmission Therefore, understanding the difference between moisture vapor transmission and moisture content is very important. The slab may have low moisture content and February 2017
still experience bond failure at some point in the future as a result of vapor transmission through the slab. Usually, high moisture content in the slab may be harmless unless the available conditions trigger the movement of that moisture to the surface. In that case, the problem arises from moisture transmission to the surface regardless of whether it is from high moisture content in the slab or under the slab. The moisture vapor will only migrate to the surface when the vapor pressure in the concrete is higher than in the air above the surface. In most cases, moisture vapor transmission testing on new buildings is done before enclosing the building, to permit the flooring contractor to proceed. The conditions above the slab at this particular time are the same compared to to the slab itself, hence there is little moisture attraction to the surface and the test reads dry. After enclosing the building, the air conditioning lowers the humidity and the temperature which in turn lowers the vapor pressure leading to a gradient and creating a vapor drive in the process. Controlling Moisture Transmission Moisture vapor transmission can be best controlled right at the beginning, from the sub-soil to the concrete placement. An effective and efficient vapor barrier has to be used when installing slabsongrades that are to accommodate an impermeable adhesive or surfacing. Adhesion problems caused by moisture vapor transmission are not exclusive to epoxy or epoxy adhesion to concrete. Any nonbreathing film like rubber, tile and sheet will react quite similarly. The manner of placement of a vapor barrier when installing slabs is February 2017
23
CONCRETE
an impermeable coating to be used on the surface. When utilizing an effective vapor barrier to control moisture vapor transmission, it should be well placed directly under the slab, and more efficient than six-mil poly; which is easily punctured during concrete placement. Once the best vapor barrier has been chosen, a good quality concrete and good placement techniques are important. A low water to cement ratio, designed for high compressive strength and low permeability, is very important. The configuration and structural integrity of the slab must be considered and control joints and expansion must be designed. A well placed and properly cured concrete slab will provide a hard, dense concrete surface of low permeability. Moisture vapor transmission through the slab is the problem of moisture in and under a concrete slab-on-grade. A well placed and properly cured concrete slab will provide a hard, dense concrete surface of low permeability.
24
The flow of moisture vapor to the surface is the normal
quite important. It appears the primary reason of installing
flow from a point of higher vapor pressure to a point of
a granular fill over a vapor barrier is to minimize plastic
lower vapor pressure to create equilibrium. By controlling
shrinkage, cracking and to act as a bleed-water blotter. If
or lessening the rate of moisture vapor transmission in
installed in this manner, it requires a much longer time than
slabs-on-grade, impermeable systems can successfully be
thirty days, in some cases a year; to dry up well enough for
used on these surfaces.
February 2017
Power & Electricity World
vertical HPFC.pdf
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25-Oct-16
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February 2017
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2:02:23 PM
Since 1965
CASEMENTS (A) LTD Aluminum, Steel & Glass
Cutting edge designs for our commercial, industrial & residential customers.
Our New Products Luxury Windows & Doors from Europe
Sliding Windows & Doors Folding Doors Semi Frameless Railing Sound Proof Partitioning Double Glazing Windows
Since 1965, Casements (A) Ltd. is still the biggest and most acclaimed players in the construction sector through having graduated to aluminium production and glass from the purely steel fabrication. The company’s products in the region carry a fifty one (51) years brand mark benchmarking quality in fabrication. However, we at Casements (A) Ltd. quality is at the forefront of every product output which is the core business ideology today showcased amidst other players in the regional market. Now we have come to the fifty one (51st) anniversary of Casements (A) Ltd. with unequalled success story, it has indeed been an incredible journey but more importantly ensuring the business ideology of quality to our esteemed clients. Since this experience has made us improve on product quality at a very affordable price more greatly on our product delivery making us outstanding in the market. As for the future, Casements will mainstream and establish itself as a regional block supplying aluminium, steel and glass products. All above products are continuously being improved into latest designs in partnership with best Our partners; SAINT GOPIAN - France, AGC – Belgium, Guardian - USA, Dowcornig – Germany, Alupex - UAE, Eurobond – India, ISEO – Italy, MR. – Portugal, FOM - Italy, ASE – Europe, to match the ever changing customer tastes and preferences.
PROJECTS DONE BY CASEMENTS (A) LTD
Hotel Africana, BMK
Course View Towers
PSL Apartments
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In our quest to oer the best, we produce a wide range of unique aluminum, steel & glass products. Our products includes: Aluminum Windows & Doors, Glass Partitioning, Curtain Walling, A.C.P. Cladding, Front Facade, Steel & Glass Railing, Suspending Ceiling, Roller Shutters, Trellidor, Steel Gates, Collapsible Grills, Burglar Proof, Sky Light, Shading System, Vertical Blinds & Uniports (Mini Homes).
Office of the Auditor General
Contact Us: Plot 86/90, 5th Street, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 4641, Kampala, Uganda. Tel: +256 414 233577 - Fax: +256 414 234301 - Hotline: +256 755 900 950 - Cell: 0755 661105 Email: gm@casements.co.ug - www.casements.co.ug
HOUSING
Tactile Quality roofing products With a strong reputation and robust complement of its technical staff, Tactile continues to be successful despite emerging challenges in the market
W
ith only three years of local manufacturing, stone coated roofing tiles manufacturer Tactile is already the market leader in the business. The brand rides on a robust reputation that its mother company Tile and Carpet Centre has built for over 50 years. Tile and Carpet Centre is a market leader in the building materials industry in Kenya and across the East African region. With a state of the art manufacturing facility in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, Tactile is able to manufacture tailor made roofing products of any quantity for its clients while adhering to strict quality guidelines. Tactile manager Mr Ankit Sanghrajka disclosed that in the already competitive market, their ability to churn out quality innovative products has ensured that they continue to stand out. “We have invested in advanced Korean technology and high-specification Italian raw materials ensuring that our clients get the best products,” begins Mr Ankit. “A focus on quality and innovation is at the heart of everything we do and our product development process is focused on adhering to ever changing market demands. We are passionate about producing roofing products of outstanding performance and value,” he continues. At Tactile, a great deal of time and energy has been invested into providing quality products and services to customers. Backed by its experienced Quality Control department, Tactile products are not only assured to be of high quality and safety standards, but are also subject to continuous monitoring. 28
Based in Kenya and served by around 80 dedicated employees, the firm currently distributes throughout the country and across East Africa. Strong branding and engaging marketing campaigns support the development of innovative products, and it is this very market led and unique approach that has awarded the company the ability to compete in a challenging market. Also making it to stand out in the market as a manufacturer and supplier is its portfolio of owned and exclusive trade brands. To do so, it has in-house expertise in product design, development and manufacturing across all its brands. “We have a set of strong values which drive everything we do. We challenge ourselves to stand out by developing innovative products. Our strong brands, products and marketing campaigns are recognised as being among the best in the industry,” Ankit shares. Ankit highlights that despite challenging marketing conditions the business has been able to outperform many of the more established brands in the market. “We have ambitious growth plans and are confident that we can continue to outperform the market over the coming years as well,” she adds. Tactile range of products which come in a wide variety of colours ensures that customers can get their product of choice. Their roofing product variety includes Classic, shakes, shingles and Edge. Tactile roofing products says Ankit, have gained traction among its esteemed customers due to the fact that they are lightweight and easy to install. As a result a customer is able
to save on their overall construction cost. One distinct advantage that Tactile roofing products have over other products in the market is that is that the tiles maintain their original colour years after installation. This is because the product is made from natural stones. Although they are lightweight, the granules are very hard and have a high level of resistance to heat and mechanical stress. An acrylic over glaze with UV resistant qualities is sprayed on as a final coating that gives the roofing tile a gleaming finished look whilst simultaneously bonding together the stone chips. The tiles come with a 50 years warranty. Moving forward the company has an ongoing pipeline of products and patented technologies that will be brought to market over the coming years in line with the everchanging demands and regulations within the marketplace. “Making sure we are agile and able to respond quickly to these evolving demands are key focus points, as is protecting our intellectual property from competitors,” says Ankit. “Our vision is to continue being an innovator and supplier of exciting brands, to grow internationally and to double our turnover.” Apart from their ability to produce quality products, Mr Ankit says that riding on a known brand that is Tile and Carpet Centre continues to give them a competitive edge over other market players. To read more and to comment on this story visit
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
February 2017
REINFORCEMENT
Ribbed Steel Bars Reinforcement Reliable reinforcement
S
By Dennis Ayemba teel bars are used with concrete in civil engineering structures to create structures that are concrete reinforced like beams columns and slabs. Construction relied on twisted bars during the best part of the 20th century; but by early 1990s, numerous developed countries had adopted the use of deformed steel for concrete reinforcement due to the unreliable bonding nature of twisted steel. Recently, Kenya has followed the likes of Uganda, in banning the use of twisted bars for concrete reinforcement in construction. This is attributed to new engineering findings that have triggered reservations over the structural properties of twisted bars that make them not the best candidates for concrete reinforcement. Instead, just like many other countries in the region; Kenya has resolved that only ribbed steel bars shall be manufactured and offered for sale in the country. A ribbed steel bar is a type of deformed, high strength steel that is manufactured by controlled cold twisting of hot rolled bar. This bar has projections on its surface known as ribs hence the name Ribbed Steel Bar. They vary in sizes, ranging from 8 mm to 40 mm wide. These bars possess certain characteristics that make them preferable to twisted bars in reinforcement of concrete. These characteristics range from their flexibility to their cost saving nature. High-yield ribbed bars have minimum guaranteed yield stress of 420n/mm2, tensile strength of 500n/mm2 and a percentage elongation of 10%. Accordingly, 420n/ mm2 is generally used in design as the characteristic value for the yield strength of high-yield ribbed bars.
