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October October 2018, 2018, Vol Vol 29 29 No.10 No.10 Africa's leading construction journal
The New Nile Bridge Longest single plane cable stayed bridge in Africa
Electrical systems safety and reliability Remodelling your kitchen Paint accessories
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MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Francis Makari EDITOR - inEDITOR - CHIEF FEATURES Dennis Ayemba COUNTRY EDITORS Uganda Uganda -- Betty Betty Nabakooza Nabakooza Nigeria Nigeria -- Boladale Boladale Ademiju Ademiju South Africa Jimmy South Africa - Jimmy Swira Swira WRITERS WRITERS Yvonne Yvonne Andiva, Andiva, Dorcas Dorcas Kang'ereha, Kang'ereha, Pascal Musungu, Anita Anyango, Pascal Musungu Moreen Gakii WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN WEB &Margaret GRAPHIC DESIGN Atieno Margaret Atieno Sales and Marketing Manager Sales and Marketing Ken Okore Manager Ken Okore
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October October 2018, 2018, Vol Vol 29 29 No.10 No.10
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Africa's leading construction journal
In the next issue we look at the application of robotics in construction.
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REGULARS Editor's Comment 3 Corporate News 4 Association News 5 Events 6 Product News 7 Management 8 Interview
15
COVER STORY: The New Nile Stayed Bridge 10 Electrical Systems: Ensuring safety and reliability of your electrical system 16 Kitchens: Remodeling your kitchen 19 Kitchen Fires: Kitchen Fire Suppression 22
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TENT
October 2018 Volume 29 No. 10
Editor's Comment
Ensuring safety and reliability of your electrical system
Foreign investment- the key to Africa’s Infrastructure troubles
While the importance of electric wiring is clear, the wrong electrical
Despite Africa being a great diverse continent, a larger portion of it still suffers from poor or nonexistent infrastructural network. Currently, Africa’s infrastructure is a mixed bag. Angola for instance has a road density of 4km per square kilometre of land contrary to South Africa‘s figures which is 15 times higher. Africa’s larger economies may be able to fund their own developments but for many others, this simply is not practical. Foreign investment, therefore, is set to play a major role in financing future infrastructure projects.
system can cause disaster. It is therefore important to work safely with or near electricity.
16 Remodeling your kitchen
China-Africa relations are at an all-time high, with Beijing proving more than willing to extend its One Belt, One Road initiative across the continent. Last year saw the completion of the Nairobi-Mombasa railway line in Kenya, with China agreeing to finance 80% of the US $11.17bn cost. The new line will reduce travel times between the country’s two most important cities to 4.5 hours and help Kenya push its proportion of freight trade up towards its 40% target.
Your lifestyle puts a great effect on your kitchen designing. Modern kitchens not only offer trendy features and sophisticated looks but are also top in terms of functionality.
19 Paint Accessories: Getting the most out of your appliance Profile: Milicon’s Limited: A Formidable Contractor Profile: Questworks Limited: Delivering Turnkey Projects Advertorial: Sheffield has a notable "footprint" across Africa
Having been subjected to colonial rule in the last century, African countries are wary when it comes to international assistance. They are well aware that foreign investment is sometimes repaid with more than just interest. That being said, there is no reason why foreign-backed projects can’t provide infrastructural and development gains in Africa in the here-and-now, while also providing long-term benefits for the foreign investors.
24 27 30 34
Robert Barnes
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CORPORATE NEWS
Masdar to build solar power plant with battery storage in Seychelles Masdar, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, will help the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) in building a 5MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant with battery storage in the Republic of Seychelles.
ALP opens modern grade –A warehousing park at Tatu City Africa Logistics Properties (ALP) has launched its first 49,000 sqm of modern grade –A warehousing at ALP North Industrial Park, Tatu City with 75% of the facility pre-leased at a time when other segments of the commercial, retail and residential real estate market are struggling to achieve total occupancy of 75%. “The near complete uptake of ALP North prior to launch speaks to the scale of the warehousing shortage in Kenya. But it also demonstrates that real estate requires developers to concentrate on the genuine areas of market need,” said Toby Selman, CEO of ALP. Demand for grade-A warehousing The demand for grade-A warehousing, which delivers significant cost savings and efficiency for users, currently far exceeds supply in the country, with warehouse users reporting that finding suitable facilities is frequently impossible, according to recent research by Tilisi Developments. This shortage contrasts sharply with overbuild in some other real estate segments. The oversupply of commercial space in Nairobi reached 4.7m sqft in 2017, while retail space oversupply reached 3.7 m sq ft. Meanwhile, the supply of mall space rose by 41.6% last year, even as demand stagnated.
The project is being financed by a US$ 8.4m loan from Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the leading national entity for development aid, as well as funds from PUC’s own equity. The project’s engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract scope includes subsea cabling, switch gear extensions and an underground water piping system for module cleaning. The 5MW Ile de Romainville Solar Park The 5MW Ile de Romainville Solar Park will be located on the same site as the existing ADFD-financed US$ 28m Port Victoria Wind Farm. Built by Masdar, this 5MW renewable energy wind farm has been generating power for the Seychelles’ capital since 2013.
Sharp energises African PV market with expansion of solar business Sharp announces the expansion of its Solar Energy Solutions business to the African continent. The solar sector in Africa is an important part in Sharp’s strategic worldwide diversification plan, where access to energy is challenging for so many people. Sharp introduces its industry leading range of 12 photovoltaic (PV) modules and various battery storage solutions which are now available to all customers across Africa. With a company history of over 100 years, Sharp brings almost 60 years of solar expertise gained from markets across the globe to help address the pressing need to boost electricity access, and the demand for a reliable electricity supply across the African continent. The growing population of Africa is already putting an increasing strain on existing energy sources. Coupled with a changing climate and longer dry seasons in many countries, the reliance on fossil fuel and hydro power is not sustainable in the long term.
Nairobi gate industrial park introduces next level logistics to Kenya Improvon Group, one of Africa’s most established logistics and warehouse property specialists, and Actis, a leading investor in growth markets, have announced the launch of Nairobi Gate Industrial Park.
industrial and logistics accommodation for local and international companies, with quick access to key logistics and transport hubs such as the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the Inland Container Depot.
Located off the Eastern Bypass, this 103acre development will offer state-of-the-art
Nairobi Gate brings a unique “build to suit” concept to Nairobi that has been necessitated by the demand for modern, flexible and efficient warehousing facilities. It offers flexibility and scalability for occupiers’ operational needs.
Nairobi Gate will integrate corporate offices, with excellent access, wide roads and turning circles 4
The development is estimated to cost US$110 million USD (KES 11 Billion) by completion. Commented Koome Gikunda, Actis Director for Real Estate: “We are delighted to be working with Improvon and launching the Nairobi Gate Industrial Park. We are bringing something unique to the market, not just from a development point of view, but also in our approach. The face of warehousing and
CR | October 2018
logistics property is changing, with companies migrating to better locations and consolidating into single facilities to achieve economies of scale and operational efficiency. We are looking forward to partnering with businesses across the region as they make this journey”. Explained Stefano Contardo,Improvon CEO:“Phase 1 of Nairobi Gate will span 103 acres and will consist of ultra-modern logistics, warehousing and distribution centres, bringing a ‘build to suit’ concept to Nairobi in response to the demand for grade A flexible spaces. “In line with modern trends it will integrate corporate offices, with excellent access, wide roads and turning circles that can accommodate interlink trucks, generous loading facilities and the highest standard of security, all set in a park-like environment."
