The proud guardian of Sudan’s substantial gold resources, Ariab Mining Company Ltd is targeting portfolio diversification in conjunction with international investors.
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We kick off this edition of Endeavour Magazine with a great insight into Kenya National Shipping Line (KNSL) to see the vital work it does to provide competitive global shipping solutions that are working to develop the logistics industry from Kenya and across the world. KNSL works with vital governmental figures to encourage investment into Kenya’s shipping sector, as well as with major port authorities, such as Kenya Ports Authority, to ensure that the movement of cargo in and out of the country is made seamless and efficient.
We then turn to the City of Cape Town who are strategically working to develop the city towards a future of economic and social prosperity. It is achieving this through a 5-year management plan that exemplifies its expansive role across all facets of Cape Town’s development. The City is committed to ensuring that its citizens are the central priority in every development project and it is this passion for local development that continues to see the city thrive.
Following this we got a great insight from major mining developments in Ghana with AngloGold Ashanti, and from vital infrastructural developments taking place across Virginia and the Cayman Islands under the Virginia Department of Transportation and the National Roads Authority of the Cayman Islands.
This month we were also lucky enough to catch up with Seed Programs International (SPI), a non-profit organization looking to eradicate food insecurity and deliver vital agricultural resources to help communities grow and sell their crops for greater financial stability.
We hope you enjoy this great selection of companies spanning all corners of the globe, who are united in a mission to bring positive and vital economic development to their respective communities.
by Carley Fallows
KENYA
Asia/Oceania
Australia Introduces Strict Anti-Vaping Laws
For many years governments across the world have been working to cut down smoking rates among its populations. However, plastic disposal vapes have become increasingly popular with many choosing to vape over traditional cigarettes. Whilst this is a win for hitting cigarette smoking rates, the vapes have raised many concerns over their marketing to young people and children, as well as the environmental impact of the disposable devices.
Therefore, Australia has implemented some of the world’s toughest anti-vaping laws which look to limit the sale of vapes including nicotine to pharmacies. This move would require those buying vapes to present a doctor’s prescription in order to buy one. The new laws will also see only three flavours available: mint, menthol and tobacco. This move aims to remove the colourfully marketed vapes that appeal to young people in the hope of cutting nicotine addiction in young adults.
Whilst these laws are set to ease slightly and mean that only minors under 18 will need a prescription to purchase and that adults will still be able to buy them, it hopes to help cut down on young people using vapes and reduce the number of disposable vapes that end up in landfill.
Rare Spade-Toothed Whale Washes up in New Zealand
The Spade-Tooth Whale is a rare species for which very few specimens have ever been found, and in fact, there are no live sightings of the whale at all. However, local officials reported that a small, deceased whale had washed ashore on a New Zealand beach, and was later identified by researchers as the carcass of the illusive spade-tooth whale.
According to the Department of Conservation (DOC) the spade-toothed whale is one of the least known large mammalian species in the world, with only 6 samples ever recorded. Therefore, the discovery of the whale on the New Zealand shore will allow researchers to uncover new vital information on the species as it could offer the first chance of dissection of the species ever recorded.
Typhoon Hits China’s South-Eastern Coast
Thousands have been evacuated across China, the Philippines and Taiwan as Typhoon Gaemi made land bringing with it over 30cm of rainfall in just 24 hours. The extreme rainfall led to mudslides and extreme weather conditions claiming the lives of close to 60 people across China, the Philippines and Taiwan.
30,000 people are thought to have been evacuated from their homes in northern China, with many living in below the third floor of their residences told to seek higher ground. Typhoon Gaemi is the worst tropical storm to hit Taiwan in 8 years with winds of up to 141mph recorded. Many citizens across the three countries remained in shelters for several days as soldiers worked to clear debris.
Heavy Rains Lead to Devastating Landslides in Ethiopia
The remote region of Gofa Zone in the south of Ethiopia has been battered by seasonal rains between April and May that have already led to widespread flooding and mass displacement according to the UN. However, in recent weeks, the extreme rainfall has triggered a significant landslide in the Kencho-Shacha region killing 200 people.
However, due to the widespread devastation caused, locals quickly came to dig out as many people who had become trapped as possible. 5 people are reported to have been pulled alive from the mud, however, many more were not able to be saved. Landslides are not uncommon in Ethiopia, however with the prevalence of climate change, extreme weather leading to these kinds of disasters is becoming more common across the world.
Rangers in Sierra Leone Fighting Against Deforestation
Sierra Leone is home to the Kambui Hills Forest Reserve which is known for its rich reserves of gold, diamonds and rutile. This rich reserve potential has meant that illegal mining and logging operations have begun to spring up across the region at a concerning speed. However, rangers from the National Protected Areas Authority (NPAA) are working to protect the rainforest and through patrols stop these illegal activities from taking place.