Cost saving Apart from being able to bend through 180 degrees without a crack or fracture of any form, their structural properties makes it possible for them to be welded by electric flash such as arc welding and butt welding. These bars boast of excellent bonding properties than ordinary twisted bars hence the end hooks are unnecessary. Therefore, their use cuts the cost of reinforcement up to 30 to 40% hence they are very economical. Usually, ribbed bars are made of unfinished tempered steel, making it insusceptible to rusting. This is very important because, as rust occupies a greater volume than the steel from which it was formed, the surrounding concrete undergoes severe pressure, leading to cracking, flaking and eventually, structural failure. Additionally, bending, fixing and handling of ribbed bars is very simple which reduces on labor; plus they can be used for all major types of reinforced concrete structures. Compared to twisted bars where the concrete may slip and cause cracks, the ribbed surface ensures a better bond with the concrete which improves the overall bearing capacity of the particular member where the bar has been used. Moreover, ribbed bars like almost all metallic products; can be recycled as scrap. They are normally combined with other steel products, melted down, and re-formed for re-use. Mr. Kush Nathwani the Executive Director of Apex Steel insists that, there will be a radical shift within the construction sector to use deformed bars for reinforcement. This is due to the growing awareness and the need for builders to use quality steel for their projects; be it an infrastructure project, or a ‘home builder’ coupled with the recent ban by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) in
February 2017
the manufacture and supply of twisted steel. “An increase in the sophistication of high rise buildings being developed in Kenya has also manifested itself with a need to use the right steel in reinforcement,” he said. Apex Steel manufactures deformed bars that have raised the bar of quality within the East African market. APEX TMX the brand name as specified every one meter of the deformed bar; conforms to BS: 4449 – 2005 KENYAN ISO 6935 – 2 Grade 500+. Made under license from THERMEX Germany; its technological superiority ensures the product has superior elongation: 12% - 26%; thereby making it more conducive to sustain during seismic shocks. As specified by KEBS; APEX TMX is consistent in its allowable tolerance in weight with yield strength of 500 N/MM2 – 600N/ MM2. Apex Steel is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified making it the only steel in East Africa to be recognized as ‘Green Steel’. As a result of its consistency in quality; Apex Steel was awarded the contract to supply steel to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). For that matter, 100% of the steel provided to the Thika Superhighway is APEX TMX. Now a Superbrand for the second consecutive time; Apex Steel is among East Africa’s elite. According to Mr. Nathwani, cheap is expensive. Potential purchasers may get lured away to make the investment and purchase steel that is cheaper; however may get shortchanged as they would invariably purchase steel that is under weight and doesn’t conform to standard. To read more and to comment on this story visit
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
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WATER SUPPLY
Large Dams The NWCP has a portfolio of both the large as well as small projects
Maruba Dam
National Water Conservation and Pipeline Corporation
T
he National Water Conservation and Pipeline Corporation (NWCPC) is a state corporation established in 1988 as an autonomous agency
reporting to the then Ministry of Water Development to commercialise and improve the performance of the water sector operations. Its mandate was later expanded to include assisting Government in the formulation and execution of National Water Policy, and in areas where it was appointed as a water undertaker, developing state schemes.
Construction of Muruny/Siyoi Dam
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Maruba Dam Project In June 2010, NWCPC finalized rehabilitation of Maruba dam by raising the height of the embankment wall and spillway by 6 m. This increased the dam’s storage capacity from 0.60 Million m3 to 2.45 Million m3. Increase in storage volume has ensured increase in water supply to Machakos Town and its environs from 2,050 m3/day to 8,700m3/day. It is approximated that the project serves more than 200,000 people in Machakos County. Machakos Peoples Park is majorly successful due to the beautiful scenery provided by Maruba Dam. This project was built entirely by the Corporation using its internal capacity. Construction of this dam started in September 2008 and was completed in June 2010. The construction was undertaken by National Water Conservation and Pipeline Corporation through its in-house capacity. The Dam was commissioned in the year 2010 and is currently main water supply source for the Machakos town and its environs Umaa Dam Project Umaa dam is located along river Nzeu about 7kms northeast of Kitui town, Kitui County. The 28m high dam when completed will store 870,000m3 of water and inject an additional 2,500m3/day of water to Kitui town and serve about 75,000 people. Current Status The overall completion of the dam construction works is estimated at 68%. Kiserian Dam Project Kiserian dam is located along Kiserian River about 2 kms from Kiserian Township and supplies water to Kiserian, Ongata Rongai and parts of Ngong’ townships. The 18 m high dam has a reservoir capacity of 1.2 million and supply capacity of 15,700m3/day of water. When fully operational the dam is expected to serve approximately 253,000 residents of mainly Kiserian and Ongata Rongai. The overall physical progress of the works is substantially complete save for full operationalization/commissioning of the entire works and some snag list items; which shall be executed by the contractor during the defects liability period. Small Dams & Pans From the year 2005/2006, when NWCPC was given its new mandate of being the construction arm of the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, the Corporation has been constructing small dams/pans in mainly in the ASAL areas across the country. This has helped in increasing the country’s water storage and also has provided water for February 2017
both domestic and livestock use. Since the year 2005/2006 to date, NWCPC has constructed/rehabilitated over 1,019 small dams/ pans across the country mainly in the Arid and Semi Arid Areas. This has increased the countries water storage by approximately 18.5 Million cubic metres of water serving about 1 million people and over 2 million domestic animals. These projects have had a major positive impact to livelihoods of communities in areas affected by perennial droughts Borehole Drilling & Equiping Since 2005/2006, NWCPC has drilled or rehabilitated and equipped over 1,128 boreholes throughout the country. Most of these boreholes are located in Arid and Semi Arid Areas of our Country. These boreholes have the capacity supply over 147,400 Cubic Meters (M3) of water per day to over 3,685,000 Kenyans. Most of these projects targeted communities from areas susceptible to droughts. Muruny/Siyoi Dam Muruny (Siyoi) Dam Kapenguria Water Supply Project is one of the projects that the corporation is currently undertaking. Located in West Pokot County within the Rift Valley Drainage Basin, the project is a Vision 2030 flagship project located near Kapsait Primary School at Murkokoi center which is approximately 43km from Kapenguria town. The dam draws water from River Muruny which emanates from Cherangany Hills and flows in a North Eastern direction before finally draining into Lake Turkana. Engineer Ogola, the project manager says the project is fully financed by the Government of Kenya and expected to a serve a population of above 200,000 people at full capacity. The dam, which is built by M/S china Jiangxi International Kenya Ltd as the main contractor and Shah Technical Consultant in Association with Batch Associates Ltd as consultants comprises of two components lot which comprise of the dam and a bridge across the reservoir and lot two which aims at boosting and expanding water supply in Kapenguria Township and surrounding town
Kiserian Dam
centers in West Pokot County. Engineer Ogola says the dam will depend on natural force of gravity to pump water into the dam and very little technology will be applied. Challenges According to Engineer Ogola the project encountered some challenges especially during the take off stage. Key among these is the element of land acquisition which he says many people were reluctant to give up their land even when compensation was guaranteed. This caused delays in the execution of the project. Unplanned for weather patterns especially prolonged drought affected the performance of the project progress. However Engineer Ogola says the Corporation has enjoyed a lot of support from different corners including the County government which he says has been so instrumental in the excision of the project. Water situation in Africa While commenting on the water situation in Africa, Engineer George Ogola says most parts of the continent are not well served and this is the reason why NWCPC is working hard to have as many dam as possible especially in the North Eastern part of the country. To achieve this he says, the corporation is working on the implementing the ambitious Vision 2030 that outlines country plans to achieve universal water coverage by the year 2030.