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
South Africa’s nuclear industry opposes new IRP The Nuclear Industry Association of South Africa (NIASA) has objected to the exclusion of further nuclear power; over and above the ones provided by the existing Koeberg nuclear power plant from the government recently released Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). According to (NIASA) Managing Director Knox Msebemzi, they are an unhappy and have called for transparency in determining the required suitable energy mix for the country. “A transparent process of determining the appropriate energy mix for South Africa is required. We believe it is grossly unfair for the IRP to require extensive additional studies to justify the inclusion of nuclear in the energy mix,” he affirmed. Electricity generation “A lot of work has been done from 2007, which culminated in the 2010-2030 IRP. There were subsequent updates which meant that extensive studies were done, so to ask for further studies in respect of one energy source only, while boosting RE [renewable energy], is grossly unfair. As the nuclear industry, we will make representations to the department, and we believe we will make a case for the inclusion of nuclear power.” said Knox Msebemzi
HAR declares East Africa as a potential in small hydropower Hydropower Association of Rwanda has declared East Africa as where Africa’s small hydropower potential lies by 83% with Kenya and Ethiopia leading the neighboring countries respectively. Speaking at a technical workshop focused on small hydropower opportunities hosted at the African Utility Week, in Cape Town, Dan Klinck, the chairperson of the Hydro-power Association of Rwanda and CEO of East African Power, confirmed the reports and added that Africa’s small hydro-power potential is at 7,3GW According to Klinck, the African small hydropower market has great potential with East Africa leading the market by 209MW of installed capacity and a potential of 6,296MW. Following in the second place is Central Africa with 76MW installed capacity and 328MW potential. Growth development Dan Klinck further narrowed down the numbers and cited statistics from the World Hydro Report shows that Uganda has the highest installed capacity in East Africa of 35MW.However Kenya and Ethiopia were listed among the leading neighboring countries having significant potential of small hydropower estimated at 3,000MW and 1,500MW respectively, following closely with 1,000MW of the potential capacity is Rwanda and according to Klinck, this potential presents $1 billion in hydro investments.
NSE seeks salvage for the federal secretariat complex The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has advised the Federal Government to collaborate with the state government to sell the
He further argued that the cost of the different forms of electricity generation was not calculated on a common basis, a move he says makes nuclear appear more expensive compared to other forms of production, particularly renewable energy.
FHA in Nigeria digitizes its operations Nigeria’s Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has digitized its operations in bid to curb extortion of money from prospective land buyers by cartels. According to the Managing Director of FHA, Prof. Mohammed Al-Amin the move was taken to curb cartels’ activities such as double allocation, grabbing of peoples’ land and selling of green areas in the country. “Through the FHA geographical information system each plot of land and each housing unit nationwide has been digitized. The move has also enabled the authority to have proper information concerning lands and housing units, including change of ownership and amount paid,” said Prof. Mohammed Al-Amin . Fake receipts from cartels The Managing Director added that the digitization gave FHA an edge in immediate check on issues of government allocations or forgery of documents and rendering of quick services. The FHA boss admitted that there were numerous cases of unscrupulous elements printing their own receipts bearing the Federal Government’s and FHA logos. The cartel issues receipts to unsuspecting Nigerians’ after collecting their money so that the people would believe the receipt and land are from the FHA.
federal secretariat complex in Ikoyi, Lagos State to save the national monument from further deterioration. “Both governments should reach an agreement on the facility without further delay, Presidential Implementation Committee on the sale of federal government landed property is in a better position to speak on the status of the secretariat,” said The NSE branch Chairman, Mr Johnson Akinwande.
“The activities of these cartels need to be exposed to prevent innocent land buyers from continually falling prey to the fraudsters.We have already completed our pilot project in Gwarinpa Estate Abuja; every house now in Gwarinpa is now digitised,” Al-Amin asserted.
The federal secretariat complex The 15-storeyed complex is said to have been abandoned since 1991 following the relocation of the country’s capital from Lagos to Abuja. www.constructionreviewonline.com
October 2018 | CR
5
EVENTS NEWS
EnergyWeek Morocco to welcome 400 energy decisionmakers EnergyWeek Morocco will take place from 14-15th November in Marrakech. The event is a platform for decision-makers in the energy sector to discuss the progress of
The Big 5 Construct East Africa 2018 The Official Exhibition of Kenya’s National Construction Week is back! The dedicated building and construction event-The Big 5 Construct East Africa 2018 will bring the entire portfolio of building materials, construction
According African Economic
products and solutions together under one roof.
Outlook 2018 Report, the infrastructure deficit is even more
regional power projects in North & West Africa
The 2018 edition of the event will include 250
than was previously estimated. The
manufacturers, suppliers, traders, distributors and service
deficit, which now stands between
EnergyWeek Morocco is set to welcome
providers of innovative construction solutions.7000
400 energy decision-makers to Marrakech
architects, engineers, builders, contractors, interior
this November to discuss power projects in North & West Africa.
hosted within this week – the 4th annual
$130 – $180 billion USD, points to an infrastructure gap of between $68 and $108bn USD.
designers, consultants and all construction industry professionals are expected to visit the event. Attend free
Two separate investment meetings will be
Africa PPP 2018 – Over 40 speakers already confirmed for the 10th edition of Africa’s leading Public Private
CPD certified workshops and hi-level conference by ICoRCE that will give you vital market knowledge. The
Governments and public institutions in Africa are looking into the PPP model as a mechanism to
Africa Renewable Energy Forum and 2nd
Big 5 Construct East Africa 2018 is a must attend event
ensure the development of the
annual Gas Options: North & West Africa
that brings the construction industry together.
required infrastructure, while not
– to explore opportunities for gas and
compromising on technology and
renewable energy project development.
expertise, all the while providing long term sustainable investment opportunities.
The event is endorsed by Hon. Aziz Rabbah, Minister of Energy, Mines & Sustainable Development in Morocco,
Since its inception in 2009, Africa
with the support of leading private sector
PPP has become a key platform
companies MASEN, Cheniere, Fieldstone
for industry stakeholders to meet,
Africa, Skypower, ENGIE and Wartsila.
discuss, debate and share PPP plans.
Kenya - Architectural Association of Kenya
- Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers
- Institute of Engineers of Kenya - Association of Consulting Engineers of - Kenya - Association of Professional Societies of East Africa APSEA)
Association Partners
Nigeria
Zimbabwe
- Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria - Association of Professional Women
- Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers
- Institution of Surveyors of Kenya
- The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)
- SAICE
Surveying Profession
Ghana - Ghana Institute of Engineers
Engineers Of Nigeria - Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region
- Khuthaza ( Women for Housing)
- Architects Registration Council
- Concrete Manufacturers Association
- Ghana Institute of Surveyors
- Green Building council of SA
- Ghana Green Builders Association
- South African Property Owners Association
- Ghana Institute of Planners
- Master Builders South Africa
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
- Building and Construction Skilled Artisans
Contractors of Ghana
Association of Nigeria (BACSAAN)
Uganda
- Nigeria Society of Engineers - Nigeria Institute of Architects
Institute of Surveyors of Uganda
Namibia
Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE) &
Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors
Zambia
Uganda society of Architects
Association of Consulting Engineers of Namibia
- Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA)
Botswana
- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors 6
- Construction Contractors Association of Ethiopia
- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- Kenya Property developers Association
- South African Council for the Quantity
and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)
- Association of Ethiopian Architects
- Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya
South Africa - ASAQS
- Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects
Ethiopia
Tanzania
- Construction Regulation Board (CRB)
CR | October 2018
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (ABCEC). www.constructionreviewonline.com
PRODUCTS NEWS
Kärcher develops new window vac WVP 10 for commercial operators With the WVP 10, Kärcher has developed a new window vac to meet the requirements of commercial operators. The machine is a practical addition for manual cleaning, for example, of glass doors, mirrors, smooth tables, windows and tiles. With the WVP 10, dirty water remaining on surfaces after cleaning is vacuumed away – streak-free and without residues. This machine is used by building service contractors, in shops, public facilities, hotels and restaurants or at petrol stations. The window vac The window vac can be used with one hand. An advantage is the relatively low machine weight of 750g – similar to a tablet PC. The on/off switch on the outside of the handle can be operated conveniently with the thumb. The 200ml dirty water tank is designed for both horizontal and vertical use without dripping. After use, it is simply removed from the machine and washed with clear water or cleaned in a dishwasher. The battery run time with one charge is about 30 minutes, which is sufficient for an area of about 110m². An LED display above the on/off switch shows the remaining energy reserve. The battery can be changed for long periods of use with minimum or only short interruptions. The new model is available in two versions, the WVP 10 with one battery and a standard battery charger (185min charging time) and the Adv versions with two batteries and a 60-minute quick charger. This version features a second, narrower suction lip (170 mm), which is ideal for narrow surfaces such as windows with bars.
