201603 mar

MARCH 2016

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Rhino Africa South Africa’s Best Loved Tour Provider SolarReserve Revolutionizing The Solar Industry Chamber of Mines - Ghana Cracking The Whip On Illegal Mining

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INSPIRED BY YOUR SUCCESS

EDITOR’S NOTE Heads of Departments Editor in Chief Daemon Sands daemonsands@littlegatepublishing.com Director General Don Campbell doncampbell@littlegatepublishing.com

I

carus flew too close to the sun, the heat of the sun melted his wings and he fell to his death. Often this story is used as a warning to those who would be too ambitious, insinuating that aiming too

high can be dangerous. However I believe there is a different meaning

Sales Director Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com

behind the old proverb. The story of Icarus is not intended to make us

Sales Manager Andrew Williams andrew@littlegatepublishing.com

thinking and more to the point, not thinking for yourself. Icarus did

Sales Manager Tyler Harrison tylerharrison@littlegatepublishing.com

We are in the middle of a major technological change and are uniquely

Sales Manager Emlyn Freeman emlynfreeman@littlegatepublishing.com

human ability and the pace of this change is faster than anything we

Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com

that daddy’s wings are redundant. They are making their own, not only

Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com Any enquiries or subscriptions can be sent to info@littlegatepublishing.com ENDEAVOUR MAGAZINE is published by Littlegate Publishing LTD which is a Registered Company in the United Kingdom.

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wary of aiming too high, it is a cautionary tale regarding old fashioned not make his wax wings, his father did. positioned to be able to witness and record the birth of a new era in have seen in our recorded history because the people leading it know improving on old designs but rethinking them entirely. In our history, we have never had more brilliant people working on the issues that matter, we have never had more creativity, more innovation, more discovery. Our world today is quite literally the foam on a cresting wave of change.

In South Africa, the Rand has taken a nosedive and while this has had a devastating effect on many industries, especially import and export, the tourism industry has had a double-hit boom thanks to international travellers seeking to take advantage of the most positive exchange rate seen in three decades and local travellers seeking to make the best of a cheaper, local holiday. Indeed, by 2020 it’s expected that tourism will be directly employing 10% of the population! Not all companies are created equal and those who are embracing the technology change, automating their processes and turning their products into Apps, are hooking into the opportunities while other

omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles

more ‘traditional’ approaches are falling apart.

by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this

The companies featured this month are all next generation thinkers.

magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher.

Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely

Innovators, creative problem solvers and die hard entrepreneurs.

coincidental. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy

These are the heroes who are surfing the wave and these are the

of the information contained within this magazine, no legal

people and businesses that will define the world we live in tomorrow.

responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Copyright © Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2016

Endeavour Magazine | 3

CONTENTS

51

OCS Services

FEATURES

23 E.ON 4 | Endeavour Magazine

11 COVER STORY SolarReserve

Revolutionizing The Solar Industry 17 Farm and City Centre

Feeding The Growth 23 E.ON

E.ON Takes Control Of The Wind 29 Equatoriale Services

Growth Unbound 35 Nzoia Sugar

Sweet Growth 41 Airtel Zambia

African Airtime Goes Premium 47 ATCON

It’s Good To Talk 51 Caaz

Keeping The Door Open 61 OCS Services Ltd

Complete Service To Oil And Gas Industry 67 SAFAL Steel

Welcome To The Future 73 Qatar Technical Steel Fabrication

& Industrial Refrigeration

Entering The Next Chapter 79 Paccar Winch

The Finest In The World 85 Procon Mining & Tunelling Ltd

Tailored Mining Solutions 89 COVER STORY Chamber of Mines - Ghana

Cracking The Whip On Illegal Mining 95 Chamber of Mines - Botswana

Protecting The Wealth Of The Land 99 Trinidad and Tobago Contractors Association

Retooling And Rethinking

57

Safal Steel

ARTICLES 3 Editor’s Note 6 Business Headlines 54 Automotives

Volvo S60 D3 Manual R-Design Lux Nav

Riversimple Rasa Hydrogen-Powered Car

5,000 Jobs Vacant In UK Automotive 104 Gadgets

4 Wearables That Give You Superpowers 108 Travel

COVER STORY Rhino Africa

Lanzarote Underwater Museum 116 Book Reviews

13 Books Recommended By Emma Watson 120 Spotlight

Bianca Miller

The Power Of Fresh Thinking And Purpose

29

Equatoriale Services Endeavour Magazine | 5

BUSINESS HEADLINES

HOTEL OKURA TO OPEN LUXURY PROPERTY IN PHNOM PENH — FIRST JAPANESE LUXURY HOTEL IN CAMBODIA Hotel Okura Co., Ltd. announced today that it has signed a contract with TEHO Development Cambodia Pte Ltd. to develop

setting up special economic zones to attract foreign companies, especially in Phnom Penh.

and manage The Okura Prestige Phnom Penh, a luxury hotel to be

The 40-story, 250-room hotel will be part of The Bay, a residential

opened in Cambodia’s capital in 2019. Hotel Okura will be the first

and commercial complex being built between the Tonle Sap and

Japanese hotelier to enter the luxury market in Cambodia, a rapidly

Mekong Rivers on the Chroy Changvar Peninsula. The location,

growing market for both business and leisure travel.

which is just 17 kilometres (10.6 miles) or about 20 minutes’ drive

The new hotel will position Hotel Okura to better serve this robust market and aid in Hotel Okura’s push to expand its group

from Phnom Penh International Airport, will provide the hotel with expansive views of the city and the Royal Palace.

portfolio past 100 hotels worldwide. By 2018, the company plans to

The contract is based on an agreement Hotel Okura signed in

open Okura Hotels and Resorts’ hotels in Cappadocia and Manila, as

February 2015 with TEHO Development Cambodia, a subsidiary

well as Nikko Hotels International’s hotels in Taizhou and Bangkok.

of

Singapore-listed

multinational

solutions

provider

TEHO

“We are greatly honoured to bring our hotel to Phnom Penh,

International. The contract will be transferred to Okura Nikko Hotel

Cambodia’s vibrant centre of economy and commerce and a hub

Management Co., Ltd., a subsidiary that manages the group’s hotel

between Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok,” said Toshihiro Ogita,

operations.

President of Hotel Okura. “We hope that visitors and locals alike will

Hotel Okura Co., Ltd. has extensive business operations in the

love The Okura Prestige Phnom Penh and that our brand will flourish

hospitality related industries, such as asset ownership, consulting

alongside the people of Cambodia and ASEAN.”

business on the hotel development and operation and is also

According to Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, the number

involved in the business of Okura Nikko Hotel Management Co.,

of international visitors hit an all-time high of 4.5 million people

Ltd., which operates three hotel groups, including Okura Hotels and

in 2014. In December of 2015, ASEAN established the ASEAN

Resorts with 26 member hotels, Nikko Hotels International with 37

Economic Community to create an integrated market of US$2.6

member hotels and Hotel JAL City with 11 member hotels. Please

trillion and over 622 million people. As an ASEAN member state,

visit www.okura.com for more information.

Cambodia is aggressively promoting economic development and 6 | Endeavour Magazine

ISG TO DELIVER 16.9 MILLION DIXON HOUSE SCHEME ISG has been awarded a £16.9 project

million by

welcome the addition of three new floors as part of an ambitious

This

challenging

scheme

refurbishment

programme to transform and upgrade the property. ISG will deliver

requires extensive temporary works

independent

60,000 sq ft of contemporary Cat A open plan office accommodation.

property investment company,

Carefully retaining the original ornate Portland Stone façade,

GreenOak, at Dixon House, 72-

ISG will systematically demolish the existing building down to the

demolition

75 Fenchurch Street.

to

ensure

structural

stability of the building during and

construction.

fourth floor slab and remove two staircases across the lower part of

Horizontal

Located in the heart of the

the building. The contractor will also demolish a significant central

temporarily hold the retained

city of London, the seven-storey

area of the remaining structure down to basement level to enable

façade and core as part of the

Grade II listed office building will

complete reconfiguration of the building core. A new triple lift shaft

complex engineering measures

undergo partial demolition and

will then be constructed within this central area.

employed on the project.

supports

Stuart

Deverill,

will

ISG’s

Southern

regional

managing

director,

commented:

“This

latest scheme plays to our significant strengths, delivering highly

complex

refurbishments

in

structural logistically

challenging and busy locations.

Dixon House is set to become an

excellent

showcase

for

those visionary owners looking to transform their outdated property assets to maximise demand and commercial value.”

BOLIDEN’S PROFITS: STRONG PERFORMANCE FOR 2015 DESPITE SIGNIFICANT IMPACT FR Boliden’s fourth quarter revenues totalled

Production by Boliden Mines increased in

SEK 9,699 m (9,614) and the operating profit,

both the quarter and the full year. The most

excluding revaluation of process inventory, was

significant progress during the year came

SEK 596 m (1,134). Revenues for the year as

from the ramping up of the investment in the

a whole totalled SEK 40,242 m (36,891) while

Garpenberg zinc and silver mine, where the goal

the operating profit, excluding revaluation of

of an annual production rate of 2.5 million tonnes

process inventory, was SEK 4,010 m (2,605).

was achieved at the end of 2015. Unfavourable

“Boliden has posted a strong result for

ore quality and low crusher availability reduced

2015 in the face of difficult market conditions,

the milled volume from the Aitik copper mine

demonstrating that competitive mines and

to 36 million tonnes (39) for the full year. The

smelters that produce both base and precious

action programme at the Tara zinc mine resulted

metals are of real benefit in times of volatile

in an increase in milled volumes during the

prices. High production levels, favourable

fourth quarter but production for the year as a

exchange rates and lower investments helped

whole was, however, negatively affected by the

ensure a strong cash flow and robust balance

ongoing change to deeper part of the mine.

sheet. Metal prices fell steeply in the fourth

“There is still considerable uncertainty

quarter and it was not possible to compensate for

regarding the economic outlook. Industrial

this downturn through increases in production

growth levels were low in 2015 and the capacity

volumes or positive currency effects,” says

of the world’s copper mines increased.”

Boliden’s President & CEO, Lennart Evrell.

TRAVEL

Underwater Museum Endeavour Magazine | 7

WORLD’S NUMBER ONE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT GETS BIGGER AND BETTER

D

ubai

International,

the

world’s number one hub for international passenger

traffic, increased its capacity from 75 million to 90 million today with the opening of Concourse D, the result of a US$1.2 billion investment to enhance

service

and

boost

capacity for the more than 70 international airlines that will now call it home.

“We

continue

to

invest

in the development of topflight

infrastructure

to

augment service levels for our international airlines and their customers

while

providing

the capacity needed to meet

and F&B offering are sure to impress and delight our passengers and

continues our legacy of providing

growing

our airline partners.”

timely

demand,”

said

HH

capacity,”

said

Paul

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al

The first flight to be welcomed at the facility was today’s British

Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports.

Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai

Airways’ flight 105. This historic first operation followed months of

“Today we also announce our

Airports;

the

intensive testing and a successful operational trial involving 2,000

2016 forecast which projects

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority;

members of the public earlier this month. The trial volunteers played

85 million passengers will visit

Chairman and CEO of Emirates

the role of passengers arriving at, departing from and transiting

Dubai International this year.

Group. “Concourse D has been

through Concourse D, testing way-finding signage, food and retail

With the addition of Concourse

designed with the customer

outlets and the flow of passenger traffic within the new building.

D, Dubai International is getting

at its heart. Shorter walking

Two airlines will operate from Concourse D on day one (British

both bigger and better.”

distances,

Airways, Royal Jordanian) with the remainder phasing in operations

President

more

of

comfortable

seating areas, more choice in lounges and a world-class retail

over the next several weeks.

The concourse is linked to the newly renovated Terminal 1

“Aside from its many customer-centric features, Concourse D

by a dedicated airport train that

GEA AND NOVOZYMES SPONSOR CMT’S 2ND CASSAVA WORLD AFRICA IN ACCRA ON 1-2 MARCH, 2016

T

he second edition highlights Africa’s progress in developing

Cassava Stakeholders Platform presents a case study on the

and commercialising cassava derived products, from high-

plantations in Ghana and its challenges of cassava starch processing.

quality cassava flours to ethanol to beers. The conference also

Caltech Ventures’ Managing Director, Chris Quarshie, shares

discusses solutions to Africa’s long-standing issues of out-grower’s

insights on the market prospects for high quality cassava flour

integration and infrastructure bottlenecks.

(HQCF) in Africa. Export Trading Group (ETG) provides inputs on

The Accra summit will bring together the cassava value chain

enhancing cassava production in Africa and tackling supply chain and

players from Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, Tanzania and Malawi

processing challenges. William Oppong-Bio, Executive Chairman

including plantation owners and processors as well as end users.

of Amantin Agro Processing, discusses Africa’s preparedness for

Leading the programme is a presentation on ‘Food Security in

cassava chips exports by overcoming supply chain barriers while

Africa & Encouraging Public-Private Partnership in Agriculture

Chuka Mordi, Managing Partner at CBO Capital Partners, describes

Sector’, with a special focus on cassava by Bukar Tijiani, Assistant

a case study of Union Dicon cassava starch processing.

Director-General & Regional Representatives for Africa of FAO.

‘Ethanol projects in Nigeria’ by Rajavelu Rajasekar, Director

Nigeria’s Shonga Farms shares the country’s large-scale

(Agro), Allied Atlantic Distilleries (AADL), cassava adhesive for

commercial cassava plantation model while Ghana Industrial

paperboards by Gregory Mhango, Supply Chain Manager of

8 | Endeavour Magazine

can transport 300 passengers

who want to stay connected to world affairs over coffee. Other

per trip. Designed around a

new outlets include Lebanese favourite Sharwarmanji and Taqado

central atrium, Concourse D

Mexican Kitchen, both popular local examples of street food, in

offers short walks to open gates,

addition to a second Masale by Taste of India outlet but on a larger

which will allow travellers to

scale. Concourse D will also have established traveller favourites

board directly from the waiting

such as Giraffe – which will open its second outlet at Dubai

area, giving them more freedom

International – Starbucks, KFC, Krispy Kreme, McDonald’s, Brioche

and time to enjoy the full array

Doree, The Noodle House, Cavier House & Prunier, Draft House

of exciting food and beverage

sports bar and Costa Coffee.

outlets.

The new concourse will offer plenty of comfortable seating

A number of world renowned

spaces and wellbeing concepts such as Be Relax and the ever-

brands will be introduced to

popular ‘SnoozeCubes’, which provide a convenient way to rest

Dubai and the region for the first

between flights. It will also feature a total of nine lounges spread

time – including casual dining

over 6,926m2, including five airline lounges, a new Al Majlis lounge,

concept The Kitchen, which will

two Dubai International Hotel lounges and a Marhaba VIP lounge.

offer passengers creations from

JC Decaux will exclusively operate Concourse D’s advertising

the renowned celebrity chef

concession, introducing Dubai International’s largest provision of

Wolfgang Puck. Dubai Airports

digital and other advertising structures to date. In addition, the

will also introduce the first Pret

existing successful partnership with JTI will see the provision of

a Manger in a Middle Eastern

three additional smoking lounges in Concourse D.

airport. Other firsts for DXB

Dubai Duty Free has a total of 175 vendor installations in

include Butlers Chocolate Café

Concourse D spread over an area of 7,000m2, bringing the

and Camden Food Company,

operation’s total retail space at DXB to 33,000m2. Fashion offer

which will bring healthy yet tasty

covers a total of 1,000m2 divided into two zones, perfumes and

dining options using organic

cosmetics cover a total area of 1,500m2 while liquor and food

and natural products. For those

occupies nearly 1,000m2.

who enjoy a little theatre with

On the apron, Concourse D provides 21 contact stands, of

their food, YO! Sushi will be a

which four will be able to accommodate Airbus A380 or Boeing 747

popular addition to the airport,

aircraft, and 11 remote stands with a design capacity for 18 million

while the CNN News Café will

passengers.

be a favourite for news junkies

Nampak Malawi and cassava for animal feeds by Dr. Kivuyo Cuthbert, Managing Director of Misenani Agri Services are also reviewed.

Dr. Nanam Tay Dziedzoave, Director & Country Manager, C:AVA-Ghana Project/ CSIR-Food Research Institute Dr. Chiedozie Egesi, Assistant Director, National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) Dr. Joe Manu-Aduening, Principal Research Scientist and

Other

panellists

who

Head of Root and Tuber Division, CSIR-Crops Research Institute

discuss the key issues related to

The summit, organised by the Centre for Management

financing, out-grower schemes,

Technology (CMT), also features speakers from GEA (Platinum

cassava diseases management

Sponsor) and Novozymes (Coffee Break Sponsor) plus a post-

and agronomy are:

summit site visit to Accra Brewery -- a SABmiller subsidiary on

Seliatou

Kayode-Anglade,

Senior

Investment

African

Development

Group (AfDB)

Officer, Bank

2 March.

BOOK REVIEWS

10 | Endeavour Magazine

SOLARRESERVE WWW.SOLARRESERVE.COM 27.11.582.6880

REVOLUTIONIZING THE SOLAR INDUSTRY USHERING IN A NEW ERA OF GROWTH WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

For decades solar energy has been the darling of the energy sector. But it faced serious problems and technological hurdles that halted major development because it largely made this power source redundant as soon as the sun went down.

It has been one of the major stumbling blocks that meant that while everyone wanted to see the growth, photo voltaic energy has lagged behind when compared to the established energy sources of oil, gas and coal.

Endeavour Magazine | 11

SOLARRESERVE

Unable to ignore such a ripe opportunity, SolarReserve has

stepped up to the plate and in good American style hit a home run. A global developer of utility-scale solar power projects including electricity generation by solar thermal energy and photovoltaic panels, SolarReserve is a front runner in its industry. Greatly profiting from their integrated technology, which combines advanced solar thermal technology with integrated energy storage that has solved the intermittency issues experienced with other renewable energy sources, they are striding ahead in this competitive market.

A

s CEO Kevin Smith says, “Our unique and innovated

Since the company’s formation in early 2008, SolarReserve’s

technology means that we can collect the sun’s energy, store

experienced team of power project professionals has assembled

it and provide it around the clock even after the sun goes

an extensive global development pipeline of 6.6 gigawatts (GW)

down,”

across the world’s most attractive, high growth renewable energy

This proven technology is so reliable that it has allowed

markets. The robust portfolio is strategically positioned to secure

SolarReserve to make far longer-term plans than any of their

power offtake contracts and includes advanced solar thermal

competitors, factoring in their ability to store the energy that they

technology (Concentrating Solar Power or “CSP”), photovoltaic (PV)

gather and the fact that the technology is able to compete with

technology and hybrid (combined CSP and PV).

traditional fossil-fired and nuclear electricity generation, which

SolarReserve’s

hybrid

CSP/PV

solutions

eliminate

the

has meant a major step in the development and sustainability of

intermittency issues associated with PV-only projects, while

photovoltaic technology.

providing cost efficient and reliable electricity generation. While

“We currently have more than $1.8 billion worth of projects in

SolarReserve is headquartered in Santa Monica, California it

operation worldwide,” he explains, “With development and long-

maintains a global presence with seven international offices

term power contracts for 482 megawatts (MW) of solar projects

strategically located in Africa, the Americas, the Asia-Pacific region,

representing $2.8 billion of project capital.”

the Middle East and Europe to support its widespread project

Kevin explains that the global demand for renewable energy

development activities across more than 20 countries.

generation is going to grow by 45% by 2020 and this is a

The experienced management team has a proven track record

conservative estimation, assuming that the electricity usage per

of success in the energy infrastructure sector, with over 27 GW and

person through iPhones, iPads, home appliances etc does not

$48 billion of transaction experience in 25 countries.

increase and that the current sources and methods we have for

Kevin explains that to stay at the head of this industry,

generating energy- through gas, oil and coal- will not be able to

SolarReserve deploy a full spectrum of development, engineering,

keep up with this demand.

finance, project management, operation and maintenance, and

Billions have been invested into developing better means of

product development expertise into their projects. “I think solar

storing energy and trillions more are needed to bring this up to

energy will play a big part in our energy future,” he says, “Offering a

scale and the integrated storage technology that SolarReserve make

limitless supply, improving technology and tech to store and supply

use of means that this investment has not only been productively

around the clock. As demand increases we’ll have to tap into this

spent, but can now take this industry to the next level and beyond.

sector more but now we’re able to make long term plans.”

For the most part, the consumer does not care about where their electricity comes from, only that it is reliable and now, thanks to SolarReserve, the industry may be ready to provide this to the world.