February 2017
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PUMPS
Submersible borehole pump By Dennis Ayemba Underground water is advantageous and more reliable compared to surface water; that is why it is a major source for drinking and irrigation in Africa. According to Researchers from the British Geological Survey and University College London (UCL), total volume of water in aquifers underground is 100 times the amount found on the surface yet across Africa; more than 300 million people are said not to have access to safe drinking water. The greatest ground water storage in Northern Africa is found in the large sedimentary basins in Libya, Algeria and Chad. The amount of storage in these basins is equivalent to 75m thickness of water across that area; it is a huge amount. Groundwater responds very slowly to variability in climatic conditions including droughts, and it is generally of better quality compared to surface water. Equipment like submersible water pumps makes it possible to access underground water for use.
Poly-synthetic manhole covers with high strength, water proof, weather proof and non-corrosive. Takes a load of 1.5 tons - 40 tons. Available in different shapes and color. 32
A submersible pump is an appliance which has a hermetically sealed motor close coupled to the pump body. The entire couple is submerged into the water to be pumped. This type of pump is advantageous compared to jet pumps because it prevents the formation of vapour cavities in a liquid that are as a result of forces acting upon the liquid. The pump pushes water to the surface as opposed to pulling. This water pump can be dated back to the mid 1960s when the first submersible deep-well water pump was fully developed. They can either be solar or electric powered. The working principle of an electric submersible pump is such that they are multistage centrifugal pumps that operate in a vertical position. Even though their features have gone through immense evolution with regards to construction and operation over the years, there has been little change in their basic operational principle. Their operational mechanism is such that, the extracted water; after having gone through great centrifugal forces brought about by the impeller’s high rotational speed, lose their kinetic energy in the diffuser where the kinetic energy is converted to pressure energy. The pump shaft is connected to the gas separator by a mechanical coupling at the bottom of the pump; where fluids enter the pump through an intake screen and are lifted by the pump stages. Moreover, submersible pumps have cables that are specially designed to be used under water or on wet ground; or in similarly harsh conditions. Therefore, these cables can either be used in fresh water or salty water and they are also well suited for direct burial and within well castings. Additionally, the size and shape of submersible pump cables can vary depending on the preference, usage and pumping instrument of the installer. The major advantage of a submersible pump is that it never has to be primed, because it is already submerged in the fluid. Their efficiency is also unquestionable because they don’t really have to spend a lot of energy moving water into the pump. Water pressure February 2017
pushes the water into a submersible pump, thus “saving” a lot of the pump’s energy. Also, while the pumps themselves aren’t versatile, the selection certainly is. Some submersible pumps can easily handle solids, while some are better for liquids only. Submersible pumps are quiet, because they are under water, and one does not have to worry about cavitation, because there is no “spike” in pressure as the water flows through the pump Indeed, due to the fact that the pump uses no suction to get the water through to the pipes or hoses, the pressure is optimized. This allows the water to move over a greater distance, which can be useful for larger farms. Another significant advantage of a submersible pump however lies in the fact that unlike other types of pumps, they do not need to be primed before operating. This not only saves time, but also reduces risks of overexertion. However, caution must be used with submersible pumps; they must be fully submerged. The water around a submersible pump actually helps to cool the motor. If it is used out of water, it can overheat.
Mr. Ashok Patel the Chief Executive Officer of Kridha Limited insists that, submersible pumps are the ideal devices when one is dealing with underground water. This due to the fact that they are submerged into the water hence they are not exposed to sand or pebbles found on the surface which may cause blockages in case they find their way into the pipes. “The pumps are also automatic hence they pump the water whenever it is available,” he added. Kridha limited is a multi-disciplinary business entity that provides effective water treatment and related technologies. The company practices a professional consultancy agency specializing in water treatment systems and equipment. They also manufacture water treatment and recycling systems and equipment for industrial market as well as domestic sector. Standard and customized systems from Kridha Limited address concerns on water treatment and recycling, rainwater harvesting and waste water treatment. According to Mr. Patel the company has recently started to distribute water pumps from Wilo, a leading water pump
February 2017
The major advantage of a submersible pump is that it never has to be primed.
manufacturer based in Germany. “Wilo is a world leading manufacturer with a presence in over 80 countries and a total staff of over 8,200 worldwide. They offer the best prices and their pumps are long lasting with 6 to 7 years silence; plus they reduce power by 5%,” he added. Mr. Patel also pointed out substandard pumps as the main concern in the market.
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Charting a Different Path to Wealth Diamond Property Merchants Limited’s Unique Land and Home Ownership Concepts “Our key focus is providing Kenyans with strategic investment solutions that not only enable them own land that is productive but make sure they achieve their goal of owning a home,” explains Khiranga. He adds that Diamond Properties is committed to providing unique solutions in the real estate industry that are grounded on innovation and diversity and driven by values like professionalism, teamwork, equity, uniqueness, reliability and customer focus.
Greenhouse farming: The company has pioneered a unique concept of land ownership and use.
I
n recent years, hundreds of Kenyans have rushed to buy land as investment. Indeed, due to aggressive marketing strategies used by land selling and real estate companies, many Kenyans have invested in land either with the hope of building dream homes especially in the now popular “Gated Community” concept or for speculation. Unfortunately, many of these parcels of land are today lying idle and buyers have seen their ambitions and hopes dashed. While the idea of owning a home in a gated community is enticing, many of people who have bought plots being sold by gated communities’ developers are a disappointed lot. Due to the massive financial resources required, many developers are unable to keep their side of the bargain which include putting up basic amenities and in some cases even high end facilities such as golf courses. In effect, plot owners in gated communities cannot build their homes within projected timeframe yet the cost of construction continues to escalate.
The high level of disappointment has made one company adopt a different approachw that is totally redefining the concept of land investment. Diamond Properties Merchants Limited has decided to stop selling dreams like its competitors. Instead, the company is making it possible for Kenyans to acquire land and accrue benefits from the land instead of letting it lie idle. More precisely, the company is making it possible for Kenyans to own affordable homes. “For us we are not selling dreams. We are selling reality,” says Edwin Khiranga, Director of Marketing. Established 15 years ago as Diamond Property Care, a property management firm, the company transformed to Diamond Property Merchants in 2010 and went into the business of selling land. Coming into a crowded market, the company made a conscious decision to be innovative in ensuring Kenyans see the benefits of investing in land and ensure their aspirations of owning a home become a reality.