COMBILIFT Launches the COMBI-PPT: Powered pallet truck Combilift, the material handling solutions provider, has launched a new high capacity powered pallet truck – the Combi-PPT suitable for Africa market. The powered pallet truck comes with standard lift capacities of 3,000 kg and 6,000 kg, with higher capacity models from 7,000kg to 16,000kg available on request. It is a further addition to the Irish company’s growing pedestrian range with the optional operator’s platform enabling stand-on or walk behind operation. The Combi-PPT includes a feature common to all Combilift’s pedestrian models: its unique, patented multi-position tiller arm. This enables the operator to stand at the side of the unit rather than at the rear (as is the case with other walk behind brands), giving operators excellent visibility of even the bulkiest loads and their surroundings. The operator’s position also eliminates any possibility of crush risk when working in confined areas and prevents product damage. “With the introduction of the Combi-PPT, very heavy loads can now be handled using these walk-behind machines, ensuring high levels of safety whilst guaranteeing efficient procedures even in confined spaces,” according to Martin McVicar, Managing Director, Combilift. “Combilift developed its first pedestrian models (the Combi-WR, Combi-WR4 and the Combi-CS) in response to an industry demand to move away from ride-on forklifts. As a company we are seeing a growing demand for pedestrian trucks, driven by safety concerns where customers and/or employees are in the vicinity of operating forklifts. It is our intention to significantly expand our pedestrian forklift range as can be seen with the launch of the Combi-PPT. This forklift offers safer operation, maximum operator visibility and narrow aisle performance.”
MB provides crusher buckets for a range of construction applications Italy-based global construction equipment supplier, MB Crusher has provided solution for construction and demolition waste (CDW) processing and explained a number of cases where the MB products have been used in a range of applications around the world. “The process of recycling is pretty straightforward, firstly, fine material is separated. Subsequently, there needs to be a volumetric reduction, a separation from any metals and the final removal of the light fraction.
PMSA launches ultra-3000 machinery products The Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA) has launched the ultra-3000 machinery products in Johannesburg, South Africa. According to Quintin Booysen, PMSA marketing and sales manager, the products will add significant value to the market for it will enable bricks and blocks manufacturers to produce end products at a much quicker rate and producing variety of products. “The product is a unique offering to the market; there is no machine of this specialty size produced in hemisphere, or for that matter for that matter.” said Booysen. The Ultra-3000 The Ultra-3000 is engineered to meet high-volume manufacturers’ requirements for brick, block and paving products, and enables operators to rapidly change setups and machine parameters to produce multiple different products that will meet client requirements. The product will enable PMSA to provide support from its local manufacturing industry in Boksburg, Johannesburg, and maintain a competitive advantage over imported machinery. PMSA plans to export the machine to neighbouring countries in Africa, and to South America, Europe and Asia. It weighs 30 tonnes and is centered on four large 120-mm-diameter chrome shafts to prevent back-tofront or side-to-side movement. The heavyweight, rigid frame of the machine is designed to fully absorb shock and vibration without allowing for movement to transfer to the operational components of the machine. Not only does this ensure higher- quality products but also reduces wear and tear, which is beneficial in terms of longevity of the equipment.
However, of this whole process crushing is considered the critical phase for several reasons,” said the company. In the Hautes Pyrénées (France), a combination of a crusher bucket BF80.3 with an iron separator and a New Holland excavator are paring up to recycle the railway sleepers which were cumulated. www.constructionreviewonline.com
October 2018 | CR
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MANAGEMENT Create highly insulated properties Of course, the sustainability of a building only begins with its construction – it has an entire lifetime to damage the planet; unless you consider the energy efficiency of the building, post-construction. Energy efficiency is a requirement of most building regulations these days, but are you doing all you can just by meeting minimum requirements? By incorporating advancedframing methods, you produce less waste during the building process, and, resultantly, less will be dumped in landfill.
5 REASONS WHY USE OF SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL IS IMPORTANT IN MODERN CONSTRUCTION
S
ustainability is a necessity for the modern construction industry. It’s quite a responsibility, isn’t it? And it’s not just materials, we should be considering energy-saving options wherever possible, such as highly insulated bi-fold doors. The modern construction industry therefore, is torn between satisfying the demands of clients, and the responsibility to ensure that we don’t indelibly damage the planet that sustains us all. The importance of sustainability can’t be understated. So, we’ve compiled some tips and hints to help convince you to choose sustainable construction. Building for Longevity If we’re building to create a more sustainable future, it stands to reason that your construction should stand the test of time. So, it’s about choosing robust materials that aren’t going to damage the environment. Concrete, for example, is the third highest producer of man-made CO2 after transport and energy production. It requires a tremendous amount of fossil fuels – principally coal – to generate enough heat to drive the cementmaking process. That’s before you consider the clinker, which induces the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate.
8
Hempcrete is a bio-composite material formed by combining hemp (a non-psycho-active strain of the cannabis plant) with lime and water. Hemp is one of the planet’s most eco-friendly crops: it thrives on depleted land and helps to improve the soil, and it absorbs large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere as it grows. Of course, hempcrete is currently less widely available, but where many clients are insistent on sustainable construction projects, we can encourage them to consider this “zero-carbon” modern construction material. Using timber Wood, by nature, is renewable – if it’s grown in a sustainable fashion. Trees digest carbon dioxide from the atmosphere; so cultivating sustainably plays an essential role in the ecosystem, protecting the planet from rising temperatures. This makes timber-based advanced framing (or optimum value engineering) an option to consider if you’re aiming to reduce the environmental impact of your construction projects. Advanced-framing saves timber in a wide variety of ways. And if the wood is grown in sustainable forests that replenish their own supply, you’re more likely to provide a solution that protects the planet’s resources.
CR | October 2018
Sustainable homes are healthier Green builds emit fewer toxins. Much has been made of man-made materials such as asbestos, which produces carcinogens when disturbed. Many sustainable materials can help improve a building’s air quality: • Natural wool carpeting • Laminates that avoid toxic glues • Air systems that circulate fresh outdoor air into the building. Reclaimed Materials Waste is a necessary evil as far as construction and demolition projects are concerned. A demolition produces waste concrete, metal, plastic, wood, glass, asphalt, and bricks, as well as countless other materials that get destroyed when a building is demolished. All of this goes into landfill or incinerators, polluting the earth and the air; but the transportation of waste materials also has a massive impact on the environment. Reclaiming used materials can be expensive, but if you can find a specialist deconstruction company, you’ll find that they dismantle reusable items exceptionally carefully, in order that they can be used again. Reclaimed items can bring genuine character to a building – especially in the case of renovation projects where they can help retain the existing design integrity. Of course, sustainability might cost a little more but, certainly in the case of hempcrete, the higher the demand for sustainable building materials, the more available and affordable they become. Become a trailblazer and insist on sustainable construction.
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October 2018 | CR
9
COVER STORY
THE NEW NILE CABLE STAYED BRIDGE
T
he New Nile Bridge is a cable stayed
into hard rock. The new 1.83km long asphalt
government, improving communication on
bridge which will align at 500 metres
approach road has three at-grade junctions at
the Northern Corridor Route, a major link for
upstream of Nalubaale Dam with river
Nile Breweries, Nytil and Jinja round-about to
Uganda and its landlocked Central African
width of 300 metres.The 525 metre-long bridge
allow interchange of traffic to the existing road
neighbors. “The Bridge’s picturesque features
has a central span of 290 metres, end spans
network.
and strategic location near the source of the
of 135 metres and 100 metres on the east and west banks respectively.
