3 Ton
Ksh 3.5M
5 Ton
Ksh 5.9M
‘APEX TMX’ CONSTRUCTION STEEL A LWAY S O N LY S O L D B Y ‘A C T U A L W E I G HT ’
S UPERIO R ELO NG ATIO N 12% - 26%
Y I E L D S T RE N GT H 5 00 N /M M ² - 60 0N/M M ² C ONS IS TENT TOLERAN CE %
GE RM A N T E C H NOLOGY
E AS T A F RI C A’S NO. 1 C H O I C E O F D EFOR M ED B A R
BS :4449-2005 K ENYAN IS O 69 35- 2
A P E X T M X - N O E Q U I VA L E N T C ALL +254 2 0 6 9 6 9 0 0 0 /1 / 2 , + 2 5 4 7 3 3 6 4 0 1 5 0 / 7 2 2 8 2 8 8 5 0 E M A I L sales@apex -steel. co m WE B www. ap ex- s t eel .com
MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes SUB - EDITOR Lubwa Leonard COUNTRY EDITORS Kenya - Francis Makari Uganda - Betty Nabakooza Nigeria - Boladale Ademiju South Africa - Jimmy Swira WRITERS Lindsay Wagner, Yvonne Andiva, Erick Mongare, Dorcas Kang'ereha WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN Augustine Ombwa, Bonface Kimunyi
CON
Courting Africa Asian style
Sales and Marketing Manager Ken Okore
A boon for Africa’s infrastructure
ADVERTISING Kenya William Mutama, Fred Okoth, Trizah Njoroge, Joseph Mwangi, Christine Siamanta, Patrick Otieno, Pascal Musungu,
Asia is courting Africa in a bid to gain a share of its
South Africa: Thuli Nkosi, Winnie Sentabire, Angeline Ntobeng,
growing market and tap its vast resources to feed its own industries. Africa stands to gain as China, Japan and India vie for most favored position
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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14
REGULARS Editor's Comment 3 Energy News 4 Commercial News 5 Infrastructure News 6 Association News 7 Corporate News 8 Housing News 9 Events 10 Product News 11 Opinion - Challenges & opportunities for foreign solar 12
energy firms in Africa
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TENTS
November 2016 Volume 27 No.11
Mount Kenya Homes
Editor's Comment
The flagship Resort for Swiss International in Sub-Sahara Africa
Asian investment in Africa
With the recent sealing of a joint venture
arrangement
between
Mt
Kenya Holiday Homes and Swiss International Hotels and Resorts, the development has aptly adopted the Swiss International Resort Mount Kenya brand. This will be the flagship Resort for Swiss International in Sub
26
Sahara Africa.
Situ Village Serenity and Tranquility at Its Best Kenyans are no longer buying homes but people are buying lifestyles, which gated communities provide. Many gated communities consist of nicely built homes with signature architecture and with a touch of
30
finesse.
Surveying Equipment and Service Providers 24 Cytonn Real Estate’s Mega Projects on Course 32 Kiambu Mall to bring services closer to residents 34
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
What does Africa offer the world? It offers attractive returns on investment, a growing middle class eager for products and services and vast mineral resources. It is no wonder then that some economists have described it as the next frontier for investment spurring a new scramble but this time not from the west as in the century but from the east. The near zero returns on financial instruments in the rest of the world has made investors more bold in their outlook towards Africa and this has been led by dollar-rich China that has through its import bank bank and government owned corporations made significant investments in mining and infrastructure investment as well as housing and energy. The need for energy resources has seen China, Japan and China take a stake in oil and gas fields in Africa’s resource rich countries and in exchange they have helped develop infrastructures such as roads, rail and hydro-electric dams that have had a beneficial knock-on effect of lowering the cost of production of manufactured as well as agricultural goods in Africa. The transformation can easily be seen in countries like Ethiopia and Kenya where six lane highways have eased traffic flow and high speed rail will speed up hauling of cargo from Djibouti to Addis Ababa as well as from Mombasa to Nairobi. Developing new Ports in Lamu and Bagamoyo as well as a developments in Mombasa will further spur growth. It seems the economic cloud that has engulfed the west has seen Africa enjoy a silver lining
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
ENERGY NEWS
Kenya
Tanzania
South Africa
Largest Solar farm in East Africa kicks off
Talks on construction of natural gas processing plant open
Noupoort wind farm commissioned
Construction of East Africa’s
Tanzania is in talks with six oil companies regarding the construction of a natural gas processing plant in the country. The Ministry of Energy held consultations with the six companies ahead of a stakeholders’ meeting which is set for the end of November. Initial talks involved discussions on how the firms would execute the project mutually and how the different production sharing agreements would be harmonized and also introducing a new Petroleum Act that came into effect last year. Apart from that, the government and the oil firms talked about the modalities of the commercial production of natural gas reserves which are estimated to be 57 trillion cubic feet discovered offshore in the southern Tanzania region for domestic use and export to Asia. Energy Minister Sospeter Muhongo pointed out that Tanzania was very enthusiastic to see gas contribute to the expansion of other sectors in the country like power generation and fertiliser production. The gas liquefier and the export terminal will be constructed at Likong’o in Lindi at a cost of US$ 30bn. It will have two processing units (trains) each with a capacity of 5 million tonnes per year. The investment decision has so far been delayed since 2014. In July 2015, Tanzania’s parliament passed the Petroleum Act.
South Africa has officially commissioned the 80MW Noupoort wind farm in Umsobomvu Municipal Area, the latest energy project to be launched by the country. The Wind Farm spans 7,500 hectares and comprises thirty five 99m-high wind turbines. The US$132.7mN wind farm project has 35 turbines. All the turbines are now producing clean renewable electrical energy to meet the needs of almost 70,000 average South African households. According to the projects operator Mainstream Renewable Power, Noupoort Wind Farm has achieved its commercial operations date on schedule and on budget. Noupoort Wind Farm is currently implementing various economic development projects, which include Capacity Building for existing and prospective entrepreneurs; local maths and science development programmes that incorporate science and computer labs as well as local Wi-Fi infrastructure. Besides being an excellent wind resource, the site was also selected due to its proximity to national roads for wind turbine transportation, the straightforward electrical connection into the Eskom grid, the favourable construction conditions, municipality and local stakeholder support. Studies have shown that there will be little environmental impact. The wind farm will generate about 304,800MWh of clean renewable energy per annum and is expected to eliminate approximately 300,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year when compared to the traditional fossil fuel power plants.
largest solar farm is set to start in earnest after Rural Electrification Authority
(REA),
announced
that it has concluded a PPA with Kenya Power to sell electricity generated from the solar farm at
US$0.12/kWh.
The
solar
farm will sit on 85-hectares of land with 200,200 solar panels, the largest in East and Central Africa and will be funded by China through Exim Bank of China to a tune of US$135.7mn. The 55MW solar farm, to be constructed by China Jiangxi in the north eastern town of Garissa will produce power to light up 625,000 homes in the country. Rwanda recently completed an 8.5MW solar farm with 28,360 solar panels on a 17 hectare farm. The $23.7m solar field went from contract signing to construction to connection in just a year. Construction of the solar farm will start in July after the project suffered delays, in part due to prolonged talks for the PPA with Kenya Power. The solar plant will reduce Kenya’s carbon
emissions
by
about
43,000 tonnes per year for trading in the global carbon market. REA chairman Simon Gicharu said the project would also help the country create employment opportunities offering at least 1,000 jobs especially for the young people. Kenya’s total power capacity stands at 2,333MW, with solar power accounting for less than 1%. However, this percentage is set to improve as Gicharu had previously said the plant will be connected to the grid therefore some of the power generated will also be consumed in Nairobi. 4
Liberia
10MW Heavy Fuel Oil power plant commissioned Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has commissioned a 10MW Heavy Fuel Oil power plant, which has now lit the Snow Hill community in Gardnerville. The US$27mn power plant is located at the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) in Bushrod Island outside Monrovia. The Japanese government has been the major sponsor of the project through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). President Sirleaf admitted that, the government cannot do everything. Sirleaf said she is optimistic that her administration’s commitment will ensure that critical projects like energy are well implemented for the benefit of the public and the nation at large. According to President Sirleaf, the Mount Coffee hydropower plant rehabilitation project will come online by December 2016 with an aim of increasing energy generation capacity. Moreover, the newly commissioned HFO power plant will bring power operated by LEC to 38MW in total. LEC is currently operating below 28MW. Japan’s ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Yoshimura said that, the rehabilitation of the power system as well as many other projects currently being undertaken is a clear demonstration of Japan’s commitment to realise a “Quality Africa”.
November 2016
COMMERCIAL NEWS
Tanzania
Nigeria
Zimbabwe
A US$120mn potato processing factory and farm is set to be constructed in Manchok in Kaura Local Government Area-Nigeria. Kaduna State Governor, Mr. Nasir El-Rufai flagged off the construction of the Potato Processing factory which is in line with the administration’s economic diversification programme. The Minister of State of Trade and Investment, Mrs. Aisha Abubakar was also present during the inauguration and described the development as a major stride towards moving the nation’s economy forward. The Executive Secretary of Kaduna State Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA), Gambo Hamza, pointed out that for the plant to be constructed successfully, it would need about 10,000 hectares of land for potato cultivation. The factory is being constructed by Vicampro International, an agro-based company in partnership with the Nigerian government and will be completed in the next 18 months. Upon completion, the factory will have a capacity to process 2,500 tonnes of potatoes daily and create at least 30,000 jobs especially for the youths.
The construction of a US$30mn
Renovation of Dodoma Nigeria to construct a US$120mn Potato Airport complete Processing factory The
renovation
of
Dodoma
Airport has been completed increasing the number of planes landing at the airport to nine from the normal three, Airport Manager Mr Julius Mlungwa announced recently. According to Mlungwa, for the few days the airport has been operational the number of flights has tripled. He said the completion of the works has allowed more flights to land at the semi-arid region and the country’s
designated
capital,
lowering airfare for passengers. He noted that despite the
Rwanda
delays in starting the project it
Commercial complex set to open in November
was completed on the time frame
A new commercial complex in Rwanda’s capital Kigali is set for
that was set by the authority. He thanked the contractor for carrying out the job well and said they look forward to have more airports in the country expanded.
opening in November this year. The construction of the complex christened Kigali Heights commenced in February 2014 and is currently undergoing final touches ready for inauguration as confirmed by the Managing Director of Kigali Heights, Mr. Denis Karera. Mr. Karera further pointed out that the facility has already attracted international brands and banking institutions in the country,
Mr Mlungwa also added that
region and beyond. Some of them include Java House cafe, Mr. Price,
for long, air travelers, including
Bosini, Simba Supermarket Ecobank among others. The construction
tour agents, business people,
is under Taaleri Private Equity Funds Limited. The Head of Real
government
Estate Funds Africa at Taaleri Private Equity Funds, Antti-Jussi
officers,
international representatives
leaders,
organization and
ordinary
people, had been complaining about escalating airfares to and from Dodoma. Tanzania Airport
Ahveninen Ltd also confirmed the news and said that the investors are excited about this project since it is their first in Africa. Over 90 per cent of the available retail and 40 per cent of office space in Kigali Heights has already been booked, with high confidence that the remaining 60 per cent shall be taken up once the facility is complete. The complex also has parking facilities for over 300 vehicles.