The fact that Diamond Property Merchants is selling reality is evident after the company pioneered a unique concept of facilitating Kenyans invest in land and make money from the land. In an effort to offer value addition, the company developed a concept of agribusiness in which someone can buy land and immediately embark on greenhouse farming. The uniqueness of the concept is that the land owner does not do the farming directly but the company undertakes the farming for the land owner, who is paid handsomely after harvest. According to Khiranga, Diamond Property Merchants decided to be different after realising that majority of Kenyans were investing in land for speculation largely due to being let down by land selling and real estate companies. In the hope of one day owning a home, many Kenyans have bought at least two plots with the hope that after some years, and upon appreciation of prices, they can sell one plot and use the money generated to build their homes. Yet because those people who can afford are already stuck with plots, there is no one to sell to. “For us we decided to change the approach from the normal land selling to innovation,” explains Khiranga. He adds that through innovations like greenhouse farming, Kenyans who invest in land are able to accrue benefits from the land but the ultimate goal remains owing an affordable home. “We have decided to be innovative to ensure buyers get value when they buy land,” he states.
When Diamond Property Merchants launched the greenhouse farming concept in one of its flagship projects at Bethany City off Namanga Road in April this year, the idea that one could buy a plot at Sh500,000 and rake in Sh250,000 annually without breaking a sweat seemed too good to be true. While the company engaged in aggressive marketing of the concept, many Kenyans were sceptical with some even dismissing it as a pyramid scheme. “For some people it did not sound true but we had done our research. We were going to sell a viable concept,” says Khiranga. To ensure the concept worked, the company invested heavily in all the necessary infrastructure including boreholes and sourced for markets for the produce which is currently mainly tomatoes. For those Kenyans who bought into the idea and invested in the project, they have not been disappointed. Just recently the company gave cheques to individuals who saw the opportunity and invested in phase one of Bethany City. Since the launch of the agribusiness concept, Diamond Property Merchants has sold over 500 acres of land to over 3,000 investors. Sales have also increased significantly from an average of Sh30 million a month to Sh100 million. “We have shown Kenyans they can invest in land and make money at the comfort of their offices or homes,” avers Khiranga. The uniqueness of the agribusiness concept has catapulted Diamond Property Merchants to the pinnacle in the land selling and real estate sector. It is also one of the reasons that saw the company this year emerge the overall winner of the KPMG/ Business Daily Top 100 Mid-Size Companies in the country. According to Khiranga, being declared the top mid-size company in Kenya in 2016 is a testament that innovation is the key driver of transformation and growth. Though emerging the overall winner came as a surprise for Diamond Properties, the award is vital in cementing the company’s reputation as a trusted brand. “The Top 100 award will help us enhance our reputation as a brand,” he says. He adds that KPMG audited not only the company’s books but also other internal processes like customer service, human resources among others makes the company stand out among its competitors, many have transparency issues. “We are a brand that Kenyans can trust when they think of investing in land,” he states. For Diamond Property Merchants, this is critical. Having executed the agribusiness innovation successfully, the company wants to shift focus into affordable home ownership and apartments in 2017. “Our strategy for 2017 is to convert more land owners into home owners,” states Khiranga, adding that despite the success of agribusiness, Diamond Property Merchants’ core business remains real estate. To enable Kenyans become home owners, the company is currently implementing various projects targeting not only average Kenyans but also the middle class and Kenyans living in the Diaspora. Some of the ongoing projects include Ebenezer Gardens located in Joska, some five kilometres off Kangundo Road. Through the project, Kenyans can own bungalows and maisonettes in a gated community by investing Sh600,000 in an eighth of an acre. Another project is Eden Park in Kamulu where Diamond Property Merchants is selling an eighth of an acre at Sh1.2 million for a bungalow and Sh1.4 million for a maisonettes. In both
TOP: Diamond Property Merchants management celebrate their Top 100 Award. BOTTOM: Edwin Khiranga, Director of Marketing. Ebenezer Gardens and Eden Park, the company has invested in the necessary infrastructure like perimeter fence and steel gate, making the projects the ideal buy and build investments. For Kenyans in the Diaspora and those people seeking to buy finished apartments, Diamond Property Merchants is planning to carry out groundbreaking for a major apartment block in Thindigua along Kiambu Road. The apartments will range from Sh15 million to Sh20 million. The company is also undertaking another apartment project along Thika Road which it will sell at between Sh5 million to Sh10 million. For Kenyans who just want to buy land, the company is selling plots in Juja Farm in Ruiru at a cost of Sh600,000. According to Khiranga, despite the stiff competition in the real estate industry, Diamond Property Merchants has managed to build a strong brand and trust in the market. Indeed this explains why about 70 per cent of its clients are the youth and women, either individuals or through investment groups or chamas. “We want to empower the youth and women not only to own land but ultimately homes,” he states, adding that the company’s greatest ambition is to leave mark in home ownership in the country.
DIAMOND PROPERTY MERCHANTS The Home of Strategic Land Investment
INTRODUCING EDEN PARK Eden Park is a development in the East of Nairobi along Kangundo Road. The road is 800 meters from the property. The close proximity to the Nairobi CBD makes the project a very attractive investment option. Six kilometers away is the eastern Bypass which connects Thika/Garissa highway to Mombasa/Nairobi Highway via JKIA. For potential home owners, Eden Park removes the headaches of building permits, architectural design, structural designs and mechanical designs and construction. The project's land parcels measure 40X80 (an area of an eighth of an acre). The Nairobi Water and Sewerage water supply line runs adjacent the property. The land parcels are well demarcated with visible, numbered surveyor's beacons.The project has a perimeter fence and a steel gate.
Head Office 5th floor, Ansh plaza, Biashara street Nairobi 020 221 5252, 0724 444 400, 0724 0724 330 000 townoffice@diamondproperties.co.ke Thika Office Marafique Arcade, Mezzanine floor 0721 441 111 thikaoffice@diamondproperties.co.ke Utawala Office Lesta Ark, Utawala, 3rd floor 0722 850 000 utawalaoffice@diamondproperties.co.ke
ABOUT US Our headquarters are at Ansh Plaza, Biashara Street; in the Nairobi CBD. DPM provides the highest levels of integrity, honesty and efficiency. Our reputation for innovation and professionalism in all we do has been earned through service delivery. At the heart of all our dealings is innovation, highest level of integrity, teamwork and great passion in what we do. It’s our goal deliver the best investment solutions to all our clients and to meet and exceed the clients’ expectations by maximizing returns on investment and add value onto the investment. We are committed to the provision of unique solutions based on innovation and diversity. Our agribusiness concept has transformed the property market by creating urban farmers through the provision of the required infrastructure, professional farm management services and a ready market.
Winner, 9th Edition
Business Daily, KPMG’S Top 100 Mid Sized Companies, 2016-2017
www.diamondproperties.co.ke
CLUB 2016
PROJECT
The Forest Front Residence for the Discerning
F
aced with numerous choices due to an upsurge in the supply of apartments, clients are increasingly demanding superior quality and are no longer willing to settle for bland developments that offer little comfort and serenity. Developers and their consulting
teams are therefore under pressure to come up with state of the art homes that take into account a variety of social factors that discerning customers are repeatedly on the lookout for. The Forest Front, an apartment complex in Nairobi, is one development designed with all those
February 2017
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considerations in mind. Nestled on the edge of Parklands and with breathtaking views of the Muthaiga forest, the Forest Front is a unique residential development designed to provide an experience of luxurious living in a natural environment. In an area that has seen the mushrooming of apartment complexes, the Forest Front provides a luxurious abode right at nature’s doorstep. The development provides a residence of unmatched tranquility and serenity, away from the concrete jungle that is now defining the local landscape. The Forest Front is located along Githuri Rd, with a gated entrance at either end providing added security. This development provides easy access to the major road network in the area including Limuru Road, Masari Road and the soon-to-be-built bypass connecting Waiyaki Way to the Thika Superhighway.