12 | Endeavour Magazine

HOW DOES INTEGRATED STORAGE WORK? Kindly explaining on their website, SolarReserve’s gamechanging Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) technology with molten

SOLARRESERVE

salt energy storage captures and stores the sun’s power to reliably

to separate energy collection from electricity generation. When

provide electricity whenever it’s needed most.

electricity is required, day or night, the high temperature molten

Over 10,000 tracking mirrors, called heliostats, reside in

salt is passed through a steam generation system, which in turn

a mechanical solar collection field where they follow the sun

is used to drive a conventional power turbine, which generates

throughout the day and reflect and concentrate sunlight onto a

electricity. Once the hot salt is used to create steam, the cooled

large heat exchanger called a receiver that sits atop a central tower.

molten salt is then piped back into the cold salt storage tank where

Within the receiver, fluid flows through the piping that forms the

it will then flow back up the receiver to be reheated as the process

external walls. This fluid absorbs the heat from the concentrated

continues.

sunlight. In SolarReserve’s technology, the fluid utilised is molten

The steam generation process is identical to the process used

salt, which is heated from 550 ⁰F (288 ⁰C) to 1050 ⁰F (566 ⁰C).

in conventional gas, coal or nuclear power plants, except that it

Molten salt is an ideal heat capture medium, as it maintains its

is 100 percent renewable, with zero harmful emissions or waste.

liquid state even above 1050 ⁰F, allowing the system to operate

SolarReserve plants provide on-demand, reliable electricity from a

at low pressure for efficient and safe energy capture and storage.

renewable source—the sun—even after dark.

After passing through the receiver, the high temperature

THE JASPER PROJECT.

molten salt flows down the piping inside the tower and into an

Based in Kimberly, South Africa and with a gross capacity

insulated thermal storage tank, where the energy is stored as high-­

of 96MW of power, The Jasper Solar Power Project produces

temperature molten salt until electricity is needed. Heat loss is only

180,000 MWH of energy every year, which is enough to power

1 ⁰F per day.

approximately 80,000 homes; located adjacent to the Lesedi Power

SolarReserve’s technology leverages liquid molten salt as both the energy collection and the storage mechanism, which allows it

Project and also adjacent to SolarReserve’s Redstone CSP Tower project with integrated storage.

134 Dame Avenue Rand Leases Roodepoort Tel : 011 472 4267 VAT : 494 0103 171 info@bizafrika498.co.za

P.O. Box 449 Maraisburg 1709 Fax : 086 540 8917 Reg.No 99/13774/07

Instrumentation and Electrical Contractors Biz Afrika 498 (BA498) is a proudly South African company offering specialised electrical and instrumentation contracting services for the construction, mining, renewable energy and various other industrial sectors throughout Africa.

We were fortunate to participate in the Jasper PV project in the Northern Cape in South Africa and specialised installation methods and procedures applied on this plant ensured that this project was completed within the original project dates and within budget.

14 | Endeavour Magazine

Kevin reveals that the project includes over 325,000 individual solar panels positioned on fixed tilt, ground mounted arrays spread across 358 acres and commenced construction in October 2013 and was fully commercially operational one year later.

Involvement of some major companies, including some from South Africa and major players from Spain and China, has made this a particularly exciting project and the fact that it is Google’s first renewable energy investment in South Africa is another one for the books.

The $260 million Jasper Power Project was awarded under the South Africa Renewable Energy and Power Producer Procurement Programme and the project has a 20-year power purchase agreement with National Utility Eskom. During its 20-year plus operating life, the project will expand in excess of 2 billion Rand (120 million Euro) on operations and maintenance costs with 45% of the value being local content spend. In additional to stimulating long-term economic development and creating new jobs, Jasper

TO REALLY HAMMER THE POINT HOME There are a number of benefits to this project such as clean, zero-emission solar energy in South Africa helping the country achieve its renewable energy targets on the ongoing mission to move away from coal and oil. It has also created substantial direct and indirect employment.

Through preferred procurement agreements, 45% of the total project is local content spend with 60% of that coming from BBBEE providers.

It was 2011 when SolarReserve joined with local empowered infrastructure investors and local developers in the country to market and develop a large-scale photovoltaic solar energy project.

Now it stands as a bridge for the renewable sector into South Africa over which many new ideas and opportunities will cross ushering the country into a new era of sustainability and diversity.

“Long-term planning,” Kevin concludes, “That is what is needed.”

is now playing its part in helping South Africa meet its renewable energy target.

Endeavour Magazine | 15

16 | Endeavour Magazine

FARM AND CITY CENTRE 00263 4 762487

FEEDING THE GROWTH WRITTEN BY DAEMON SANDS

Retailing into the farming industry is more than just meeting the items on a shopping list. Beyond all other industries, agriculture accounts for almost a quarter (23%) of formal employment in Zimbabwe and is one of the most important sectors in the country, not only because it feeds her people but because it contributes to around 18% of the gross domestic product in the country and employees 80% of the population.

Endeavour Magazine | 17

FARM AND CITY CENTRE

Farm and City is a household name in Zimbabwe, operating from

38 stores and headquartered in Harare and with a history of operation stretching back to 1908, the company has built its reputation via feeding the growth of the agricultural sector for as long as anyone alive can remember. Known as the one stop store for farmers and those working in the industry, this wholesale outlet sells everything from implements to seed, chemicals, fertilisers, tools and even veterinary products, animal feeds, protective clothing, fencing and building. Farmers, like everyone else go shopping with a list of things they need and this company has grown via knowing what will be on that list and making sure they have it.

R

ecently appointed managing director Chris Arima said during

to being better at it and this is one of the factors that Farm and City

a recent interview, that there is an urgent need to instil

have applied to their outlets.

professional attitudes throughout the sector and to educate

“It isn’t just enough to sell the seed or the equipment,” says

farmers to be entrepreneurs and strategic thinkers, “Farming is a

Amira, “You have to make sure that the customer knows not only

business and should be approached as such. In business, unlike a

what they want but what they need to get the best crops.”

hobby, you need to know what you need and more importantly know how to make it work for your business not only to sustain

And to do this you need well trained staff behind the till and in the aisles.

but to grow.”

STAFFING AND EDUCATION WHAT MAKES FARM AND CITY SPECIAL

The Zimbabwean business landscape has undergone several

Accountability and awareness is what makes Farm and City

changes over the last three decades, with businesses being

special. One of the greatest challenges that farmers face is finding

expected to do more with less. The agricultural sector has not been

the best ways to maximise the yields from the seed they are using.

immune to this and on the same note has the added problem of a

Not all seed is sewn or sold equally and while other retailers such

shortage of experience and skill.

as hardware stores, food outlets and general retailers may sell seed,

To counteract this state of the industry, Farm and City ensure

they have no way of controlling or monitoring the standard of their

that their staff are not only trained in the use of their equipment and

products. Farmers on the other hand have come to rely on Farm

products, but are also well versed in the rigours and requirements

and City as the quality of their seed speaks for itself.

of the agricultural sector, which is often more scientific and timely

This is due, firstly, to their vigorous education of farmers to help them understand the importance of accounting for where the seed

than any other industry and certainly more costly when skills are not correctly applied.

is going to be grown, what kind of soil is available, what climate

A staff policy including on-going development, training and

conditions will affect the growth and what diseases are endemic

education has cemented the company’s position as an important

locally. Secondly, Farm and City take a one-stop shop approach

part in every farming business not only as a source for products but

for their customers, dealing with people all along the value chain

more importantly, as a source for advice and know-how, something

from the seed suppliers and fertilisers to the crop-chemical

altogether more valuable.

manufacturers and the end user.

This in turn allows them to create a philosophy of understanding through the industry that it isn’t about finding the right seed for the

“However you look at it, we are in retail,” he says, “Not only of products like equipment and seeds, but of understand and experience.”

farmer but rather about educating the farmer in how to make the best out of the seed they have. The realisation that farming is not as straightforward as simply planting and harvesting is the first step

18 | Endeavour Magazine

WORKING WITH THE BEST To be the best you have to work with the best and this is why

FARM AND CITY CENTRE

Farm and City are very careful with who they put their trust and

He goes on to explain that a more effective strategy would be to

time into. They work with the innovative businesses who have

put all the effort into a smaller space, using the best seed, fertiliser,

been responsible for hybridising maize seed commercially and

weed and pest control to realise its full potential. This may fly in the

creating the most effective methodology and machinery to farm

face of conventional thinking but it does make for sound business.

with and the most influential methods. A role that Farm and City

In a nutshell, farmers need to be take measures to worker

has embarked on is to be an interface with the farmers allowing

smarter and not just harder and increase their hectarage over time,

partnerships between the stakeholders, public and private.

as much as their resources permit. The focus from the country’s

There is a lot that needs to be accomplished. Seed companies

agricultural authorities on mechanisation and irrigation actually will

do a great job of seed testing and quality control and bring technical

support this strategy in terms of both working smart and trying to

advice to the ‘last mile’ of the supply chain, but there is more that

alleviate climatic challenges.

could be done. With this in mind Farm and City’s co-operative ethic

These same ideas can apply to the farming of cattle and other

is impartial and has offered space to Agritex extension services and

livestock as there is an equal need to upgrade the skills of the cattle

Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union in their stores to provide advice to the

farmers and make them more productive, but to do that they need

end users without pushing any particular product or brand.

access to advice, support and appropriate veterinary products,

Amira explains that the important thing is to increase the

feeds and supplements.

amount of training and advice available to farmers in upcountry

It is understood that on the veterinary side, people are more

areas, “Ours is a strictly B2B model. Farmers are business owners

open to information and the vets are doing a good job in forming

and entrepreneurs, not simply consumers, and specialists too

relationships with the farmers and getting the information to them

because farming is a scientific process. As long as our customers

but there is still a need to focus on husbandry and pasturage and

do well, this is what counts!”

planning ahead.

A key strategic partnership for Farm & City Centre comes in the form of proudly Zimbabwean Superfert Fertilizer. With its head offices in Harare and a blending plant located in Bindura, the company’s wide network of factories and warehousing facilities across the country mean Superfert has been able to forge a tangible closeness to the customer as well as provide flexible back up to retail partners such as Farm & City Centre. A close working relationship with Farm & City Centre, along with a strong logistics division allow Superfert the ability to offer Farm & City Centre close attention and fast action on all stock demands. The success of this relationship relies largely on the quality of communication that exists between the two companies; From daily conversations between Branch Managers and Sales Staff, all the way through to Head Office Operations and Purchasing personnel.

20 | Endeavour Magazine

Farming in regular, reliable weather patterns is easier and this was once the case in Zimbabwe but now the weather patterns are becoming erratic at best, the healthy farming of crops and livestock is becoming an ever-increasing challenge.

In line with the scientific approach Farm & City is advocating for its customers, the company is moving to become a knowledgebased operation. Farm and City brought in an Indian specialist company, ITree Dynamics, to implement new business intelligence platforms that will equip them for the future.

Knowledge is power and the idea is to capture transaction data and determine the buying patterns of the customers to be in a better position to aptly meet those items on those shopping lists.

The investment will be good for Farm and City’s stock control and capital management too, as it will enable inventory levels to be cut and a more flexible approach to ordering and fulfilment. It is an essential preparation phase for another strategy too; a move towards online trading.

Ultimately, Farm and City see themselves as more than just a shop; they are a resource to their customers as crucial and irreplaceable as their land, their tools and their seeds.

Endeavour Magazine | 21

22 | Endeavour Magazine

E.ON WWW.EON.COM/EN/SUSTAINABILITY/ REGIONAL-ACTIVITIES/GERMANY.HTML 49 211 4579 0

E.ON TAKES CONTROL OF THE WIND WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Aware of the weight they have to swing around when it comes to important issues, E.ON have for a long time taken the important stance when it comes to systematic climate protection transparency. Last month we looked at what EON was doing with regards to their gas and today we look at what they’re doing with their wind.

Endeavour Magazine | 23

E.ON

As an energy company, E.ON Wind has made transparent reporting

an essential part of their path to tomorrow’s energy world. Since 2004, they have participated in the independent CDP by publishing their annual carbon emissions from power generation, which is published for all to view in the CDP database and since 2005 they have also reported on their carbon intensity, which has become a key metric for the decarbonisation target.

E

.ON emitted 96 million metric tons of carbon from power

in Texas and at 782 MW itis one of the world’s largest onshore

and heat generation in 2014, of which 63 million metric tons

wind farms.

were emitted in Europe. This represents a significant decline of

As it turns out, E.ON is actually the world’s third largest operator

around 16% relative to 2013 and results from the fact that in 2014

of offshore wind farms and in cooperation with DONG Energy and

they produced less power and thanks to a slightly higher proportion

Masdar they completed the London Array in July 2014, which is

of renewables and nuclear power coupled with a reduction in

still the world’s largest offshore wind farm with 630 MW installed

power generation using coal, had a lower-carbon generation mix

capacity providing enough clean power for nearly half a million UK

than in 2013.

homes.

Besides carbon emissions from power and heat generation, the company also measure the total carbon footprint of their everyday

Currently, the company are building their first commercial offshore wind project in Germany, Amrumbank West.

business activities not directly related to power and heat generation.

They then include the complete value chain, from suppliers to end-consumers and set themselves the target of achieving a 20% reduction by 2020 compared to 2010. To make these complex calculations, they have made use of the internationally recognised WRI/WBCSD Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard.

It is dedication to this important cause that has made them the world leader in wind energy.

“We use the power of the wind across the globe, on land and at sea, to generate environmentally friendly energy. In a growing market for renewable energy, we play a key role in the wind industry and are already among the top 10 wind power operators worldwide, but we want to grow further.”

THE WIND ENERGY MARKET

AMRUMBANK WEST Located in the North Sea, this German-owned wind farm is found about 35 km northwest of the island of Heligoland and around 18 km south-west of the Amrum Bank sandbank. As of 2015 it consisted of 80 turbines resting at 19–24m depth and when it is completed it will be able to provide enough power for up to 300,000 German homes a year.

The cost of this project stands at around 1 billion Euros and it has had its fair share of challenges. Along with what would be expected of such an undertaking, the project was delayed by 15 months by a lack of power lines. Now back on track, the 80 wind turbines are type Siemens SWT-3.6–120, which have a rated power of 3.6 MW and a rotor diameter of 120 metres. Offshore construction began in 2013 and the first turbine was installed in February 2015.

In Europe and the US, E.ON operate onshore wind farms with

Of course, it would be remiss of a company to spend so much

an installed capacity of about 4.000 MW. Amongst them is Roscoe

on creating a functional green energy source of such magnitude

24 | Endeavour Magazine

E.ON

if its creation had negative repercussions on the landscape

Hamburg’s First Mayor, Olaf Scholz said, “Amrumbank West is

and environment it was made to protect. As such, E.ON have

another lighthouse project for wind power at sea, which must be

endeavoured to protect the seabed as much as possible.

followed by further offshore wind projects to make sure the energy

The seabed surface at the construction site mainly consists of sand and was initially reinforced by a 2.4m-thick layer of large

industry and industrial policy potential of offshore wind is not left untapped.”

stones. However, this hindered installation of the turbine piles, which should be driven through the protection layer deep into the seabed and therefore the stones were replaced by two layers of geotextile containers, i.e., sandbags.

These sandbags are made of a special damage-resistant nonwoven geotextile. Empty bags are .45 × 2.38m and could accommodate 1m3 of sand. These were filled on the Rømø island up to 80-vol% and weighed 1400kg each. The seabed protection withstood the St. Jude storm in October 2013 and Cyclone Xaver in December 2013. Starting from December 2013, turbine piles 6m in diameter were driven through the erosion protection layers.

E.ON recently said in a press release that they are committed to making further large-scale investments to expand their onshore and offshore capacity. At the same time, they are pursuing demanding cost reduction targets to make wind energy ever more competitive and affordable.

26 | Endeavour Magazine

THE SUSTAINABILITY EFFORT IN GERMANY Following one of Germany’s most momentous policy decisions in recent years, to phase out the use of nuclear energy, a number of challenges have arisen, as would be expected following such a massive decision. In an effort to assist in the process wherever possible, E.ON have aimed to make energy more sustainable while ensuring that it remains affordable, something which other smaller and less resourceful businesses have failed to accomplish.

Enlarging the share of renewables in their current portfolio is one of the avenues and though they already operate 32 wind farms in Germany with a total capacity of 213MW, they are aggressively expanding their offshore position.

Over the next few years, the plan is to commission three large deep-water wind farms in the North sand Baltic Seas, with a total

capacity of more than 1.2GW. The first, Amrumbank West with 288 MW, will be fully operational shortly.

E.ON have achieved the dominance within their selected industries by being able to ensure the highest standards and

What may seem a recent bout of activity follows on from a long

this comes from not only possessing the expertise in integrating

and carefully planned development into this direction. Since 2006,

distributed generating units into the power system, but also being

the E.ON Group has conducted an annual materiality analysis to

able to install and operate them nationwide. They have invested

identify and prioritise sustainability issues. In 2014 they began

heavily into new energy storage technologies, active energy

applying the materiality principle of the Global Reporting Initiative’s

management for customers and smart grids. These efforts will

G4 guidelines. This requires the E.ON Group to identify those

continue to help integrate renewable and low carbon distributed

aspects that reflect their significant economic, environmental and

generating unites, while ensuring the stability and reliability of

social impacts or that substantively influence their stakeholders’

Germany’s energy supply system. First Mayor Olaf Scholz said

assessments and decisions. Providing environmentally friendly

that, “Clean power is needed all over Germany”, and added that,

products and services to their customers was one of many aspects

“Hamburg and the other federal states of northern Germany were

in which they made progress in Germany in 2014.

backing plans to push ahead with network infrastructure growth

It is believed that environmentally friendly products and

and the construction of further wind farms.”

services will help transform Germany’s energy system and are

Judging from their accomplishments thus far, there can be no

therefore very important for E.ON, who see themselves as primarily

doubt that Germany may very well be conquering the world in

a German company. One of the significant roles will be found in

terms of energising their wind.

distributing generating units and thereby promoting consumer autonomy, system flexibility, efficiency and climate protection.

Over a third of all distributed generating capacity subsidised by Germany’s renewable energy law is connected to E.ON’s network.

apply all of my knowledge on the NOORTRUCK, with the Big Bubble Curtain. We limit the environmental influences during offshore pile driving.

If we can protect porpoises and seals with our soundproofing, it gives me a good feeling, because at the end of the day, I know it makes sense.

“

“

A few years ago, I studied energy economics in Stuttgart. Now I can

Wim van Dun Captain of the NOORTRUCK

Endeavour Magazine | 27

28 | Endeavour Magazine

EQUATORIALE SERVICES WWW.PAPEENGINEERING.SG +65 9115 0613

GROWTH UNBOUND WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Said to be amongst the most promising publicly listed companies in Sinagpore, Equatoriale Services Pte is a subsidiary of the Swiber Group procuring critical items from internationally recognized manufacturers and dealing with most offshore classifications while guaranteeing the highest level of quality to the work that it delivers.

Endeavour Magazine | 29

EQUATORIALE SERVICES

The go-to company for engineering, procurement, construction and

installation needs, ESPL also specializes in the design and installation of mooring systems for floating vessels including FSO, FPSO and tankers, excelling in the design, construction and installation of SPM (single point mooring) bouys, turret mooring systems and spread-moored systems.

W

e spoke with Guillaume Darmayan Business Development

mooring solutions,” he says, “When we were founded in 2003

Manager at ESPL and he explained that the company owes

by Jean Pers, CEO the aim was always to continue to grow and

part of its success to the management team who, amongst

develop.”

themselves, have over 35 years of offshore experience in the oil

And they are set for the challenge, while ESPL do focus on

and gas industry as well as a strong foundation and grounding

Single Point Mooring Buoys, FPSO Turret Systems, spread mooring

within the Swiber Group.

they have always had the capacity and ingenuity to offer solutions

“We are a business unit of Swiber group leading all of the

to meet the bespoke requirements of their clients.

mooring systems projects and are fully supported by the other

Nothing is straight forward, as an example SPM Buoys are

businesses within the group,” he says, “The CEO who founded

moored to the seabed by way of multiple mooring lines and the

Equatoirale is one of the founders of Swiber, and brought over forty

buoy contains a bearing system that allows moored vessels to

years of experience in the offshore business to the business.”

rotate fully around the mooring point; now this is a clear choice

The company is recognized within the region for providing

for Tanker offloading solutions of FPSO mooring for the oil and gas

bespoke, tailor made solutions that are delivered with an unfailingly

sector yet the design, manufacturer and installation of the project

high level of expertise and according to Guillaume the company

needs to take into account oceanography, vessel type, weather

are now looking at international expansion, not only as a means

patterns and the protection and topography of the ocean floor.

to further their own reach but to further develop themselves by

It’s a speciality and this is one of the reasons why Equatoriale

ensuring exposure into new problems, new contracts and new

Services has built up such expertise in the offshore mooring

possibilities.

market. They are not Jack of All Trades, they are specific and

“Equatoriale Services has worked diligently over the years to

carefully focussed on the developing the solutions within one key

build itself a reputation as the go-to EPCI contractor for offshore

area. An area that is fundamental for the efficient working of the

30 | Endeavour Magazine

EQUATORIALE SERVICES

offshore industry and the safety of the people involved, “Swiber

“Keeping clients is about long term partnerships where we

knows what it’s companies are best at and allows them to develop,”

understand our client’s unique needs and therefor are able to

Guillaume says, “At Equatoriale we maintain a core team of experts

best deliver solutions which suit these needs and their schedules.

and operate independently whilst still having access to the various

Transparency and good communication are also important, as well

entities of Swiber when the need arises.”

as loyalty through good and bad weather,” he says.

The simple fact is that when you need to install an offshore

Equatoriale Service’s culture is one that fosters a flexible

asset, you want to work with a recognized name and a reputable

attitude and they approach each project not as a business merely

company. ESPL,even though it is a small set up with only a few

providing a service, but as a partner looking to help their client

guys you have the flexibility of a highly specialized set up under the Swiber group.