Authority (TAA) Engineer Mbila Mdemu who was in charge of the expansion project said the last renovation works at Dodoma Airport was done in 1976. He also called upon the government to ensure they pump more funds
US$30m bottling plant construction begins
Pepsi bottling plant dubbed Varun Beverages Ltd has commenced in Harare, Zimbabwe. Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shankar Krishnan confirmed the reports and said that all the machinery and equipment that are required have been ordered and all resources needed for the completion of the plant were in place. He further said that the bottling plant is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2017. Varun Beverages Zimbabwe which
is
undertaking
the
construction of the plant will focus on juice based beverages from PepsiCo‘s portfolio to augment its product offering. Apart
from
undertaking
construction Varun
has
of also
the
the
plant,
invested
a
considerable amount of money in chilling units in line with its “Cold is Sold” business motto whereby they are considering the investment in chilling units as one of their priorities in Zimbabwe. At the moment, Zimbabwe has massive potential for the beverage industry making it one of the reasons why Varun decided to invest in the country. Varun Beverages Ltd is one of the largest franchisee in the world (outside US) of carbonated soft drinks (“CSDs”) and noncarbonated beverages (“NCBs”) sold under trademarks owned by PepsiCo. They produce and distribute a wide range of CSDs,
to the transport industry so that
as well as a large selection of
they can reach world class level
NCBs,
in terms of projects.
drinking water.
November 2016
including
packaged 5
INFRASTRUCTURE NEWS
Kenya Construction of 140MW geothermal power plant underway Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) plans to construct 140MW geothermal power plant in Kenya before the end of 2016. Abel Rotich, KenGen Geothermal Development Director, said that the company has already secured funding to the tune of US$300m for the construction of the geothermal power plant in Kenya. Rotich said the process of identifying the project contractor will start in October 2016. Olkaria V power plant is about 100km northwest of Nairobi, and it will take 18 months to complete. In the meantime, KenGen is producing 540MW of geothermal power as another independent power producer is producing another 140MW. In the Rift Valley region, Kenya has an estimated potential of 7,000MW of geothermal power. Additionally geothermal steam exploration is carried out by the Kenya national government and the steam will be sold to power firms to convert it into energy. Currently, Kenya is prioritizing the exploitation of geothermal resource as it is a reliable renewable source of energy, in fact geothermal is a resource that is owned by Kenya and therefore electricity production comes at a low cost. Geothermal will continue to be a significant source of electricity because it is not affected by climate change. Other sources of power such as hydropower are susceptible to changes in the rainfall pattern. Kenya’s energy sector is largely dominated by petroleum and electricity, with wood fuel providing the basic energy needs of the rural communities, urban poor, and the informal sector. 6
Djibouti Djibouti-Ethiopia railway set for testing
Liberia Expansion of Roberts International Airport set to kick off The construction of Liberia’s Roberts
International
Airport
is expected to start after the Government of Liberia signed a US$50mn loan pact with the Chinese Exim Bank. According to A new railway line that links the capital Addis Ababa and Djibouti is now ready for testing. The US$4bn Djibouti-Ethiopia railway line, funded by China will boost transport in the region and the economy at large. Officials from the Ethiopian Railway Corporation say trial service will run for three to six months on the line, beginning the first week of October. The electric rail system will cut travel time between Ethiopia’s capital and the Port of Doraleh, on the Gulf of Aden, from two days to less than 10 hours. It is part a plan to build 5,000 kilometers of rail to connect its fast-growing cities and their markets. The US$3bn vision would make Ethiopia the first sub-Saharan country outside of South Africa to develop a comparable national rail network. China’s funding of 70 percent of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti line reflects its continued investment and strategic interest in the Horn of Africa. The railway is built by China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC) and China Civil Engineering Construction (CCECC), and replaces a nearly 100-year-old diesel line with the efficient, environmentally friendly new trains. The move to boost railway transport in Ethiopia is meant to keep the economy expanding at the rate of 8 percent.
Kenya
Plans to construct six-lane highway
government officials the project will start immediately and will be completed within the time frame that will be set by the contractor. The construction will involve expansion of the terminal building at
the
Roberts
International
Airport (RIA) and this will be a sigh of relief as initially the government has been blamed for failing to revitalize the RIA over the past 10 years. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf oversaw the signing agreement and said the country’s major airport will have a new face. She said that the delay was caused
because
they
were
looking into getting the best partner who they will trust with the
project.
Recounting
the
partnership between Liberia and
Construction of Kenya’s six-lane highway moved a notch higher after
China, President Sirleaf said that
the Kenyan and US governments and a California-based construction
Liberia has experienced several
and engineering firm Bechtel held a successful meeting. Head of the
developments via the Liberian-
US government’s Overseas Private Investment Corporation (Opic)
Chinese relations in the last
Elizabeth Littlefield and Bechel signed a letter of interest regarding
decade.
upgrading the Nairobi-Mombasa highway into a Six-Lane highway
to Liberia Zhang Yue said the
at a cost of 14 million dollar on the sidelines of the US-Africa
Government of Liberia securing
Business Forum in New York recently. This is one of the world’s
the loan for the RIA terminal’s
largest engineering and construction companies that are currently
construction was made possible
involved in the financial discussion and have higher possibility of
after the Liberian leader’s visit
clinching the deal as they are well established in terms of construction
last year to China. “This is an
using the latest technology. Currently the US Export-Import Bank
immediate follow up project after
has thrown its weight behind Bechtel to ensure that they secure
Madam President’s Visit last year.
investment for the 485-kilometre expressway. The project will ease
This project is an important one.
the transport situation between Kenya’s main port of Mombasa and
Airline is a very important part of
cities throughout East Africa in addition to boosting the government’s
a country,” Ambassador Zhang
agenda of streamlining the transport industry. The US government
said. The Chinese Ambassador
move to help Bechtel secure a deal to build the road coincides with
Continued: “During the Ebola, we
the opening in Nairobi of an Opic office that is expected to facilitate
knew how important the free flow
US business’ participation in infrastructural development.
of people is important.
Chinese
Ambassador
November 2016
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Plans to Make Local Contractors Competitive
Nigerian Institute of Architects seeks to boost tourism in Nigeria
Ethiopian Construction Contractors Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Construction are working to create a market opportunity for local contractors to empower them to become economically and technically strong to be competitive in the sector. Speaking when opening the 13th International Construction Exhibition Minister Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen said that the Ministry has made notable improvements in the sector by creating a conducive work environment through facilitating infrastructure, providing modern technologies and benefiting investors through various incentives. Ethiopian Construction Contractors Association Chairperson Eng. Abera Bekele said that the exhibition will play a significant role in sharing experiences with companies equipped with advanced construction technologies. He also said that the Association has been empowering sector stakeholders, governmental organizations, private owners, small and micro institutions and others through providing access to information on sector opportunities and service providers. The construction sector has a great role in enhancing the nation’s industrial-transformation, he said adding every stakeholders ought to participate consciously in the exhibition to replicate the success of international organizations.
State Government with the aim of boosting tourism in Nigeria. Arc.
The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) has partnered with Bauchi Tonye Braide, President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, admitted that architects have recognized the strategic importance of Bauchi State as a logistics base to support the massive reconstruction projects scheduled for the North East region and want to create awareness amongst the Bauchi people. He said, all architects and indeed other construction industry professionals should develop the absorptive capacity to key into the emerging construction value chain through the flow of men, materials and resources. Following the partnership between NIA and Bauchi State, the State will no longer experience the pending economic crisis threatening most States in Nigeria. Governor Abubakar also thanked the Nigerian Institute of Architects for having confidence in his Government to seek to host the Tourism Event in his State. He assured the Architects that the Bauchi State Government will give full support to the programme and the subsequent partnership to help grow Bauchi Tourism which is one of the cardinal programmes of his Government.
NIA President, Arc. Tonye Braide, when he paid a courtesy call on Bauchi State Governor, Mohammed Abdulahi Abubakar recently.
National Construction Authority to announce new industry policy The National Construction Authority (NCA) is set to announce new industry policy after carrying out vital a research. NCA said the commissioning of the research will seek to ascertain the number of Kenyan contractors, standardize construction materials and also the technology used in the construction industry. The research will be an important output during the upcoming Annual Construction Research Conference and Exhibition (ACoRCE) that is set to connect regional regulators and manufacturers with new technologies that are adaptable for local industries and development partners. It also seeks to study and identify some of the challenges that face the country’s construction industry for instance the standardization of emerging construction materials, technologies and skills based on the National Construction Research Agenda (NaCRA). Finally the research will help put in place processes that will help in improving the capacity of skilled construction workers and an accreditation mechanism. Upon completion and adoption, the new policy will streamline the construction sector better by creating a systematic framework for all players in the industry. NCA’s mission is to regulate, streamline and build capacity in the construction industry.
November 2016
First National Construction Week in Kenya
Kenya’s first National Construction Week, taking place from Nov 2 to 4, 2016 at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, is set to be a major driver for the growth and advancement of Kenya’s construction industry. Speaking at a press conference on Sep 13 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Nairobi, representatives of the National Construction Authority (NCA), DMG events Middle East, Asia & Africa and the State Department of Housing and Urban Development presented the event to the media and the benefits it will bring to the local construction sector. The National Construction Week, launched by Hon Proff Jacob Kaimenyi Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning earlier this year, will incorporate NCA’s Second Annual Construction Research Conference and Exhibition (ACoRCE 2016) and The Big 5 Construct East Africa 2016 exhibition organised by dmg events. The theme of ACORCE 2016 is “Nurturing the Transformation of Local Construction Industry on Material and Technology for Best Global Practice”. The second edition of the Conference will bring together the region’s regulators who have adopted construction policies, manufacturers with new technologies adaptable for local industries and development partners.
Event’s organizers during a press briefing at the Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi
7
CORPORATE NEWS
Ryce East Africa opens a new service centre in Mombasa, Kenya Ryce East Africa has opened a new service centre in Mombasa, Kenya. The company will sell General
Motors
East
Africa
(GMEA) brands in the new Managing Director of General Motors EA Ms Rita Kavashe cuts the ribbon as Ryce East Africa, MD Mr. V.N Srinivas left and Chairman Ryce E. Africa Mr.Sameer Merali right
Ryce East Africa opens a new service centre in Mombasa, Kenya
project; this is according to a statement by GMEA. The service centre among other things indicates increased investments in the competitive new vehicles
The company will sell General Motors East Africa (GMEA) brands
industry where quality and wide
in the new project; this is according to a statement by GMEA. The
dealership networks are very
service centre among other things indicates increased investments in the competitive new vehicles industry where quality and wide dealership networks are very important in winning customers and the confidence of vehicle manufacturers. Their dealers comprise of Ryce, Kenya Coach Industries (KCI), Thika Motor Dealer, Pewin Motors and Central Farmers Garage. Some of the other dealers that have expanded their showrooms and service centres in various towns consist of Toyota Kenya and Crown Motors which is the local Nissan
important in winning customers and the confidence of vehicle manufacturers.