Within walking distance of this development are Nakumatt Highridge and Diamond Plaza shopping centres while the Aga Khan and M.P. Shah hospitals are in close proximity. With central access to shopping areas, schools, hospitals, restaurants and entertainment outlets, the Forest Front provides the comforts of spacious and modern living with an escape to the tranquility provided by unbeatable forest views. Set out with all ensuite bedrooms, each apartment consists of large lounge, dining and kitchen areas complemented with a large pantry and utility area. A featured balcony is also available for those who love to entertain, while an additional entertainment space is provided on the roof terrace with unbeatable views. The roof terrace also features space for clothes drying lines and other services. The development comprises a total of 33
Project Team Architects – Spectrum Architects
units featuring duplex penthouses, spread over 11 floors. Four-bedroom units measure approximately 236m2 while three-bedroom units occupy around 218m2. Unlike most other developments which are built from beacon to beacon, the Forest Front has a small building footprint with excellent ventilation and privacy of individual units. Each apartment features porcelain floor tiles, quality laminate flooring in bedrooms and imported kitchens with quartz tops. Green aspects of the project include LED lighting and solar water heating to save on energy costs. The developer has allocated plenty of parking space for both residents and their visitors, with each resident having two slots to themselves. A borehole on site will ensure a steady flow of water to complement supply from the local authorities while a standby generator will ensure residents do not get
Structural & Civil Engineers – Kimpah Associates
inconvenienced during the occasional power
Services Engineers – Emplan Ltd
outages. An electric fence and video access
Main Contractor – Econobuild Ltd Electrical sub-contractor – Ghani Electricals Mechanical sub-contractor – Plumbuild & Engineering Ltd Lift Installation – KONE Kenya Ltd
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control with RFID entry will provided added layers of security to the apartments. Modern elevators will be installed in the complex. Excavation works commenced in October 2015 and the project is expected to be complete in mid 2017.
February 2017
DREAM IT. WEʼLL BUILD IT WITH A METICULOUS BLEND OF EXPERIENCE, EXPERTISE AND INNOVATION, SPECTRUM ARCHITECTS TURN ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS INTO WORKS OF ART. Proudly associated with Dryden Developers, we offer a full range of quality services to bring your ideas from concept to reality. Let’s create a better world together. Call us on 0735/0722 679 153 or email us on info@spectrumarchitect.com. www.spectrumarchitect.com
February 2017
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PROJECT
Tamarind Group to Launch Hotel
K
enya’s hotel scene continues to attract local and foreign investors seeking to tap into a growing class of business and leisure travel in the country.
accessed by way of a nature trail through the expansive
The Tamarind Group is set to open its first hotel at The
only 4 kilometres from the city centre, The Tamarind Tree
Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi. The firm, which owns the
Hotel will offer a unique experience in Nairobi and will be
internationally acclaimed Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi,
excellent value for money.
grounds of the property. Perfectly situated between Nairobi’s two airports and
said it will open a 162-room hotel at the Carnivore grounds targeting business and leisure travellers soon.
Design
The Tamarind Tree Hotel will be a modern concept
According to Architect Kihara Mungai of Tectura
hotel, imbued with an African flavour which will
International who are the consulting architects, the client
incorporate innovative features to suit the needs of the
wanted a modern hotel that would be innovative in every
business and leisure traveller. The hotel will deliver 4
design aspect and one that would offer maximum comfort
star service at 3 star prices and will have all the amenities
while at the same time providing cutting edge service. Arch
of a modern hotel: spacious rooms, excellent free wi-fi,
Mungai says that the planning concept for the 4-storey
satellite TV, business and conferencing facilities plus
hotel had to be responsive to the site analysis in all aspects
a gym and heated lap pool. “The Tamarind Tree Hotel
– day lighting, ventilation and privacy gradients.
will be a modern concept hotel, imbued with an African
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flavour which will incorporate innovative features to suit
Schedule of accommodation
the needs of the business and leisure traveller,”said the
Tamarind Tree comprises a reception flanked by living
Tamarind Group.
spaces, a 24-hour duka, Dawa Bar, All day dining and
The public areas will be a blend of social, work and
two meeting rooms of approximately 120m2 each. These
relaxation zones with a 24-hour ‘grab and go’ food
meeting rooms are separated by a collapsible wall and can
duka along with all day dining and bars. The Carnivore
therefore be merged to form a larger conference room.
restaurant will be an additional attraction that can be
There is also an Executive section featuring a VIP lounge,
February 2017
Tamarind Tree Hotel integrates modern concept with African flavour to suit the needs of business and leisure.
an Executive Boardroom and an 8pax meeting room. A gymnasium has also been provided. The swimming pool comes complete with changing rooms and both indoor and outdoor showers. A sizeable garden for outdoor parties has been provided. The 162-room accommodation consists of various room configurations comprising Standard Rooms, Rooms for the Handicapped, Superior Suites, Suite Rooms and Junior Suites. All these rooms come with a special mix of standard and Arabic showers to cater for all and sundry. Finishes The finishing entails carpet flooring and wooden skirting with rhino board gypsum ceiling and painted walls. Other features are spotlights and cove lighting.
Auxiliaries The hotel will have 71 parking slots, two elevators, a borehole and a standby generator. A state of the art security system that includes access control will also be in place. Challenges According to Arch Mungai, the project team had to be cognizant of changing market trends and respond effectively. “We had to strike a balance between the team’s ideas and research throughout the construction stage”. The project has taken approximately two years and the team expects to hand it over at the end of November 2016.
Project Team Client - Langata Hotel
Borehole Drilling Subcontractor - Sparr Drilling Co. Ltd
Project Manager - Muambi Associates
Airconditioning Subcontractor - Refrigeration Centre Ltd
Architects - Tectura International
Security Subcontractor -HF Fire
Quantity Surveyors - Muambi Associates
Window Subcontractor -Hebatullah
Civil & Structural Engineers - Maptech Engineers
Washrooms and Shower Cubicles - Prime Aluminium
Electrical /Mechanical Engineers - Westconsult Engineers
Borehole Pump,Water Treatment & Swimming Pool Plant Sub-
Hospitality Consultants - Tamarind Group
Contractor - Davis and Shirtliff
Main Contractor - N.K. Brothers Ltd
Doors Subcontractor - Wood Products
Plumbing & Drainage Subcontractors - Pioneer Plumbers Ltd
ICT Subcontractors - Top Notch
Lifts Subcontractors - Schindler Ltd
Joinery Subcontractors –Kimpton
Electrical Subcontractors - Relcon Power Systems Ltd
Landscaping Subcontractor - Concrete Jungle
URBAN MOBILITY
Schindler Limited We are proud to be associated with Tectura International Ltd on the Tamarind Tree Hotel Project Longonot Place, 1st Floor, Kijabe Street, P.O. Box 43410 - 00100 Nairobi. Kenya. Pilot lines: +254 3340819. Tel: +254 3340669 / 2226938/ 722 201 881/2 / Fax: +254 3313279 Email: info.nbo@ke.schindler.com, Web: www.schindler.com February 2017
41
PROJECT
Kings Developers Stylish projects
K The Pearl Residency
ings Developers Limited is a fully Kenyan-owned real estate development company that was founded as part of the Royal Group of Companies. Since its inception in 2009, Kings Developers Limited has become synonymous with the development of ultra-high commercial, residential, retail, hospitality and mixed-use properties, making it the premier quality homes developer in the East African property market. With the housing development industry in Kenya continuing to record increased growth from the current demand of 250,000 housing units per year, Kings Developers Limited has destined to go beyond providing homes, but developing luxury living. In a span of five years, the real estate firm has risen to be the most acclaimed developer, boosted by our non-compromising use of cutting edge technology, high quality construction materials, skilled professionals, and a passion to open up elite property ownership across East Africa. PROJECTS Pearl Residency This project is located on Junction off Gitanga & Oleldume roads on Oloitoktok road. It Borders Light Primary School which hosts a kindergarten and Children's Wellness centre. It is also three minute walk to the famous Valley Arcade Chinese Restaurant. It is also five minutes’ walk to key International Schools on junction of Oledume & Argwings Kodhek road, 10 minutes drive to Westlands Junction Mall and CBD and 5 minutes drive to Yaya Centre. The residency can be easily accessed as public transport is available 24/7. Kings Pearl Residency offers the space, the warmth and the luxury you deserve which shall become your lifestyle. In Summary Pearl Residency has: • 55 apartments with 13 floors • Ground floor car park- 55 cars, 2 cars per apartment • 1st floor podium with guest apartment • 2nd floor to 12th floor – 4 apartments each.