Lets not forget that Swiber Group itself is world-recognized and publicly listed on the main SGX stock exchange. Their track record includes over 60 offshore platforms and 2000km of subsea pipeline installed around the world.

BESPOKE PROBLEM SOLVING

grow and improve, “This approach has given us a competitive edge over some larger companies because we are just more there for our clients,” In an ideal world, quality is worth waiting for. But in the real world Equatoriale Services know that they have to achieve the highest standard of quality, higher than very next competitors, in a time period that is conducive for the client. Big projects rely on all the components of that project coming together in a timely and

Since inception, ESPL has been focussed on the South East

coordinated period and while ESPL’s clients can rely on them to

Asian Market and has an established presence in Indonesia,

achieve this, they are always looking at improving their efficiency of

Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam where the company has worked

people and machinery to get shave off time required.

tirelessly to maintain the relationships with its clients and suppliers in these areas by being an “above average” business.

32 | Endeavour Magazine

Another competitive advantage for them and an asset to any industry leading company are their employees. With all the

employees, including the CEO, having their roots in engineering

completed and is leased to a major player in Malaysia and the

side of Swiber and subsequently bringing a wide range of expertise

second is the upgrading in-situ, of the entire piping system of a

with them, the focus for the company has been very much technical

buoy is ongoing for a US based oil and gas company.

and business. This has allowed it to flourish and has continued to Equatoriale’s reputation for quality products and services.

“We have also been approached by one of our regular clients to design and supply 9 custom made chain-stoppers for their FPSO

“That’s one of the usual feedbacks from our clients. as we come

spread mooring within a timeframe of 4 months!”

from an installation and engineering background, all properity designs of our offshore mooring solutions that we have offered have been installation focused and maintenance free. All the designs are don with a view of looking after the project from A-Z. we are able to do everything thanks to our background. He says.

THEIR EXPANSION The main focus is definitely on their expansion and the accrument of foreign contracts to help this growth. A few years ago, Swiber had penetrated the Gulf of Mexico market and very recently moved to West Africa.

PROJECTS

This is useful as it would have been nearly impossible for a small

Guillaume explains that their projects are usually quite varied, offering a range of different requirements and solutions needed.

set up like Equatoriale to move into these markets independently but with Swiber’s established network and worldwide presence,

“We have two SPM buoys EPCI one for a FSO contractor in Singapore and another one for an independent oil and gas company in Thailand. This one for the contractor is recurrent, they’ve always

they were able to expend in those areas along with the group.

“We now try to move and become a worldwide contractor,” he explains

come back to us and we have quite a long term relationship with them.”

They also have 2 SPM Buoy refurbishment projects; one is

Chain-stopper

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Endeavour Magazine | 33

34 | Endeavour Magazine

NZOIA SUGAR WWW.NZOIASUGAR.CO.KE 254 55 30500

SWEET GROWTH WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Nzoia Sugar Company Limited (NSC) is one of the key players in Kenya’s sugar Industry. Nzoia Sugar Company is located in Bungoma County, 5 kilometres from Bukembe, off the WebuyeBungoma highway.

Endeavour Magazine | 35

NZOIA SUGAR

Serving over 67,000 farmers in the larger Bungoma, Kakamega

and their neighbouring counties, the Company was established in 1975 with the Government standing as one the majority shareholders owning 98% shares, while Fives Cail Babcock (FCB) and Industrial Development Bank owned 1% each, respectively.

T

here is an important role that NSC plays in its country’s

residents of Bungoma County. Directly and indirectly the company

economy in as much as they produce sugar and support cane

provides employment to millions of resident and as such, the Nzoia

production through the provision of extension services to

community is an integral part of Nzoia Sugar Company.

farmers with an extensive company nucleus estate covering 3600

Having realised that their staff form their main source of

ha and an out grower zone spanning more than 23,500 ha of cane.

resources by allowing Nzoia Sugar Company to operate smoothly, they take their corporate social responsibility very seriously. This

MANAGEMENT Evolution and growth has meant that since inception, the company has undergone four major changes in management: Between October 1975 and January 1978, the company was under the management of FCB & Technisure when the management changed hands to the Government of Kenya, which remained at the helm up to 11th January 1999. Then, between 12 January 1999 and 31 August 2003, the company was managed by F.C. Schaffer & Associates from whom the management reverted back to the Government of Kenya, which, to date, is in charge.

MILLING CAPACITY Initially the company had a milling capacity of 2000 tones of cane per day (TCD) then in 1989, this capacity was expanded to 3000 TCD. While nobody can argue that this constituted phenomenal growth, optimum utilisation has not yet been fully realised due to plant operational limitations. Factory rehabilitation and diversification will enable the company to remain competitive and made it attractive for privatisation and according to the company they further intend to enhance the factory capacity to 7000 TCD and 735 tonnes of sugar per day during the current strategic plan period.

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Nzoia Sugar Company is a producer of the sweetest Kenyan sugar in the republic of Kenya and a source of livelihood to

36 | Endeavour Magazine

undoubtedly plays a critical role in ensuring that part of Nzoia Sugar Company’s income is ploughed back into the community in various ways, as captured in the company’s CSR policy document and they have specifically carried out CSR programmes in critical areas such as education, health, infrastructure development, environment, youth development and sports, emergencies and donations, among others.

Health is a very important sector that has been emphasised by the corporate CSR committee and is being implemented accordingly, “At Nzoia Sugar Company, we understand that in order to fulfil our mandate, we require a healthy community. This is because we derive our raw material and labour from the local community,” they say.

To this end, Nzoia Sugar has become dedicated to its first project by constructing a health facility (dispensary) at Kakimanyi centre in Bungoma East Sub-County at a cost of Ksh.2.8 million.

HEALTH FACILITY AT KAKIMANYI VILLAGE For a long time, residents of Kakimanyi village in Bungoma east in Bungoma County, were forced to travel long distances in search of health facilities. Tragically, this meant that some patients died during the trip before they could reach the nearest clinic, which was more than 5 kilometres away.

“We had two schools in the area and it was very difficult for our children to get health care during emergencies. Some of our people died on their way to hospital,” said Mrs. Florence Wanyama treasurer of the committee.

This aggrieved the members of that community, who decided to

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NZOIA SUGAR

come together to build a dispensary to cater for their health needs.

for developmental projects. Nzoia Sugar Company also runs a clinic

The idea, which was formed in the year 2007, led to the

and provides a company ambulance to serve the community during

formation of a committee to spearhead the project. Committee

emergencies while also offering HIV prevention, drug and alcohol

members consisted of the Area Chief, Assistant Chief, area

abuse services in the community by offering free HIV awareness

Councillor, village Elders and members of the community.

and sensitisation programmes, voluntary counselling and testing

Community members contributed labour, material and monetary

services and prevention of mother to child transmission services.

support towards building Kakimanyi Dispensary. Bungoma County Council then bought land for setting up the facility and the work towards having a health unit in the village began in earnest.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION Education is recognised as being the ladder by which the next

However, the community project was met with financial

generation will connect Africa into the modern era and plays a vital

constraints that saw the project stall in the year 2010. This is when

role in the development of the economy. Through Nzoia Group this

Nzoia Sugar Company stepped in and offered to complete the

has been effectively boosted through their CSR initiatives towards

stalled dispensary as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility

the neighbouring communities.

programme.

The Company has gone the extra mile; rebuilding six classrooms

The community members are full of gratitude because their

for Khaweli Primary School located approximately five kilometres

dream to have a health facility in the area has finally come to pass.

from the factory. Relevant renovations have been made and

The Managing Director Nzoia Sugar Company then, Mr. Saul

currently pupils are happy with the new state of the art classrooms,

Wasilwa, while handing over the dispensary to the community’s

free from external interference while undertaking their learning

project Chairman Mr. Martin K. Wanyonyi on 8th May, 2013, said

sessions.

the Company is committed to assisting members of the community

The school head teacher, Mr. Augustine Masinde, said that pupils

to ensure continued partnership by giving back part of its income

are now comfortable with the supportive learning environment and

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of a range of automobiles.

Toyota Kenya Limited (TKEN) is part of the Global Toyota Group, comprising of Toyota Tusho Corporation (TTC) which owns 100 % of Toyota Kenya Limited.

Toyota Kenya limited has a long and trusted heritage in Kenya of over 50 years.

Toyota’s subsidiary, Toyota Kenya Limited, is the sole distributor and After-Sales Support Services provider of Toyota, Yamaha and Hino and CASE IH agriculture brands in Kenya.

38 | Endeavour Magazine

Facilities: Showroom, Workshop and Dealers: Toyota Kenya has over the years built a strong foundation across the country with its wide range of vehicle products. The Head Office is located in Nairobi (Uhuru Highway off Lusaka Road); with branches in Nairobi Toyota, Westlands, Mombasa, Eldoret, Kisumu and Lodwar. Toyota Kenya also also have regional dealer representation in Nyeri, Nanyuki, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kericho, Meru and Kitale.

performance will definitely be boosted in the long run. He urged the

supply as the Company now relies on Kenya Power supply only

Company to keep up the positive spirit in an endeavour to enhance

when it is not in operation and during start-ups.

learning in the county through social responsibility programmes put in place.

After running on a three-megawatts generator, since increasing the tonnes of cane produced per day (TCD) from 2000 to 3000

The Company also supported Kituni Primary School by

in 1992, the company finally installed the new addition. This was

constructing two ultra-modern classrooms and pupils have enjoyed

done on 26th July in 2015. The installation of the four-megawatt

using the facility for the past two years. The school’s project

generator will also enable wet scrubbers, which could not be used

management committee said the institution was lucky to have

(initially) due to lack of power, to be in use. The wet scrubbers

been selected among many that requested for similar support at

remove particular matter from boiler flue gases before emitting

that time.

them through the chimney; a good practice and a requirement set

Residents, especially parents, are very pleased with the support

in place by environmental laws.

and have promised to develop sugarcane and deliver to the factory

This installation is expected to bring array of benefits, such as

at an appropriate time to ensure the factory carries out its functions

reliable power for operations and domestic uses while the factory

effectively without a shortage of raw materials in order to continue

is in operation, improved time efficiency in the factory, reduced

supporting members of the community.

Kenya Power bills, reduced sugar production costs, clean flue gas

NSC installs 4mw turbine generator to bolster power supply

discharge to the environment and more power for Kenya Power

Recently, the company put into operation a four-megawatt

customers.

turbine generator to supplement the power deficit. The Company had been supplementing its operations with a power supply to the residential estates. Installation of a turbo generator is a milestone in Nzoia Sugar Company’s efforts towards self-sufficiency in power

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40 | Endeavour Magazine

AIRTEL ZAMBIA WWW.AFRICA.AIRTEL.COM 260 977 770077

AFRICAN AIRTIME GOES PREMIUM WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Airtel Africa is on a mission to be the biggest and best mobile phone operator on the continent and if recent acquisitions are anything to go by, they are on the right track. Endeavour got up close and personal with the personal communication giant to find out more about their plans for market domination.

Endeavour Magazine | 41

AIRTEL ZAMBIA

In order to tackle local marketplace domination, any company

requires the requisite backing and expertise behind it and Airtel Africa has exactly that. Owned by Bharti Airtel, a major global player in the telecommunications arena that is cited as being in the top four world service providers (based on active subscribers), there is no doubting just how well-supported this operation is. In fact, with close to 300million customers by the end of 2013 alone, Bharti Airtel is the perfect parent company, with an inspirational rise to industry glory to learn from!

S

o

what

does

Airtel

Africa

want

to

bring

to

the

and Impact are the five pillars of the company value system and

telecommunications world? What CAN it offer? The company

give an insight into just how important responsible and sustainable

states that,

activities are. What’s even more impressive is that it’s not just in

“Airtel is driven by the vision of providing affordable and

their necessary dealings with customers that Airtel Africa seeks to

innovative mobile services to all. Airtel has African operations

be an honest, integrity-driven operation; they do so voluntarily too

in: Burkina Faso, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and

and for no financial gain.

Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Madagascar,

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) really separates the men

Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda

from the boys in the business world, with those who actively look

and Zambia.”

for new opportunities to give back to local communities soaring

It’s this promise of affordable, reliable and forward-thinking

head and shoulders above their less willing competitors. Airtel

mobile solutions that has captured the hearts, interest and financial

Africa, in line with parent company protocols, does not shy away

commitment of so many customers add to that the impressive

from investing into the continued success and development of

expertise that CEO Christian De Faria brings to the table and you

local communities.

have a company that customers actually want to deal with.

“In line with the Bharti philosophy of ‘giving back to society’,

“Christian De Faria, Chief Executive Officer and MD - Africa is

Airtel Africa has been actively involved in social welfare initiatives

a French national with over 30 years of rich industry experience

across the 17 countries in Africa where it operates. Working

garnered across multiple geographies, diverse sectors and

primarily in the field of education, it has also forged strong ties with

organisations such as MTN, Telekom Malaysia, Disc Vision,

local communities, various corporate organisations, institutions

Deutsche Telecom and Grundig.”

and the Government in its endeavour to reach out to the lesser

Christian is a man that understands what consumers want from

privileged sections.”

their mobile service provider and with a team of exceptionally

Far from following the example set by many western firms that

experienced and equally passionate mangers by his side, he is

look to simply donate money, which has the added benefit of being

determined to deliver it. The difference is, he will do so, while

a tax relief measure, Airtel Africa recognises that in order to see

adhering to a strict set of values that underpin the organisation.

longstanding benefits, a deeper investment needs to be made than

Airtel are clear about their desire to not only surpass customer expectations, but to do so in line with rigid ethics and codes of conduct. Empowerment, Flexibility, Entrepreneurship, Transparency 42 | Endeavour Magazine

simply financial aid. With that in mind, educational support has been made the primary focus.

“The role of education in eradicating poverty cannot be

2G, 3G and 4G LTE RAN deployment Wireless transmission projects Optical Fiber and Wireline transmmission

A Network Support Centre

Managed services

Renewable energy

RIcom

TECHNOLOGIES

richard.ricom@gmail.com | www.ricom.co.zm Plot 5699 BEU Crescent Kalundu | Lusaka, Zambia | Cell: +260978611087 | Tel: +260965111253

Endeavour Magazine | 43

AIRTEL ZAMBIA

overstated. Receiving an education is perhaps a child’s biggest

In addition, the programme also works towards building

barrier to escaping poverty. The power of an education continues to

community and employee engagement with the adopted schools.

provide benefits to subsequent generations as educated adults tend

The school calendar ensures that there is enough opportunity for

to marry later in life, have healthier children, are more productive

the community to understand and be engaged with the programme,

at work, receive better pay in the workplace and generally enjoy

participating in cleanliness drives, tree plantations etc. undertaken

greater health. In Africa It is common for rural youth - especially

by the schools, this includes employees of Airtel Africa as well”

girls - to drop out or be forced to travel far away from their homes

While ICT and Broadband connectivity improvements would

in order to attend school. The majority of existing schools –

seem like a natural way for Airtel to support their adopted schools,

especially in rural areas - are overcrowded, poorly furnished and

the support runs much deeper than that, with refurbishments

under-resourced. Historically, in Africa, education has only been

being paid for, school uniforms being provided and teaching aids

available in the cities and larger towns and there’s still a long way

all being offered. That’s above and beyond regular CSR initiatives,

to go before that imbalance is redressed.”

we think you’ll agree.

With this knowledge firmly underpinning the CSR endeavours

While mobile service providers might look like huge, faceless

of the company, it comes as no surprise that Airtel Africa has

corporations, Airtel Africa is actively changing that perception.

committed to a rigorous programme of educational funding.

They have a genuine investment in and desire to see people being

“Airtel Africa’s flagship programme, ‘Our School’, is a school-

better connected and offered as many opportunities for personal

adoption initiative, under which it has currently adopted 38 primary

development as possible and whether that means supporting

schools in the rural corners of Africa, across 17 African countries.

future customers in their educational studies or simply making sure

Working closely with the Government in these countries, it works

that the mobile connectivity they offer customers is reliable and

towards improving the quality and delivery of education to children,

affordable, one thing is certain; Airtel Africa cares and it’s doing

in underprivileged communities. Currently, these adopted schools

everything it can.

cater to more than 18,000 underprivileged children.

44 | Endeavour Magazine

46 | Endeavour Magazine

ATCON WWW.ATCON.ORG.NG 234 1 769369

IT’S GOOD TO TALK WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

You might think you know all there is or all you want to know about telecommunications, but unless you’ve heard of ATCON, you have only scratched the surface. Working to bring new standards to a competitive market, the company is setting itself out as one of those urban legends; an organisation that truly puts customers first.

Endeavour Magazine | 47

ATCON

The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria

(ATCON) makes something clear right from the start; it is not like many other organisations. A highly professional, expert set-up, it is a non-profit, politics neutral umbrella company that encompasses smaller telecommunication endeavours throughout Nigeria. The important factors there were the nonprofit and non-political elements, which really give you an idea of just how ATCON manages to remain so determinedly focused on customer needs.

he early days were a little more humble than they are now, with

T

Acting as official overseer of the industry, ATCON takes charge

a few local and multination telecommunications companies

of making sharing resources easier and seeks to highlight relevant

joining the ATCON portfolio when it was officially formed

training and development opportunities to all of its members, which

in December 1993. Since then, thanks to their reputation and

makes us wonder just how non-member organisations can hope to

determination to be the best, membership to ATCON has grown to

keep up. We think that what really highlights the benefit of being

an impressive 100 separate companies. That’s no small feat, given

an ATCON member is its role as committed mediator between the

the specificity of the region covered.

Government and the industry. No longer will the underdogs feel

So what exactly is ATCON trying to do? Far from just looking to

trampled by red tape and louder voices than them; they have a

benefit from the strengths of individual organisations, it is actively

clear, reasoned mouthpiece that is looking for ways to consistently

trying to draw together all telecommunications set-ups in order

improve legislation surrounding telecommunications. We can’t

to ‘share the wealth’, as it were. We mean this in the sense that

think of a better way to secure customer confidence either!

everybody improves and all customers’ benefit, of course.

While this all-for-one and one-for-all attitude is refreshing and

Listing some of their aims and objectives, ATCON states that

offers a sense of security, it’s worth noting that not just anybody

they want to, “Bring together under one umbrella all companies

can become a fully-fledged member of ATCON. After all, when you

in the field of telecommunications and auxiliary services for the

have set the bar high, you need to make sure everyone is working to

purposes of sharing industry information, networking, associating

your standards. It can only take one rotten apple to spoil the whole

and otherwise enhancing the stature and relevance of the

bushel and when it comes to telecommunications, there is little

telecommunications industry.” As well as,

room for error. With this in mind, ATCON has been careful to bring

“Act as a forum for members to network and share their

into effect certain criteria for a successful membership application.

expertise and knowledge” and “Maintain the highest standard of

Not only must each applicant be a properly registered corporate

professional and technical conduct in the sector.”

entity, it needs to be able to demonstrate responsible operations,

Given the competitive nature of the telecommunications industry, as a whole, trying to facilitate any kind of cooperation is

be recommended by two fully accepted financial members and be able to pay any and all membership fees in a timely fashion.

difficult, yet ATCON have made seemingly light work of it. There

Taking such a responsible approach to member selection

seems to be a prevalent feeling that if everyone works together,

ensures that the industry in Nigeria is consistently striving for

everyone improves and the end user is the ultimate winner. What

better and as such; any transgressions are taken seriously,

a refreshing approach in such a profit and results-driven era of business.

48 | Endeavour Magazine

“Any act by a member of the Association that is contrary to the interest of the Association or capable of bringing the Association

ARIES SYSTEMCOM TECH ENGINEERING LTD

LAN AND WIRELESS SOLUTIONS NETWORK AND PHYSICAL SECURITY or any member of the Association into disrepute or affecting the solidarity of the Association negatively shall be referred to the disciplinary Committee, which shall investigate the matter.”

SYSTEM INTEGRATIONS FIBER OPTIC NETWORK

There it is, in black and white, the real crux of the matter here; solidarity. How often do you find that within such a competitive marketplace? It’s as rare as it is valuable and that’s what makes ATCON so unique. With a desire to see everyone do well and accomplish amazing things, the infectious desire to strive just that little bit more is impossible to resist. No longer are individual companies battling against each other, they have realised that there

DATA CENTER PREPARATION ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

is room for everyone and that with some cooperation, support and camaraderie, the benefits will be numerous and unending. Just imagine how many other industries could benefit from a similar mindset.

Never losing sight of what Nigerians want is fundamental to the continued success of ATCON and its members and looking at a press release from when a reliable Broadband network was being demanded, we catch a glimpse of the impassioned demands that

ARIES: Established over 9 years; We offer professional IT and Engineering services to Clients in Nigeria and Ghana. Our performance over years has moved us from being a vendor to a trusted advisor to our clients; and our 24x7 support with our team of highly skilled and trained professionals contributed rapidly to the success of our company.

CONTACT: Adekunle Bangbala, 2, Dalgo Drive, Awuse Estate, Off Ajanaku Street, Opebi, Lagos, Nigeria, Email: Kunle@ariesng.com, info@ariesng. com, adekunle.bangbala@yahoo.com, Skype: adekunle.bangbala, Tel Off: +(234)8029070000, Tel Cell: +(234)8091456152, Website: www.ariesng.com

ATYCON is capable of making, “After kicking off with exchange of pleasantries and a welcome address, the first Nigerian Broadband Stakeholders Forum got down to serious business with the presentation of a Broadband framework supported with a background document.