Their
dealers
comprise of Ryce, Kenya Coach Industries (KCI), Thika Motor Dealer,
Pewin
Motors
and
Central Farmers Garage. Some of the other dealers that have expanded their showrooms and
franchise holder. The expansion by Ryce East Africa has coincided
service centres in various towns
with the current high demand for new vehicles in the region which hit
consist of Toyota Kenya and
a new peak of 19,966 units last year, having grown 13.3 per cent from
Crown Motors which is the local
17,616 units in 2014.
Nissan franchise holder.
MANAGEMENT TIPS
Construction chemicals specialist CHRYSO SA supplied its CHRYSO CWA 10 integral waterproofing admixture at the Temba Waterworks project undertaken by Group Five Civil Engineering. The readymix supplier for the project was Chromecrete. Deon Klopper, technical sales consultant CHRYSO Southern Africa, says that the contract award vindicated a lengthy testing process that resulted in “a few mixes and products” being approved. The most important in this regard was CHRYSO CWA 10, an admixture formulated specifically for water retaining structures. The total concrete work on the project was 17,000cu m, of which 14,000cu m contained CHRYSO CWA 10 in the mix. CHRYSO CWA 10 is compatible with other admixtures and supplementary cementitious materials and will not affect the workability or entrained air content.
3 Tips to Improve Construction Management in Africa
As Africa continues to record growth in the construction industry has not been left behind. There are numerous projects that are currently ongoing and many managers are up to ensure that they deliver on time. There are plenty of management tools that can be used in virtually any situation, as well as some that are specifically focused on the construction industry rather than being overly widereaching. Here are three tips to improve in construction management in Africa: 1. Modernize accounting
8
Chryso SA to supply waterproof admixture
Accountability is key in every project that is being carried right now in Africa in order to avoid scandals that may turn down your projects. Enriched, automated processes can work to reduce the risk of errors in data entry and general accounting management, while cloud-based solutions can give project managers the relevant insights in real time to improve decision-making. Leverage construction project accounting software that can act as a single point of truth for all managers, administrators, leaders and others across departments.
estimated that about 40 percent of executives
2. Focus on innovation Innovation is key in any industry and that’s why Africa’s construction industry has kept on innovating new ideas to ensure that they keep on delivering key projects on time. Recently International Data Corporation
3.
involved in general lines of business believe that their chief information officers are truly the leaders of innovation. This will not be a straightforward objective when the business does not have plenty of management solutions in place, as well as accurate reports and analytics tools, to help them navigate the relatively complex waters of oversight. With a strong construction management Go mobile
Many African construction firms have not yet brought their construction management into mobile territories and hence many of them have missed this growing opportunity. November 2016
HOUSING NEWS
Ghana
South Africa
Kenya
Many of young Ghanaians don’t own property – Survey
AFDB boosts South Africa’s dream of affordable housing The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group
Nairobi’s satelite towns record increase in price of land
A
(AfDB) has approved a Senior Loan of US$39mn to South Africa’s
Nairobi’s
recent
House
survey
Ghana
and
by
Jumia Hacking
Adulthood has revealed that 91% of Ghanaians are not property owners but are renting or living with their nuclear family. The online survey sampled the views of over 200 respondents with 89 per cent seeking to change their
Housing Investment Partners Trust 2 -HIP2), popularly known as Vulumnyango Trust, to help finance affordable housing programs in the country. The loan will help improve access to long-term affordable housing finance to South Africa’s lower-middle income earners
satelite
towns
of
Ruiru, Juja and Limuru have experienced the fastest growth in prices of land among Nairobi
currently with limited opportunities to access affordable mortgages.
satellite towns in the past one
The loan will also consolidate the growth of a strong affordable
year as ongoing and proposed
housing sector within South Africa. The project provides a
infrastructure
demonstration effect of tapping local currency capital from Africa’s
attract to potential land buyers
premier development bank, local asset managers and a State Owned
and
developments
housing
developers.
current housing situation. The
Enterprise to foster South Africa’s economic growth through
majority, forming 64 per cent,
affordable housing. The project also reduces fiscal pressures on the
are looking to own their own
South African government in respect to housing for a specific market
property index for the third
apartments and are willing to
segment and enables HIP2 to mobilize funding from other sources,
quarter of 2016, the price of an
spend an average amount of 826
including eventual access to South Africa’s capital markets.
acre of land at one of Nairobi’s
According to the Hass Consult
GHS per month, describing that
satelite
amount as affordable. According
recorded a 43.1 per cent increase
to the survey, the lowest amount
over the last one year to Sh10
respondents are willing to spend
million averagely, while Ruiru
on a property per month is GHS
Ruiru
Ghana’s housing deficit as of
1.7 million houses. To meet
has
34.9 per cent to Sh19.4 million.
relative.
Works and Housing to be about
Juja
to Sh21.3 million and Limuru at
proving the term affordability is
Ministry of Water Resources,
of
recorded a 42.9 per cent increase
50 and the highest is GHS 10,000,
July 2013 was estimated by the
towns
Nigeria
Government commited to deliver on its mass housing agenda
and
Juja
have
appreciated in recent years due to ease of access following the expansion of Thika Highway, together
with
the
proposed
this demand, there need to build
Nigeria’s Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has disclosed that the Federal
commuter rail, while land price
about 100,000 units annually but
Government (FG) is working on a social mass Housing programme
in Limuru are being driven up by
that is not being met. Only about
dubbed the Family Home Fund. The VP said the government is
the ongoing construction of the
40,000 housing units currently
partnering with key stakeholders including local and international
are being delivered per annum
funds to raise about N1trn (US$3.2bn) required to kick start the fund.
by the combined resources of the
Although it was not explicitly stated, he said the mass housing
Ghana Real Estate Developers
program is the vehicle meant to drive the FG’s initial plans to build 360
Association
(GREDA).
houses in three pilot states under a “Rent to Own” scheme. Relative
According to the 2010 Housing
to other countries, Nigeria’s mortgage finance as a percentage of
Census, almost one-third of Ghanaians do not own a dwelling or pay rent of any kind. Another study in Accra in 2010 also found over 3 000 people sleeping outside in an area less than onefifth of a km2.
Western Bypass. Hass Consult says that prices of land for the satellite town of Nairobi have generally gone up at a faster rate of 21.4 per cent in comparison to
GDP is extremely low at around 0.5%. This compares with around
the suburbs, where land prices
2% for Ghana and 31% for South Africa. Similar ratios for the more
have raised by 5.67 per cent in
advanced economies such as the USA and the UK are 77% and 80%
the past year. Satellite towns
respectively. The fund will be deployed to drive mortgage finance via
along roads that are common
a model by which developers will build special houses to the FG’s
with
stated specifications. Nigerians with monthly disposable incomes as
experiencing slower growth in
low as N30,000 will be able to benefit from the scheme.
land price.
November 2016
traffic
congestion
are
9
EVENTS NEWS
PIPES X Conference 2016
Water Africa West Africa Building and Construction Exhibition and Seminars 2016
Power Tech Africa 2017 Conference
The Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association (SAPPMA) hosted its PIPES X Conference on 6 September 2016 at the Byte Conference Centre in Midrand with the support of main sponsors DPI Plastics, Rare Plastics, Marley Pipe Systems and PipeFlo. Welcoming the more than 200 delegates, SAPPMA Chief Executive , Jan Venter, said their annual PIPES Conference has become firmly established in the industry’s events calendar. Keynote speakers at the conference were Corné Krige – ex-Springbok rugby captain who led the team to the World Cup in 2003 – who shared some of the life lessons he had learned about effective leadership in sport and business, followed by Ralph Triebel of LHA Management Consultants who shared some trends in the pipe market.
The Water Africa & West Africa Building and Construction
Bricsa Consulting in association with Kenya Renewable Energy Association, Alliance for Rural Electrification, East Africa Venture Capital Association and Green Africa Foundation are hosting the Power Tech Africa 2017 Conference, at Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, Kenya on 30th-31st January 2017. Julius Korir, Principal Secretary of State Department of Industry and Enterprise Development at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Co-operatives will join the speaker panel. Robert Pavel Oimeke, Director of Renewable Energy representing the Energy Regulatory Commission, Zulandi Van Der Westhuizen, Deputy Director Scenarios and Resources from World Energy Council Kenya Vision 2030 will update the attendees on the latest development on power technologies in Africa.
Nigeria2016 will be held on 8-10 November 2016 at the Abuja International Conference Centre, Nigeria, and wil ensure that exhibitors reach the key decision-makers from the Nigerian Federal Ministries, contractors and consultants, engineers, architects, planners, suppliers, NGOs, investors and developers involved in both sectors. Water Africa Exhibitors will be showcasing the latest equipment and services in the field of water and wastewater engineering for commercial, industrial use and public use. West Africa Building and Construction Exhibitors will be showing the latest equipment and services in the field of civil engineering construction, building for commercial and industrial use as well as social housing. Water Africa & West Africa Building and Construction Exhibition and Seminars is organised by ACE Event Management Ltd, a UK based company.
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
10
- Institution of Surveyors of Kenya
- Khuthaza ( Women for Housing) - Concrete Manufacturers Association - Green Building council of SA - South African Property Owners Association - Master Builders South Africa
Uganda
- Construction Regulation Board (CRB) - Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects
Ethiopia
and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)
- Construction Contractors Association of Ethiopia
Nigeria
Zimbabwe
- Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria - Association of Professional Women
- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- SAICE
Surveying Profession
- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers
- Institute of Engineers of Kenya
- South African Council for the Quantity
Tanzania
- Association of Ethiopian Architects
- Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya
South Africa - ASAQS
Association of Consulting Engineers of Namibia
Ethiopia
Engineers Of Nigeria
- Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers - The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)
Ghana - Ghana Institute of Engineers - Architects Registration Council - Ghana Institute of Surveyors - Ghana Green Builders Association
Institute of Surveyors of Uganda
- Ghana Institute of Planners
Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
- Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region - Nigeria Society of Engineers - Nigeria Institute of Architects - Building and Construction Skilled Artisans Association of Nigeria (BACSAAN)
(UIPE) & Uganda society of Architects
Contractors of Ghana
Zambia
Botswana
Namibia
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
- Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors
Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors
Contractors (ABCEC).
- Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA)
November 2016
PRODUCTS NEWS
Hiab launches new tail lifts truckmounted forklift
Elliott Equipment Company Introduces New Digger Derrick
Hiab, Cargotec subsidiary has
10.31 digger derrick. The D105 was specifically designed for
Elliott Equipment Company has introduced the D105, a new ANSI
launched its new truck-mounted forklift and new tail lifts during the IAA exhibition in Hannover, Germany. According to Michael O’Reilly,
Truck
Mounted
transmission and heavy duty construction projects. Mounted on a tandem axle chassis, the D105 Digger Derrick boasts a 107 ft. (32.6 m) sheave height, 20,000 ft.-lbs. of torque, and a 41 ft. (12.5 m) digging radius. The unit is equipped with Elliott’s high boom
Forklifts Project Manager, the
pin point geometry allowing for maximum power out of the hole,
first of the new products, the
a variable displacement piston pump, and a new ergonomic seated
Moffett M4NX, is the latest
control console.
generation of the M4 range which has been made even better with a focus on added safety,
easier
servicing
and
more comfort to the operator. Nevertheless, the forklift can dismount from a truck in under a minute and is well-suited to a variety of work environments. Such that, the M4NX in its design can negotiate very tight areas in terms of width and height, making it a very versatile piece of equipment. Hiab has also unveiled three new tail lifts: the Zepro Z3N, the Zepro SZN 2000 and the Del FC500. The Zepro Z3N model is by far the lightest 750kg lift on the market, giving the opportunity to have more payload on your truck. Built with Swedish DOMEX steel and powder coated, the tail lift has an opening speed of 10 degrees per second and double acting tilt
New flat-top tower cranes from Comansa Tower crane manufacturer Comansa CM, part of the Linden HYPERLINK
"http://www.comansa.com/eng/news/act_029.htm"
Comansa group, has announced the launch of a new series of flat-
cylinders. It also has a narrow
top tower cranes. Four new models with maximum load capacity
lift arm width and exterior fixed
of 10 and 12 tonnes are already available for the market, while two
controls. The second model from
more will be arriving soon, before the end of the year. All the cranes
Zepro, the SZN 2000, features
from the CM1600 Series feature flat-top design, frequency controlled
new shafts, longer lubrication
mechanisms, different options of hoist speeds and the Power Lift
intervals, and a ‘one size fits all’
system. This new CM1600 Series allows Comansa CM to fill the gap
concept to ease installation.
between the CM1100 Series (with max. loads of 6 and 8 tonnes) and the CM2100 Series (up to 25 tonnnes of maximum load capacity).
Larsen Products Adds New Nigerian Distributor Larsen Products Corp has welcomed its newest distributor Concrete Logistics Limited, based in Lagos Nigeria. The company’s newest authorized distributor will service Nigeria and other West African countries with Larsen’s line of concrete and plaster bonding agents. “We hope by forming a strategic partnership with a world-leading manufacturer of innovative concrete and construction solutions, such as Larsen Products, will allow us to acquire knowledge, technology and productive resources to meet our clients’ needs and deliver excellent customer service,” states Koye Rhodes, MD/CEO of Concrete Logistics Limited. Currently, Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa with petroleum as its leading export. The country has large deposits of minerals and has a huge service sector supporting the oil and gas chain with a significant market and population for goods and services providing significant growth opportunity for manufacturers worldwide. Continuing to expand its global footprint, the partnership with Concrete Logistics Limited will avail Larsen’s concrete and plaster bonding agents across Nigeria and other West African countries. ‘We are excited to bring our brand to another continent and partnering with Concrete Logistics- with its esteemed reputation for excellence and service- is quite an honor’ states Jeff Larsen, president of Larsen Products’.
According to Sales Manager, Mr. Andy Huang, “Comansa CM’s range is now even more complete and allows us to be part of all types of projects, from small residential to large-scale industrial and infrastructures”. November 2016
11
OPINION
Challenges and opportunities for foreign solar energy firms in Africa
A
Jon Sarpong, President of PV developer and consultancy Avior Global
Many companies have identified Africa as a growth market but haven’t identified the uniqueness of the region. A very big issue is that most companies really don’t know the African market. 12
VIOR Energy was incorporated in 2013, with the objective to become a dominant African energy company by providing stable, clean energy through Independent Power Production (IPP); battery back-up systems, and sector specific consulting and advisory services. Avior is currently developing a 20MW solar plant in Ghana and 100MW plant in South Africa, as well as partnering the Ghanaian government on up to 2,400 solar backup systems in the Shanti region. Many companies have identified Africa as a growth market but haven’t identified the uniqueness of the region. A very big issue is that most companies really don’t know the African market. Although it may seem like one homogeneous region of the globe, Africa is in fact a diverse collection of countries, cultures, sub-cultures and histories. Understanding the specifics of your target market in terms of societal norms, language and religious practices is a crucial element required for business success. Many companies believe that they simply ‘know better’ than the indigenous population, and attempt to impose foreign thinking on the local populace. “In Africa, all that matters is what you do on the ground.” Another huge issue is that many foreign companies have very weak in-country ground teams. In Africa, all that matters is what you do on the ground. Solar companies that believe they can work remotely from their headquarters abroad, while making progress on a project in Africa, will soon find they have no project at all. Another mistake is to place your project in the hands of incompetent and so called ‘connected’ individuals; I’ve seen companies cheated out of hundreds of thousands of dollars based on the promises of ‘connected’ locals. In my opinion, an expert team with experience, as well as strong industry and political connections, is an absolute must for any successful project in Africa. There are four words that strike fear in my heart
concerning any project in Africa: “We’ve met the President.” Politicising your solar business or project can have several adverse effects resulting from the highly charged nature of politics in many African countries. The photo opp might seem great, but business may be hindered and suffer in the long run. However, a big part of success for foreign PV companies in Africa comes out of the foundational work they undertake before actually initiating projects. Taking the opportunity to have management and leadership exposed to cultural training is crucial because it exposes them to the normal business practices and cultural mores in specific Africa regions. It’s a big mistake to assume that what’s acceptable in an American or European context will have similar appreciation in an African context. “Local developers must be seen as partners, and not just a necessary evil.” Additionally, since most of Africa’s PV industry is in a state of flux, companies must be flexible. The dynamic nature of life in Africa requires strong creative thinking and the boldness to adapt to circumstances. Companies unwilling to embrace change soon find themselves a victim of this evolution. As well, foreign companies should undertake due diligence on the country, project specifics and potential local partners. If possible, use a third party that knows the market to identify the ‘talkers’ (those that promise but don’t deliver), ‘walkers’ (those who leave the project when challenges arise), and ‘blockers’ (those that will actually become a hindrance to the execution of your project). Once connected with the right local support, PV companies interested in the African market, must have the mindset of mutual respect, and mutually beneficial relationships. Local developers must be seen as partners in the enterprise, and not just a necessary evil. To read more and to comment on this story visit
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
November 2016
Steel Should be Sold on Basis of Weight As per the regulation of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), steel is meant to be sold on the basis of weight per kilo and not length. The standard length of a construction steel rod is meant to be 12 meters. However there are instances when certain manufacturers and traders sell steel on the basis of length per rod. This proves expensive because one cannot determine if there has been a compromise on the length of the rod or its diameter and thicknesses. However there is one company that has consistently demonstrated integrity in the way steel is manufactured and sold in East Africa. Apex Steel has been manufacturing Grade 500+ Steel since 2006 at its technologically advanced plant based at Athi River. It was the first company in East Africa to manufacture Grade 500 Steel – BS: 4449: 2006 Standards. The deformed bar steel manufactured at Apex Steel is within the KEBS allowable tolerances and one can be assured of the genuine best steel. Apex Steel manufactures steel with every one meter of the steel bar being branded ‘APEX TMX’. This branding has been done ever since it began the manufacture of steel in Kenya so that buyers could be assured on what they are buying. In addition to the branding, steel sold by Apex Steel at its Rolling Mill Division is on the basis of weight only - so customers can be assured that they are getting what they are paying for. Apex Steel have moved further ahead in setting the standards and benchmarking
what
‘providing
solutions’ is about. It is the first steel company to manufacture ‘cut and bend’ steel and supply to site in a ‘ready to use’ condition. When one uses ‘cut and bend’ steel, there is a direct impact on the cost of the project as there are no off-cuts and hence no wastage. Recently it has introduced couplers too; that preempts the ‘overlapping’ required to join steel rods. November 2016
13
COVER STORY
Kenya's infrastructure is benefiting from China's participation in the construction of the US$13Bn SGR railway line from Mombasa to Nairobi
Courting Africa Asian style A boon for Africa’s infrastructure As the west becomes more isolationist Asia has taken a more expansionist role on the global stage with Africa clearly in its sights. At stake are abundant resources, investment opportunities in infrastructure and a nascent market eager for every sort of product and service.
A
By Robert Barnes frica stands to benefit from the current environment as it is wooed by several suitors all eager to garner influence not only economically but also diplomatically. On the economic front is access to Africa’s vast mineral wealth while on the diplomatic front is the support of Africa’s 54 votes in the UN to help sway current debate on gaining permanent seats for Japan and India for instance and an African country as well in the security council and not forgetting the thorny issue for China that Taiwan represents as well as its tiff with Japan
3rd India Africa Forum Summit
14
in the South China Sea. A growing military presence in the Indian Ocean is also another card on the table for these Asian giants keen on protecting their hard won interests in the region. Africa needs over US$90 Bn in investment in infrastructure annually and Asia is providing a good chunk of this with areas where benefits are being derived for Africa being in the development of infrastructure; roads, rails and ports and this has undoubtedly kept alive the building and construction industry on the continent in the face of a depressed global economy. Xhina, Japan and India have all hosted African forums where the promotion of trade partnerships and investment for mutual development has been the clarion call. India held its third India-Africa summit in October last year in which heads of state and government of 41 African countries and representatives of all 54 African states attended in New Delhi where India forked out a US$10 Bn fund and infrastructure projects. China on its part held its forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in December in South Africa only 2 months after India’s forum. During the forum Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged US$60 Bn. Japan not to be outdone held its forum dubbed TICAD in Nairobi this August and the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged US$30 Bn over 3 November 2016
China's premier with other African leaders during FOCEC where he promised more goody bags
years which includes $10 Bn investment in infrastructural development. This one-upmanship is a boon for Africa and as Kenya’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Amina Mohamed put it. “If there is no competition, there is a problem. It simply allows us to choose the best,” she said ahead of the Ticad conference. China China came into the African scene in any significant way at the turn of the century and has since risen to become the continents largest trading partner, this despite facing criticism for its unconditional aid policy in which it turns a blind eye to human rights abuses while focusing only in extracting resources from Africa for its own use. Though there are many observers who dispute this stereotyping the benefits have been plain to see that China has made a significant impact in developing infrastructure in Africa. Chinese companies have HYPERLINK "https:// foreignpolicy.com/2015/12/04/5-myths-about-chineseinvestment-in-africa/?wp_login_redirect=0"signed over US$70 Bn in construction contracts for vital infrastructure projects such as hospitals, pipelines and airports, with positive downstream benefits for African economies. In the last decade China has forked out over US$ 90bn in financing to Africa and has seen its migrant population increase to one million by some conservative estimates. Chinese multi-nationals have invested locally and offered training to local personnel marking a shift to helping develop Africa’s nascent manufacturing sector. Though the Chinese motives have always been looked at with suspicion and their business culture has been a source of friction overall their participation in Africa has been beneficial in spurring growth through infrastructure development that is implemented faster than projects from other countries that often take years to get off the ground due to pre-conditions. November 2016
During December’s Africa forum the Chinese Premier pledged US$ 60bn in new funds a departure from the trend of simply doubling the previous amount (in 2012 the amount committed was US$ 20bn) as has been the tradition. This seemed to suggest a more aggressive investment stance in securing African assets which by 2014 stood at over US$30bn a phenomenal rise from the level in 2000. This may signal more acquisition of mineral and oil resources as these remain Africa’s largest export to China despite the current depressed demand environment in China. Japan Japan has for a long time been a credible development partner for Africa channeling its aid through its aid agency JICA and ensuring that funded projects enjoyed a higher success rate. Recently however Japan has decided to ramp up its development agenda and this was the message at the recent TICAD conference held in Nairobi, Kenya. To read more and to comment on this story visit
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
Japan's Premiert during the TICAD conference where US$30Bn was promised.