Nile will present tourist and resort advantages At a cost of US $129m, and with an estimated
to the benefit of local and international
design life of 120 years, the new bridge is
investors,” says Lawrence Pario, Head Bridges
The bridge’s foundation consists of 1.5 metres
aimed at relieving traffic from the existing
and Structures, Uganda National Roads
and 2.0 metres diameter piles which are
deteriorating bridge that was constructed
Authority (UNRA).
embedded approximately 14-23 metres deep
over 60 years back by the British colonial
10
CR | October 2018
www.constructionreviewonline.com
The New Nile Bridge uniqueness is in it being the longest single plane cable configuration with a water proof deck on the entire African Continent. The bridge deck has a 7 metres wide dual two-way carriageway with a pedestrian walk way of 2.25 metres wide on both ends;complete with street lighting facilities and a digital health monitoring system that monitors the load of the traffic passing, stresses and strains in the cable, and communicates the distresses which will signal maintenance requirements. The overall width of the Bridge is 22.9 metres wide. Moreover, automatic weigh in motion (WIM) system will be installed on the approach roads to deter over weight traffic from crossing. “The Bridge is a landmark on the continent, and we are glad as a local company to have teamed up with Sika to construct the water proof deck,” says Bridget Kholer, director of Roko Technical Services a sub-contractor on the project.
The New Nile Bridge's uniqueness is in it being the longest single plane cable configuration with a water proof deck on the entire African Continent.
The Environment Environmental protection was well-managed during the structure’s construction. To mitigate negative environmental impact, an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was carried out to ensure that there was no pollution of the Nile water and a continuous monitoring and audit was done to ensure compliance against potential environmental and social risks with their corresponding mitigation plans defined. Transport / Construction industry There has been skills transfer to the Local
The major materials used for the bridge construction were high performance and high
Construction Engineers, technicians and
strength reinforced concrete whose constituents are aggregates, high tensile steel,
craftsmen involved in the construction of the New
admixtures and cement.
Nile Bridge Project. The acquired skills will help in the transformation of Uganda’s Transport/ Construction industry. The high local content in terms of materials, personnel and machines
road pavement layers were constructed with
construction of bored pile foundations, pile
selected earth layers caped with a crushed
caps, abutments, two inverted Y pylons,
stone base and asphalt finish.
and prestressed concrete box girder deck, installation of stay cables, approach roads
has meant that local people and businesses have directly and indirectly benefitted financially from
and ancillary works.
the project.
Finishing The bridge structures (Abutments, Pylons &
Challenges
Materials used
Box Girder) retain the gray concrete surface
Like any ground breaking work, the new
as the final finishing while cables take on
Nile Bridge project was characterized with
the white colour of the HDPE Pipes; in the
some challenges:
The major materials used for construction were high performance and high strength reinforced concrete whose constituents are aggregates, high tensile steel, admixtures and cement 42.5N. Special manufactured multi-strand high yield steel was used for the stay cable strands between pylons and prestressed concrete box girder. The
night the bridge lits in beautiful colours. Delays in delivery of construction materials Scope
and equipment procured from overseas put
The construction scope of the New
a four month setback in the construction
Nile Cable stayed Bridge include the
schedule. Moreover, the need to observe
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October 2018 | CR
11
high environmental standards resulted in some non-compliant
10 years of its existence, immensely addressing the issue of national
would-be local suppliers of materials, such as sand and gravel, being
transport and being responsible for the best road infrastructures in the
excluded.
country.
The new bridge is set to be opened to the public in October 2018.
UNRA’s journey in ensuring that the country achieves a reputable roads network is still ongoing with several projects in the pipeline.
Enacted by government of Uganda in 2006 as its singular agent mandated to develop and maintain the national roads network and
These include: Kampala Fly over, Karuma Bridge, Kampala Jinja
advice government on general roads policy, the Uganda National
Express way, Kampala Southern Bypass, and Kapchorwa Swamp.
Roads Authority (UNRA) has subsisted beyond expectations in the past
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INTERVIEW
Sustainable affordable HOUSING DELIVERY In order to reduce cost of construction, yet producing a socially acceptable, resilient, affordable, building that will withstand the ravages of nature, weather and time requires knowledge of the “ingredients” that will ultimately culminate into the final product – the house.
lives. Creating jobs, stimulating ownership
Other pollutant gases that are released when
confidence and the spirit of innovation – this
fuels are burned include carbon monoxide,
is what social businesses are looking for.
nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide.
Appropriate technical solutions, such as low
In order to reduce cost of construction, yet
T
cost housing, improve life quality and can
producing a socially acceptable, resilient,
give the initial push for development.
affordable, building that will withstand the
Economic drivers of change: Jobs and
knowledge of the “ingredients” that will
inspire a built environment in which people
houses
ultimately culminate into the final product –
and planet thrive. Buildings are one of the main
Poverty housing affects people’s health and
the house
contributors to climate change. Building green
well-being, their job prospects and ability to
is an opportunity to use resources efficiently
make a living. It locks people into a cycle of
Economies of scale
and address climate change while creating
poverty.
Housing at minimum cost meaning lowering
Hennie Botes CEO and Inventor of Moladi
he Green Building Council of South Africa is dedicated to building a greener future. “Our purpose is to
ravages of nature, weather and time requires
healthier and more productive environments for people and communities.”
the cost of construction by implementing It also holds children back from fulfilling
advantage of economies of scale
their potential. Children living in bad housing Appropriate Technology: Small is beautiful
are more likely to suffer from serious health
Shorten the supply chain
The economist and philosopher, Dr Ernst
problems, to have learning difficulties and
Shortening the supply chain is a universal
Friedrich Schumacher, wanted to stress that
miss school and to face unemployment and
business goal in the global automotive
small-scale technologies are the ones needed in
poverty later in life.
industry. A shorter supply chain is generally
the fight against poverty. These solutions have
recognized to be leaner, more agile, more
great advantages; they can be implemented
The impact on children’s development is
“accountable,” and, most importantly, less
with local resources and skills and they are
both immediate and long-term. Growing up
expensive.
affordable – which makes them tools that
in poor or overcrowded housing has been
empower people to help themselves.
found to have a lasting impact on a child’s
However, the real economic value of a
health and well-being throughout their life.
shorter supply chain has rarely been critically
The impact of appropriate technology becomes particularly
noticeable
when
measured in the construction sector. Simply
innovative
Select materials that do not consume huge
put: The Hardware store or DIY builder
solutions are used and promoted by social
amounts of energy to produce: The burning
supply chain store profit and overhead cost
entrepreneurs who put social impact at the heart
of fuels releases a large amount of carbon
cannot be borne when “lean construction” is
of their business. The combination of low-cost
dioxide into the atmosphere. This is thought
the target. Frugal innovation is the approach
technology and social entrepreneurship can
to cause global warming.
to deliver cost effectively.
have far-reaching implications for thousands of
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15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Ensuring safety and reliability of your electrical system operation, maintenance and trouble shooting of the system. Know your equipment It may seem too simple, but the first step in knowing any piece of equipment is to read the manual. Keep in mind that equipment that may look the same may not operate the same. Systems may also vary depending on the application and installation. Whether it is A system that is perfect for one application may not be the best choice for another application.
A
equipment you are operating or equipment you are installing, spending time with the products’ documentation can save you many headaches.
ll electrical systems have the
ensure not only safety when dealing with
Additionally, according to Mr. Gary Barlow of
potential to cause harm. Human
electrical systems but also reliability of the
Switchgear Limited, a leading manufacturer of
beings are more conductive than
installed system.
switchboards, one should always make sure not
the earth which means if there is no other
to install the cheapest product as it can create
easy path, electricity will try to flow through
Know your system
havoc for you and the property. The best is to
our bodies.The voltage of the electricity and
The first key to knowing your electrical
ensure that the products are of highest quality
the available electrical current in regular
system is an accurate and up-to-date one-line
and suits your requirements.
businesses and homes has enough power to
of the electrical system. With the facilities
cause death by electrocution. Even changing
of today, which integrate multiple supplies
This can be made easier by buying from
a light bulb without unplugging the lamp
and voltage systems, knowing how the
reputable companies. Mr. Anjali Mediratta,
can be hazardous because coming in contact
system components are integrated together
Director at Polyphase Systems Limited
with the ‘hot’, ‘energized’ or ‘live’ part of
is key to the safety and reliability of your
in Kenya mentions that, finding reputable
the socket could kill a person. It is therefore
electrical system. Many facilities have added,
companies to buy electrical equipment from is
important to work safely with or near
removed and remodeled over the years, so
the first step in getting genuine products. “This
electricity.
that no one really knows what their electrical
is because these companies carry recognizable
system looks like today. Knowing how the
brands that have been tried and tested,” he
various systems interconnect is critical to the
adds.