Engr. Titi Omo Ettu, President, Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria, took the audience through these documents, spicing his presentation with examples and inside information which only long-time IT practitioners in Nigeria were privy to. Thereafter, delegates were invited to make their input. The BB4NG team had made efforts before the event to ensure a wide dissemination of the two key documents, through print and internet, and this seemed to have paid off as attested to by the quality and passion of contributions made by participants at the Forum.

The discussion and observation that followed the document presentation was rich and diverse, and it was one of such observations that seemed to have captured the essence of what the Nigerian Government needed to do, and do quickly. It was observed that Nigerians are at various levels in awareness of and demand for Broadband Internet access, and the consensus is that this should not be a question of choosing either Bread or Broadband. Nigerians need both Bread and Broadband!”

Having just celebrated their 21st anniversary, ATCON is doing as much for the region as its individual members are for their customers. The future is ripe with promise and thanks to reliable service provision and monitored standards, there is no doubt that Nigeria is going to be enjoying a very big slice of the pie, thanks in no small part to ATCON. Endeavour Magazine | 49

50 | Endeavour Magazine

CAAZ WWW.CAAZ.CO.ZW 263 4 585025

KEEPING THE DOOR OPEN WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Overseeing all aspects of the country’s aviation in Africa the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe are responsible for managing the firstimpressions of international and national tourists receive coming off of the planes and stepping into the airport. Through economic reform and political difficulties CAAZ have been given the unenviable task of maintaining the appearances and operational functionality of these gateways, no matter what.

Endeavour Magazine | 51

CAAZ

Responsible for all aspects of the country’s aviation CAAZ

operates, develops and manages 8 airports in Zimbabwe, three of which have been strategically placed to take advantage of the major tourism pull.

These would include Harare, Victoria Falls, JM Nkomo and the other five airports Masivingo, Hwange, Kariba, Charles Prince (Named after airport manager Charles Prince) and Buffalo Range.

I

n the airports themselves CAAZ provides the overall

and partnerships with the private tourism industry through

management of the facility and has several concessionaires who

collaborative marketing campaigns to help play a role in building

handle air cargo, passengers, car parking, fueling, airside shuttle

the image of Zimbabwe. This is a collective effort where everyone

bus, cleaning services and so on. Additionally, CAAZ provides air

plays a role in getting the positive message out there to people

navigation and other technical services that are important to all

who have perhaps not heard much about Zimbabwe, or heard only

aircraft flying into or out of Zimbabwe. From the air traffic control

negative things.

point of view CAAZ constantly manages the airspace, and so do

The CAAZ participates at route development and airport

have air traffic controllers at all those airports who control and

marketing forums (Routes World, Middle East and Africa).

monitor the aircraft movement with the latest technology.

Furthermore targeted airlines are constantly engaged with,

CAAZ also offers consultancy services in aviation safety and

electronically or directly at relevant forums.

security within the region. As part of its regulatory role, CAAZ also

Also, as part of a plan to attract airlines to Zimbabwe, The Civil

serves as the governing body for enforcing laws and regulations

Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe does offer an incentive scheme

related to aviation issues and are responsible for ensuring that

to new airlines or existing airlines expanding into new routes.

stakeholders comply and commit to all regulations and meet

This incentive is all about convenience and includes a 40 percent

obligations. As a central voice for the industry this is particularly

discount on air navigation, landing and parking for a period of

essential role of the authority that has proved critical for the

twelve months from the commencement of operations.

smooth running.

The upgrading of J.M. International airport which has been

Taking on responsibility for issuing licenses and permits, as well

completed and the still in progress, Victoria falls International

as verification for various activities including aircraft registration,

Airport can be used as perfect demonstrations of outstanding

personnel licenses, aircraft operations and airline schedules, CAAZ

commitment to the development of aviation in Zimbabwe.

said: “The firm is dedicated in bringing more visitors to Zimbabwe,

In 1999, 34 different airlines flew to Zimbabwe but then during

hence relentless participation at local and international destination

the period of hyperinflation and the subsequent sanctions came

marketing campaigns in collaboration with Zimbabwe Tourism

into play CAAZ lost just over half of those airlines, most being the

Authority and other tourism players, with a goal to bring visitors

long haul intercontinental flights. European carriers left Zimbabwe

to Zimbabwe.�

as a destination and the traffic dropped to 8 airlines at the height

They have also established memorandum of understanding 52 | Endeavour Magazine

of the troubles in 2007 and 2009. But now, the industry as a whole

is on a recovery path and CAAZ have grown their numbers up to

annum and a four kilometre long runway capable of handling long

15 airlines. This upward trend is expected to continue onwards

haul flights.

beyond 2016.

Also, with such renewed optimism surrounding the Zimbabwean

Now of late, it has started getting some of the international

aviation industry, the Authority is conscious of not lagging behind.

players coming back and setting up routes again. A lot of regional

As a result, management is currently going through the procurement

airlines have continued to fly to Zimbabwe and some airlines have

process for new ICT and air navigation systems which will cost

even grown the number of frequencies in fact; Kenya Airways,

several millions. Coupled with efforts to continuously improve

Ethiopian Airways and South African Airways have all increased

infrastructure, things are looking positive.

frequency of flights to Zimbabwe. A big plus, is a brand new

As far as their future is concerned, the company as a whole

international airlines to Zimbabwe, Emirates who are now flying

is very buoyant, considering that they are almost going at double

to Harare daily.

pace having come from a position that was artificial due to the past

The concerted effort to become one of the most attractive

economic situation. Now they are expecting to experience a jump

tourism destinations in Africa seems to be paying off, as CAAZ

in growth to catch up and then grow healthily afterwards and they

is experiencing continuous growth in passenger and aircraft

also want to capture the growth markets and attract more airlines

movement since recovery in 2011.

from those regions, hence are looking at creating more employment opportunities in Zimbabwean aviation and related industries.

HIGH FLYING FUTURE Victoria Falls International Airport began refurbishments in 2013, to facilitate the operation of wide body aircraft to the airport as well as increase the passenger handling capacity of the airport.

The upgrading project, which completed and opened to the public in 2016 entailed construction of a new international airport

Increases of up to 40 percent are expected thanks to their infrastructure improvements and as their business directly benefits in increased demands, from tourism to movement of goods. The positive image that is now growing on the international stage for Zimbabwe has already created potential of business.

After all, Zimbabwe is still a country worth visiting.

passenger terminal capable of handling 1.2 million passengers per

The Reinsurer Of First Choice. info@grandre.co.zw www.grandre.co.zw Endeavour Magazine | 53

AUTOMOTIVES VOLVO S60 D3 MANUAL R-DESIGN LUX NAV WRITTEN BY STEVE WARMAN

The Volvo S60 is a very good looking car. Our test model was the S60 D3 manual R-Design Lux Nav, which doesn’t really roll off the tongue and thank goodness they don’t badge up the rear of the car to that effect.

54 | Endeavour Magazine

There are several versions of this S60 and the engines come in

Did I consider the extras on the S60 as unnecessary? Well,

all guises, from 120bhp upwards. Our D3 was the 150 hp version,

not really. Volvos have some fantastic and innovative kit and it’s a

which packs more than enough punch for a car in this category. The

shame that a lot of it is an optional addition to your chosen vehicle.

range starts with the T3 Business Edition at just £21k, however, if

Volvo is not alone in this and I long for the day where I can simply

you want a bigger engine and a better specification the price does

buy a car as is and just decide on the colour. Bring back the good

increase; ours enjoyed several additions, which I have listed below,

old days when Henry Ford said, “You can have any colour as long as

but they did push the price up to a whopping £37k. The additional

it’s black”. I find it incredibly hard to decide what extras I may need

packs were very impressive though.

as I just don’t know when or if I need or would use them, however,

The Drivers Support Pack includes collision warning and full automatic braking, including pedestrian and cyclist detection.

an additional 16k for possible necessities on this model seems very heavy-handed.

Adaptive cruising control and lane keeping not only warns you

So although this particular Volvo was a stunning car, I think the

that things have gone awry, but also gently steers you back on

option list would eliminate a lot of buyers such as myself. There

course. A brilliant Driver Alert Control (DAC), which switches

is just too much choice and I fear I would under cook what I felt I

between high and low beam, senses other vehicles, pedestrians

needed based on cost and end up regretting it for the whole time I

and cyclists and automatically adjusts your lights for the optimum

had the car. This is the main reason I prefer to buy a demonstrator

vision. The pack also included road sign information display and a

car or a year-old car, as you get what you get. The only real question

blind spot information system. We treated ourselves to the Winter

is do I like the car, yes or no?

Illumination Pack that included heated front seat, windscreen and

Rant over about choice!

active bending Xenon headlights, which are amazing. Headlight

There is no doubt that Volvo make a fantastic car that doesn’t

cleaning, heated washer nozzles, auto dimming mirrors and

disappoint. They look sleek and performance is very good. Couple

additional interior lighting were part of the deal too. Then there

that with the fact that these are economical and a Volvo makes very

was the Security Pack, which consists of keyless entry and drive,

good sense.

personal car communicator, laminated windows and water repellent

Comfortable and sophisticated, the S60 is a very intelligent

front side windows. To finish it all of, we enjoyed a model with a

vehicle. Safety is paramount but not over-zealous to the point of

sunroof, park assist, sensus connect, Volvo on call, rear parking

impacting on the way the car looks or drives.

camera and Tempa spare wheel and jack.

Endeavour Magazine | 55

RIVERSIMPLE PRESENTS THE REVOLUTIONARY RASA HYDROGEN-POWERED ROAD CAR

R

iversimple Movement Ltd is pleased to announce the

small 8.5kW fuel cell (the size currently used in forklift trucks,

unveiling of the “Rasa”, a road-legal engineering prototype

equivalent to 11hp), where it combines with oxygen to form water

of its first two-seater hydrogen powered road car, built for

and electricity to drive the motors positioned in each of the four

full European type approval. Supported by a £2m grant from the

wheels. More than 50% of the kinetic energy produced under

Welsh Government in 2015, every aspect of the Rasa has been

braking is recovered and turned into electricity to boost acceleration

tailor-made and interrogated for lightness, strength, affordability

via a bank of super-capacitors. The result is a range of up to 300

and safety, to produce a vehicle that will maximise hydrogen as a

miles on 1.5kg of hydrogen, estimated fuel economy equivalent to

fuel source and minimise pollution.

250mpg, and a top speed of 60mph. At around 40gCO2/km, the

Riversimple will offer the car to motorists through its unique ‘sale of service’ model. For a fixed monthly fee and mileage allowance,

Riversimple car has the lowest carbon emissions for any vehicle ‘well-to-wheel’, and water is the only output.

similar in expenditure to leasing and running a new family-sized

Starting later this year, following funding to match a €2m EU

hatchback, the company will cover all repair, maintenance,

grant, Riversimple will be conducting a public 12-month beta trial

insurance and fuel expenses. Customers will never actually buy

of 20 Rasa prototype cars as part of the continued development of

the car and experience the burden of depreciation; they will simply

the first full production model which will come to market in 2018. It

exchange or return it at the end of the ownership period.

will be offered to individuals in a strategically planned phased roll-

Led by Riversimple’s Founder, Hugo Spowers, the Rasa has been engineered by a highly-skilled team from some of the world’s

out by region in order to support a low risk, commercially practical introduction of profitable hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

most renowned carmakers, Formula 1 teams and aerospace

Hugo Spowers, Founder of Riversimple Movement Ltd, said:

engineering companies. Its elegant and clean lines have been styled

“The Rasa engineering prototype marks another key milestone in

by Chris Reitz, one of Europe’s leading car designers. With a total

bringing an affordable and highly-efficient hydrogen-powered car

kerb weight of just 580kg (nearly half of a small car), it features a

to market. We really have started from a clean sheet of paper.

carbon composite chassis and only 18 moving parts in the entire

The Rasa gives us the opportunity to introduce customers to a

powertrain. Furthermore, Riversimple will adopt an open-source

more convenient concept of motoring, a lightness of ownership

approach to its technology and componentry to encourage the

that neither places a burden on the pockets of motorists or the

proliferation of its technology and economies of scale within the

surrounding environment. The car is simple, light and fun in every

sector.

respect.”

When the vehicle is in motion, hydrogen passes through the 56 | Endeavour Magazine

Endeavour Magazine | 57

5,000 JOBS VACANT IN UK AUTOMOTIVE DUE TO SKILLS SHORTAGE

U

p to 5,000 job vacancies in the UK automotive industry

best year in a decade for car production, with 1.59 million vehicles

could be vacant due to a skills shortage affecting the sector,

built2 and volumes are forecast to reach an all-time record

according to a new report published today by the Automotive

2 million by 2020.3 The UK also achieved notable success in

Council.

productivity levels, which have increased 40% since 2010 to make

The report1, which was developed by automotive industry

UK labour productivity the highest in Europe.4 But this success

consultants SMMT Industry Forum on behalf of the Automotive

could be undermined by the lack of skilled engineers to fill new

Industrial Partnership, surveys a range of British-based automotive

jobs, despite efforts made by companies to increase training and

firms, from vehicle manufacturers to component suppliers, in order

apprenticeships.5

to identify the areas of employment most difficult to recruit into,

Jo Lopes, Chair of the Automotive Industrial Partnership and

and provides an important means for industry and the Government

Head of Technical Excellence, Jaguar Land Rover, said, “These

to tackle the skills issue. Around 19% of the unfilled vacancies

are very significant findings which present a valuable basis for

cited in the report are identified as ‘critical’ and having a significant

Government and industry to jointly tackle this issue head-on and

impact on company operations.

ensure that the growth potential of the industry in the coming

Of the top 10 job types for which recruitment is most difficult,

years is fulfilled. The Automotive Industrial Partnership has already

the majority are in engineering – with the top two in-demand

made some important steps since its inception – including the

roles being design and production engineers. The knock-on effect,

introduction of a range of training programmes – and it will have a

according to the report, is that companies are hiring temporary

crucial role to play in addressing the skills challenge.”

contractors and increasingly recruiting from abroad.

The renaissance of the UK automotive industry since the recession has brought significant success to the sector and helped to sustain just under 800,000 jobs across Britain. 2015 was the 58 | Endeavour Magazine

Skills Minister Nick Boles said, “Our automotive workforce is the most productive in Europe and this goes a long way to explaining why production hit record levels last year.

“But this report shows we cannot be complacent. The

sector needs to maintain its high productivity and international

its inception, the partnership has developed a ‘jobs framework’

competitiveness and address the required demand of skilled

– an industry standard hierarchy of roles – to make it easier for

workforce, engineers and designers. That’s why our apprenticeship

companies to structure positions and for employees to follow

reforms are putting employers in the driving seat, to deliver the

clear career development paths. It has also implemented a number

high-tech, long-term skills our economy needs.

of new training programmes and is developing the Automotive

“The Automotive Industrial Partnership is a good example of Government and industry working together, and I welcome this report.”

Apprenticeship Matching Service to retain more high calibre apprentices in the industry.6 In addition to the new personnel needed, there are also many

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “The automotive

new training requirements due to the adoption of new automotive

industry has already invested heavily in apprenticeships and training

technologies in the industry. According to the report, 71 different

for existing staff to grow and develop a new generation of skilled

types of learning are required for more than 20,000 people

workers. However, even more support is needed. The struggle to

working in the industry – 15% of whom have an immediate need

fill vacancies is holding back growth and opportunities for business,

for new training. The most critical training requirements are in lean

and it is essential that both government and industry work together

manufacturing (minimising waste), advanced problem solving and

quickly to identify ways to plug this gap. Future schemes must

tool making.

focus on quality not just quantity – and more support is needed to promote STEM subjects in schools.”

The report sets out a range of recommendations to tackle the skills shortage. These include the implementation of a co-

The Automotive Industrial Partnership was initiated in early

ordinated approach to STEM (science, technology, engineering and

2015 by the Automotive Council to bring together major automotive

mathematics) subjects in schools, as well businesses ensuring that

businesses in order to help ensure future skills needs are met for

apprenticeship opportunities on offer from the Government are

UK vehicle manufacturers and supply chain companies. Since

maximised.

Endeavour Magazine | 59

60 | Endeavour Magazine

OCS SERVICES LTD WWW.OCSOFFSHORE.COM 65 31571322

OFFERING THE COMPLETE SERVICE TO THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Global company OCS was established over three decades ago in 1984 and is an undisputed industry leader in the marine and offshore services universe. Listed on the Oslo stock exchange, the organisation is a joint venture between Planet Investment & Ventures and BW Offshore, the world’s second largest floating production system provider.

Endeavour Magazine | 61

OCS SERVICES LTD

Looking at the company’s operations, it is evident that thanks

to the global spread of their group companies, OCS Services DMCC, OCS Services India and OCS Services Pte Ltd, the sun never sets on the company’s ever growing empire. “With our offices in Dubai, India and Singapore we have clearly established ourselves as a world class company for the oil and gas industry,” says Graham Bland, the company director.

H

e elaborates that their long term associations with leading

years, established a global footprint and expanded their scope of

oil and gas operators and contractors in 23 countries across

operations to provide comprehensive offshore services including

Asia, the Americas, Europe, Australia, and Africa has provided

project management capabilities in the areas of Total Corrosion

them with a footprint extensive enough to allow them to adapt and

Management Services (TCM) and Maintenance, Repairs and

expand to support their clients across markets, industry verticals

Overhauling Services (MRO) to become an integrated service

and project types. It is this that has given them the well-used term,

provider for oil and gas companies worldwide.

“The OCS advantage.”

Considering the technical understanding required to properly

“We do not compete with those who know the price of

service this industry, OCS has also established itself as one of

everything and the value of nothing,” he explains, “At OCS, our

the leading total integrated crew management companies in their

focus is ‘creating and delivering value’ for the client’s operations

field. Offering comprehensive selection, training and deployment

and for their companies and their brands.”

services for positions and roles across cadre in the oil and gas

And the proof is in the pudding, as OCS offer the lowest total

and marine industries, “Our manning services include end-to-

system cost and as a vendor are committed to ensuring maximum

end technical manpower and crew management services for

uptime while remaining competitive in the overall context. It is

rigs, drill ships, FPSOs, production platforms, vessels, corrosion

thanks to this, Graham explains, that they are able to cater to over

management, maintenance, repairs and overhauling etc. for the

40 leading E&P clients.

upstream and marine industry,” he says.

WHAT OF OCS

relationships and Fabtec Marine & Offshore Engineering Sdn Bhd

After all, business is all about building and maintaining 30 years of experience have established a confidence within

has, on numerous occasions in the past few years, worked with

the company to deliver above standard levels of service and

OCS Services Ltd for their various project requirements including

OCS is able to offer all the essentials to guarantee a long and

things like fabrication, installation and renewal of piping and steel

fruitful relationship with their clients. It all stems from the highly

structures and providing qualified and expert personnel for work

competent and resourceful technical team who are supported by

on board FPSO’s.

1800 extremely motivated, trained and experienced personnel and lead by a team of ex oil and gas marine field personnel.

OCS Services operates through two divisions; Marine Services and Oil and Gas Services. Marine Services provides the industry

Established in 1984 as a technical manpower service provider

with crew management and other support services including

catering to the offshore industry in India, OCS has, over the

ship management services, while Oil and Gas Services provide

62 | Endeavour Magazine

total integrated crew management, maintenance, repairs and overhauling and total corrosion management services.

But what areas do these divisions readily service?

OFFSHORE Offering services to the offshore industry has always been a major element of the OSC Services offering and their total integrated crew management (TICM) system provides an end-toend manpower management solution that covers all bases and enables the customer to outsource complete personnel-related processes.

Along with this, OCS offers comprehensive recruitment and back office support by providing and maintaining a highly efficient and effective crew on board. This crew is selected in-line with the client’s requirement and the selection process at their end is modified and customised to address the client’s specifications.

“We employ a multi-pronged approach towards strategic resource development by nurturing, training, developing and absorbing human talent and converting it into dynamic human energy,” says Graham.

Fabtec Marine & Offshore Engineering Sdn Bhd has on numerous occasions in the past few years, worked with OCS Services Ltd for their various project requirements including the following: 1)Fabrication, installation and renewal of piping and steel structures.

2)Providing qualified and expert personnel for work on board FPSO’s.

We have also been otherwise routinely carrying out fabrications of various steel structures for the Oil & Gas, Marine, and Petrochemical sectors for our well reputed clients.

Fabtec Marine & Offshore Engineering Sdn Bhd 20 Jalan Cenderai 27, Kawasan Perindustrian, Kota Putri 81570 Masai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Mr. Anil Kumar Luthra Mr. Lee Kok Heng Mr. Mutyala Mr. Dheeraj Soni Email:

+65 91523862 +60 167799459 +65 90217349 +65 92330014

admin@fabtec.com.my

Endeavour Magazine | 63

OCS SERVICES LTD

MARINE The marine division of OCS is internationally known as Nortrans and with the experience and expertise gained over the years, this branch provides a wide range of services that include total crew management, technical support management, ship management, insurance and shipbuilding facilitation and supervision.