15
AIR CONDITIONING
Air Conditioning Cooling a warming planet By Lubwa Leonard The world is warming, Africa’s Sub-Saharan temperatures keep raising, the effects of global warming are here to stay. With these glaring realities, there has been an increase in the use of air conditioners in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Africa’s construction industry is also shifting to respond to the rise in temperature with buildings designed to specifically suite specific climatic conditions. But providing air conditioning is not just about going out and
16
buying one without taking into consideration several factors. Getting an air conditioner for the home can be expensive and there are factors that need to be considered before taking such step. A cost-effective air conditioner is the choice of every home. Apart from cost, the other factors that need to be considered when choosing an air conditioner include the quality of indoor air as well as the quality of the installation. The type of air conditioner to use is often dictated by the size of the area
to be cooled and the total heat generated in the enclosed area amongst others factors. An HVAC expert will put into consideration all the necessary parameters and suggest a cooling system that suits your space. Nicole from Turbovent advices potential clients to buy quality products as this will save costs in repairs. “The key to making a good decision when purchasing any ventilation products is making sure you are saving costs in the long run by buying quality products and making sure they are being installed by an approved installer. This will avoid any downtime, unnecessary spending and not getting the full lifespan of the product.” He add that many clients sway towards cheap imitations of products due to the costs associated. According to him, clients should buy from companies who support services to guaranttee a longer life span of their products. Central Air Conditioners Central air conditioners are designed to cool the entire house. In each system, a large compressor unit located outside drives the process; an indoor coil filled with refrigerant cools air that is then distributed throughout the house via ducts. This type is best for large buildings, hotels, movie theatres, factories, and other bigger spaces. Fitting individual units like window air conditioners in each room of a big building can get super expensive.
November 2016
Having a central air conditioning system is the more practical choice when it comes to applications like this. The system makes use of a large compressor. Two separate packaged units are also used. The condensing unit is placed outside the establishment and contains the condensing fan, compressor, and condenser coil. The internal evaporative unit, consisting of the evaporator coil and expansion valve, is placed in the plenum of your furnace. This unifies the ductwork of your air conditioning and heating systems. Split or dustless air conditioner This system is called a “split� system because it is made up of two units: one indoor and one outdoor. The indoor unit houses the evaporator and cooling fan. The outdoor, meanwhile, houses the compressor, expansion valve, and condenser. Ductless, mini split-system air-conditioners (mini splits) have numerous potential applications in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. The most common applications are in multifamily housing or as retrofit add-ons
to houses with "non-ducted" heating systems, such as hydronic (hot water heat), radiant panels, and space heaters (wood, kerosene, propane). They can also be a good choice for room additions and small apartments, where extending or installing distribution ductwork (for a central air-conditioner or heating systems) is not feasible. The main advantages of mini splits are their small size and flexibility for zoning or heating and cooling individual rooms. Many models can have as many as four indoor air handling units (for four zones or rooms) connected to one outdoor unit. Ductless mini split systems are also often easier to install than other types of space conditioning systems Portable air conditioners This is a variation of the unitary air conditioning system. This type has a mobile air conditioning system placed on the floor inside a room. It discharges exhaust heat through the exterior wall by means of a hose vent. While this type is noisier than other
systems, it can cool even the most stubborn hot rooms. Jason Ou, the Head of Product & Marketing Department at Hisense South Africa, says there is an increasing trend where there is an increase in demand for energy efficient units as well as demand for portable air conditioning and VRF. Hisense supplies a wide range of types of air conditioning from splits systems, light commercial and VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow Air-conditioner) units Choosing the right air conditioner Power Rating This depends on some factors. The size of the room where the air conditioner will be used needs to be put into consideration. An undersized unit will be ineffective for a large room. If the room is too large, the air conditioner will keep cycling on and off without dehumidifying the air efficiently. To read more and to comment on this story visit
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
The entire world of air-conditioning
TROXÂŽ Technik The art of handling air
www.troxsa.co.za November 2016
17
CONSULTING
Buildafrique Consulting Group
Managing Investments and Construction Buildafrique Consulting group has a variety of product offerings aimed at helping developers reduce and manage risks associated with real estate investments and construction, in order to realize value for investments.
R
Chege Njoroge - Group CEO
18
isk management in a real estate investment and construction project is of paramount importance if a developer is to realize full value and returns on investment, says Chege Njoroge Chief Executive Officer of Buildafrique Consulting Group. Initially a Quantity Surveying and Project Management firm, Buildafrique Consulting Group was born in 2008 to help fill the risk management gap that existed in Kenya’s construction industry and real estate sector. Over the years, the firm has morphed to specialize in financial, management and investment solutions in the construction industry mainly in the real estate sector, to bridge the Gap that currently exists between the Financial Market, Construction Industry, and Real Estate Property and Investment Market. Today, Buildafrique Consulting group boasts of a one stop shop for developers with extensive range of products offerings aimed at satisfying clients’ needs, and most importantly manage the investments risks. Over the last eight years the firm has developed into four (4) subsidiaries to back its products offering and boost its efficiency. Njoroge has been at the helm of the group organization since its inception and says that
the firm prides itself in offering practical solutions to challenges facing project implementation and investment, in today’s evolving real estate investment market. “We have four (4) well developed specialized subsidiary companies namely: Buildafrique Finance and management Limited, Buildafrique Consulting Limited, Buildafrique land and Environment Limited, and Buildafrique Investment and Property Limited. The Subsidiaries comes together through our business Approach Model called “Buildafrique Value Maximization Chain” that strategically position over twelve (12) consultancy disciplines in real estate and construction to manage investments risks, provide project financing, management project implementation, and realize value for investment during disposal stage of a project” says Chege Njoroge. Product offering Finance and Management Solutions – (Buildafrique Finance & Management Ltd) This subsidiary is tasked with project finance and capital structuring, project management, November 2016
feasibility studies, and market strategic planning. The subsidiary was introduced after the firm realized the financial challenges real estate developers faced in the wake of changing market trends. “We do extensive market research, feasibility studies and investment appraisal analysis to monitor a project from its beginning to the end, and to create structures for financing the project. For projects that present more than one potential investment options, Buildafrique offers appraisal based on market research,” says Njoroge. Development Cost Management - (Buildafrique Consulting Ltd) Development Cost Management is one of the core businesses of Buildafrique Consulting Group. With proven track record in Quantity Surveying, Buildafrique Consulting Group offers construction cost consultancy and related services to ensure projects do not stall due to poor cost estimation and management. “We aim at ensuring that customers get their projects finished in a timely manner, within budget and quality benchmark. The cost management subsidiary was formed on the need to manage budget costs risk in a project,” offers Njoroge.
especially in counties, which are likely to see future investments and development. Over the past eight years Buildafrique Consulting Group has been involved in a variety of commercial developments, from residential apartments, business parks and education institutions and hospitals. The firm was involved in capital structuring, finance sourcing, and quantity surveying in the building of Texas cancer centre in Nairobi. To read more and to comment on this story visit
Land-Use & Environmental Management (Buildafrique Land and Management Ltd) This subsidiary has a combination of physical planners and environmental experts to ensure that sustainable land use and environmental management is realized. The subsidiary gives solutions in regards to site acquisition, land use policy, physical planning, land resource management and other land related services. The firm also offers land surveying services and occupation and health and safety management.
http://www.constructionreviewonline.com
Investments & Property Management - (Buildafrique Investment and Property Ltd) As part of its product offering, Buildafrique Consulting Group launched an investment and property arm for the real estate sector in the year 2015. “We do market monitoring to give developers, landlords and occupiers informed advice on investments and property market,” shares Njoroge. Buildafrique Investment and Property Limited also offer market supply and demand trends analysis on the status of Global and Local Real Estate Markets. The firm also gives customers property valuation services for lending and mortgages services, privatization and for taxation purposes. Thanks to its elaborate product offering Buildafrique Consulting Group will increasingly be the first port of call for all those in need of property development in Kenya November 2016
19
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November 2016
CONSULTING
Ms Drav Soni
Buffalo Mall
Aligned Systems Limited Helping Clients Make Best of Use of their Spaces
A
ligned Systems Limited is a fledgling consultancy firm catering to both local and east
African building projects. The main services offered are interior design consultancy and specialized services such as tenant and maintenance manuals for new and existing buildings. One of the core practices of the firm is to analyze requirements and functions of space users at a fundamental level and align these to the aesthetics of the space. For instance, office culture and trends are changing with the entry of foreign investors in the local market. Modern workplaces often provide a range of workspaces and meeting areas for people to interact and exchange ideas, from small teaming areas to large conference rooms. “We generally design spaces that
fulfill these requirements and more”, says Drav Soni, the firm’s Principal. Healthcare, education and public use buildings also have also had a subtle shift in the way they work. Hence the interior design of most urban buildings has changed. Another core service provided by Aligned Systems Limited is to take client’s brand identity and translate it into their office and showroom spaces. What customers and staff encounter as they go about their day affects their thoughts and feelings. The firm believes that logos and mission statements work to make a brand identity and should therefore be stringently considered in the design of the workplace. Aligned Systems are NCIDQ certified interior designers. The NCIDQ is a rigorous American professional qualification, which
DMJ ARCHITECTS
tests a designer’s working knowledge of safe and practically designed interiors. The firm also belongs to the International Interior Designers Association (IIDA). While the firm operates mainly in Nairobi, its projects extend to Nanyuki, Kampala and Dar es Salaam. Some recent projects include The Buffalo Mall – Naivasha; Phase 1, The Building Hub - Nairobi, Furniture Palace at The Hub – Nairobi, among others and several residential interiors. Ongoing projects include the Gallant Office Block and Offices for Allianz Kenya. “We are looking forward to a dynamic building industry, but we also recognize the need for local interior designers to have a professional body that both governs and protects the industry”, concludes Drav.