The Prism Towers
42
Prism Towers The landmark tower stands high in the most well-connected new business district of Nairobi-Upper Hill. With 5-levels of parking ,1-level of reception recreational & restaurant and 28-level of office spaces Prism Towers offers nothing short of style and elegance. In Summary the Prism towers has: February 2017
•
Restaurant with indoor and outdoor sitting
•
Swimming pool & Gym for recreation
•
Separate Sauna, Steam and lockers for men and women
•
Podium level garden with outdoor sitting area
•
Seminar room for 20 people
•
Provision for own toilet and pantry inside the offices
•
Fire Alarm System
•
Emergency lighting system
•
Jogging Track around the building
Sherwood Your spacious residence at Kings Sherwood is meticulously planned to optimize space, as well as provide for all your needs. The apartments come with premium fittings to turn your routine shower into an experience of indulgence. With classy flooring at your feet, every convenience at your fingertips, high windows framing for a great view from the balcony. The Kings Sherwood is truly a rare privilege. In Summary the projects has: •
Swimming Pool with separate chaning rooms
•
Gym
•
24 hours security service
•
Two parking for every flat
•
Street lights
•
3 Phase power
•
Community Centre
•
Independent piped water to the complex
•
Vitirifed tiles in the house and many more
Millenium Located in Embakasi Nairobi. The residential project offers serenity and tranquility in equal measure. It has been exclusively designed for those who value and cherish quality of life, but have little chance to practice it in the busy city of Nairobi. In Summary the projects has: •
High speed lifts
•
High quality tiles, sanitary ware and sanitary fittings
•
Complete RCC Structure-
•
Adequate electrical points – PVC Concealed copper Wiring-
•
Aluminium or UPVC white window with Tinted glass-v
•
Superior quality paints on internal walls-
•
Open type Kitchen provided with granite platform SS sink, with cabinet facilities
•
Smart steel door at main entrance
•
600 x 600 vitrified tiles
•
Provision of instant water heater
•
TNC switches or Equivalent fittings
•
Standby generators to lifts & common areas
•
Flush door with Veneer Finish
•
DSTV, telephone, intercom access points
February 2017
43
PROJECT
T
he Secluded Hideaway is a high end apartments project located along Makindi Road in the Riara area of Kilimani, Nairobi. Riara is an upmarket suburb of Nairobi with well-developed infrastructure and an extensive network of social amenities befitting modern lifestyles. It is an excellent place to live in. The development by Blue Eagle Developers Limited features 3-bedroom units in a mellow combination of comfort and utility. Designed by leading Kenyan architectural firm Symbion, the apartments offer stunning views of the serene surroundings. The apartments are designed to maximize efficient yet comfortable living spaces, offering among others tasteful dĂŠcor and a host of amenities. The entire development consists of 44No. 3 Bed units and 4No. Penthouses, and a gate house with a guard room.
Living in Tranquil Surroundings The Secluded Hideaway
3 Bed Units At 260 square meters, the 3 bed units feature a cloak room, a spacious lounge which opens up to a terrace, a dining area with a table for 8, an open plan kitchen with breakfast bar and pantry, a scullery and a utility area linking the kitchen to a DSQ accessed from outside. All bedrooms are en suite. The master suite is spacious with a walk in closet and spacious bathroom. Pent Houses At 511 square meters, the pent house units are spread on two levels. The first level features a cloak room, a spacious lounge opening up to a large double-volume terrace, a dining area with seating for 8, a spacious
Open plan concept
Proposed roof garden
44
Amenities; Proposed pool, landscaped garden and gym
February 2017
Terrace view
The first level features a cloak room and a spacious lounge.
open-plan kitchen with generous worktop space, storage space and a breakfast bar, a scullery and utility area linking the kitchen to a DSQ accessed from outside. This level also hosts two en suite bedrooms, including a junior bedroom, which contains a spacious bathroom and walk in closet. The second level hosts a family room, a study, and two en suite bedrooms, including a luxurious master bedroom, which entails a bed area, a sitting area, a large walk in closet and a large bathroom equipped with a double shower, Jacuzzi, WC cubicle and his and hers vanity top. Amenities The units are laid out 4No. per level around a vertical circulation core, hosting two lifts and a fire escape staircase. Amenities include 2 parking spots per house, a gym and infinity pool with changing facilities, a landscaped garden at the approach, a play area for children and an administrative office.
Other amenities and services include Voice and Data, a standby generator, and underground and overhead water storage tanks ensuring un-interrupted water supply. To conserve energy, solar panels for water heating have been deployed in the development.
Project Team Client: Blue Eagle Developers Ltd Architects: Symbion Kenya Ltd
Unique Aspects The architects have incorporated a roof garden in the project design. Roof gardens are popular additions in modern building designs especially in the West and Far East. Besides their decorative benefit, roof plantings aid in temperature control.
Quantity Surveyors: Consting Consult Structural/Civil Engineer: Shelter Consult Electrical & Mechanical Engineer:
Timeline The project commenced in August 2015 and is expected to be complete in August 2017. The units are available for sale through the agent Hass Consult.
Electro Consult Main Contractor: Sava Builders Ltd
Godown No. 30, Fortis Industrial Park, Chady Rd, Syokimau, off Mombasa Rd. P.O. Box 33894-00600 Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: 0723 671166. Email: info@rabadiaplumbing.co.ke
We are proud to be associated with Symbion on the Secluded Hideaway Project February 2017
45
PROJECT
New Premises for Bank of Africa Kenya
B
ank of Africa (BOA) is a major Pan African bank with operations in more than a dozen countries on the continent. It is part of the BOA Group that
operates in 18 countries including 17 in Africa.
District where some of its more than 500 employees have been working from. The bank purchased the building from a private developer and has been customizing it to
The bank has a strong foundation in Kenya and is
conform to its requirements. It is located along School
one of the established mid-tier lenders in the country. To
Lane in Westlands, one of Nairobi’s prime suburbs that
solidify its footprint, BOA embarked on acquiring its own
hosts numerous other corporates.
P.O. Box 38425-00623 Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254 20 4453365/4453366 Cell: +254 720 052365, +254 734 796566 Email: info@electrotech.home.co.ke
46
headquarters away from the capital’s Central Business
We are proud to be associated with Bank of Africa and Design PartnershipLtd as their Electrical Contractors February 2017
A people friendly environment that enhances social collaboration, productivity and optimism.
According to Design Partnership Limited, who are
accommodate some offices. Other offices will occupy
the interior designers and project managers, BOA needed
all the upper floors (1st to 7th). The 7th floor will house
a people friendly environment that would enhance
executive offices. The bank will lease out 4th and 5th
social collaboration, productivity and optimism for the
floors to interested tenants.
occupants.
Inside, the building will feature acoustic ceilings with
The seven-storey building has two basements that will
LED panel lights. Glazed partitions will be employed to
be used mostly for parking, UPS and other ancillary items.
enable transparency as well as allow natural light to flow
A lower ground floor will be utilized for bulk storage
into the rooms. Tile and Carpet Centre, a major supplier
while the ground floor will be used for banking and also
to the interior industry in Kenya, will suppliedy carpet tile
The architect has incorporated some unique elements to make the building and its working spaces conducive to operations.
February 2017
47
PROJECT
The building features acoustic ceilings with LED panel lights.