“We also operate as a one point solution for the maintenance, repairs, overhauling requirements and a total corrosion management of our customers,” Graham adds, “To all areas of the oil and gas industry.

PROJECTS A recent case study highlights exactly what the defining qualities

their drillships had to venture into hostile, deep-sea environments and due to this their vessel’s hulls were prone to suffering various types of damage due to corrosion and barnacle deposition.

Therefore, the maintenance of the hull of these drillships was very important. But it offered a challenge as these drillships come at a huge day rate and any damages to the same would prove to be exceptionally costyle, especially if they incurred downtime.

The utmost care is required to handle the maintenance work of such ships, hence their client required a corrosion maintenance provider who is resourceful and experienced enough to complete the task efficiently, within a short time period. This is why they chose OCS and in fact awarded them with the entire contract. The job was inspected afterwards by DWF Captain and Jotun paint technician.

of OCS Services are and why they have such a solid reputation

Such projects are a challenge for whatever company takes on

for excellence. The Deep Water Frontier (DWF) promised an

the contract, Graham explains, and OCS Services is not infallible.

interesting challenge from the start, as their client was one of the

What makes the company unique and more importantly, capable of

largest offshore drilling contractors in the world with the most

handling such challenges, is its willingness to think outside the box,

versatile fleet of mobile offshore drilling units that help companies

to encourage creative thinking and to take the bull by the horns.

extract oil and natural gas.

Since their client was engaged in the business of offshore drilling,

64 | Endeavour Magazine

After all, you don’t get to be the best by stepping backwards when faced with a challenge.

66 | Endeavour Magazine

SAFAL STEEL WWW.SAFALSTEEL.CO.ZA 27 (31) 782 5500

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Determined to make a difference in the world of steel roofing, the Safal Group has made immense strides into what was a relatively static industry.

Endeavour took a closer look at the innovative operation to find out where they’ve come from and how they plan to move into the future.

Endeavour Magazine | 67

SAFAL STEEL

Known as Africa’s largest and most successful producer of steel

roofing solutions, the Safal Group is really setting the standard, as well as innovating constantly. Not content with being the premier operation in the country, they are now the sole producer of Aluminium Zinc coated steel throughout the entire continent, but how did it become such a force to be reckoned with?

H

ardly a flash in the pan operation, the Safal Group has a legacy stretching back over 50 years and it has used that time well, garnering an incredible reputation for exemplar operations

within its core areas of interest, which are listed as, “4 coil coating operations produce metal-coated and pre-painted steel coils, using a patented Aluminium-Zinc coating technology acknowledged worldwide for its performance and durability. 26 roll forming operations in 11 African countries produce roof sheeting

Beckers is a global industrial coatings company specialising in coil coatings.

under respected brand names, adding specialist accessory products

Above and beyond words: we believe in action and commitment.

construction components that complement the roofing and steel

Beckers Group Becker Industrial Coatings (Pty) Ltd 105 Houtkop Road, Duncanville, Vereeniging Office +27(0)16 428 4011 info-za@beckers-group.com www.beckers-group.com

that enhance the performance of the total roofing system. 6 further operations manufacture specialised steel structural products and businesses.”

From small acorns grow mighty oak trees and while the Safal Group started out by simply supplying corrugated roofing material back in the 1940s, by 1962 it was opening a manufacturing plant in Mombasa. Little would anyone have guessed that by now, the Group would be manufacturing in 11 separate African countries and selling their diverse range of good throughout three continents.

It seems almost hard to comprehend such growth, but with a comprehensive management team in place and a full compliment of incredible team members, the progress becomes a little more understandable.

Always looking to “make a world of difference”, as their strapline reveals, the Safal Group has made impressive investment into it’s human resources and now boasts an impressive 3,800 employees,

68 | Endeavour Magazine

Endeavour Magazine | 69

SAFAL STEEL

each of which is fully supported by a compliment of training

and communities that really need support. Just imagine what a

resources to fully develop their potential. It is suddenly crystal clear

different world we would live in if all corporations acted with such

just how this operation has found the requisite levels of expertise

grace and humility!

and gutsiness to compete not just on a local level, but in the panAfrican and global arena too.

You’d be forgiven for assuming that an operation as communityfocussed as this would have small dreams, but that would be a

Given the large-scale operation that the Safal Group is now,

falsehood! The Group’s vision is to be “Africa’s premier provider

it’s particularly impressive to find out just how important their

of coated steel coils for roofing and building solutions” and we

values and ethics are, not to mention how committed they are to

have no problem believing that this is an easily attainable goal,

undertaking community support initiatives. Speaking of those, the

especially when you consider the values that underpin every facet

company reveals that,

of operation. It’s also a little bit of fun that they use their name to

“The Safal Group has a deep commitment to the communities within which the individual companies operate. The Safal Group has established health centres and technical institutes, built classrooms and recreational facilities, and funded wide reaching awareness programmes for HIV/AIDS and the prevention of diseases.”

While community outreach has become something of a trendy thing for large companies to become involved with, because it

really drive them home,

S Stakeholder care with uncompromising integrity A Attitude of gratitude towards community and the environment F Focus on creativity and innovation A Adaptability to the changing business environment L Lively and dynamic work culture

looks good ‘on paper’, there is no doubting the inherent sincerity with which the Safal Group participates. They have nothing prove,

How many other global operations can you name that have ethical

but everything to give and they make sure they do, to the people

values so deeply ingrained into their core that their name literally

70 | Endeavour Magazine

stands for uncompromising dedication and professionalism? Add in

investing in its people, sustaining each other and protecting the

that their sate of the art facilities make light work of supporting

environment as the source of all our wealth; with these values, we

the environmentally-friendly processes that are important to the

firmly believe that success is inevitable. We strive to make ours

Safal Group and you are fast approaching the realms of this being

such a business. This is our approach to sustainability”

a standalone example of how businesses should and can be run.

By combining innovation, determination, ethics and a deep-

Looking into the future, there is no doubting that the Safal

seated sense of community, the Safal Group will continue to make

Group will continue to build on their already exemplar business

great inroads into the business world, atop an unbreakable steed

model, while continually looking for new community outreach

made from the finest quality steel. We can’t wait to watch the

opportunities to take part in.

progress of this operation and hope to see its influence affecting

There will be no relinquishing the crown that they have ensured

other companies within the African continent. This is not just a

is firmly paced on top of the Group and Dhiru P Shah, one of the

leader in the steel market, after all, this is a business model that can

founders is clearly excited by what the future could hold, as he

and should be inspirational to every operation out there

comments that, “We will continue this journey by expanding our manufacturing into as many new countries in Africa as possible, whilst always providing the best service and quality to our customers and to the end users of our products.”

Dr Manu Chandaria, a fellow founder, also added, “Businesses can help build the future of Africa. By investing with responsibility and insight, by partnering with communities and

Endeavour Magazine | 71

72 | Endeavour Magazine

QATAR TECHNICAL STEEL FABRICATION & INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION WWW.QATARTECHNICAL.COM +974 44 606 999

ENTERING THE NEXT CHAPTER OF THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

Speaking with Deputy Managing Director of Qatar Technical Steel Fabrication and Industrial Refrigeration, Michel Mitri, he revealed that the main business was founded by the current Managing Director Mr. Gabi Mitri in 1992 and was named Alfa Industrial Refrigeration, focusing on industrial refrigeration works which was a continuation of the family’s line of business.

Endeavour Magazine | 73

QATAR TECHNICAL STEEL FABRICATION & INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION

“In addition to the fabrication of cable trunking and cable trays, a few years later we began the production of service Cabinets for the General Electricity and Water Corporation “Kahramaa”,” he says.

It was a period of growth, with machining products and services introduced in 2002 and custom steel fabrication, such as stainless steel handrails and kitchen equipment, added in 2004. Then, as Michel explains, in 2006 they decided to restructure the company’s business.

“We identified the main products that rendered the bulk of our commercial success and looked to redefine our business by these services,” he explains, “This added more clarity to what we

I

n 2011, the company underwent a re-launch under the new commercial name Qatar Technical Steel Fabrication and Industrial Refrigeration. To understand why, the events leading up to this

point have to be looked at.

1990S AND EARLY 2000S Industrial refrigeration and the fabrication of cable trunking

do and needed to do later and definitely improved on production efficiency of our company. We divided our company into four business divisions, each catering to a specific range of products and services.”

Today, Qatar Technical’s growing potential and aspirations have lead them to a new plant that incorporates larger and more advanced production facilities in a total area of 11000 m2 located at the New Industrial Area, Doha - Qatar.

and trays were the main business in the 90s, until 2002 at which

Michel explains that this plant is designed to support new-

time the company took its first steps into diversifying their product

product development and further enhance their existing products

range. Michel says the simple reason behind the initiative to

by stressing on quality, consistency and compliance with local and

diversify their products and services lay in the fact that technically

international best practices and standards.

they were able to fabricate different variations of steel products

“All four of our divisions are covered here,” he says, “Industrial

with their machinery assets, which were “humble” at the time –

Refrigeration which includes cold stores and refrigerated transport

they wanted to maximise the use of these assets. Plus, the market

vehicles, our Standard Products Division which includes cable

started growing by the 2000s, bringing more opportunities to all

support systems, interior fixtures and service cabinets; our

operating companies in Qatar.

Machining Division with its fleet of CNC machinery and where

74 | Endeavour Magazine

QATAR TECHNICAL STEEL FABRICATION & INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION

we specialise in the design, modeling and fabrication of custom

influences, such as oil prices or economical regressions, are factors

manufactured dies and moulds up to 6000Kg in weight and lastly

of slowing this type of business down.”

laser and automated sheet metal processes support the Steel Fabrication Division product range of stainless steel decorative works, railings and kitchen equipment.

UNIQUENESS

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS In 1992, Michel reveals, the company began with two operators and two machines and now the business employs 75 staff, utilising over 100 machines and the company is still expanding.

Michel believes that it is important to know what makes your

“As part of the relaunch, we are planning to introduce a new

company stand out and to nurture and focus on it. The re-launch in

administration system that will include several training and

2011 was an example of this, “What makes us unique is our passion

evaluation programmes that will allow us to ensure that current

for quality products, quality services and an honest business

and new staff are well prepared to support our diverse operations

approach,” he says, “We prioritise client satisfaction and stay alert

and that all are aligned with the company’s values and contribute to

to honour our commitments and to maintain a reputable business.”

its present and future endeavours,” he says.

He explains further that even while the industry is buoyant at

“Staff development has to be taken seriously,” he says, “No

the moment, this type of business is particularly demanding, “It’s

institution can progress and achieve further success and legacy

a world of its own; especially when you produce a wider range of

without developing the most important asset of all - people. We

products and still aim to achieve the highest standard over the

are doing our best to keep all our plans in place, including employee

course of the years.

training and development.”

“With all the competition that is in this region, there are still

Happy employees usually result in happy customers, but

means to improve and embrace a better business. Definitely, global

Michel adds that, “As we are in the manufacturing and contracting

76 | Endeavour Magazine

business, product quality, compliance with required specifications

highly skilled operators and engineers, Michel says that a new

and commitment to delivery terms are essential to a satisfied

marketing plan is essential to obtain a redefined attention that will

customer.”

help keep Qatar Technical ahead of the competition.

It is also for this reason that after sales is such an important part

Qatar Technical are looking at exporting their products to

of the customer offering, as customer feedback on their products

nearby regions first and then to outer regions, “This will be the

and quality in application is critical to sustain their business, “One

next chapter in our achievements,” he says, “Plans are underway to

of our future plans is to highlight customer service through the

contact potential regional clients to send the first batch of exported

addition of Customer Relations Department which would cater for

products in the near future.”

all of our business divisions products.”

After a quarter of a century in the making and with the best of the business’ offerings yet to come, Qatar Technical has been and

KEEPING AHEAD 2016 seems to be a very exciting time for the company and Michel reveals there are a couple of areas of new development that are keeping him on the edge of his seat. A system review is being prepared and they are in the process of obtaining different

will continue being invested in with money, time and dedication.

“The re-launch and these new developments will not only further promote Qatar Technical to the local and regional markets, but will ensure business sustainability and continuity, hopefully for decades to come.” Michel concludes.

management quality certifications, “which will inevitably create a solid platform for the entire business to showcase its technical potentials. It is the right time now to match the technical expansion with administrative enhancements.”, he added.

In addition to investing in and acquiring advanced machinery,

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PACCAR WINCH WWW.PACCARWINCH.COM 001 (918) 251-8511

THE FINEST IN THE WORLD WRITTEN BY DON CAMPBELL

What does it take to make a truly great company?

A company lasts throughout the decades because it focusses on getting the best of every day. This is probably why the history of PACCAR Winch Division is such an inspiring one.

Endeavour Magazine | 79

PACCAR WINCH

Comprising of three individual brand divisions including Braden,

Carco and Gearmatic, you cannot look at PACCAR Winch Division without taking the time to appreciate the three businesses that comprised it.

BRADEN Braden’s history began in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1924 with the Braden Steel Corporation. Originally they supplied equipment for the oil fields that included drive heads for popping shallow wells. Glenn Braden’s close involvement with oil production and the automobile entering the American industrial age coincided in 1927 where he introduced the first Braden truck mounted winch, designed for unloading and positioning loads in the oil fields.

When, in 1930 Glenn Braden unfortunately passed away, his estate, along with Braden Steel Corporation, was placed in the care

service, Gearmatic units have always been the ‘Swiss watch’ of winches.

It was in 1983 that these three companies were brought together to form PACCAR Winch Division, relocating two of them to Braden’s manufacturing facility in Broken Arrow. The move resulted in the industry’s most dynamic and flexible manufacturer.

A synergy of knowledge and experience was born by consolidating these three companies into one division of PACCAR and it has led to the highest quality supply of winch, hoist and drive systems in the world.

of Colonial trust and three years later, with a total capital of $1,100, TJ Schuetz entered an agreement with Colonial Trust and formed Braden Winch Service Company.

Six years later, the company was changed to Braden Winch and their current facility is located in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, which was erected in 1946 to facilitate Braden’s rapid growth during and after the war effort.

CARCO Meanwhile in Seattle, Carco had been supplying freight cars and rail cars to the nations growing railway system. The Pacific Northwest was a corridor for timber operations and railheads heading north. Carco began manufacturing job-specific equipment for the timber industry in 1932 with the introduction of their first yarding winch. As the rail industry faded in the post-war years, Carco’s focus was supplying the timber operators with winches and hauling tackle. Carco winch products were developed alongside the world’s first track driven dozer’s in the great northwest forests.

PACCAR WINCH Making the best out of the time and the expertise and making smart use of their ability to innovative, research and develop, PACCAR Winch Division has become the industry leader in the design and manufacture of winches, hoists and drive systems, servicing a diverse and growing customer base that consists of the world’s leading equipment manufacturers.

Backed by a solid foundation of proven industry and application knowledge, their research and development engineers utilise the latest design technology including Six Sigma (DFSS), Pro-E and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to provide precision component designs, robust assemblies and rugged products. Additionally, their engineering staff conducts comprehensive testing to ensure that all products and components perform to customer specifications.

PACCAR understand that their products will be used in demanding circumstances, by customers that will rely on their products to keep their businesses running and while, tragically, a customer may never thank them when their product outlasts all

GEARMATIC

their competition, they will certainly choose an alternative if the

Gearmatic began as a manufacturer of power transmissions in

quality of their product falls below par. To be certain, PACCAR

late 1946 in Vancouver, B.C. Planetary gear train designs have been

Winch Division has simply chosen to make exceptional quality

a central feature since first pioneered by Gearmatic. Over years of

something that they can be known and recognised for.

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YOUR ONE STOP CENTRE FOR OIL & GAS SERVICE SOLUTIONS Handal Resources Berhad, an investment holding company, with its Corporate Office based in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. Handal Resources Berhad has several subsidiary divisions operating in the oil and gas sector, ranging from an integrated Crane Service, to Engineering and Drilling solutions.

Handal Offshore Services provides crane overhaul and maintenance services. It is a recognized Braden winch service center, supplier of manpower and parts, and manufactures and monograms API 2c offshore pedestal cranes. Handal has two API 2c licensed manufacturing facilities, which are manufacturing the full range of Handal’s Seacrane Brand of Offshore Marine Pedestal Cranes. Handal provides modular offshore pedestal crane rental services and lifting solutions for all platform needs including drilling and work-over projects. These modular rental cranes eliminate the need for expensive barge cranes to support platform activities.

Handal also supplies a myriad of additional services including; fabrication of industrial plant equipment, tank systems, piping and mooring systems, along with consultant and support services for engineering projects.

Handrill is the drilling division of Handal, and provides the following services; operation of land and offshore drilling rigs, work-over, and drilling management services.

Handal Resources Berhad CORPORATE OFFICE No 16C Jalan 51A/225 46100 Petaling Jaya Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603-78750150 / 0139 Fax: +603-78766394 Email: info@handalresources.com www.handalresources.com.my

Handal Offshore Services Sdn Bhd OPERATION OFFICE / API 2C LICENSED MANUFACTURING FACILITY Yard 1: Lot PT 7358 Kawasan Perindustrian Telok Kalong, 24007 Kemaman Terengganu, Malaysia Tel : +609 – 860 2000 Fax : +609 – 860 2199

Handal Offshore Services Sdn Bhd OPERATION OFFICE / API 2C LICENSED MANUFACTURING FACILITY Yard 2: Kemaman Supply Base, 04 Kawasan Lapang Fasa ll, 24000 Kemaman, Terengganu, Malaysia.

Tel (6 09) 8632842 Fax (6 09) 8632843

PACCAR WINCH

Indeed, this exceptional quality is the cornerstone of PACCAR

maximum efficiency and multi-stage planetary reduction.

and is the reason design, construction and service are never

Some optional features that could increase the winches ability to

compromised. ISO 9001, ANSI, API, DNV, ABS and SAE are some of

meet specific, bespoke requirements include gear ratios, hydraulic

the certifications and standards PACCAR Winch Division pursues

motors (gear, vain, piston), drum sizes and mounting configurations

and they build the world’s best winches, not simply by meeting industry standards, but by setting them.

The Carco Model H60 is a hydraulically driven winch featuring a triple reduction planetary winch drive system enclosed in a large welded housing that mounts on the rear of a crawler tractor. This

FEATURED PRODUCTS The new PD18D Composite Utility Bumper is over 54kgs lighter than the standard bumper packages and this one is capable of 20,000 lbs first layer line pull. It is corrosion resistant, as it is designed and manufactured with composite material to endure all environments and with an improved style it will complement the new aerodynamic body styles, which many other bumpers are unable to accommodate. In short, the PD18D Composite Utlity Bumper has the lowest weight and the longest life of any other bumper in the industry.

The CH280A Series planetary winch is a high performance product designed to provide many years of service and comes with some inspiring standard features including multi-disc brake spring applied and hydraulically released; anti-friction bearings for

82 | Endeavour Magazine

winch is driven by a hydraulic motor which depends upon the tractor hydraulic system for power. The delivery of the oil supply to the winch motor varies with specific tractor design. Designed to set the standard for precise load control in applications like pipeline construction, phosphate mining, power line sagging and heavy construction, this model also features a sprag-type, over-running brake clutch ensuring no fall-back when the winching operation is stopped; a spring applied hydraulically released multi-disc static brake holds the load when no power is applied to the winch and also remains applied during haul-in and an equal speed gearing with power-in and power-out Braden GH30 Planetary Hoist and the GH30 Series planetary winch are high performance products designed to provide many years of service. Standard features are similar to the Carco Model

H60, which is in-keeping with the high authority of PACCAR’s

Winch Division products are supported by an entire department

designs and product manufacturing.

dedicated to providing the best parts, service and technical support in the industry. Comprehensive service literature, factory training

PEOPLE AND PROCESS Of course, the true backbone of PACCAR Winch Division is found within their contingent of employees. These talented and highly skilled individuals define, measure, analyse, improve and

schools, online parts, service information and phone support all ensure information and technical data is available when it’s needed.

FUTURE. BEYOND 2016

control each process, ensuring defect-free products by focussing

PACCAR Winch Division is committed to continuously

their attention on one product at a time. Continual process

strengthening the Company’s market position through unwavering

education and refinement has led to the most innovative and

dedication to growth, quality, value and service, while securing the

advanced manufacturing techniques in the industry and each

future with appropriate investments into employees, equipment

product is hand-built and inspected by a qualified associate.

and technologies. In coming years, the Company plans to continue

Considering that across their manufacturing, assembly, service,

reaching new heights of customer satisfaction and product design.

and sales forces there are over four centuries worth of field

New innovative products will be introduced to the marketplace,

experience, they strive to maintain a knowledgeable and diverse

maintaining the same high standards for design and practicality

network of internal resources to sell, supply and service the finest

PACCAR products have delivered since 1905.

winch and drive systems in the world.

Treating the customer right is not only a case of selling the best equipment, but also offering the best aftersales too. When products

Above all, the Company’s goal will remain the same; to have passion and drive to be the best and to offer the finest value and the highest quality winch, hoist and drive systems in the world.

continue to perform for 20 years, 30 years or more, substantial credit belongs to outstanding parts and service support. PACCAR

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PROCON MINING & TUNELLING LTD WWW.PROCONGROUP.NET 001 604.291.8292

TAILORED MINING SOLUTIONS THAT FIT LIKE A GLOVE WRITTEN BY AMY TOCKNELL

Offering a full compliment of mining solutions, Procon has turned industry expertise into a formula for success with relative ease. Endeavour investigated to find out how they maintain a competitive edge in a seemingly saturated market.