DMJ Architects Dalgliesh House, P.O. Box 42878, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya. Tel: +(254)020 359980/1, +(254) 722 881235, +(254) 734 961210
We are proud to be associated with Aligned Systems Ltd November 2016
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Building Law Moz 180x130.pdf
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MOZAMBIQUE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION LAW 2017
- Market Briefing
8 February 2017, The Southern Sun, Maputo C
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We are excited to bring you the first ever Mozambique Building and Construction market briefing, taking place on the 8 February 2017, in Maputo. Join us over this impactful day, as we breakdown the key topic areas: • The law and regulatory environment as applied to construction projects: Permits, Inspections, Licensing, Land Rights and Use, HSE, Labour, Import Restrictions, Foreign Workers and Licensing Requirements, Building and Construction activity regulation in the Private and Public Space • The relative size, sophistication, importance and operation of the construction sector • Recent representative project experience and future prospects • Notable challenges to construction contracting and project development • Critical success factors for construction projects going forward
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Don’t miss the most important construction and building in Mozambique event, register early to ensure your participation. If your company is interested in finding out more about speaking, exhibition and sponsorship opportunities contact us at: enquiry@africaninfex.com
www.africaninfex.com | enquiry@africaninfex.com | +27 (0) 81 777 0028 / 9 22
November 2016
November 2016
23
SURVEYING
Surveying Equipment and Service Providers
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urveying has come a long way from the days of chain, tape and ordinary theodolites. Modern techniques and instruments mean more accuracy can be achieved and an enormous amount of work accomplished within a short time. In our last issue, we looked at modern equipment employed in the industry including Total Stations, Satellites and GPS, 3D Laser scanners, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, GIS Software and Deep Tows. In this issue, we focus on some of the companies offering surveying services and equipment. Geosurv Systems Limited are licensed land surveyors, physical planners, mapping and GIS/RS consultants. The company is an authorized distributor of Sokkia precision survey instruments. Sokkia products are American, designed with Japanese technology, to give the most accurate of results. They utilize the latest technology, with the best hardware features ideal for any surveying environment. According to the company’s Managing Director Charles Gathogo, the survey industry is quite dynamic with constant changes in technology. “New equipment is being manufactured to improve and enhance accuracy”, he says. “These changes demand regular training of surveyors to utilize the latest instruments”, adds Mr Gathogo, who is a licensed surveyor with a Masters degree from International Institute for Aerospace and Earth Sciences (ITC) and
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a Masters in Planning from the University of Nairobi. Another company offering surveying products and services is Jos Hansen & Soehne (E.A.) Ltd. The company supplies a host of products including Geodetic surveying GNSS/GPS systems as well as Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS). Others are Handheld GIS surveying and mapping devices, Laser distance meters (Distos), construction laser scanners, Total stations including manual and robotic (one-man surveying) total stations as well as MultiStations which integrates all the measuring technologies. It also supplies Airborne Sensors such as Leica ADS digital imaging sensors and Leica ALS80 LiDAR sensors, Digital and automatic engineers’ level machines and Engineering survey software such as Leica LISCAD & Leica GeoOffice. Services provided by Jos Hansen & Soehne (E.A.) Ltd include calibration, repairs, training and equipment leasing. Charles Ngero is a Geomatics Engineer with the company. He observes that today, Robotic total stations are gradually replacing manual ones to help save on cost of extra personnel and improve on positioning accuracy. In addition, more integrated, sophisticated equipment systems are finding their way into the market to solve limitations of independent systems. They include SmartStations which integrate Viva total
November 2016
stations with Viva GNSS systems and MultiStations which integrate all the measuring technologies (total station, GPS, scanning and imaging) into one extremely powerful equipment such as Nova MS60. “Surveying software can now facilitate viewing and manipulation of complex 3-dimesional data such as the revolutionary Captivate software”, he says. “Also most traditionally manual processes such as traverse computations have been automated in the modern SmartWorx Viva software.” Mr Ngero also observes that airborne surveying and mapping is replacing ground-based methods for large projects and that the cost of equipment is coming down, easing acquisition. Another company in the surveying business is Hekima Land Surveyors Limited. Established more than a quarter of a century ago, the company undertakes Cadastral surveying which includes subdivision surveys, relocation/ reestablishment of beacons surveys as well as processing of land titles. It also carries out Topographical Surveys, Engineering Surveys and Planning. The company’s Managing Director, Mr Henry Kilonzi Wambua, is a graduate licensed surveyor since 1988. After working in the Kenyan Government for 16 years and rising to the position of Assistant Director of Surveys, he left to form Hekima Land Surveyors Ltd. “When we started, the instruments of survey used were chains, theodolites and levels”, says Mr Kilonzi. “We then moved to use Total Stations, GPS and automatic levels. We have qualified personnel to handle all the equipment.” Kamwere & Associates, another firm based in Nairobi, also
provides professional services in cadastral, engineering and topographical surveys. Mr James Kamwere, the Principal, worked in the Civil Service for 12 years experience and has been in private practice for 42 years. He also concurs that one of the game changers in the surveying profession has been the advent of Geographical Information Systems and computer-based knowledge.
HEKIMA LAND SURVEYORS LTD
Licensed Land Surveyors and Experts in Cadastral, Topographical, Engineering and Mapping Surveys and Planning Consultants
Hekima House HH 2.2, Nairobi South C Amboseli /KPA Roads, P.O. Box 59093-00200, NAIROBI, KENYA. Tel: 0722 33 1142, 0722 245432 Email:hekimasurveyors@gmail.com
November 2016
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REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
Mount Kenya Homes The flagship Resort for Swiss International Hotels and Resorts in Sub-Sahara Africa
W
By Maurice Momanyi ant to enjoy a breathtaking view of two of Kenya’s most famous mountain peaks from the comfort of your holiday home? You are
now able to own a luxury villa in a serene countryside setting within view of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, thanks to the development of some of the most prestigious holiday homes in Naromoru, Nyeri County. The development of more than 160 villas and town houses is now well underway on a 131-acre site and available for sale to discerning home owners seeking to invest in a unique real estate cum tourism venture. With the recent sealing of a joint venture arrangement between Mt Kenya Holiday Homes and Swiss International Hotels and Resorts, the development has aptly adopted the Swiss International Resort Mount Kenya brand. This will be the flagship Resort for Swiss International in Sub Sahara Africa. The luxury residential housing development project will also feature a nine-hole golf course, a 100room resort hotel complete with a bush spa, health club, a clubhouse, kid’s club and a forest conservancy among
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other attractive facilities. The resort will also feature signature restaurants spread out in the establishment, bar and lounge. Carefully appointed event suites will also be provided for the comfort of would-be homeowners and visiting guests. Project developer Mr. Ronald Ndegwa says partnering with Swiss International Hotels and Resorts has placed the development on the global map. Swiss International Hotels and Resorts, being a respected international hospitality brand, provides the much needed capacity to benchmark the facility among the world’s best. A recent familiarization tour of the vast development by Construction Review established that the 9-hole golf course is complete with the distinctive fairways, greens and water features standing out. Just about five years from the project groundbreaking, construction works and concerted sales efforts have progressed on schedule with Phase one villas already sold out. Currently, Phase two villas are on offer for sale at prices ranging from US$300,000 to US$360,000, depending on house type (Batian, Nelion, and Lenana) and payment option selected.
November 2016
The four bedroom villas under construction stand on half acre plots with magnificent finishes, with sliding doors and large windows allowing for natural lighting and clear views of the mountain peaks and Aberdare Ranges. The skilled site construction team has also managed to use a variety of locally available building materials including stone chips on the outside, hardwood for interior finish and mahogany floors, door frames and inbuilt cabinets. The architectural designs have also been flexibly considered with a choice of three designs and tailor made interior layout. Some of the houses, for instance, feature more spacious living rooms than others; while others feature living rooms adjoined to kitchens; three or four bedrooms; all have balconies on the upper floor and all have fire places with chimneys for that log fire experience while on the slopes of Mt Kenya. The development also envisages a common events centre to host all kinds of events ranging from conferences, destination weddings among other social gatherings. The health club boasts a gym, steam bath and sauna plus swimming pool. As you enter the vast gated community development, you are welcomed by a vast, lush green well-trimmed lawn that’s under sprinkler irrigation. Free roaming wild herbivores including zebras and gazelles lazily enjoy their grazing moments occasionally enjoying the well-done walkways and cycling tracks.
November 2016
For the love of nature, the developer has also instituted a nature conservancy initiative. This presents a unique opportunity to play a part in forest and wildlife conservation within the gated community. The opportunity for a nature trail is evident on this natural ecosystem, spiced by a cool breeze from the mountain complemented by ongoing afforestation efforts. “I have been planting hundreds of trees every rainy season for the last five years and that is why you can see the entire place is green,” says Ronald Ndegwa, the developer at the site. Most of the trees are now at the height of about two meters and are a mixture of indigenous and exotic species. “This project also features a community development component. We have hired the local people since inception to handle the manual works including golf course maintenance,” says Ndegwa. Worthy partner The Swiss International Hotels and Resorts is a global brand with its international services centre in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This position gives it easy access to the fast developing hotel and hospitality markets that are target for its expansion purposes. Swiss International offers a robust business model to hotels on either a franchise ('management' and 'franchise) agreement. As such the
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REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
alliances. It has signed several co-operations across the globe, including the recent one between it and Mt Kenya Holiday Homes.