ARK CONSTRUCTION LTD P.O. Box 21073-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.Tel: 020-8041599, 0721/0734 720975 Email: info@arkconstruction.co.ke
Building construction and associated civil works Office and Shop fit out Metal and timber fabrication General renovation works Landscaping
floors from INTERFACE. The architect has incorporated some unique elements to make the building and its working spaces conducive to operations. He has adopted open spaces that are flexible to anticipate and can easily support the changing nature of work. Teaming and informal interactions spaces have been facilitated by interaction pods and focus rooms. On the first floor, a canteen has been provided. “This will go a long way in encouraging relaxed engagement among the staff to reduce stress and instil a sense of community”, reckons the architect. In line with requirements for “green building”, the BOA Headquarters will make extensive use of recycled materials and will utilize low energy LED light fittings and motion sensor controls. As with other modern office buildings, this one will be adequately served by a borehole and a standby generator for reliable water and electrical power respectively. Security is at the forefront of a banking facility. The building will therefore be secured through a perimeter fence, CCTV, access controls systems and intruder alarms to back up security personnel. Fire alarms and fire suppressions systems have also been incorporated in the design. Work commenced at the end of February 2016 and is expected to be complete by end of the year. Project Team Client: Bank of Africa Interior Designers and Project Managers:
We are proud to be associated with Design Partnership on the Bank of Africa HQ Project
Design Partnership Limited Quantity Surveyor: Getso Consultants Ltd Mechanical and Electrical Engineer: Building Services Group Ltd Main Contractor: Ark Construction Ltd CCTV: Renocon Agencies Ltd Fire Alarm Installation: Titan Fire & Security Fire Suppression: Benita EA. Ltd Plumbing, Drainage and Fire extinguishers: Capital Plumbing Works ltd Intruder Alarm Installations: Wells Fargo Ltd. UPS Installations: Powerware Systems Ltd
48
February 2017
NOVEC SYSTEMS
FM200 SYSTEMS
INERGEN SYSTEMS
KITCHEN HOOD FIRE SUPPRESSION
We are proud to be associated with the Bank of Africa Headquarters Project as the Fire Suppression Systems Subcontractor Karen Plains Arcade, Karen Plains Road P O Box 1779 00502, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 20 2170380, Cell: +254 (0)702-764732, +254(0)722-521252 Email: info@benita.co.ke Web: www.benita.co.ke
We are proud to be associated with Design Partnership Limited on the Bank of Africa Project
Building Services Group P.O. Box 54529 Nairobi 00200 Kenya Tel: +254 20 2694697 Email: info@buildingservicesgroup.com
February 2017
49
ADVERTISER'S MESSAGE
Apex Steel Limited (K) introduces Bartec Couplers (Re-bar mechanical splicing solution) into the Kenyan market construction projects. The Bartec Coupler is a mechanical splicing solution that guarantees a 100% bar break performance. This means that for a given rebar grade, the
I
n November 2016, Apex Steel Limited organized a seminar at the Hotel Radisson Blu in the Upper Hill area of Nairobi, to inform and educate key industry players in the construction industry about their latest product, the Apex TMXBartec couplers. Being the market leader in innovative construction solutions, the company has introduced the Apex TMXBartec Coupler, a mechanical splicing solution into the growing Kenyan market, which bears the International Standardization Mark (KEBS-ISM). Apex Steel Limited the pioneer in steel manufacturing in Kenya for the past 46 years is the first Kenyan company to introduce ribbed bars in 2006 manufactured to BS4449:2005 standards, Grade of 500+ to the Kenyan market in
coupler and rebar make a connection that 2006. It went on to attain the Diamond Mark of quality from KEBS, for its steel products which are of proven high quality. Apex has also attained the Super Brand status in recognition for its exceptional brands and the company is now also LEED certified, producing environmentally friendly (green) steel in support of sustainable development. As a consequence of its consistency n quality, Apex Steel supplies deformed bars to iconic projects namely the Thika Road Highway and the Standard Gauge Railway. In partnership with the world’s leader in mechanical splicing solutions, Dextra, Apex steel Limited has acquired state of the art technological equipment to facilitate the bar end preparation process of deformed bars, to accommodate the use of couplers on all
Salva Plaza, Mogotio Road. Block A, 3rd Floor. P.O. Box 32975-00600 Nairobi, Kenya Mobile: 0721 457414/0733 882691/0717 347646 Email: sales@renoconagencies.com, darsh@kenyaweb.com, marketing@renoconagencies.com Website: www.renoconagencies.com
50
is stronger than the parent bar. When the joint is subjected to a tensile test, there is a 100% guarantee that the fracture will occur at the parent bar and not the splice (coupler). There are several technical benefits of using couplers in comparison to the conventional method of overlapping for steel continuity. First and most importantly, couplers; ensure improved structural ductility and integrity (due to improved steel continuity), they reduce steel congestion in structural members and allow for safe transfer of electrical currents to the earth by concrete structures. In addition to that, modern construction methodologies can be applied on projects such as the use of slip forming, which has been applied only once in Kenya.
We are proud to be associated with Design Partnership Limited on the Bank of Africa Headquarters Building as the CCTV subcontractor February 2017
PROJECT
Nairobi Serena Gears up for Major Upgrade
I
t is indisputably one of the most prestigious hotels with a rich history in Kenya. Indeed when the history of Kenya’s hospitality industry is finally written, Nairobi Serena Hotel will feature prominently as one of the leading five star hotels that have put the country on the world map. This it has done by not only providing quality and unrivalled services but also by being the hotel where the agreement that saved Kenya from plunging into the abyss following a disputed general election in
2007 was signed. Being a flagship of the Serena Group of Hotels that trades under the name Tourism Promotion Services (TPS Serena) and comprises a collection of 36 luxury resorts, safari lodges and hotels in Africa and Asia, Nairobi Serena Hotel considers itself an oasis of calm in the centre of the city. This is rightly so. Located just next to the historic Uhuru Park, the hotel offers an ambience of calm in a buzzing city. Despite being within only five minutes from the central business district, Nairobi Serena
February 2017
51
PROJECT
Serena Hotel considers itself an oasis of calm in the centre of the city.