The following are some of the factors that
16
CR | October 2018
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Preventive maintenance
managers, maintenance managers, technicians,
possible. Keep safety at the forefront of your
Preventive maintenance is often ignored
and other employees.
mind, always watch for others, and don't be
and considered too expensive to implement.
complacent.
In reality, it is a valuable investment that
Safety first
is measurable. Preventive maintenance can
No amount of speed or pressure to get things
Furthermore, the technician performing
help avoid equipment failure, alleviate repair
done should make employees cut corners
periodic maintenance and service of
and replacement costs, and increase safety
when it comes to safety measures. According
electrical equipment should have a thorough
for personnel. It should not be treated as an
to Mr. Mohammed Anjarwalla, Director of
understanding of the electrical field and
unnecessary investment.
Regional Electricals in Kenya electricity is
should be trained and familiar with the
one of the most delicate things a property
equipment and systems they are working on.
An effective preventive- and proactive-
owner has to deals with on a daily basis;
Mr. NischalGajjar the Managing director at
maintenance program should take into
therefore, cutting corners leads to costly and
Power Controls Limited in Kenya adds that,
consideration safety, the age of the equipment,
often deadly errors. It is advisable to always
qualified and trained personnel understand the
operating environment, and the criticality of
lock-out, tag-out and de-energize electrical
construction and operation of equipment and
the asset. If infrared scanning is the only form
system equipment before working on it. Use a
installations, therefore they not only ensure
of preventive-maintenance approach that’s
method of procedure as a check list and wear
efficiency of the system, but they also have
been employed, equipment reliability and
the appropriate personal protective equipment
safety training to recognize and avoid the
safety have been compromised. That type of
for the job. Put as much physical distance
hazards involved.
situation should be of great concern to plant
between people and energized equipment as
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KITCHENS
Remodeling your kitchen
K
When you think of remodeling your kitchen,
According to Tobias Joseph of Blum Sales
think of its longevity, function, style and
when it comes to fronts more and more
efficiency. The kitchen you decide on will
people aspire to thin (8 mm) panels of
last for 15 years or more, and it’s often very
various materials, such as chipboard, HPL
difficult to keep an overview of the latest
or ceramics. Blum has come up with a new
product innovations.
solution to meet this trend: an innovative fixing method called Expando T. This
itchens have to withstand the rigours of everyday use. So it’s important that they not only look good but are
practical too. Modern kitchens not only offer trendy features and sophisticated looks but are also top in terms of functionality. They make everyday kitchen use fun! But buying a new
Your kitchen should match your lifestyle
latest innovation gives cabinet makers and
A good kitchen needs to meet the user's
manufacturers the ability to implement their
requirements. Blum has been investigating
own design ideas, stand out even more from
the needs of kitchen users around the globe
their competitors and offer bespoke solutions
for years and is continuously coming up with
using products in their range. Expando T
new ideas on how to make modern kitchens
delivers tried and tested functionality and the
even more practical.
usual top quality you’ve come to expect from Blum.
kitchen can also be a bit of a challenge.
drawers. This results in furniture that can be used throughout your whole living area.
EXPANDO T
Personalised furniture with thin cabinet fronts
Cooking, eating and living spaces are increasingly merging together. Open plan rooms and specially designed furniture are on trend – your own home must reflect your individuality. This is why new design innovations are in high demand! And new design innovations call for elegant solutions. With its Expando T, Blum offers a uniform fixing system for thin cabinet fronts allowing for thicknesses of just 8 mm for lift systems, doors and
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More choice of materials: from wood to Corian Fronts with remarkably thin designs, in materials such as wood, concrete, natural stone, ceramic or Corian, can make your dreams come true – meaning your new furniture is modern and tailored to you. All thanks to special fronts and Expando T from Blum. For more information please visit www.blum.com
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19
KITCHENS
Materials that embody a modern kitchen sink
M
ost households shy away from
the silvery granite would be soapstone. Yes,
neutrals. These are manufactured at extremely
uniqueness as far as kitchen sinks
defying the myth about soap melting with
high temperatures and are resistant to
are concerned. Granite, porcelain,
water. That’s because some of these sinks are
scratches, staining and chipping. Clean up is
stainless steel are the common options that
carved from single blocks of soapstone, which
simple; dish soap on a sponge; but for tougher
most people choose from. And rightfully so,
means no seams. No seams eliminate any
marks, a mild abrasive cleanser and some
especially owing to some of their features
chance of leakage. Also, this means rounded
elbow grease will get that sink back to white.
which include: lower prices, lighter weight,
inside corners, making them easier to clean.
and easily obtainable.However, as Kohler
According to David Dare the CEO of Shaws
alluded during their launch of a showroom in
Exotic Hardwood
of Darwen, in the 15 years they have been
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; the sanitary ware
Teak is probably the last material you would
working with their South African partners, they
industry is evolving along with technology.
expect a sink to be made from. This is owing
have witnessed a real surge in the popularity
It is now possible to combine affordability
to the known parallel relationship between
of fireclay sinks, particularly the Butler style.
with elegance. Kohler is a global leader in the
wood and water. However, this could work.
“The kitchen is at the very heart of the home,
manufacture of kitchen and bath products,
Of course strict measures in terms of sealing
which means that people want assurance that
with more than 50 manufacturing locations
would need to be put in place. All in all, a teak
they’re investing in a quality sink that is not
worldwide.
kitchen sink should be left to the bold and
only stylish, but also capable of enduring daily
daring.
usage without succumbing to wear and tear,”
The following sink materials will grab your
he adds.
attention and give your kitchen a one-of-a-
Composite Granite
kind, head-turning style.
These are the go-to sink for interior designers
“There is actually a large, high-end market
because of their attractive look and reliability.
for modern kitchen sinks. Our partners do still
Glass
Unlike stainless steel, these sinks don’t show
see stainless steel and granite sinks being used
This is only known to work for bathroom
water marks or scratches. They come in a
by customers in South Africa, however the
sinks. When you consider the utility bit of it,
variety of neutral colors, but the darker hues
demand for fireclay is on the rise due to the
the glass sink seems more reasonable in the
best disguise grit and grime. Although durable,
longevity and classic style of the sinks,” he
bathroom. This is so when you compare the
they can crack if mishandled, especially during
affirms.
worst drop that can happen. In bathrooms a
shipping and handling. Natural Stone
brush would probably be it, where in kitchens a cast iron pan is just one of the many items.
“In recent years, we have seen a trend of
This is best experienced when the countertops
Somehow for aesthetics it does not seem worth
Kitchen Sinks made using innovative materials
are matching the sink. This integral style
the trouble of replacing after every wash due to
such as ‘Composite Quartz’ and ‘Solid surface
makes the flow from the countertops seamless
accidents.
materials’ are gaining popularity, especially
to the sink. However, some stones, like marble,
in mid to high-end projects where developers
are susceptible to stains, making it advisable
Silvery Granite Kitchen Sink
want to offer some unique experience to their
to test a sample of the stone first and watch
At first glance, you might think that this is
home buyers. Earlier, these types of Sinks
how it stands up to constant water splashes and
a hammered metal sink; steel or aluminum.
were mostly used in private houses and villa
colored liquids.
Apparently this sink, though made of granite,
projects,” affirms Mr. Devendra Mishraof
is naturally speckled with silver or gold-hued
Acrysil Limited in India.
mica. Talk about class on the counter!
As much as you are choosing a particular type of material for your kitchen sink, it is
Fireclay
also important to consider other aspects of the
Soapstone Kitchen Sink
This is the best choice for those looking to
material for instance hygiene.