hotels can well position themselves in the market by taking full advantage of the sound established Swiss International Brands and Concepts as well as the Swiss International Commercial Value drivers in order to maximize its financial results. 6The company offers a range of services like Technical Services, HR Management, Marketing, Sales, Revenue Management, SEO and Distribution Management in order to drive profitability. True to its vision, ‘To Be a Major Player in the European, African and Asian Hospitality Industry,’ Swiss International aims to expand globally via strategic co-operations and
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Different roles, one goal The project is managed by Ark Consultants, a real estate consultancy firm specializing in real estate management and general real estate advisory services to clients both individual and corporate. Director Reginald Okumu says their role is to help the client identify and recruit service consultants and hire the contractor, while coordinating the entire process from concept development, design approval to construction. “Our main task is to coordinate the construction process to ensure quality work within budgetary framework and identify risks and advise the client on mitigation measures,” Okumu says. A certified property valuer by profession, Okumu says of Mount Kenya Holiday Homes, “Mount Kenya is the backrest and Aberdares the footstool,” referring to its unique location. Also speaking of the project, Engineer Muhoro of Norkun Intakes, the consulting electrical and mechanical engineers, says their role is to oversee all service installations from electrical, lighting, internet, plumbing designs, drainage and sanitary, adding that they are also
November 2016
tasked with firefighting installations, golf course irrigation, water treatment, storage and pumping. Others are security installations like the CCTV cameras, perimeter fence and access to control cards in the club house. Eng Muhoro cites clean technology works, solar water heating, low energy fittings and street and landscape lighting among the unique aspects in his area of operation. On the state of the industry, Eng Muhoro hails the formation of the Engineers Board of Kenya born out of the signing of the Engineers Act 2011 by former president Mwai Kibaki, saying it will rid the industry of quacks as engineers’ performance will be constantly gauged. Architectural firm U-Design is the general architects and interior designers, working to ensure architectural design goes well from concept to actualization. Led by Arch Mutahi, the team boasts of a unique, rustic architecture of cladding and natural stone, termed ‘Tudor architecture,’ in addition to green architecture using natural material, natural lighting and energy saving modes. U-Design says they have used gum poles for roofing and natural materials like timber and stone. Talking about challenges, the Nairobi based 17-year old firm notes that the industry is experiencing a shortage of skilled labour owing to the closure of the so called village polytechnics or middle level colleges which used to be based in the
November 2016
defunct districts. North Wind Consulting Limited offers both quantity surveying and project management services in areas of office and interior office fit-outs, housing estates, office blocks and commercial buildings, among others. QS Denis Savala, Director at North Wind says they are the quantity surveyors in the project, providing cost management and value proposition management services to the client. “Our role in the project is to ensure that the project is delivered within the defined budget and that any additional costs also come with additional value.”
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REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
Situ Village Serenity and Tranquility at Its Best Gated communities are fast gaining traction in Kenya mainly because they offer prestige and privacy; Situ Village is one such development.
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n recent years, Nairobi has recorded an increase in the number of gated communities as security and privacy become paramount for home-seekers. The phenomenon that began in Nairobi and its environs is fast spreading to other cities in the country, for example, Eldoret. A gated community is a form of residential or housing estate with strictly-controlled entrances and access for pedestrians, bicycles and automobiles. They are distinguished by closed perimeter walls and fences, with security being their primary goal. Kenyans are no longer buying homes but people are buying lifestyles, which gated communities provide. Many gated communities consist of nicely built homes with signature architecture and with a touch of finesse. This serves as a status symbol to residents. Huge Demand “There is a huge demand for gated communities in Kenya which not only provides well designed homes but also privacy, security and prestige,” says Martin Gitonga, project manager at leading real estate firm Cytonn Investments. He adds that the sharing of facilities like electric fence, street lights, roads, sewer systems, swimming pools and the gym are some of the factors that are pushing potential home owners to opt for gated community environment. “The concept is gathering momentum and we are likely to see more of these gated communities. Initially, gated communities had about 10 units only in a development, but the concept is gaining traction,” says Joyce Mwai, real estate analyst at Cytonn Investments. The leading real estate developer recently broke ground for the exclusive world class gated community dubbed Situ Village
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November 2016
in Ololua Forest, Karen. The construction of the Kshs 5.5 billion (US$55m) development offering a live, work and play environment, will be constructed in three phases within two and a half years. Cytonn currently has over Kshs. 74 billion of investments and projects under mandate, mainly in real estate. Sitting on a 29-acre piece of land bordering the Ololua Forest, Situ Village is composed of villas and cottages each on half an acre piece of land. The development comprises of a convenience store, a resident and members-only clubhouse, a jogging track, a hiking trail and a helipad. “The ideal location of Situ village makes it the ultimate home of luxury and serenity that offers the tranquility of country living while enjoying easy access to the city centre,” says Mr. Gitonga. “As Cytonn, we seek to redefine real estate development into a lifetime experience to our clients,” he adds. The development is in close proximity to various retail stores and shopping malls such as The Hub, several fine dining options, the largest collection of international schools in Nairobi, and easy access to outdoor entertainment such as Giraffe Manor. Cytonn hopes to tap into investors looking to buy into the development. Situ Village development is financed by Finland-based NASDAQ OMX listed Taaleri. Main designs The project features two architectural designs namely Mediterranean and Andalusian designs. Striking features for the Mediterranean home design include low pitched tile roof, wrought-iron balconies extensive outdoor living areas and cladded walls. On the other hand, Andalusian design is phenomenon with long and rectangular houses with natural stone walls, windows set within thick walls and lined with sloping sills. The design of rooms allows maximum natural light. Security at Situ has been given top priority with the installation of CCTV cameras and the addition of an able security team. In addition, Situ Village plans to have a water recycling plant for irrigation, swimming pools, a borehole and street lighting. “We target retirees and family people who wish to live in a quiet serene environment away from bustling life of the CBD,” says Mr. Gitonga. “At Cytonn, we take pride in giving our clients value for money and all our projects attest to this,” explains Mr. Gitonga. Other projects Apart from Situ village, Cytonn has several projects under its belt. For instance, in Ruaka, the real estate firm is developing a comprehensive residential development encompassing 1,2 and 3 bedroom modern apartments with impeccable finishing. Major amenities within the vicinity of The Alma include Gertrude’s Hospital and Aga-Khan Hospital, International schools such as Rosslyn Academy and German Academy. Adjacent to this project is Two Rivers mall expected to be the biggest shopping mall in East Africa unseating the Garden City Mall that recently stirred up a lot of excitement among city dwellers. Additionally, residents living in The Alma have access to Village Market Mall and the Rivera Rosslyn Mall. “As you can see all our developments are strategically located to ensure that our clients have easy access to social amenities. This November 2016
is as a result of intensive research that we do before putting up a development,” explains Mr. Gitonga. Other developments by Cytonn Investments include Newtown, exceptional master planned development in Athi River, Machakos County, Amara Ridge, a gated community in Karen and The Ridge, a comprehensive lifestyle development in Nairobi.
Masterbill Integrated Projects Ltd Construction Cost Planning & Management
Quantity Surveying
MIP Project Management Ltd
( a subsidiary of
Masterbill Integrated
Projects )
We are proud to be associated with Situ Village
What we do: -
Construction Cost Planning & Management Pro-active Quantity Surveying Project Management Arbitration & Dispute Management Independent Due Diligence & Peer Reviews Insurance Loss Consultancy Muthithi Road No. 58, TRV Office Plaza , 7th Floor, Westlands P.O. Box 22905 - 00400, Nairobi Tel: +254 20 3743346 / +254 721 671 395/ +254 786 671395 Email: info@miprojects.co.ke Websi te: www.miproj ects.co.ke
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REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
Cytonn Real Estate’s Mega Projects on Course
C
ytonn Real Estate, a development affiliate of Kenyan investment firm Cytonn Investments, is focused on developing institutional grade real estate targeted at
The Alma The Alma is a comprehensive residential development encompassing 408 modern apartments with impeccable finishing. The development specific institutional, high net-worth and Diaspora investors. Cytonn is strategically positioned in the heart of the fast growing Ruaka Investments and Cytonn Real Estate collectively manage over Ksh.74 neighbourhood and adjacent suburbs include, Runda, Rosslyn billion of real estate projects. These projects include The Alma, Situ and Muthaiga which make the location quite secure and attractive for investors. The project consists of the following apartment Village, Amara Ridge, The Ridge and New Town. components: 1 bedroom Units (51sqm); 2 bedroom Units (87sqm) and 3 bedroom Units (117sqm). Project features include Day care/ P.O. Box 50173-00100. Tel: 020-2214668/0721515012 Nursery, a club house, a commercial hub, swimming pool, roof-top Tomfrank Apartments, gardens, children’s playground and solar water heating.
Ngara Road. Email: info@spektra.co.ke
Mechanical & Electrical Service Engineers
We are proud to be associated with Cytonn Investments on the Amara Ridge Project 32
Situ Village Situ village is nestled in the green leafy suburbs of Karen, a few minutes’ drive from The Hub, a major suburban shopping mall. The development is an exclusive world class gated community that sits on 29 acres of land bordering the expansive evergreen Ololua Forest. The property offers a total of fifty, 4 bedroom villas, each with a plinth area of 380 sqm, all en-suite, sitting on ½ acre plots. The development will be in 3 phases: Phase I - 22 Villas and 10 cottages; Phase II - 18 Villas and Phase III - 10 Villas, 5 cottages, commercial centre and clubhouse. The development also boasts extra features including a retail centre, cottages, a clubhouse, a jogging track, hiking trail and a helipad. Amara Ridge Amara Ridge is an outstanding and exclusive private gated community in Karen that offers a distinctly luxurious real estate option featuring both Classic and Contemporary designs. The Classic Design offers timeless architecture, grand arrival, elegant arches and sumptuous space to cater for every family need while ensuring a signature lifestyle. The Contemporary design offers a modern feel with a sleek canopy at the entrance. It provides sumptuous space for a distinctive signature lifestyle with secondary gates and expansive well landscaped gardens. November 2016
Amara Ridge
Situ Village
The project consists of luxurious five bedroom Villas of 495SqM with DSQ for two on a half an acre within a gated community of 10 Villas and a club house. Amenities include a top of the world club house with meeting place and children play area, a common swimming pool and option for individual pool and water fountain at one’s home, abundance of water, power backup, waste recycling plant for irrigation, 24-hour security with CCTV and electric fencing as well as paved roads. The Ridge The Ridge is a comprehensive luxurious lifestyle development located approximately 10 Km from Nairobi CBD, 300 m from the junction of Kiambu Rd and the Northern Bypass. The development sits on 9.8 acres of land and touches the Northern Bypass. It will consist of the following units:1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom, 3 Bedroom and 3 Bedroom with DSQ. Other components include Penthouses (these will be located at the top of the blocks and will have exclusive terraces),
Terraced units (located at the bottom but also have exclusive terraces), Retail Section and Serviced Apartments. The development will have amenities such as a gym, infinity pools, gazebos and children’s play areas. The development will also have six courtyards for recreation. The retail section shall consist of boutique shops and offices. New Town Newtown is an exceptional master planned development within the greater Nairobi Metropolis that once complete, will comprise residential, commercial, educational, logistics, recreational and hospitality facilities. Newtown sits on approximately 1000 acres located in Athi River, Machakos County, approximately 10 km off Mombasa Road along Mutongoni Road. New Town will be sold in phases starting off with the residential area which has been divided into 1/8th acre plots. The project will also be implemented in phases with the first phase catering for amenities such as Cabro paved roads, water provision, street lights and electricity.