Endeavour Magazine | 85

PROCON MINING & TUNELLING LTD

What sets Procon apart from its nearest competitors appears

to be fully inclusive, start-to-finish solutions provision that allows clients to be assured that they are in safe hands and don’t need to continually oversee operations.

T

he Company reveals that it is able to fund, construct and

solutions. Our fleet, comprising over 250 pieces of underground

run any open pit or traditional underground mining projects,

mobile gear and supported by ancillary equipment, is the largest in

regardless of how unusual or complex they might be and no

the industry.”

corners will ever be cut. Because of this commitment to quality,

With such resources at its fingertips, it’s no wonder that the

even civil infrastructure projects have been awarded to Procon, but

organisation can make promises of quality and safety that few

what does the company itself think is behind its success?

others can and to know that these are traceable and observable is

“Our comprehensive solutions give clients an unsurpassed

a bonus no potential client could overlook.

depth of resources and breadth of technical expertise. Procon is

So what drives Procon? It can’t simply be profit margins, or

experienced in the extraction of a broad range of natural resources

there would be a flagrant disregard for employee welfare and client

such as gold, diamonds, potash, copper, base metals and more.

satisfaction, both of which are hailed massively important. Looking

We are guided by bedrock values of safety, integrity, quality and

at the official company mission statement, you might be surprised

respect for our environment.”

by what is motivating the Company to continually strive for more.

So it’s not only the expertise that is drawing new customers

“Our mission is to ensure the highest standards in mining safety,

and securing return clients; there are firm values and ethics at

development and operation to our mining clients around the world

play as well, all of which look to protect the safety of workers and

through our experienced and talented team of professionals –with

the wider environment. By always following best practice safety

unsurpassed respect for the environment and a down-to-earth

protocols, Procon was in a good position to diversify into the safety

attitude.”

consultation arena, which they did successfully with the formation of ProconSAFE Group.

Speaking about the varied portfolio of services on offer, Procon sounds unnecessarily modest,

It’s that final element that really catches our attention. Safety and environmentally friendly initiatives are becoming common mission statement additions, but how often do you come across a company that actively wants to be thought of as down-to-

“Our services include contract mining, mine development and

earth? It adds such a level of humanity to a large operation that

construction services such as civil tunnelling and civil construction.

clients and employees alike must feel like so much more than a

We draw from a well-trained and highly skilled workforce with years

small cog in an impersonal machine. Unsurprisingly, the values that

of experience. Our qualified teams include talented professionals

underpin everything the company sets out to complete are also

dedicated to the delivery of high quality and cost effective

breathtakingly relatable.

86 | Endeavour Magazine

“We are committed to the highest standards of safety performance possible, we always strive for excellence and continuously assess our performance, we deal fairly and honestly with everyone and value our integrity above all and our goals are complete client and employee satisfaction and the operation of highly functional and efficient mining operations.”

We know what we are dealing with now: a large, successful operation that has a small, family feel to it. This is not faceless business, a sadly common occurrence, this is human-driven supportive enterprise and one that concerns itself with far more than just its own profitability, as is demonstrated by the comprehensive sustainability policy.

Hydraulics & Pneumatics Sales, Service & System Design Piston, Gear & Vane Pumps Piston, Gear, Vane & Orbit Motors Filters,Valves Accumulators & Accessories Component Repairs & Testing Cylinder Repair & Manufacturing Machine Shop Services (Including CNC) Truck Service Bay Custom Hydraulic Power Units

“Procon considers environmental protection to be a critical part of our corporate responsibility. We have long been committed to conducting all our operations in a responsible manner so as to minimise impact on our environment.”

These are not simply pretty words that the more eco-minded among us want to hear, this is a solid promise that, where possible, all care will be taken to minimise the environmental impact that Procon has during their project completions. This is not an easy task for a one-stop mining solutions operation, yet they pledge, “Compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and standards,

11031-166 A Street N.W, Edmonton Phone: (780) 484-2324 Fax: (780) 484-0128 www.controlflow.ca

excellence in our management of the environment by applying pollution prevention principles and addressing environmental implications in all our decisions, activities and expenditures and application of best management practices, modern control methods and processes that are both economically feasible and technically sound to minimise waste generation and pollutant discharge from company activities.”

Add to this a commitment to maintaining a “proactive approach to protecting the environment by regularly assessing our environmental performance, training our workforce to recognize environmental issues and ensuring that the spirit of Procon’s sustainability policy is upheld in all company projects”, and you have a company that is not seeking to align itself with ‘that’ll do’ culture, but instead, set the benchmark by which all other mining companies should measure themselves.

If further proof were needed that Procon has set itself a target of being the very standard by which safe operations are measured, their impressive 3000 days without a lost time injury milestone is up to the task! Celebrated in September of last year, it marks a whopping eight years of lost time accident-free operation for their equipment division and stands as a testament to why they are so successful. Simply put, you can take them at their word.

With convenience always at the forefront of business developments, we see even more progress in the future for Procon.

After all, what can be better than a one-stop mining solutions provider that not only claims to be the best and the safest, but actually is?

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CHAMBER OF MINES - GHANA +0302 760652 GHANACHAMBEROFMINES.ORG

CRACKING THE WHIP ON ILLEGAL MINING WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

The Ghana Chamber of Mines was set up as a voluntary private sector employers association, with the vision of protecting those working in the mining industry and providing them with a unified, respected and collaborative voice. The states and affairs of the mining industry in Ghana affect the whole country, as the mining industry accounts for 5% of the country’s GDP and as Ghana is Africa’s second largest gold miner, there is an increased demand for work, hence an increased need for the miners themselves to have representation.

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CHAMBER OF MINES - GHANA

The chamber’s desire and commitment to serve both members’ and

the country has reinforced the need and strengthened their efforts to build an information-driven, people-centred and development-oriented industry where everyone can access, share and utilise accurate information and knowledge on mining and mining related activities.

o put the importance of mining into perspective: Export

T

“The chamber represents the collective interests of companies

earnings from minerals averaged 35% and the sector is one of

involved in mineral exploration, production and processing in

the largest contributors to Government revenues through the

Ghana and has been since 1928,” Koney says, “We are funded by

payment of mineral royalties, employee income taxes and corporate

our members who produce over 90 percent of the country’s mineral

taxes. In 2005, gold production accounted for about 95% of total

output and as such it is in the best interests of the country to stop

mining export proceeds.

theft by illegal miners.”

The extractive mining industry of Ghana generated an annual

In a recent statement, released February 2016, Koney explained

revenue of GH₵75.7 billion (US$35 billion) in 2014 and other

that the country stands to lose if steps are not taken to address

than industrial minerals and exports from South Ghana, such as

the theft and that the chamber wants specific steps to be taken to

timber, diamonds, bauxite and manganese, South Ghana also

restore order at the AngloGold Ashanti mine, where the Director

has a great deposit of barites, basalts, clays, dolomites, feldspars,

of Communications of the company died in a mysterious accident.

granites, gravels, gypsums, iron ores, kaolins, laterites, limestones,

The mysterious accident in question is when John Owusu, Public

magnesites, marbles, micas, phosphates, phosphorus, rocks, salts,

Affairs Director of Anglogold Ashanti, lost his life when his driver,

sands, sandstones, slates and talcs that are yet to be fully exploited.

fleeing the hostilities of illegal miners on concessions owned by

It also attracts a high amount of international interest and

AGA, accidentally ran over him.

investment as the parliament of Ghana has no plans to nationalise

The chamber was quoted, “Companies such as AngloGold

Ghana’s mining industry. Therefore, providing support for the

Ashanti - Obuasi Mine in recent weeks and Perseus Mining at

miners themselves and information to the public with regards to

Ayanfuri in recent months, have seen an escalation of activities of

the activities and future plans of the mines, the chamber’s online

illegal miners on their concessions. These companies, who employ

presence has proved to be a valuable one as it has created a single

thousands of Ghanaians, are compelled to use all legal means to

port of call for people wanting to access important information that

eject the illegal miners from their concessions with the help of the

may pertain to them. They have become the voice for the mining

security apparatus. This has often resulted in violent confrontations

industry within the country and it is a title and a responsibility

leading to injuries and destruction of property.”

that they take very seriously, which is why it comes as no surprise

Henceforth, the Ghana Chamber of Mines are urging the

that it was the chamber’s CEO, Sulemanu Koney, who called for

Government to urgently and resolutely turn its attention to the

the Government to intervene in what has become the perennial

perennial incidents of illegal miners invading concessions of

invasion of mining concessions by illegal miners.

large-scale mining companies particularly during election years.

90 | Endeavour Magazine

Carefully controlled explosives energy made this possible‌.

CHAMBER OF MINES - GHANA

The situation has arisen again with the advent of illegal miners

there will be no way to prevent an imminent loss of investor

encroaching on the bona fide concessions of large-scale mining

confidence in the country, which adds to the risk of some companies

companies.

cutting investments,” he added.

“The country stands to lose heavily if the activities of the illegal

Over the years, mining companies have received support from

miners are allowed to fester ahead of the election in November

the National Security Committee on Lands and Natural Resources

2016. There is a clear and present danger to our environment

in addressing the encroachment of their concessions by illegal

and to Ghana’s economy as illegal miners fight large-scale mining

miners. However, there are pockets of illegal miners that continue

companies for concessions the latter have obtained legally. This in

to encroach on the concessions of companies in spite of the

itself breeds a sense of insecurity and fear among investors, which

interventions of the State.

will cause a slowdown in investment in the country’s minerals

This illegality deprives duly licensed companies of the

sectors” said the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, Mr

opportunity to exploit the inherent mineral resources more safely

Sulemanu Koney in a signed press release.

and prudentially and it creates additional costs for the companies, in the sense of rehabilitating the land so destroyed by the illegal

THE DOUBLE EDGED SWORD OF ILLEGAL MINERS AND VIOLENCE

miners. The consequences of this illegality are far-reaching. Pits

Part of the chamber’s mission is to attract foreign investors;

excavated by illegal miners claim the lives of company employees

businesses looking to invest heavily into the mineral sector, but the

as well as those of residents of host communities. The resultant

issue is how do you attract foreign or local investment when you

destruction to the environment is immeasurable.

cannot be seen to be protecting the mines which you own from

“Honestly, the country earns next to nothing from the activities

theft? It is one thing to be robbed upon delivery but another for it

of these illegal miners. Only a few unscrupulous individuals benefit

to be taken from you at the source.

from it. It is no secret that the Government loses significant

“If the Government does not put in place security measures,

92 | Endeavour Magazine

amounts of fiscal revenue every year as a result of such illegal

mining activities. Apart from projecting a bad image for the entire

the company’s senior employees and so followed the withdrawal

mining sector, the repercussions to the environment are ominous.

of the military that had been stationed at the mine. AngloGold

If the activities of the illegal miners are not nipped in the bud it

Ashanti has, as a result, evacuated some of its employees for safety

would undermine Ghana’s efforts at attracting and sustaining the

and security reasons, which means the illegal miners have remained

much needed investment into the mining industry,” he continues.

on the mine, “Currently, as we speak, they have worked their way

AngloGold Ashanti - Obuasi Mine in recent weeks and Perseus Mining at Ayanfuri in recent months, have both seen an escalation

to certain underground workings and are using explosives in the process,” he says.

of illegal mining activities on their concessions. These companies,

The audaciousness of illegal miners in perpetrating the act,

who employ thousands of Ghanaians, are compelled to use all legal

despite the recently passed Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act,

means to eject the illegal miners from their concessions with the

which it and ascribes punitive measures, is baffling to say the least

help of the security apparatus. This has often resulted in violent

and it denotes a complete disregard for the law under the light of

confrontations leading to injuries and destruction of property.

not fearing any major repercussions from a slack Government.

In a pivotal example, Koney highlights how AngloGold Ashanti

“The chamber is calling on the Government to return the

has particularly been inundated by illegal miners, which has directly

Military to AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi to protect life and property

impacted its ability to attract investors to partner it to revamp the

on the mine in order to restore investor confidence and attract the

mine. This means that much needed improvements to machinery,

necessary investment into the mining sector,” Koney says, adding,

equipment, ventilation and miner safety are now not being done

“It is time for the Government to crack the whip on illegal mining

and to add insult to injury, the miners are having to work harder to

and make it an unattractive venture for all who engage in it.”

accommodate the theft.

Simultaneously, the recent surge in illegal mining activities at the Obuasi mine have been violent, leading to the death of one of

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CHAMBER OF MINES - BOTSWANA WWW.BCM.ORG.BW +267 391 4685

PROTECTING THE WEALTH OF THE LAND WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

Established to serve the interests of the mining and exploration companies, the Botswana Chamber of Mines remains one of the main drivers of economic activity in the country. With more exploration for minerals than ever before it is essential that the activities of the companies and the progress found is achieved smoothly and with due regard to legislation put in place to protect people and land.

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CHAMBER OF MINES - BOTSWANA

With this in mind, the Botswana Chamber of Mines aims to ensure that legislation in the country is conducive for mining companies and at the same time develops good working relationships with the legislator.

According to Charles Siwawa, CEO, The Botswana Chamber of Mines serves the interests of the mining industry in the country and furthermore as the CEO it is up to him to engage and liaise with the government, nongovernment organisations and other stakeholders to ensure that the needs of the industry are catered for properly.

“A

s the face of Botswana’s mining one of the Chamber’s aims is to ensure that Botswana’s regulatory environment supports the mining sector,” he says, “And amendments

to some of Botswana’s legislation have already been made thanks to the Chamber’s efforts.”

A LONG HISTORY Mining activities have been taking place in Botswana since the nineteenth century with the advent of the gold rush in the northern part of the country. Notable mining activities included the gold mines in Francistown, copper mines at Matsitama, manganese mines at Kgwakgwe hills in Kanye and asbestos mines at Moshaneng.

Not much is known about this industry as far as operations or how the exploration and mining companies built/kept relationships with their workforce during this time but in 1990, on the back of the growing industry, the mining houses felt the need to discuss the issues under a single forum and that heralded the birth of BCM. It is a mining employer’s organization serving its members to promote their interests in the Botswana mining industry with consultations between the members on matters of common concern. There has been significant progress over the years in terms of achievements by this organization.

The companies of the BCM include those explorers and exploiters of the various mineral to be found in Botswana and other stakeholders include the government, mining suppliers, contractors and tertiary training institutions. In total there are 30 members of different levels of participation.

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HOLDING BOTSWANA’S POTENTIAL IN THEIR HANDS As Botswana’s Chamber of Mines represents the country’s high-potential mining industry, Siwawa is adamant that they must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner, keeping the country’s best interests in mind at all time, “We commit to the a number of values which govern the way we operate and relate with our internal as well as external stakeholders,” he says.

Unity – We will actively promote our shared purpose and commitments, speaking with one voice, and acting as one team to honour and deliver the Chamber’s business.

Good governance – Our operations and ways of working will be characterised by compliance to good practices and ethical standards. We will be transparent and honest in our dealings.

Meritocracy – We promote and recognise excellence in our dealings within as well as outside the Chamber.

Good corporate citizenship – Our business operations will benefit our communities through well managed

corporate social

responsibility programmes.

Safety - We commit to conduct our business without harm to our people and the environment.

These values are important when considering the bounty that Botswana possesses. It is a land rich in diamonds, coal, copper and coal bed methane with additional resources such as iron ore, uranium and silver.

“Coal has a particularly strong potential for growth,” he indicates, “Companies can export it raw, use it for power generation or convert it to a liquid as a petroleum product,”

According to him, the SADC region needs to develop efficient

Siwawa explains that a company must have the relevant

power-distribution systems and this is something that Botswana’s

paperwork in the form of a mineral-exploration license and/

coal can play a role in and this position is supported by the

or a mining license or be a contractor for such a company. With

government of Botswana as well. Another segment that promises

30 members under its umbrella, the Chamber also demands that

growth is copper refining and there are studies currently ongoing

mining companies applying for a mining license must have a plan

to determine the full potential of undertaking this project of further

for rehabilitating the land once the project is finished.

beneficiation of base metals.

“The Chamber of Mines strongly supports foreign investment in Botswana’s mining industry and wants to position Botswana as a mining hub,” he says.

“Each mining company is required to create funds that will be used for this rehabilitation once mining operations have ceased,” he says.

Botswana remains one of Africa’s most desirable locations for FDI in mining, and while foreign investment is encouraged to take

KEEPING HOLD OF IT ALL

advantage of the many opportunities available in the country they

As has long been the case for African nations, foreign

have to be sure about who is benefitting the most with regards

investment comes into the country and funds the removal of the

to the mineral wealth of their nation. Certain questions like, ‘Are

most valuable resources. These resources make these investors

the workers local and are local people receiving training and

rich while plunging the host country into debt as the money is

expertise to do so?’ and ‘Do the mines operate sustainably or is

made overseas. Then when the land has been completely sucked of

their operation likely to ruin the land completely?’ have to be asked

it’s worth by foreigners, it is left to the locals to try and pick up the

and it is the BCM’s role to do this.

pieces and fill the holes left behind.

This is why, to join the BCM there are a few fundamental pointers that have been established to stop this from happening.

“This sort of position is important as it means that investors can be confident that their involvement in Botswana will be safe and productive over the long term,” Siwawa concludes.

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Endeavour Magazine | 97

98 | Endeavour Magazine

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION (868) 627 - 1266 WWW.TTCA.COM

RETOOLING AND RETHINKING, BUT GOOD TIMES AHEAD WRITTEN BY JACK SLATER

There are some serious challenges facing Trinidad and Tobago. Being such a small group of islands, the industries of energy and construction are neatly entwined and when one suffers, the other does too. We spoke with an association who are supporting the businesses and people who are suffering the most.

Endeavour Magazine | 99

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

With the mission of enhancing, promoting, protecting and defending the collective and individual interests of its members in the construction industry, the Trinidad and Tobago Contractors Association (TTCA) was founded in 1968 by a small group of men with vision.

Granville Johnson, McDonald Morrell, Lepold Arthur and Emile

the board are held on a purely volunteer basis and that there is

Elias created the TTCA as they saw a need to have a collective

no remuneration involved. This kind of loyalty demonstrates the

representation in the construction sector and their organisation

importance of the TTCA in bringing higher levels of skill, knowledge,

has evolved into a medium through which construction training and

training and experience to the industry as a whole.

standards, as well as lobbying of the important and numerous issues affecting contractors, are continually and adjectively pursued.

Day-to-day operations are overseen by a general manager who governs a small team of staff consisting of full-time personnel

Working on behalf of their members, the group association has

and contract workers (these individuals are paid) and while their

acted as an unincorporated, non-profit organisation for over 36

team may be small, they are in the habit of punching above their

years until registered as an incorporated entity in 2004. This marks

weight as they champion many huge initiatives that can prove to

the time when things were definitely kicked up a notch.

be axis points for developments and changes that can affect the construction industry and, ergo, the whole of Trinidad and Tobago.

CONNECTIVITY AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDING Holding memberships with several prominent and vibrant local

THE REVENUE

organisations, the TTCA has found significant value in working

No organisation can survive without funds, or possibly hope to

closely with the likes of the Joint Consultative Council for the

make any kind of difference without some source of fiscal return.

Construction Industry (JCC), the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of

As such, the association relies primarily on membership dues to

Services Industries (TTCSI), the Trinidad and Tobago Transparency

fund its operations and in turn look after its members. This is

Institute (TTTI) and the Trinidad and Tobago Group of Professional

supplemented by income derived from training programmes,

Associations (TTGPA).

workshops, seminars and symposiums which are held to such a

Also, as stated on their website, via the representation of a number of committees, the association benefits from relationships

high degree as to be the anvil upon which new ideas and strategies for the industry are hammered out.

with the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS), the

To reward their members’ loyalty, TTCA hosts a number of

Organizational (sic) Safety and Health Agency and the Ministry of

special events such as an annual golf tournament and an annual

Works and Transport (Oversight Committee for the Construction

awards banquet where they can recognise and reward the finest

Industry), to name a few. Acknowledging that with the more

of their members for their hard work and contributions into the

agencies, associations and membership bodies they can be linked

industry.

with the better, TTCA are aggressively expanding, having been involved in the founding of bodies such as the CCCA (Coalition of Caribbean Contractors Association) and being listed amongst other associated bodies such as the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce as well as the Manufacturers Association of Trinidad and Tobago.

RELEVENCE

SPEAKING OF THE MEMBERS The association was born out of a need from the individual companies operating within the construction industry but despite this, at the start there was not an immediate uptake of the membership as few contractors were able to see the benefit in collective action and a representative body that could fight the battles that needed fighting in the background. However, within

To legitimately have the best interests of their members at

the first year of operation they saw their membership grow to

heart, it has always been the policy of the TTCA to be relevant. To

approximately 25 members and today the membership is 125

do this, a board of ten directors, inclusive of a President, oversees

strong, with many companies probably being able to attribute

all of their affairs alongside a Vice President and a Secretary. All

their position as major stakeholders in the construction industry

are business owners or senior executives/officers employed by

to TTCA.

construction sector companies.