The only other material that comes close to
make over their kitchen in solid whites and
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CR | October 2018
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October 2018 | CR
21
KITCHEN FIRES
•
All staff should be trained to handle a fire extinguisher
•
All fire extinguishers must be serviced and maintained regularly
Ventilation System
Kitchen Fire Suppression
T
Each and every commercial kitchen requires a hood, which is joined to a ventilation system. The ventilation system must be directed to the exterior of the building. The hood and vents should:
he Risk-Based Approach
a serious fire if proper safety precautions are
•
Be sturdy
“Better safe than sorry” rings true
not taken. All fryers should:
•
Be made from a non-combustible
for restaurant business owners.
•
The prospects of the occurrence of a fire in a commercial kitchen is always a case of “when
Be able to automatically shut off in the event of a fire
•
not if”. The critical step is identifying the
material, such as steel •
Be placed at least 40 cm away from any equipment that produces an open flame
prevent grease build-up •
inherent risks in a respective fire kitchen and Oven
them.
The best way to prevent a fire from occurring
It is ghastly to contemplate the colossal
as a result of the oven is to:
losses that a restaurant business owner can
•
incur as a consequence of neglecting critical areas in kitchen fire protection. A business •
damage to property in the vicinity or even fatalities or even death of employee or a
Contain grease filters that are easy to remove and clean
employing appropriate measures to manage
owner can bear huge legal costs of collateral
Be cleaned and maintained regularly to
•
customer. Moreover, excruciatingly, he can
•
Cover all equipment that produces heat, namely stoves, ovens, fryers, etc.
Clean the oven regularly - which
The Lights
will ensure there is no build-up of
While it is not likely for lights to cause actual
combustible substances
fires, light bulbs can cause injuries in the event
Only put non-combustible materials in
of a fire in a commercial kitchen. If a light bulb
the oven
becomes too hot, the air inside the bulb will
Place the oven far away from other
expand and cause the bulb to explode. Light
equipment to prevent heat transfer
bulbs should:
experience loss of potential revenue in tens of
•
Be covered using explosion-resistant
thousands of dollars as a result of interruption
The Trash Disposal
covers when above or near cooking
to business.
Trash cans should be:
equipment
So, what should a business owner do when
Comprised of non-combustible materials
faced with this situation?
•
Emptied regularly to prevent the build-
Fire Suppression System
up of combustible substances
In order to manage the above mentioned
Targeting Top Hazards
•
Kept away from any open flame
risks, Ricketts says having an adequate,
The most effective approach is first
•
Have a sturdy covering
well-maintained fire suppression system in a
identifying high risk areas, and accordingly
commercial kitchen is absolutely crucial. Most
mitigating their impact by employing
The Fire Extinguisher
importantly, he emphasizes, staff need to be
appropriate measures, says Kirstie Ricketts,
Commercial kitchens should have at least two
well-acquainted with it.
from Fireco SA, a prominent commentator
fire extinguishers. Keep in mind that:
“During each shift, at least one staff member
in South Africa’s fire protection industry.
•
One Class K fire extinguisher is
is required to have access to and be trained
necessary as these respond best to grease
regarding gas control valves (or any other fuel
fires
valves) in order to shut these valves off in the
A standard ABC fire extinguisher should
event of a fire.
be available for any other type of fire
“All staff are to be trained with respect to the
He particularly cites the following as top hazards: deep fryers, ovens, trash cans, fire extinguishers,ventilation systems and lights.
•
These are explained in detail below.
It is necessary for one fire extinguisher
safety equipment in the kitchen and systematic
The Deep Fryer
•
to be placed 3 meters from any cooking
fire safety and fire prevention training should
Deep fryers are full of oil, which could cause
equipment
be provided,” he says.
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CR | October 2018
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PRODUCTS NEWS
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October 2018 | CR
23
PAINT ACCESSORIES
Getting the most out of your appliance
not without accessories
“With a paint job, not only do you want to achieve a perfect result, you also want to do it as efficiently as possible. Painters don't always realise the role that accessories can play in this. In fact, they make or break your paint job," says Mark Andersen, Graco's Global Marketing Manager for Accessories. Although Graco's appliances are all about efficiency, the right accessories are crucial.
Complete jobs more efficiently Accessories can make the difference between a profitable and a lossmaking job. Mark gives an example: "Suppose you need to spray paint a high ceiling. With the right spray tip, you will save on the number of litres of paint you spray and on your working hours. Extensions make sure that there’s no need to lug ladders around. And an extralong paint hose ensures that you don't have to constantly move your appliance carry your buckets shorter distances. In short, thanks to three accessories, your project will be completed much more efficiently than without.” 6 examples from real-life situations 1.
Difficult places to reach
The solution: tip extensions Anyone who has to spray paint high walls and ceilings will probably think automatically of ladders and scaffolding. However, it doesn't have to be that difficult. Thanks to Graco’s tip extensions, you no longer have to move ladders, or go up and down scaffolding. Simply attach the tip extension to your gun and you can get the job done in one go. “I
O
ne unit, many applications “Accessories should not be missing from the arsenal of the professional painter", Mark continues. “From
applying a fine lacquer coating to painting high walls, thanks to the right accessories, you can do it all just as efficiently with the same equipment. By adapting your appliance to the situation as best as you can, the end result will not only be impeccable, you'll work a lot faster.”
24
CR | October 2018
can’t do without my tip extensions now. Because I don't need a ladder anymore, I can work faster and more safely,” says John Coats, owner of Liberton Decor (United Kingdom). 2.
Wear and tear of tip and pump
The solution: Rac X™ LP tips When some 750 litres of paint pass through your nozzle tip, its spray quality deteriorates. To extend the lifespan of their tips, Graco recently launched the RAC X™ LP Tips. The big difference with the old tips?
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PRODUCTS NEWS
If you need to spray large smooth surfaces, you want to do so in as few movements as possible.
You now spray with 30 to 50% less pressure.
degree of finish, the speed is a big advantage.
And less pressure means less pressure on
Compared to conventional rolling, we
your appliance. Your spray tip and pump
save half the time with the JetRoller,” says
wear out less quickly, making them last
Arkadiusz Drozd, painter at APS Service
longer. Moreover, after a project of 30 litres
(Poland).
of wall paint, you will have earned back the purchase of the tip. 5.
Spray width too small
The solution: WideRac™ Tip 3.
Downtime on the building site
If you need to spray large smooth surfaces,
The solution: ProConnect™ system
you want to do so in as few movements
In each airless appliance, there is a
as possible. And with the widest possible
powerful pump that draws in the paint.
spray range, therefore. Graco’s WideRac™
If it fails after many working hours, your
Tip produces a spray width of up to 60 cm.
equipment will be idle. When you often
Its atomisation is not only superior; it will
work with tight deadlines, you can really
also save you a lot of time. In short, it’s the
do without downtime. Thanks to the unique
absolute must-have for high-production
ProConnect™ system, you can easily replace
applications.
When some 750 litres of paint pass through
your pump yourself. You’ll be up and
your nozzle tip, its spray quality deteriorates.
running again within a matter of minutes.
6.
The system is available for almost all Graco
The solution: CleanShot™ valve
airless units.
A potential problem when using an extension
Spitting and dripping from the tip
piece is that paint spits or drips from the 4.
26
When rolling is the only option
spray tip. By placing a CleanShot™ valve at
The solution: JetRoller™
the end of the extension piece, you can easily
As a professional painter, you know that
solve that problem. Thanks to the built-in
rolling is the only option for some surfaces.
needle of the valve, the tip never spits or
That’s where the JetRoller™ comes in. The
leaks again, no matter in what direction you
JetRoller™ combines rolling and spraying in
hold the extension. “I do everything I can
one convenient accessory. There is minimum
to achieve a perfect end result. With the
spray mist and the accessory neatly combines
CleanShot valve, I’m certain that there are
a roll finish with the speed, flexibility and
no drops left on the wall,” says Cyril Julien,
comfort of airless spraying. “Besides the
owner of Painting Company Julien (France).