“Engineering beyond borders”
P.O. BOX 21974 (00505), NAIROBI TEL: (+254) 711 231 480, Email: info@interphase-ke.com
Always a pleasure to be associated with Cytonn
Express Plumbers (K) Limited Laco-line Gardens –M8, 10 Masaba Road P.O.Box 51823-00100 Nairobi. Tel: 0723571154/020 236 2393 Email.info@express-plumbers.co.ke
Plumbing, Drainage and Fire Fighting Contractors
We are proud to be associated with Cytonn Amara Ridge Project November 2016
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COMMERICAL DEVELOPMENT
Kiambu Mall to bring services closer to residents
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iambu is a predominantly agricultural and manufacturing county neighbouring Nairobi. A World Bank report released in 2015 ranked Kiambu County as the richest in Kenya with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita of US$ 1,785. It is therefore unsurprising that the number of middle class families is high and has been steadily growing, making investing in the region a sound decision. With more purchasing power and an appetite for fine living, Kiambu residents would be naturally happy to have convenience stores, leisure and other facilities brought closer to them. And although there are shopping malls near Kiambu town, the town itself has not hosted a major one-stop shopping, leisure, business and entertainment centre. With the impending completion of Kiambu Mall in the heart of the town, residents of Kiambu and its immediate environs will therefore have all these facilities within quick reach. The project, that commenced in May last year and is expected to be complete shortly, is expected to cost approximately US$ 8 million. As has become common with mall developments, Kiambu Mall will feature a major retailer (Nakumatt Supermarkets in this case) as anchor
tenant while other businesses will include health service providers, banks, restaurants, shops, food courts among others. The complex itself will feature three panoramic lifts, two escalators, a travelator, large shop-front windows, curtain walling, extra-large walking/circulation spaces and glass roofs, among others. There are two huge glass covered voids allowing sunlight into the premises. Service and emergency lifts, wide staircases and state-of-the art surveillance/security and fire-fighting systems are some of the other facilities that will endear shoppers and tenants to Kiambu Mall. In addition, two standby generators (1000 kVA), two water tanks (300000 litres), a borehole and boundary wall with razor and electric fence are also included. The finishes are typical and consist of contemporary tiles, lighting and sanitary fixtures of the highest quality. To make Kiambu Mall a green development, rain water harvesting, a solar garden, a grass lawn and roof-top planters have been provided for in the design.
Project Team Project Client: Mugaa Investments Ltd Architect: U-Design Architects Ltd Quanntity Surveyors: Cost and Value Management Consultants Ltd Mechanical/Electrical Engineers: Gamma Delta Eastern Africa Ltd 34
Civil Structural Engineers: Jocelan Consultants Ltd Main Contractor: Pemco Agencies Ltd Sub-contractors: Mehta Electricals Ltd and Hydro-build Plumbers Ltd Selling Agents: Azizi Realtors Ltd November 2016
Kiambu Shopping Kiambu Shopping MallMall
Exciting Convenient Unique Family-Friendly
Anchor Tenant
Spaces Available: • • • • •
Food Court Jewellery Shop Laundry Shop Mobile Accessories Pharmacies
• • • • •
ATMs Banking Halls Coffee Houses Boutiques Forex Bureau
• • • • •
Toy Stores Agrovets Opticians Gymnasium Offices
We are proud to be associated with Kiambu Shopping Mall
November 2016
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ADVERTISER'S MESSAGE
Fireproofing in difficult to access locations Graco’s ToughTek F340e portable fireproofing pump offers a powerful, yet small and portable unit to apply fire-proofing materials for touch-up applications in cramped locations Powerful Maximum working pressure of the ToughTek F340e is an impressive 41 bar (600 psi) and maximum spray pressure is 34 bar (500 psi). The hopper capacity is 76 liters, and maximum output is 24 liters per minute. It takes a hose of up to 30 meters, and can
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et’s say you are called in to do some touch-up fireproofing, perhaps in an underground parking garage, a sports stadium or a commercial building. “It’s only a small job; it shouldn’t take too long,” says the site manager. But then you discover that the “easy” touch-up job is in a location that is virtually inaccessible – perhaps down three flights of winding steps. How are you ever going to get your large and heavy 400 V 3-phase rotor/stator fireproofing pump down there? “This is where the Graco ToughTek F340e portable fireproofing pump provides a quick, easy and convenient solution,” says Stephan Rindfleisch, Graco Product Marketing Manager. “It’s designed for small touch-up jobs in difficult-to-access locations, and is small enough to be transported in the back of a pick-up truck.” This small, highly mobile unit runs on a single-phase 230 V power supply, is based on piston pump technology, and handles all kinds of fireproofing materials optimally – from low density to high density. Due to its size and mobility, the ToughTek F340e can get closer to the application point. Even when this is not possible, due to the piston pump technology the unit creates enough pressure to spray vertically up to an extended range. Let’s look at it in a bit more detail. Compact and portable Transporting the ToughTek F340e is effortless. It weighs only 95 kg, so requires just a couple of people to lift it into the back
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spray vertically up to a distance of 15 meters, of a van or pick-up truck, or a single person to roll it on its puncture-proof tires to the job site. Its compact design and small footprint makes it easy to maneuver through doorways, halls and elevators – and even up and down steps. It fits well in tight spaces allowing you to spray with ease.
although this depends on the density of the material. Built-in protection system The ToughTek F340e features Graco’s ProGuard
System,
which
continually
monitors operation of the unit. Dual LED indicators provide instant feedback while
Easy to operate You are expected to complete a small touchup job quickly, and thanks to the simple, intuitive operation of the ToughTek F340e, your crew will be up and running in no time. The unit is plug and play, so it’s a matter of just plugging it into a standard 230 V wall outlet. The exact pumping speed is simply dialed in, and can be varied while on the job. An optional remote start/stop switch lets the nozzle man start or stop the pump.
applying material. ProGuard automatically
Versatile Despite its small size, the ToughTek F340e is not limited in the materials it can spray. Use it to spray all kinds of low, medium and high density fireproofing materials, including gypsum-based SFRMs and cementitious SFRMs.
spray vertically up to 60 meters. The unit
Durable Designed and built to last, the ToughTek’s piston pump stands up to highly abrasive fireproofing materials. Its quick knockdown design makes maintenance fast and easy. It will save you the frequent expense of replacing pump parts.
shuts the pump off to protect it from thermal overload or excessive pressure. Bigger brother “Graco also offers a bigger brother to the F340e,” says Stephan Rindfleisch, Graco Product Marketing Manager. “The ToughTek F680e has a hopper capacity of 114 liters and a maximum output of 41 liters per minute. It can take a hose length of 90 meters and can is still portable, although obviously with its larger footprint won’t fit into such tight spots as the F340e.” Productive The bottom line with ToughTek fireproofing pumps is increased productivity, for two reasons. Firstly, you can fireproof those “inaccessible” parts of buildings that are such a problem for the larger, conventional fireproofing pumps. Secondly, you’ll spend more time spraying and less time moving your equipment around the job site. November 2016
Big Performance from a Small Sprayer.
Whether it’s stucco or EIFS materials, the ToughTek™ S340e Stucco Pump easily handles base coats, finish coats and air/water-resistive barrier materials. It’s compact, easy to use and plugs into a standard 230V wall outlet. Bring innovation to the way you work and watch your business grow!
Discover all the Advantages www.graco.com/s340e
ADVERTISER'S MESSAGE
A global leader
in power and automation technologies ABB in Africa provides solutions to improve the efficiency, productivity and quality of our customers’ operations while minimizing environmental impact
A
BB is one of the world's leading power and automation engineering companies that provide solutions for secure, energy-efficient transmission and distribution of electricity. At ABB we increase productivity in industrial, commercial and utility operations. Innovation is at the forefront of what we do and many of the technologies that drive modern society were pioneered by ABB. Our portfolio ranges from robots that can paint cars, light switches, huge electrical transformers to control systems that manage entire power networks and factories. In Southern Africa ABB’s headquarters, logistics and manufacturing centre is based at Longmeadow, Modderfontein; Johannesburg. At these premises ABB has several manufacturing operations including medium voltage switchgear, high voltage protection, rectifiers and a robotics programming and servicing centre. At the Alrode facility also based in Johannesburg, ABB has an AC machines factory that manufactures medium voltage electric motors for local and export markets. ABB has a strong presence in the Southern Africa region with engineering and sales offices in Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. We offer complete solutions to utilities, including electrical power infrastructure for transmission and distribution networks and associated products and systems, such as substations, reactive power compensation, utilities automation (including protection, control and SCADA),
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water EPC contracts and power plant automation. On the industries side, we offer systems, products and services in the areas of pulp and paper, mining, metals and minerals, cement, chemicals and petrochemicals as well as manufacturing and customer industries. As a key player in the solar industry, ABB is constantly striving and uses innovative technology to develop solutions that can efficiently transform the sun's energy into reliable power. Our offering for the solar market stems from our expertise in power electronics. Products and solutions include solar inverters, low-voltage and grid connection products as well as PV power plants. Our project capabilities include a comprehensive offering from feasibility studies, project management and design to construction, installation, commissioning and customer training. All offerings are supported by field maintenance and asset performance services. In South Africa, the group has a strong local manufacturing capability with three manufacturing sites around the country. ABB (www.abb.com) is a leading global technology company in power and automation that enables utility, industry, and transport & infrastructure customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in roughly 100 countries and employs about 135,000 people.
November 2016
ABB low voltage air circuit breakers Service and retrofit solutions
ABB’s circuit breaker retrofit solution is a cost-effective alternative to the complete replacement of existing low voltage switchgear. ABB Service experts conduct audits on existing installations to recommend the ideal solution and ensure the optimum return on investment. Retrofitting encompasses the replacement of phased-out devices with current technology air circuit breakers by adapting them both mechanically and electrically to suit the existing switchgear. The result is a major improvement in reliability, safety, and performance. ABB Service is a full system provider for retrofit solutions, from the initial recommendation and design, through manufacturing and testing, up to installation and commissioning. For more information visit: www.abb.com/lowvoltage
ABB Ltd Kenya Tel. +254 20 3579817 E-mail: abbltd.info@ke.abb.com
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
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Azizi Realtors Ltd....................................35
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Masterbill integrated Projects..................31
Dawn Sanitary..........................................23
MozBuild Expo Apex Steel.....................22
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Norkun Intakes.........................................28
DPI Plastics..............................................16
Parbat Siyani Interiors..............................20
Express Plumbers....................................33
Prime Steel...........................................OBC
Fit Tight Fasteners ..................................22
Renocon Agencies Ltd.............................29
Geosurv System Ltd.................................25
Spektra Apex Steel...................................32
Graco........................................................37
Trox Technik............................................17
Hawk Apex Steel.................................. IBC
U-Design Associates................................28
HK Motors.............................................IFC
Wacker Neuson........................................20
Hekima Land Surveyors..........................25
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Horicon Engineering Solutions................30
Zedex Fabricators.....................................35
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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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Our Values | Honesty and Integrity | Accountability | Care | Respect | Commitment | Ubuntu
Mining Brief
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