Worthy of a mention is that the positions of leadership in 100 | Endeavour Magazine

To be a member you don’t need to be a certain size but merely active within the industry sector. The TTCA is an all-encompassing

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

body, having grown organically over the years to deal with every new hurdle, challenge and obstacle thrown in the path of its

construction industry in Trinidad and Tobago.

Mikey explained that the association held a meeting with Works

members. Additionally, every new member brings something to the

and Infrastructure Minister Fitzgerald Hinds and expressed the

group, which means that it is able to tackle a range of activities

concerns but could not be given any assurances as to when the

including civil and infrastructure engineering, design, construction

payments would come.

services, mechanical and electrical engineering, assessments of

environmental

impacts,

dredging,

reclamation,

pipeline

“We are expecting a period of trial,” Mikey explained, “But the Association will deal with any challenges as they arise.” This was

construction and historic restoration. Some of their members also

reiterated by the Prime Minister, who, a month earlier, spoke about

offer heavy equipment rental services for construction, agriculture

the challenging state of this country’s economic affairs and said that

and marine projects and the manufacture and distribution of

austerity measures were needed.

concrete and cement products.

Mikey said that the association would be meeting with the

Membership has been a particularly valuable asset, especially

Finance Minister to discuss the possibility of contractors receiving

in recent years where the construction industry in Trinidad and

part payments, but recalled how, in 2010, when there was the last

Tobago has entered its most perilous era.

change of Government, that it contractors had to wait nine months to a year and a half for payments.

THE STATE OF THE INDUSTRY The current state of the industry has been referred to as “nearing collapse” and those businesses that did not feel that joining the TTCA was a prudent move might very well be regretting their decision, as $2 billion is owed by the Government to contractors who have had no choice but to send employees home.

According to the President of the Contractors Association of Trinidad and Tobago, Mikey Joseph, the situation will get worse as delays caused by a general election and a change of Government are escalating the problem. He noted that the current administration was not awarding much work at the moment and that Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s initiative of boosting the economy through public/private partnership in housing construction will not be enough to get things going.

“The country needs investments and business to bring foreign currency,” Mikey added, “Private entities should take hold of the opportunities and expand into unchartered markets.”

An added problem, he reveals, is that forensic audits being commissioned at various state enterprises will cause a further delay and the contractors cannot do anything but wait and see what happens, “Of course they would want to check the books,” he said, “We are having difficulties with some of the Ministers and contractors remain in hope they will be paid within this month or next month,” Frustratingly it puts the members in a position of having to wait and see what the outcome is and once found to be innocent of any wrongdoing or malfeasance or improper practice, hoping the money that is owed will be paid. To give some perspective, this payment has been owed since 2012 and covers over 75% of the

102 | Endeavour Magazine

Adding to this plight is a knock on effect from the decline in oil prices, which resulted in the country’s overall income being slashed by 55%. This of course means that there is less hope of contracts coming from the local public sector.

“The coffers of the treasury cannot be filled by heaven and therefore the reality of the situation is that there is need to generate more revenue,” Mikey said, “For the last two to three years we were not reducing our expenditure, we continued spending more and more to our own peril,” he said speaking of Trinidad and Tobago as a whole, “The warning signs were there, but ignored.”

Mikey said that sending workers home has been happening for quite some time but that the situation is just getting worse. Some businesses have had to scale back and others have had to close shop and things are not going to be getting better soon unless businesses take the initiative and grab hold of the opportunities that present themselves in all of this. He said that in times such as these there are opportunities that will present themselves if you are prepared to grab hold, retool and change the approach.

For a long time the country relied on the energy sector to support it as a vital component of most of the industries in the country and now that it is gone (due to the oil price) businesses are having to now find their feet and establish themselves anew. With this, innovative, proactive-minded individuals will find opportunities, niches and possibilities to flourish.

“There are good and interesting times ahead,” he concludes.

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Longdenville is one of the few places in Trinidad where the best blend of clay is found to make the highest quality clay products. The company produces and markets a wide range of Clay products - HOLLOCLAY foundational and structural blocks, decorative/ventilation blocks, Clay Paver Tiles (glazed and unglazed) and Clay Roof Tiles (unglazed).

With our commitment to quality, in 1998, we received our certification from the Trinidad & Tobago Bureau of Standards for maintaining a quality system in compliance with ISO 9002 for the production of non-load bearing

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TAP Factory In Longdenville

HOLLOCLAY building blocks, decorative and ventilation blocks. In 2003, we upgraded our certification to ISO 9001 for the production of HOLLOCLAY building blocks, decorative and ventilation blocks and for Hollow Core Block the procurement and mar(Traditional) keting of glazed and unglazed clay paver and clay roof tiles.

We have embraced a strict customer satisfaction and quality assurance approach, which is aimed at the maintenance of rigid standards and product quality.

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GADGETS

Brydon Brothers Why Should You Trust Brydon Brothers

The belt you choose really does define you. A man can wear the most impressive suit, but if he is wearing a mismatched belt he could completely ruin it…conversely, if he wears the perfectly matched belt it may go completely unnoticed. This makes the belt the unsung hero of a wardrobe that defines whether or not we know what we’re doing when we dress ourselves.

Brydon Bros have created some unique, stylish accessories.

Instead of the traditional leather belt with belt holes that will rip, tear and ultimately let you down, the belt I tried out was of a woven fabric. Thick enough and with a high enough fibre count to look fashionably pricey, it also boasted an elasticated body that promised I wouldn’t be straining if I enjoyed a full three courses

Humm, The Free, Ad-less Alternative To Spotify, Launches Worldwide

at the local Middletons. Also, there are no notches, so the belt is affixed where it needs to be every time.

Perfect for suits, jeans, chinos and shorts, the selection of belts crosses a wide range of styles across both genders and thanks to not having to worry about where the notches are, now a belt is finally one size fits all.

Humm is a free music app that makes it possible, simple and legal, to access more than 50 million songs, providing users with a personalised experience based on their musical tastes.

Humm, a London-based start-up, has just launched a new music-streaming app that provides a free and easy way to listen

The presentation of the belt was particularly tasteful; arriving in

to a huge array of music online. Without ads or interruptions, it

a labelled wooden box that looked equally rugged and executive. It

provides users with a service similar to Spotify, through a highly

was the packaging equivalent of having an office with a plated glass

intuitive interface.

and chrome desk in an office of old wooden timbers and brick walls (many of you will appreciate the imagery).

The app, which has just launched a mobile version on Android, draws on more than 50 million songs obtained through the YouTube

The belts have also been getting a lot of attention online, with

API. Humm lets users create their own music library and listen to a

many happy customers taking to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

radio service tailored around their favourite artists. Similar to Apple

to show off that their approach to style starts with how they keep

Music, Humm also offers customised content based on users’

their pants up.

musical tastes.

How a man approaches the essentials can tell you everything

“With Humm, we want to democratise streaming music

you need to know about him and using a Brydon Bro’s belt will

and make it accessible to the whole world, but through legal

speak volumes.

channels. We use the APIs of other services such as YouTube or

104 | Endeavour Magazine

The PocketMonkey Success Story

Founder and self-proclaimed tinkerer, Nate Barr, set out to find a pocket tool that wouldn’t weigh him down. When he couldn’t find one, he used his mechanical engineering background to create and make the PocketMonkey, which lead to the creation of his company, Zootility and a range of useful pocket gadgets including the PocketMonkey and the Hedgehog.

More convenient and durable than a Swiss Army knife and as essential as a toolbox, this should be one of the gifts given from father to son.

The Zootility range includes devices with blades, bottle openers, rulers, spanner shapes, cardholders and combs, all with animal Spotify, adhering to their terms and conditions,” explains its CEO

motifs to add that extra touch of style and grace. Definitely a gift

and founder, Andrés Sánchez. “At present, only 1% of the world’s

worthy of any man or woman and an easy way of making people’s

population is willing to pay for premium music services. We want

lives easier and neater.

this number to increase, and Humm wants to be the gateway to

The range really does bridge the gap between the city gentleman

paid services. We see a big gap between YouTube and Spotify and

and the rugged camper and the company’s marketing has made it

we’d like to be the stepping stone to go from one to the other,”

very clear that they have solutions for the everyday problems that

adds Sánchez.

plague both groups. There is a lot to be said for having a device

Founded by Spanish entrepreneurs and a graduate of the

that fits in your pocket and has all the tools you need, without

Telefónica Wayra acccelerator, Humm is a London-based start-

many moving parts. One of the issues you’ll find with a Swiss Army

up with offices in Málaga and Santiago de Compostela. Its earlier

Knife or a Leatherman, which have so far led the market, is that

incarnation, Living Indie, was a live streaming platform for concerts.

their moving parts get worn, they get gritty and damaged and

In April of last year, the company closed its first round of funding in

when one part goes wrong, the device itself is ruined. With the

through Crowdcube, the UK-based equity crowdfunding platform.

PocketMonkey (as an example) you have everything you need right

Humm’s mission is to make music accessible to everyone

away and because it is so simple, it becomes more versatile and

through a music streaming platform with access to more than 50 million songs. Humm is also an API that offers a legal package for creating music services.

because it is so sturdy, it lasts longer.

The best thing to do would be to buy the whole range and keep one in each of your jacket pockets.

Endeavour Magazine | 105

4 WEARABLES THAT GIVE YOU SUPERPOWERS KINESEOWEAR We’ve all heard of kinesio tape. Kineseowear is basically kinesio tape come to life. It’s a stick-on, artificial muscle, which could do anything from tapping you on the left shoulder to convey the next turn dictated by your GPS, to supporting your muscles during an intense butterfly lap in the pool. It creates a physical bridge between your body and information of any sort.

If you recall, there was that version that was a belt that tightened before lunch so it keeps you from eating more than you want to, but Kineseowear has settled on the athletic form as a cultural statement of its own—a way to signal to other runners or swimmers that you were of the same connected tribe.

OUIJIBAND Imagine if you could pick up a pencil and draw a perfect circle the first time you tried. That’s the promise of Oujiband, an electronic

in response, it fires back a blinding counter-flash to protect your anonymity. No smartphone is even needed. It’s a completely standalone device. This can also be used for the phobics of Big Brother.

Snapchat IRL also has a discreet earpiece that allows you to have a private conversation with someone in the room whom you’ve decided to hook up with—like a walkie-talkie for your sex life.

LALALA We’ve all been out to a bar where we couldn’t hear the person standing right beside us. Lalala is basically a Bose noise-cancelling headphone for anything you want to listen to in life and with motiontracking capabilities inside (through an integrated technology like infrared tracking), you can simply point to someone you’d like to hear better in a room and every other voice will fade away.

counterweight strapped to your wrist that uses a gyroscope and a

But it’s not just a functional convenience; this could be a future

gimbal to sense your fine motor movements and, when necessary,

form-factor for smartphones, as you would wear it all the time.

smooth them out a bit. (Imagine a finely balanced Segway for your

It would have all of your contacts inside and it would be able to

hand.)

connect you to anyone, at any time, through immersive 3-D sound

Potential implications? Surgeons could cut straighter when the

rather than awkward teleconferencing.

band sensed their hands shaking. A new tennis player could learn to

As a potential next gen iPhone, the idea of spatially placing

backhand faster through this mechanical coach. And it’d look great

people could be phenomenal. Your wife could speak into your right

at you’re next steampunk convention.

ear while you were in a meeting with people. It’d be like a secretary

SNAPCHAT IRL

or friend coming up to whisper, “I know you’re busy, but remember to pick up your kid.”

If you accept that apps that have become new social engines,

Of course, you may think Argodesign’s concepts look too

you can ask the question can those things be moved into the

techie for your tastes and that would be a fair criticism. The team

physical universe so they don’t have to live through the 5.5-inch

intentionally made the designs over and unapologetically eclectic—

screen? Snapchat looked in the digital world and said to themselves

not necessarily because they believe fashion is in some way

that some conversations you want to keep private.

unimportant—but to highlight that wearable technology will lure us

The result was Snapchat IRL. It’s a necklace that senses the IR light emitted by cameras during their autofocus sequence and

106 | Endeavour Magazine

with more than the appeal of fashion alone.

KINESEOWEAR

OUIJIBAND

SNAPCHAT IRL

LALALA

Endeavour Magazine | 107

TRAVEL

RHINO AFRICA: THE SECRETS BEHIND SOUTH AFRICA’S BEST LOVED TOUR PROVIDER

BY DONNIE RUST

108 | Endeavour Magazine

W

hat does it take to make a good tour operator? Surely

operating within the country. But you can’t help but get the feeling

it is so much more than merely directing a person to a

that there is something special and unique about the company and

destination and hoping for the best; there is a psychology

its set up. There seems to be a long-term intelligence in the way

to it. A philosophy which includes a lot more than mere R & R,

that the business operates, something apparent within the very

because what people respond best to is not only entertainment

architectural, open-plan lay out of the offices with the technical

but also education. We go on holiday so that we can be changed.

website engine at the ground floor, marketing and sales on the

Rhino Africa is a tour operator business with a mission.

middle and payments on the top. In the really well designed

Established on the 1st of August 2004 by one man, it has taken

canteen and the ping pong table downstairs, there is a sense that

flight and proved that with a team of likeminded and impassioned

relationships and personal involvement mean a great deal to them.

people anything is possible; you need only decide what you want.

DAVID: There are a number of unique things about our business.

On a recent trip to Cape Town I was fortunate enough to steal some time from CEO David Ryan and Co-CEO Guido Juan Pablo Dunckel at their city centre offices to discuss their company and see the behind the scenes operations of the business.

One is that we’re an online tour operator, so we don’t use traditional channels. Furthermore, as discussed above, we contract suppliers directly. For the client, what’s unique about us is that we are present in Africa and are on the ground during the most critical

Donnie: David, you founded the business in 2004, has the focus

part of your itinerary process, which is the actual travel process: we

changed at all since then?

are not hampered by time delays due to time zones and distance.

David: We started out as a specialist tour operator to Madagascar

Through our location on the ground and our contracting strategy,

and the business was founded on expert knowledge of the products and destinations we offered. The next destination was the South African Kruger region and we grew from there out to what is now about 40 unique destinations across East and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.

Donnie: That is very impressive, are there any other markets outside of tour destinations that Rhino Africa are involved in?

our relationships with suppliers are direct: when there is an issue or a change in an itinerary for whatever reason, we are able to act on it very quickly. We don’t have to go through multiple channels to react.

GUIDO (adding): We always try to put the client first – everything David has described is centred around this idea. Internally, we also try to do things differently – we put a very strong focus on the workplace culture that we have developed.

Guido: In terms of geographical reach, we mainly operate in Europe DAVID: Our ideas around talent, internally, are very client-centric. and the USA. That’s where our initial focus lay because our English-

speaking abilities allowed us to easily tap into English-speaking markets; most importantly the USA, UK, Canada and Australia.

Over the years we have added more and more languages and destinations to our operations, so now we are operating in five languages and advertising in over 30 different countries.

David: At our heart we are a tailor-made tour operator: we build tailor-made itineraries to East Africa, Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. We specialise in the direct market, meaning that we build itineraries and connect clients directly with product and suppliers, as opposed to being a traditional operator which would go via multiple channels. Therefore, we have a lot more of

What makes us unique as a business is that we’re not owned by a big tour operating company that owns a range of properties, so for us it’s always about the client’s requirements and the client’s interests. We are not a brand that has to fill our own beds (or any specific beds) before we fill others, so we have the leeway to do things differently: there is no conflict of interest between the client’s requirements and our own requirements. Being independently owned and managed, we are not beholden to anybody in terms of selling specific products or margins. Thus margin becomes a factor of our business rather than a determiner – we never have to choose margin over client experience.

an influence on the prices we are able to offer. Our consultants

Donnie: As a business revolving around building relationships with

are experts in both destination and product, which means they

people and creating memories and meaningful experiences for people,

can impart excellent knowledge to clients directly, servicing the

are you involved in any social programmes outside of the normal 9-5?

clients’ exact requirements and needs around uniquely designed

GUIDO: We recognise that our business thrives on the way that

travel packages. Whether clients are coming on honeymoon, to get married or on an anniversary trip or a family holiday, we make sure we use our knowledge to tailor-make their experience to their reason for travel.

we interact with the people, the land and the wildlife that we sell to our clients. So a consciousness has emerged of how we interact with the individual parts of the ecosystem. Over the years, Rhino has involved itself in numerous grassroots projects, both in terms of financing and in active operations. We have started

THE SPECIAL QUALITY

Khumbulani orphanage and daycare centre in Khayelitsha and we

Now, South Africa is a country known for its majestic holiday

have seed financed an organisation – the Good Work Foundation

destinations and so there are a number of reputable tour operators

– that promotes digital learning in rural areas. We provide financial Endeavour Magazine | 109

110 | Endeavour Magazine

support for organisations that keep track of endangered species and tag and monitor animals: the Save the Rhino Foundation and Wildlife ACT. There are also very specific fundraising efforts that we carry out ourselves – for instance, Challenge4ACause, our annual cycling event we organise in Namibia, that has riders travelling through the wild places we value so much in order to raise money to preserve them.

GUIDO: We look at things from a long-term point of view. We don’t spend a lot of time thinking about the buoyancy of the market – the Rand goes up and the Rand goes down. External factors will always affect us: what’s important is that we really believe that tourism can be a transformative industry, an industry that leads to distribution of income and creation of employment across the board. That’s why we’re excited to be in this industry, why we feel

DAVID: Holistically, as a business we know that Africa is faced

that this industry is and always will be one of the core pillars of

with many challenges; from education to wildlife preservation.

many African economies.

One of the aims of our business is to be part of the solution: our

DAVID:

corporate sociaI responsibility projects, in the grand scheme of things, are small but important. But this sense of wanting to be part of the solution goes far beyond the few specific projects we have mentioned – there is a greater vision at play. We all know that the tourism industry is probably the one industry that can generate job creation across Africa. Unlike many operators that sell Africa, where the revenue and margins generated don’t stay on the continent, our business operates here, our employment comes from here, and our tax revenue stays here. In this way we make a tangible difference.

The beauty of Africa is that tourism is a massive

opportunity. Southern and East Africa aren’t the only great wildlife destinations. West Africa hasn’t even come online yet. There are parts of North Africa that haven’t really come online as mainstream tourism destinations yet either, for various challenges of their own.

Currently, Africa as a whole only attracts 4% of the global tourism spend, so there’s really an opportunity that exists: we are coming off an extremely low base. Ours is an industry that it is literally still in its infancy. It has a long way to go, with untold potential for the continent if it is embraced. Whatever the challenges, we can navigate them together; in this, the long term view is what’s

THE RHINO AFRICA FAMILY Rhino Africa office strikes as a pretty cool place to work, not only are the offices designed to make fantastic use of the picturesque landscape of the Cape Town city scape on one side and the Cape Town mountain ranges on the other, but there is an open feel of communication around the office.

important, not a focus on buoyancy.

Donnie: Key to any company’s success is its employees and how you look after staff is often directly representative of how you look after customers. How do you support the staff at Rhino Africa?

GUIDO: We are now approaching a total of 150 employees.

What

we are trying to put together is a team of stars, where everyone

Donnie: How do you encourage creativity in your staff?

is coming from a best-in-class background and is a specialist

DAVID: I would say that we definitely have a culture of work hard/

in whatever they do. People are the single biggest asset to our

play hard. We are in a very privileged position because our business is about building other people’s holidays: what we do is fun, interactive and engaging and the culture of the people who work at Rhino Africa really reflects that. We know that we are responsible for people’s happiness and we take that pretty seriously.

Donnie: Recently, the South African Rand has suffered a significant drop against the US Dollar and the British Pound, bottoming out to all time lows. It has been nothing short of a crucifixion for many industries who rely on import and export. How does the tourism industry fair? Is the travel industry currently buoyant?

DAVID: The tourism industry as a whole is very buoyant – if you

organisation and it’s all about employing smart, self-sufficient individuals who are excited about developing their own fields within the greater tourism industry – whether this is in web development, marketing or sales. Within each sector of our business we strive for excellence and this is what each manager tries to impart.

DAVID: The complexity of our business lies within the different teams that form it. On the surface, we are an online tour operator that does tailor-made itineraries for travel to Africa, but that goes way beyond just having an operational team that engages with clients; we have to be best in class at online marketing, at content production, in product and in operating. There are many different facets to the business that require vastly different skill sets. You

look at South Africa in particular, the depreciation of the Rand has

almost have ad agencies, tour operators and web development

made us a very internationally competitive destination. But the

companies all coming together and being orchestrated to work

tourism industry, like any industry, always faces challenges. The

as one team. And then you multiply and complicate that by doing

exchange rate depreciation in itself is a challenge because you get a

everything in 5 languages as well!

different value proposition in terms of the way rates are structured.

Ebola, xenophobia, terrorism and visa regulations cause declines

Donnie: How important is individual staff development to your

in occupancies. On the whole, however, the demand for wildlife

company?

tourism will always remain and will always increase. There will be

GUIDO: It’s the single most important thing for our company. Our

challenges along the way, and overcoming them is about how the

most vital job as CEOs is bringing the right talent into Rhino Africa

industry comes together.

and putting people into positions where they can become the best Endeavour Magazine | 111

CEO David Ryan and Co-CEO Guido Juan Pablo Dunckel

versions of themselves. We want to empower people to think

a significant rejuvenation process. We’ve looked at how we’ve

individually, to be happy and to produce the best possible output.

done things over the previous decade and we’ve spent a lot of

Donnie: and on the other side of the coin, how do you ensure your customers are satisfied with the quality of your products?