CR | October 2018
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PROFILE
MILICON’S LIMITED A FORMIDABLE CONTRACTOR
M
ilicon’s is a major contractor in Kenya established in 1998 as a building and general construction
company to provide complete construction and related services. Since then, the company has surpassed its own expectations, measured by the rate of new state of the art buildings that the company has been contracted to put up. Over the years, Milicon’s has gained substantial experience and expertise in this area. The core competence of the company lies in its expert planning, accurate execution and timely
various projects for clients like Ministry of
completion of projects. It is this quality that has
Transport, Infrastructure, Housing & Urban
enabled the company to gain prominence in a
Development, The Kenya National Assembly,
very short span.
Ministry of Health, Ministry of Higher Education, National Commission for Science
•
The Kenya National Assembly Project – Parliament Offices & Senate Chamber
•
Kenya Institute of Supplies Management, Headquarters
•
Proposed Leadership Centre for Insurance
The vision of Milicon’s is to improve the
Technology and Innovation and L&T (India)
quality of life by providing ideal solutions in
Ltd. Other include Kenya Commercial Bank
•
Kibabii University – Bungoma
construction and in effect, helping in the process
Ltd., Bayer E.A Ltd., GF Corvin Ltd., Rom
•
Masinde Muliro University of Science
of building a professional company.
E.A. Ltd., Safaricom Ltd., The Red Cross, etc.
Training and Education Trust
and Technology •
Experience and Expertise – Projects
Some
Executed
completed projects include:
of
the
company’s
ongoing
Since its inception, Milicon’s has executed www.constructionreviewonline.com
and
Papal Dais at the University of Nairobi Grounds
•
Kibabii University College
•
National
Commission
for
October 2018 | CR
Science, 27
•
Technology and Innovation
He says the company will strive to live up to
experience of 30 years in construction field,
Conventional Centre for the Kenya
the reputation it has already earned, which is
out of which 25 years are in Kenya. Held
School of Government.
delivering quality jobs within time and budget
diverse positions such as Site Agent, Project
constraints.
Coordinator, Construction Manager and Senior
These magnificent projects have earned it the
Engineer.
necessary experience and expertise, leading to
Staff
great demand for the company’s services from
Milicon’s has the sound backing of a well-
G.R.B. RAO – Administrative Director
the Government and the general public.
experienced workforce, who are Engineering
A Science Post Graduate Sugar Technologist
Graduates, and have worked for multi National
with a rich experience of 40 years in different
The company is fully equipped and staffed to
Companies like Japanese giant Sumitomo
positions in varied organizations.
handle not only new construction projects, but
Construction Co. Ltd., IHI, which adds to the
also rehabilitating or restoration of existing
technical strength of the company. Milicon’s
KARUNA PARCHURI – Executive Director
structures.
believes in helping the workforce to upgrade
A Science Graduate with Masters in Computers
their skills constantly. Towards this end,
and Information Technology with 15 years
“Our active involvement in numerous projects
Milicon’s organizes regular training for its
experience in different fields including in
is definitely recognition of our high quality
workforce.
administration.
growing customer base,” says Mr. Sai Parchuri,
Management
KARSAN S. PATEL – Operations Director
the Managing Director.
S.P. PARCHURI – Managing Director
A Graduate Civil Engineer with 30 years
A Civil Engineering graduate with a rich
in construction Field. He is the heart of the
service and performance standards for our
SHREEJI ALUMINIUM WORKS LTD
ALL TYPES OF ALUMINIUM WORK, LAMINATIONS, SLIDING DOORS/WINDOWS, ALL TYPES OF ALUMINIUM WORK,GLASS GLASS WORK, WORK, LAMINATIONS, SLIDING DOORS/WINDOWS, OFFICE PARTITION/CEILLING, CUBICLE/DOORS & SPECIAL REQUIRED OFFICE PARTITION/CEILLING,GLASS GLASS SHOWER SHOWER CUBICLE/DOORS & SPECIAL REQUIRED JOB JOB P.O.BOX 14-00623, Nairobi Kenya. TEL: 0702 581960,0714 368121, EMAIL: shreejialuminium@ymail.com
P.O.BOX 14-00623, Nairobi Kenya. TEL:0735120005/0702581960, EMAIL: shreejialuminium@ymail.com
DUNHILL MODULAR KITCHENS LTD
BUILDING OFOF KITCHEN DOORS AND ANDANY ANYSPECIAL SPECIALTIMBER TIMBER WORK BUILDING KITCHENCABINETS, CABINETS, WARDROBS, WARDROBS, FLUSH FLUSH DOORS WORK OLD MOMBASA ROAD, RAILWAY ROAD CABANAS OLD MOMBASA RAILWAY ROAD CABANAS P.O BOXROAD, 14-00623, NAIROBI KENYA P.O TEL:0735120005/0702581960 BOX 14-00623 ,NAIROBI KENYA 28
TEL:0735120005/0702581960
CR | October 2018
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CONCRETE ROOF TILE EQUIPMENT USED WORLDWIDE SINCE 1985 THE ONLY EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE PRODUCING HIGH SPEED CONCRETE TILE EXTRUSION PLANTS The Kenya National Assembly Project – Parliament Offices and Senate Chamber
EXTRUSION MACHINES CAPABLE OF MULTI-PROFILE PRODUCTION
company in executing projects at sites including maintaining the all the plant and machinery. ROHAN PARCHURI – Project Manager A Post Graduate in Civil Engineering with 8 years experience as a Site Agent and other positions in India Equipment and Facilities The company’s growth has not only been marked by profitability but also by the extension of fabrication department, as well as capacity development through acquisition of new plant and equipment.
OVER 100 CONCRETE ROOF TILE PLANTS INSTALLED IN AFRICA
With own steel fabrication workshop, stone cutting section, joinery and carpentry workshop ready mini concrete batching plants and transit mixers, earth moving capabilities and alumunium fabrication workshop, Milicon's has been able to execute projects fully in-house, thus enhancing quality and speed controls. The company prides itself in the use of modern tower cranes and
OVER 1000 DIFFERENT SPARE PARTS SUPPLIED DIRECTLY FROM OUR STORES IN SOUTH AFRICA
mobile cranes, hoists, dampers, batching machines, truck mixers, mixer machines, scaffoldings, trucks, among other equipment, which have increased Milicon's capacity to undertake building projects of unlimited size and nature. Future Milicon’s sees itself in future as an international construction company that keeps in tandem with the dynamism of the industry and to create more job opportunities in the regions it works in. SINCE 1985
The company is tasking with achieving the best standards in construction business, and on time delivery while striving to live up to its reputation. Already, Milicon's has earned in delivering quality jobs within time and budget constraint. It will strive to continuously improve on its quality.