Hotel offers customers who include business travellers, tourists, international diplomatic guests, local clients and many others, an environment to serenely conduct business, hold conferences or unwind. It is for this reason that Nairobi Serena Hotel, which is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, has consistently been voted as Nairobi’s best hotel. In recent times, the hotel which is home to the iconic Mandhari finedining experience, has been voted Africa's Leading Green Hotel – 2016, Kenya's Leading Business Hotel – 2016, Africa's Leading Green Hotel – 2015 and Kenya's Leading Hotel – 2015 by the prestigious World Travel Awards. To cement its position as the leading hotel in Kenya, Nairobi Serena Hotel is set to implement a Sh2.2 billion (US$23m) expansion and upgrade project that will enhance its magnificent Pan-African themed designs Project Team Project Managers: Betts Townsend (Pty) Ltd Architects: Symbion Kenya Ltd Civil: Howard Humphreys East Africa Structural Engineers: R.K Boga Quantity Surveyors: Barker & Barton Mechanical & Electrical Engineers: Bosch East Africa Consulting Engineers Ltd. Main Contractor: Parbat Seyani Electrical Subcontractors: Patronics Services Ltd Plumbing & Drainage Subcontractors: Allied Plumbers Ltd Mechanical Ventilation and Air Conditioning : Shankar Electronics 52
when completed in April 2018. The project, which is being spearheaded by Symbion Kenya Ltd, one of the region’s top architectural firms, will involve revamping and expanding nearly all its facilities. “The project aims to give the hotel an entirely new fresh look while maintaining the features that Nairobi Serena Hotel is known for,” according to the architects. The expansion will involve the construction of a new ball room that will have a capacity to accommodate 350 people, new meeting rooms, a new specialty restaurant and an additional executive 7th floor. It will also involve refurbishment of existing hotel rooms and installation of new mechanical and electrical services. The entire reception experience is being revisited and made significantly larger, whilst at the same time incorporating a new link to a purpose designed conference and banqueting facility. Combined with the Amani Room and the hotel's other premium brand meeting and conferencing facilities, this new destination, supported by additional car parking spaces, will consolidate Nairobi Serena’s position as the capital's leading business and leisure hotel. The new reception lobby and lounge will be made more inviting with generous provision of ubiquitous WI-FI, phone /laptop plugin charge points and ample sit down spaces to meet and socialize in small groups. The new reception will have improved security features, existing lifts will be upgraded and a luggage lift introduced. The upgrade will also introduce a themed restaurant, which will accord guests the opportunity to access it separately from the hotel’s main entrance. The specialty restaurant is an add on to the existing Maghreb, Mandhari and Axum bars. Guest rooms will be modernized incorporating new technology in services as concerns February 2017
The hotel offers quality and unrivaled services
acoustics, air conditioning and additional plug in outlets. The upgrade would not be complete without the addition of a VIP floor at the roof top that features a lounge with meeting rooms and executive suites. The VIP lounge will allow people to work in a public area, meet with guests and still allow them their privacy. The VIP lounge will also offer extended F&B services distinct from the dining and restaurants located at the ground floor. It is important to note that The Nairobi Serena Hotel has distinguished itself as a champion in green way of doing business to guarantee sustainability of the hospitality and tourism industry. Over the past five years, the hotel has been named Africa’s top green hotel three times because of using the latest technology to recycle waste, reduce pollution and save on power. According to the architects, emphasis on green initiatives will be a crucial aspect of the expansion project. Notably, high efficiency plumbing fittings will be incorporated in the refurbishment and native plant species that require little or no irrigation will be used in landscaping. Energy recovery units and heat pumps will be installed to provide preheated water to the boiler while a robust waste recycling and solid waste management programme that harnesses the latest technology will be deployed. Other interventions will include enhancement of natural lighting for lobbies and bedrooms with improved indoor environment and air quality, use of low-e glass as well as environmentally friendly paints. The Hotel will remain fully functional during the construction period and the project team has designed a work schedule that ensures minimal business disruption. Contractor access and staging areas have been kept adjacent to Nyerere Road, leaving Processional Way primarily for guest access. The refurbishment will be achieved by splitting the hotel into North and South blocks with buffer spaces maintained between guest occupied and contractor occupied areas . Integration of new and existing services will be a major challenge but the team expects to execute the entire project seamlessly. February 2017
Howard Humphreys (East Africa) Limited Consulting Engineers
53
ATLAS COPCO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND GENERATORS Building with sustainable productivity
Innovative and reliable construction equipment builds infrastructure faster and in a more sustainable way. Atlas Copco Tanzania Ltd Plot 75B,Julius Nyerere Rd P O Box 39966,Dar es salaam,Tanzania Phone:+255 22 286 1571 www.atlascopco.com
ATLAS COPCO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND GENERATORS PREDICTABLE POWER Atlas copco Predictable Power brings peace of mind to customers in the on-site generator and power generation business, peace of mind with solutions that combine low cost of ownership, reliable performance and risk-free operation.
Generators Ranging From 12kVA to 1250kVA
Atlas Cocpo generators are designed to perform, built to last. They offer the following key benefits: - Performance - Accurate and stable power - Versatility - Ability to power a wide range of applications - Service efficiency - Increased up - time - increased transport efficiency - Superior resale value
Lighting Towers
PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSORS Atlas Copco is the leading manufacturer of portable compressed air machines in the world, and through constant research and technology, superior products are developed. The combination of performance, reliability, economy and convenience has resulted in an innovative range of single axle high capacity air compressors used in a variety of industries.
XAS 97 HardHat Compressor
CONSTRUCTION TOOLS
Our range of compaction and breaking equipment will take your productivity to a whole new level. The equipment has low maintenance costs, high availability, ergonomic. Intelligent engineering, top quality materials, first-class components and mordern engines contribute to long lasting machines with high trade-in values.
Drill Air Compressor
Breakers
Plate Compactors
Rammers
Tex Breakers
DYNAPAC BUILDS THE FUTURE
Dynapac Rollers
Low noise - high power The powerful and quiet water-cooled diesel engines. With the large drum diameter and the drive motors connected in series, there is excellent accessibility and hill-climbing capability. Operator friendly A spacious, vibration-damped operator platform and an ergonomically positioned step make these machines extremely operator-friendly. A modern, easily legible instrument panel with a warning panel and a fuel gauge is standard.
Dynapac Pavers
Easy transportation To easily transport the roller between workplaces, the machines are fitted with a robust central lifting eye that allows fast and easy loading. Standard folding ROPS keeps the transport height to a minimum. Minimum service required Extended service intervals minimize maintenance costs. The machines have a maintenance-free steering hitch and steering cylinder. The few remaining service points are easily accessible.
Dynapac Planners
Dynapac Pneumatic Rollers
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
Airtouch Cooling Systems Ltd................49
Electro Technologies Ltd.........................46
Apex Steel .................................................1
Fairdeal....................................................38
Ark Construction......................................48
Ghani Electricals......................................39
ASP Company Ltd...................................31
Howard Humphreys.................................53
Atlas Copco..............................................54
Jessop & Associates (Pty) Ltd.................25
Barker & Barton Kenya...........................51
Kampala Electric Mart.......................... IBC
Benita.......................................................49
Kenbro Industries Ltd..............................32
Blum.........................................................16
Kohler......................................................15
Bosch EA.................................................53
Plumb Build Engineering Ltd..................39
Building Services Group..........................49
Power & Electricity..................................25
Casements (A) Ltd...................................26
Powerware Systems Ltd...........................49
Chameleon Solutions Ltd.........................40
Prime Steel.................................................9
Conmix.....................................................24
Rabadia Plumbing Ltd.............................45
Crestank.................................................IFC
Renocon Agencies Ltd.............................50
Davis & Shirtliff......................................33
Schindler..................................................41
Dawn Sanitary..........................................18
Sika..........................................................23
Delta Controls..........................................21
Spectrum Architects.................................39
Diamond Properties.................................34
Tile Centre...............................................21
Ebatech.....................................................43
Twiga Cement......................................OBC
Econobuild...............................................39
Zedex Fabricators Ltd..............................43
To advertise with us: Send Email to info@groupafricapublishing.com or contact your nearest agency for more information.
OUR PUBLICATIONS www.constructionreviewonline.com www.ambriefonline.com
African
Mining Brief
EXCELLENCE IN FABRICATING INNOVATIVE STEEL SOLUTIONS
July - August 2014, Volume 8 No. 4
African Mining Brief
Working with honesty, accountability and care, our collective team is committed to fabricating innovative steel solutions to meet your specific needs. Genrec’s capabilities include:
ISO 9001 : 2008 ISO 14001: 2004 + Cor 1 : 2009
Vol 8 No. 4
• Total Project Management • Steel Detailing Solutions • Light, Medium & Heavy Structural Fabrication • Heavy Machining • Planning and Programming • Material Logistics • Erection • Site Services
Inside:
ISO 3834 part 3
At Genrec Engineering, our team is happy to discuss the value we can add to your projects with our resources, be that a single capability or the entire project offering.
BS OHSAS 18001 : 2009
Collision Avoidance Technology
API Certification BBBEE Level 2
Genrec Engineering (Pty) Ltd. • Tel: +27 11 876 2300 | Fax: +27 11 827 1722 Cnr Dekema & Niemann Roads, Wadeville, 1428, South Africa E-mail: sales@genreceng.co.za • Web: www.genreceng.co.za
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Genrec Engineering specialises in the manufacture of structures and equipment in diversified markets such as: • Power Generation • Mining • Petrochemical • Mineral Beneficiation • Infrastructure, Oil and Gas, and Industrial
Mali's key gold producer
July - August 2014
At Genrec Engineering, our values deliver your vision. We know that a company’s products are a reflection of the team that creates them. Our people are the underlying force driving the delivery of your vision with embedded values to deliver beyond our customers’ expectations.
Loulo-Gounkoto Mine Complex
Dealing with corrosion Minesite catering
One One Source Source Total Total Solution Solution
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