DAVID: We have an intense feedback and engagement programme

time working on improving our processes and efficiencies. So undoubtedly one of the most exciting things happening right now is the rollout of the systems that we have developed to improve these efficiencies and processes. Key among these is the development

with our customers from the time they visit our website, to them

of business intelligence – something we’re envisioning as the

making an enquiry, to the periods before, during and after their

conductor between all of our various departments, making sure

actual travel. Our consultants are encouraged to look after our

they all work together in harmony. It will be exciting to see how

clients from the very beginning all the way through the booking

these developments will improve our business, and in so doing how

and travel process, with multiple check-ins throughout. In many

they will deliver a better user experience for our clients: from the

respects we also ask our clients to rate us – using tools from

Rhino Africa website right through peoples’ pre-, during- and post-

TrustPilot to TripAdvisor. It goes without saying that in a world

travel experiences.

of social media, you know if you are meeting clients’ satisfaction or not. With 30,000 clients a year you might sometimes miss the mark, but these occasions are the real tests of your character: how do you deal with unsatisfied clients? And how do you rectify what’s left them unfulfilled?

GUIDO: There is a lot of interaction and a lot of measurement

GUIDO: Another thing we’re excited about is seeing how our current team works together – we’ve put of lot of time, thought and training into assembling this group of people and now we get to see them play. It’s very exciting because now our investment starts to fall into place. We are at a point where everyone knows their role and position, and that’s when great things start to happen. It’s

involved – we try to work out what it means if a potential client

like we’ve been practicing for the World Cup and now we are on

leaves us within minutes of just being on our website – are they

our way!

not finding what they are looking for? Why would an enquiry not

DAVID: Beyond our vision – of being the authority on African travel

translate into a sale? Along with the user feedback we collect, we measure everything we can in order to improve our business

DAVID: For us, customer satisfaction doesn’t only apply to people

by the year 2020 – we are also excited about what our NGOs are doing. We’ve started many initiatives over the years and they’ve all grown thanks to the dedication of our clients and our partners

who travel with us. It applies to who anyone who has an intention

and our own people. We’ve just appointed our first Corporate

to travel; if they don’t book with us, we want to know why that is

Social Responsibility manager to co-ordinate these processes, but

the case.

more importantly to get involved with our NGOs in order to fully

Donnie: As mentioned briefly above, South Africa is not wanting for lack of tour providers, in the face of such competition how to does Rhino Africa manage to not only stay ahead of the group but in its lead?

DAVID: We’re continuously working on our own efficiency and on improving the client engagement and interaction process. Keeping up with technology is key and on the other side of that, we make sure we are the pioneer in product and destination. As destinations open up and become more accessible across Africa, we try to make sure we are at the forefront of that.

GUIDO: From an organisational point of view, it largely comes down to culture. One of the key pillars of our culture is innovation – we foster an innovative spirit in all of our employees. We motivate each other to challenge the status quo and to provide better solutions to

understand their own visions and what our role is in their agendas.

For instance, our intention for the Good Work Foundation is to have 100,000 learners enrolled in our digital learning programs by 2020. We are currently sitting on 8,500 learners and we now have a targeted plan as to how we’re going to get to 100,000. We can also now actually put a financial model together based on our last five years of experience with the Foundation. On the wildlife side, we are also excited to become an integral part of the strategic vision for partners like the Save the Rhino trust or the Wildlife ACT Fund, in their efforts to conserve African wild dog populations. We want to help our partners to achieve their visions and goals.

Donnie: Finally, just in conclusion, can you sum up in a sentence why it’s so rewarding working with Rhino Africa?

existing problems. We try to create innovators across the board by

David: Simple, it’s a case of bringing innovation and a pioneering

hiring a lot of young people with fresh ideas and energy.

spirit to whoever we collaborate with. Giving your best usually

Donnie: We are firmly into 2016 now. Rhino Africa has undergone a

gives the best results.

lot of growth recently at a spectacular rate and has firmly shown that there is still a lot more that we can expect. What is happening at the moment that is keeping you at the edge of your seat?

DAVID: Over the last two years, Rhino Africa has been through Endeavour Magazine | 113

LANZAROTE STARTS EUROPE’S FIRST UNDERWATER MUSEUM

T

he installation of British sculptor, Jason deCaires, is the

large artificial reef made from a series of art installations made

beginning of the Atlantic Museum, created to protect the

from high-density, PH-neutral concrete that doesn’t affect the

marine environment and the artworks, inspired by ‘the defence

marine ecosystem or local flora and fauna. No corrosive metals

of the ocean’, will be open to visits by divers of all levels and will

and materials were used. The sculptures, submerged at a depth of

increase the marine biomass in the area, as well as acting as a

between 12 and 15 metres, recreate scenes from everyday life.

The artist Jason deCaires Taylor, internationally famous for his

breeding site for local species Europe’s first underwater museum has started to become

underwater sculpture installations in underwater museums in The

a reality with the installation of several sets of sculptures by

Bahamas, Cancún and The Antilles, uses his work to highlight ‘the

international artist Jason deCaires Taylor on the seafloor in the Las

defence of the oceans’ and to transmit a level of critical thinking

Coloradas bay in Lanzarote. They will be accessible to divers and

about the commercialisation of natural resources. The museum has,

snorkelers of all levels. The project is designed to increase marine

as a backdrop, an island that is already an international focal point

biomass and to act as a breeding site for local species in an area

of the link between art and nature thanks to the work of Lanzarote

declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

artist César Manrique.

The project is part of the Atlantic Museum and will create a 114 | Endeavour Magazine

The first stage of the Atlantic Museum will consist of the following installations: 1. The Rubicón: A grouping of 35 human figures all walking towards the same destination, in the Atlantic Ocean.

2. The Raft of the Medusa: A reflection on humanitarian crises based on the paintings of Gericáult.

3. The Jolateros: A grouping of children in local tin boats, known as ‘Jolateros’.

4. Content: A couple taking a selfie invites us to reflect on the use of new technology and self-obsession.

5. The Hybrid Sculptures: Natural fusions between nature and humanity, with sculptures half human half cactus, living in harmony.

6. The Photographers: This piece triggers a debate about the use of new technology and voyeurism.

Endeavour Magazine | 115

BOOK REVIEWS

13 BOOKS RECOMMENDED BY HARRY POTTER STAR, EMMA WATSON Known not only for her acting skills, but for her intellect as well, actress Emma Watson is a bookworm, just like her Harry Potter character, Hermione Granger. As a classy, highly educated woman, some may presume that Watson only sticks with purely sophisticated reads, but her favourites cover a wide range of genres — from young adult to classic literary treasures and contemporary fiction.

Take a look at some of the actress’s favourite books and add them to your reading list!

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green When cancer patient Hazel Grace meets Augustus, a boy in her support group, the two fall in love and overcome obstacles together surrounding illness, literature and the bond they share. If the novel’s title sounds familiar, it’s because the bestselling novel was adapted into a blockbuster film in 2014.

traditional form she was known for introducing in her literature.

The autobiography also revisits her other anecdotes from such bestsellers as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

The Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan Before she began her job at The New Yorker and on the cusp of the production of her play at the New York International Fringe

The BFG by Roald Dahl Sophie, a young orphan girl, encounters the Big Friendly Giant, or BFG, who brings her back to Giant Country. Soon, she finds herself in danger from the other giants, who like to eat people and steal from humans. It’s up to BFG and Sophie to save the humans in her world from the evil giants. Soon to be a life action film!

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry A beloved classic, The Little Prince follows the title character as he navigates Earth after falling from a tiny asteroid.

Emma Watson’s love for The Little Prince, as with The BFG, comes back to her time reading it as a child. Of both books, she said, “I like books that aren’t just lovely, but that have memories in themselves. Just like playing a song, picking up a book again that has memories can take you back to another place or another time.”

Festival, Marina Keegan’s life was cut short and her essay, The Opposite of Loneliness, went viral upon its publication in the Yale Daily News. This posthumously published collection of short stories and essays highlights Keegan’s hopes and dreams, as well as the struggles she encountered in her life.

The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand With a focus on the individual man rather than collective action, Rand’s novel follows architect Howard Roark who chooses to struggle in his successes rather than compromise his vision.

With a strong philosophical message, Rand addresses topics such as integrity and being true to oneself.

The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro Awarded the Man Booker Prize for Fiction in 1989, the story centres on the relationship between Stevens, a butler, and his

Mom & Me & Mom by Maya Angelou As both her final autobiography and her first book to address her relationship with her mother, author Maya Angelou keeps the

116 | Endeavour Magazine

relationship with a former colleague, the housekeeper Miss Kenton.

This novel was adapted for film in 1993.

Naughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman The first in a series of young adult novels, Naughts and Crosses focuses on a dystopian society where Pangea never separated and human history is unlike anything familiar to our own. Themes in the novel include racism, kinship that defies stereotypes and unexpected political alliances that change the characters’ fates.

In 2004, Emma called the book “the best book in the world”, in an interview with Girls’ Life magazine.

identify as introverts and those that feel like they want to learn more about their introverted friends.

Just Kids by Patti Smith This memoir from American artist Patti Smith provides a glimpse into her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe in the late sixties and seventies. Unlike many other memoirs, readers can enjoy Smith’s deep dive into prose and constructing her reality of life before fame, in moving ways.

Love Letters to the Dead by Ava Dellaira Laurel’s school assignment — to write a letter to a dead

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

person — evolves into a journey into her own development as she

Set in Barcelona following the Spanish Civil War, a book dealer

experiences triumph, heartache and self-discovery. The assignment

who comes across a book called The Shadow of the Wind discovers

not only connects Laurel to her sister who passed away, but it

someone is destroying all of the books the author has written.

connects her to the truth she encounters in her tumultuous past.

Daniel’s quest uncovers murder, madness and doomed love he could not have seen coming.

Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed This book compiles advice from the author’s Dear Sugar column, including many responses never before published.

Quiet by Susan Cain Author Susan Cain argues that society greatly undervalues introverts and puts more importance on extroverts, despite at least one-third of people having introverted qualities. This bestselling book makes the case for introverts and is meant both for those who

Endeavour Magazine | 117

The Hustler’s Holy Book Is Contemporary Money-Making Bible For A New Generation Of Hustlers Introducing The Hustler’s Holy Book – the hit moneymaking

his brother, who worked on the manuscript for another six

tome from a group of anonymous experts known only as

months before it was self-published online. Both have taken the

the Hustlafarians. Written to help a new generation of savvy

unprecedented step of deciding to remain anonymous in their

entrepreneurs conquer the world of money, The Hustler’s Holy

release of the book. The moneymaking tome was not written for

Book offers a fresh perspective on this unique lifestyle and has

personal fame or an ego boost and the two original Hustlafarians

already inspired a movement of ambitious young people, teaching

believe it should be presented in the same way as any other Holy

them how they can make money work to their advantage in this

Book – with no author.

competitive financial landscape.

One of the anonymous authors says, “The current market

This unusual Holy Book came from the humblest beginnings.

is packed with guides like The Secret and Rich Dad, Poor Dad –

One of the book’s anonymous authors started writing the book

inspirational reads, for sure, but not aimed at the kind of savvy,

while he was in prison, after soaking up masses of knowledge from

ambitious, dedicated young audience we want to inspire. The

books on spirituality, finance, business and economics. With this

Hustler’s Holy Book was written for the lost youth of today – those

enhanced knowledge and the ambition to succeed on his release,

like me who may feel as though they’ve lost their way, but have

the author wrote his own book, aiming to teach a new generation

the drive and commitment they need to turn their lives around and

of hustlers the things they don’t teach in schools. The Hustler’s

succeed.”

Holy Book contains a history of money and banking, guidance on

The other original Hustlafarian adds, “This book isn’t a get-

debt, saving, information on setting up a business and the basic

rich-quick scheme – it’s a framework for hustlers, giving them

economic know-how any hustler needs to make it big.

the education they need to continue hustling while retaining

The original author showed the completed manuscript to

118 | Endeavour Magazine

their humility. With a young, fresh vibe, we’re teaching raw and

Hereford Author Casts Pools Of Light On An Adventurous Life

Peter Cruttwell, based in Hereford, has published his illuminating memoir, Street Lamps, which offers a unique insight into his extraordinary life.

Peter Cruttwell presents this colourful and well-observed portrait of his passage from war-time childhood to his teenage schooling, travel in war-torn Europe as a boy of 15, service in Military Intelligence and a remarkably varied career in business all over the world.

Street Lamps is an unusual type of autobiography because it describes the life of somebody with absolutely no public recognition. authentic lessons that will help shape a new generation of hustlers – and the movement has already begun. After all, finding treasure is easy when you have a map!”

Available now in paperback for just £12.99, The Hustler’s Holy Book is a moneymaking tome with a difference. With 204 pages of actionable advice and inspirational anecdotes, the book is already making waves in the young entrepreneurial community – and the authors hope their movement will continue to spread as more would-be hustlers discover this new way of life.

For more information about The Hustler’s Holy Book, visit the Amazon page: amzn.to/1T9fGP2 You can also follow the Hustlafarians on Twitter and Facebook: Twitter: @hustlafari Facebook: Search ‘The Hustler’s Holy Book’

However, it offers a unique personal record of 70 turbulent years in the history of our time and it is a fascinating and entertaining read.

Laced with insight and frequently irreverent personal opinion, the book consists of 170 ‘light-pools’ which are individual cameos depicting episodes in a life led randomly and without obvious design or direction but, as the author remarks “propelled by a strong instinct for enjoyable survival”. The years from 1937 to 2007 are presented in an astonishing range of vivid, amusing, alarming and sometimes very serious snapshots from an adventurous and eventful life, with highlights that include: surviving the Blitz, spying in the Soviet Union, tutoring Liza Minnelli and facing a murder rap in Kosovo.

“I decided to call my book Street Lamps,” observes Peter, “because its vignettes and anecdotes, stretching over 70 years, are pools of light in the darkness of life, illuminating the waypoints I’ve passed and experiences I’ve been privileged – or unfortunate enough – to have had.”

Copies of Street Lamps, Peter’s fascinating memoir, are available on request from Matador.

Endeavour Magazine | 119

SPOTLIGHT

BIANCA MILLER THE POWER OF FRESH THINKING AND PURPOSE

BY DONNIE RUST

W

e shape ourselves after our heroes and so you should

it comes to choosing your tights, giving confidence and style to

select them very carefully. Whoever you select should be

women across the UK. Perhaps you’ve seen her, or worked with

able to inspire you to be better and should instil within you

her directly in one of her many Be Group workshops, where she

a taste for something greater. If you can find someone like that you

highlights the importance of people entering and re-entering the

should spend as much time around that person as possible because

work place to develop their own personal brand. Or maybe you’ve

we are all products of our environment and you always emulate

had the pleasure of engaging with her on Linked IN? It is likely, if

those people you respect the most.

you are involved in business, that you will at some point have the

This is why I was delighted when, after much persistance Bianca Miller finally agreed to a catch up conversation/interview following on from the cover story we featured her in last year January.

chance to know Bianca Miller.

A year on from the madness that followed her appearance on The Apprentice, Bianca has not slowed down at all and still seems

There are many ways that you may know Bianca Miller. When

to be enjoying life at a splendid pace. 2015 has been an incredibly

I first interviewed her, she was fresh off the 2014 TV series of The

busy year for the 26 year old who has been building up her dual

Apprentice as one of the public’s and Lord Alan Sugar’s favourites,

business of Bianca Miller London and The Be Group and her hard

so maybe you recognise her from the show. Or perhaps you know

work has paid off.

of her product Bianca Miller London a brand of hosiery that has

“Last time we spoke I had really just started the ground work

been extremely well received thanks to the perfect matching of

for my business plans,” she explains, “And it’s been an interesting

these stockings and tights to the wearer’s skin tone, offering at the

journey; a mixture of maintaining my first business The Be Group

same time a wider selection and a narrower margin of error when

and continuing my own personal branding work while launching

120 | Endeavour Magazine

my Bianca Miller London brand, plus taking part in the number of speaking opportunities that were coming in thanks to my involvement in The Apprentice.”

Interestingly, despite what may be initially assumed, they were not fans of The Apprentice and did not watch the show.

“When other department stores had turned down the product and then Selfridges had accepted the proposal so willingly,” she

BIANCA MILLER LONDON Last time we spoke, Bianca indicated how the show had been a perfect starting point for her to throw her idea regarding skin-tone ‘nude’ hosiery into the ring, to see if the idea would hold water. Of course, as we all know, the idea proved to be a marketable success.

Bianca Miller London is a brand of ‘nude’ hosiery that match a woman’s skin tone, allowing for a more natural look and a better feel. With skin tones ranging from Irish/English Roses to SubSaharan African complexions, the idea was a hit on the show.

However, the influence from the show only went so far.

“Bianca Miller London launched on the website on November 18th 2015,” she says, “And at the beginning of January 2016 it appeared on the shelves in Selfridges Birmingham and London.”

Selfridges are the kind of department store that most manufacturers aim for; it’s name stands for a kind of quality that first time brands usually can’t offer, so it is illustrative of the quality of these products and the expectations of the marketability of them that such a high street store would take them on.

reveals, “ It was ironic when I discovered that they didn’t watch the show and so didn’t know that I had been on it. They saw the product and said that it suited their wide selection of clientele and filled a gap in the market and just like that my brand was on the high street.”

While Bianca may have been satisfied with partnerships with a number of other department stores, she believes that Selfridges saw the quality in the product and this was something she had worked very hard to provide, “It is a product with my name on it,” she says, “So I wanted to take steps to make sure it was as close to perfect as possible because I wanted to make something I would be proud of. They are manufactured here in the UK, which may make them a little more expensive than a product manufactured overseas, but they are simply better quality and quality is important to me.”

THE BE GROUP. BUILDING THE PERSONAL BRAND The Be Group is arguably Bianca’s most valuable enterprise to

Endeavour Magazine | 121

date. While working in recruitment, she was able to witness first-

you have to package and brand yourself in exactly the same way

hand the plight of people seeking employment in tough economic

that you would a product and while on the surface this means the

times.

obvious things like conduct, appearance and presentation, we have

“Unemployment is a problem and not only for those who have

started to go deeper.”

lost their jobs but also for those leaving education and realising that

Bianca reveals that she speaks at primary schools, speaking

the work force is a different world,” she explains, “The Be Group

with children several years away from joining the work force to

looks to educate people on how to utilise your own personal brand

seed their minds with the right kind of ideas that will help them in

and occasionally entrepreneurial spirit to make potential employers

the future.

want to employ you “ Today, The Be Group covers many facets and working with a

“In secondary schools and universities one of the things we focus on a lot is the changes in social media usage,” she reveals.

skilled team, Bianca has gained some very hefty clients including

She explains that while children and young adults use social

HSBC, Accenture and EY, where they look at more than just simple

media for its social attributes and status, what you want to portray

employability.

when you’re at school or university is completely different to what

“Businesses today want their employees to have an

you want to portray when you join the workforce.

entrepreneurial edge,” she says, “They want value in their workforce

“The days of a potential employer not looking you up on social

and it’s so much more than just your ability to do the job. Today

media when you apply for a position are gone,” she says, “And the

122 | Endeavour Magazine

sooner we can get people thinking about this, the better their

like Levi Roots (creator of Reggae Reggae Sauce), Michael Acton

prospects will be.”

Smith, creator of Moshi Monsters and John Graham, founder of Go

Bianca’s received a Power Profile award from Linked IN for

Outdoors, to name just a few.

being in the top ten category of people worth following on the

“It’s a brilliant chance to get these kids on the right path and to

business networking site, beating the other 70 million profiles on

show them from an early age that their ideas are worth something

the site so she definitely knows what she’s talking about.

and should always be encouraged,” Bianca says.

“We are all brands,” she explains, “And the first thing a potential buyer, or in our case, employer will look for is your online presence.

Social media is after all a reflection of you.”

This has put her in a position where she has been able to tackle issues of diversity and equality of gender and race in the workplace, something that still affects the workforce of the UK today.

DOT.UK Bianca is also the ambassador for .UK. “The internet has been dominated by .com and .uk is giving UK businesses a chance to set themselves a local web domain that immediately identifies them as having a strong presence in the country,” Bianca says.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

POCKET MONEY PITCH The sooner that entrepreneurial minds can be harnessed, encouraged and mentored the better and Bianca explains how

A .uk domain represents a new online opportunity and is the domain for a generation of digital pioneers; a domain for the future.

Fresh thinking, full of value and merit it’s a clear fit between Dot.Uk and Bianca Miller.

she is getting involved in Pocket Money Pitch, where youngsters

“It is a very exciting time because I’m getting the chance to

between the ages of 7 and 14 are able to pitch their entrepreneurial

work with some amazing people,” Bianca explains, “Everything

ideas and win funding to make them a reality.

is a team effort and you can achieve absolutely anything if you

Bianca is one of the ‘Brain Bank Buddies’, who encourage and guide the young business minds through the competition

surround yourself with the right people and help each other grow and develop.”

to pitch their ideas to the judges, which include business people

Endeavour Magazine | 123

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