Manufactured by
Jessop & Associates (Pty) Ltd
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Tel: +27 16 421 2521 Fax: +27 16 421 2539
WWW.PROTILE.CO.ZA
October 2018 | CR
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PROFILE
QUESTWORKS LIMITED Delivering Turnkey Projects
Q
uestworks Limited has perfected the art of being the ‘first’ in many aspects. Thus, when the firm emerged the overall winner at the inaugural Construction Industry Awards (Coina) in
which it emerged as the Contractor of the Year, the feat did not come as a surprise. Emerging tops in an industry with numerous contractors, majority of which have been in existence for years, was testament that Questworks is a contractor of a different kind. This came out clearly considering that the award sought to recognize the most outstanding contractor who exhibited excellent project implementation in regard to sustainability, growth strategy, innovation and health and safety. For Questworks, the award is just another feather in the firm’s rich collection of awards despite being in existence for only six years. Other
Avana Apartments
awards the firm has won include the Presidential Green Building Award in 2012, the Private Sector Renewable Energy Award in 2015, Most Improved in Green Banding Award and the Special Projects Delivery Award in 2018. “The Coina award is a major recognition and sets a high benchmark for us to continue improving our processes in line with international standards,” says Dr. Raúl Figueroa, Questworks CEO. He adds the firm was recognised for its emphasis on health and safety in its projects and commitment to integrity in an industry that has come under attack and criticism due to shoddy jobs. While Kenya is awash with many building and construction firms, Questworks has deliberately decided to differentiate itself and take the less travelled route. This is because it is the only turnkey contractor in the country, an aspect that enables it to deliver projects from design to build under one roof. “We are the only Kenyan turnkey company. The others are consortiums and most are fragile with internal fights,” observes Dr Figueroa. Opting to choose the turnkey route despite its challenges was a deliberate decision for Questworks going by its background. Prior to Strathmore University
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CR | October 2018
the firm’s establishment in 2012, the founding team were all employees
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of Strathmore University where they worked on various projects of the university from 2002 to 2012, including the university’s phase III expansion project. With the experience and contacts created while at Strathmore University, the team saw an opportunity in the market in which they could extend their services to other clients, a move that resulted in the establishment of Questworks focusing on construction of buildings both commercial and residential and renewable energy. “We saw the need in the market to provide Turnkey solutions for buildings that are designed, built and delivered to the client by one team,” adds Dr Figueroa. Although the firm started with only four partners, today it boasts 120 employees encompassing all sets of skills that enable it deliver projects
Mr Amarjit Virdi, Questworks Managing Director
from design to build. The firm prides in subsidiaries like Questworks Architecture, Isource, Renewable Energy Solutions and Beavers PDG. Despite being relatively new in the market, Questworks has already made a mark in the industry driven by values of professionalism, accountability and integrity. During the short period, the firm has been involved in key projects including Strathmore Law School, , Avana Apartments, Vivo Energy Depot in Nanyuki, the new Nairobi West hospital (as project managers) and a Sh100 million residential houses project in Karen among others.
Apart from Kenya, the firm has also undertaken projects in Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, Nigeria and Puerto Rico. Being the only firm that is dedicated to delivering turnkey projects in Kenya, Questworks has the market all to itself. Indeed, for clients that seek to have projects undertaken by one firm, particularly to avoid conflicts that often arise when several firms are involved in a project, Questworks offers the ideal solution and peace of mind.
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October 2018 | CR
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PROFILE
“Our clients are private sector developers who don’t want issues dealing with different companies and wants to save money because it is cheaper and faster to deliver a project on turnkey,” says Amarjit Virdi, Questworks Managing Director. He adds that Questworks has avoided public jobs due to integrity-related issues that often characterise government projects. “We have bid for government jobs in the past but got disqualified on a small technicality; we realised we were just making the numbers,” he observes. In opting for the turnkey route, Questworks understands that Sir Thomas More Building
it cannot chase after all sorts of projects and appreciates the limitations that often come with turnkey projects. Top on the list is the fact that in most instances, turnkey projects happen to be huge and the financier often has to approve the contractor for the project. Also, turnkey projects come at fixed costs and there is little room for adjustments even when market dynamics shift. These, however, are not major concerns for Questworks. “When you chose to follow a path like ours, you chose to let many projects pass you,” notes Dr. Figueroa. He adds that despite the limitations, many clients are slowly realising the importance and benefits of design to build models, something that has seen jobs for Questworks continue to increase. Of
importance, the firm continues to get jobs even when
competitors engage in price undercutting in order to win contractor. For Questworks, price undercutting is a no go zone because it eventually means compromising in delivering quality Some employees of Questworks Limited
projects. “Price undercutting affects us a lot and we have lost projects that we are sure the contractor cannot implement at the quoted price,” observes Dr Figueroa. Despite the challenges, the firm is optimistic of a bright future as the building and construction sector rebounds after a tough period that saw growth plummet due to credit squeeze occasioned by interest rates capping, rising costs of inputs and labour, slow down in economy and glut due to oversupply of both commercial and residential buildings. According to the Economic Survey 2018, growth in the building and construction sector decelerated for the second year in a row to stand at 8.6 per cent in 2017. During the same period, cement consumption decreased by 8.2 per cent from 6.3 million tonnes in 2016 to 5.8 million tonnes in 2017, an indication of a slowdown in growth of construction activity compared to the previous year.
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CR | October 2018
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SHEFFIELD HAS A NOTABLE ‘FOOTPRINT’ ACROSS AFRICA Historically, it is assumed that in East Africa we do not have local expertise to give ideal solutions for food and beverage facilities for hotels, industries and property market segments. However the supply and installation of food & beverage facilities has existed here for more than 60 years.
CONCEPT
INSTALLATION
All professionals will appreciate that the local expertise of customization of the design, supply, fabrication and after sales support & service and availability of spares is the most important part for food & beverage’s successful operation for the local market, with our local service standards being at par with any part of the world.
In such cases, the net losers are firstly the investor, then the project which is delayed and is expensive and requires compromise to ‘fix the project’ and as a result the final and most important net loser the customer who is unaware of the compromises made to deliver the appropriate service to them.
The recent surge of new brands that have come into the African market, assume there is no local expertise and in turn hire facility planners from overseas who have designed concepts without assessing what is on the ground and end up sourcing solutions that are not well supported from the local supplier.
Hence, it is only best practice for most professionals on the ground to make realistic and practical decisions and ensure serious local contractors are hired from preliminary stages of a project to give a full solution from the design inputs and appropriate equipment selection for optimum value and results.
This increases the project cost up to triple the actual cost for the investors yet resulting in sub-standard installations that are not suitable for the operations in the African market. The operations team then seek local consultants and service providers like us to rectify and salvage the solution provided overseas without ground checks but in most cases the situation is beyond our involvement.
Sheffield is known for the best kitchens in East Africa and installations as far as Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, where we have been hired as the main consultant for food and beverage services and solutions for a wide range market segments including airport kitchens, healthcare solutions, hotels & resorts and the food processing industry.
DESIGN
SOURCING & FABRICATION
TRAINING
SERVICE
We provide a 360 degree consultation to our clients where we ensure appropriate equipment selection and the most appropriate specifications for the total eco-system which covers the flooring, drainage and plumbing, walling, lighting, ceiling works, ventilation works, gas provisions and routing, MEP services. Alongside that, post installation, we provide training on equipment use, hygiene, adoption of the menu against our equipment and how to enhance longevity of our equipment. Our 2 year service warranty shows the confidence we have in our equipment and solutions and our highly skilled and regularly trained technical team, who are trained both locally at Sheffield premises and also overseas at our manufacturers locations, to get the installations right the first time. We also have maximum spare parts available in stock that guarantees our kitchens and clients operations run smoothly through annual maintenance contracts as after-sales service and support.
OUR CLIENTS
A - Z KITCHEN & LOUNDRY SOLUTIONS +254 713 444 000 +254 713 777 111
SHEFFIELD STEEL SYSTEMS LIMITED Email: info@sheffieldafrica.com www.sheffieldafrica.com
KENYA I TANZANIA I UGANDA I RWANDA
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Advertisers Index Top Steel......................................................................... IFC
Kohler............................................................................. 21
Sheffield Facility Solutions............................................. 1
Franke............................................................................. 23
Blue Nile Rolling Mills Ltd............................................ 9
Graco............................................................................... 25
Trans Africa Motors........................................................ 9
Master Power Systems Ltd............................................. 33
M & E Associates............................................................ 12
Shreeji Aluminium Works Ltd/ Dunhill Modular Kitchens
Africa Road Furniture Ltd ............................................. 12
Ltd................................................................................... 28
Tororo Cement................................................................ 13
Crown Classics............................................................... 31
Roofings Group............................................................... 14
Kenya Lighting Industries Ltd........................................ 33
V Line Services Ltd........................................................ 16
M.A Khan........................................................................ 33
Regional Electrical and Power Services Ltd................... 17
Polyphase Systems Ltd................................................... 33
Lighting Solutions........................................................... 17
Hotpoint.......................................................................... 35
Switchgear Ltd................................................................ 18
Fit.Tight Fasteners Ltd.................................................... 35
Oddmac Engineering Ltd................................................ 18
Construction Review....................................................... 37
Powers Control Ltd......................................................... 18
Monier............................................................................. OBC
Blum................................................................................ 19
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