Across Sierra Leone more than 35% of its total tree cover has been lost due to deforestation, however, it is home to some of the world’s most ecologically significant habitats. In fact, according to the Environmental Performance Index, Sierra Leone has one of the highest deforestation rates in the world. Therefore, NPAA has 62 wardens in place spanning some 14,000 hectares of the region in the hope of deterring and preventing these illegal activities from taking place. However, the group has found difficulties with such treacherous terrain, meaning many of these illegal mining operations take place at night and are incredibly difficult to reach and prevent.
South Sudan’s Bright Stars Secure Place at Paris Olympics
The men’s national basketball team for South Sudan has confirmed a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics following a successful campaign. A key part of the team’s rise to fame has been due to support from Luol Deng, a former National Basketball Association (NBA) star, who is one of the most successful African players to feature in the league playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers and the Minnesota Timberwolves. South Sudan has been known to export world-class players to the NBA for many years.
The Bright Stars began their Olympic campaign by playing Puerto Rico, achieving a 90-79 win over the higher-ranked team. However, Bright Stars will also face the United States and Serbia in the group stage which will pose a big challenge. The US team is one that the entire competition will be looking out for, having brought together world-class players such as LeBron James, Steph Curry, Joel Embiid and Kevin Durant into a team being dubbed by many as ‘The Avengers’.
Americas
Biden Leaves the Presidential Race
President Joe Biden has decided to leave the presidential candidate race ahead of the US General Election in November. Through a televised address, the current US President outlined his decision to end his re-election campaign. His decision came as he felt his role as president “merited a second term”, however following pressure from colleagues and donors to step aside, he decided to remove himself as the Democratic candidate with the goal of “saving our democracy”. Following his decision to leave, the President endorsed the current Vice-President Kamala Harris who is set to take over the role as the leading Democratic candidate for the election.
The presidential race for the White House is now looking to be between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. However, Donald Trump made international headlines only the week before after he was shot at, in an assassination attempt at a presidential rally in Pennsylvania. The shot just grazed his ear, and he was otherwise left unharmed from the attack.
Deforestation Reduced in Colombia
The Environment Ministry of Colombia announced that deforestation across the country had fallen significantly over 2023 as vital work has begun to protect the Amazon region. Deforestation in 2023 fell to just over 792 square kilometres across Colombia, a great drop from the 1,235sq km recorded in 2022. This works out to a 36% decrease from the previous year and highlights the country’s mission to protect the environment and put a limit on deforestation.
Colombia is one of many South American countries that is working to protect the Amazon as part of an alliance established in 2023. Colombia signed the declaration outlining a roadmap that would be utilised by those surrounding the Amazon rainforest to promote sustainable development, end deforestation, and fight the types of illegal activities which encourage its destruction.
Blackouts in Ecuador
Blackouts across Ecuador left 17 million people without power, including many hospitals, homes and major subway systems. The blackout is thought to have been caused by maintenance and transmission issues within the country’s electrical systems. However, Ecuador’s Public Infrastructure Minister Roberto Luque outlined in a press conference that the outages were caused “due to a lack of investment in maintenance, new electrical transmission, and the protection of the electrical transmission infrastructure”.
The blackouts lasted 8 hours and highlighted the ongoing energy crisis that Ecuador has been struggling with for many years. Thankfully many vital services such as hospitals had generators to fall back on, but many residential areas were left without air conditioning as temperatures reached 32°C.
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Middle East
WHO Fears Outbreaks of Polio in Gaza
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has told reporters that it is growing “extremely worried” about the risk of a possible outbreak of polio in Gaza. The fears come as traces of the infectious virus were found in sewage samples collected from two sites in Gaza in the last few months. Whilst no current cases have been recorded, WHO and UNICEF have discussed the potential need for a mass vaccination campaign in Gaza.
Polio is caused by a virus which is easily spread through contact with the faeces of an infected person, or through droplets from coughs or sneezes – however, this is a lot less common. With the ongoing conflict in Gaza, it is difficult for aid workers or humanitarian supplies to reach those who may be most in need and with the health system already severely impacted by the conflict, it is feared that the virus could easily be spread.
Dubai Announces World’s Largest Airport Terminal
Dubai has announced the development of a new airport terminal that would be able to handle 260 million passengers annually, making it the largest airport terminal in the world by capacity. The project is set to cost $35 billion and would be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport which is already one of the world’s busiest airports and one of the main entry points into the United Arab Emirates.
Once completed all operations from the Dubai International Airport would be moved to the Al Maktoum International Airport where the project is underway. The airport will then serve as the new home for the Emirate airline carrier across the 5 parallel runways, servicing 400 aircraft gates. The development of the Airport Terminal would see tourism across Dubai significantly increase to boost the local economy and highlight the UAE as a vital destination in the Middle East.
BYD to Open Manufacturing Plant in Turkey
BYD, one of the largest electric car manufacturers in the world, has signed a $1 billion deal to establish a manufacturing plant in Turkey. The plant is planned to create 5,000 new jobs working across the production capacity of 150,000 vehicles a year. The facility is expected to begin production in 2026.
Opening a manufacturing facility in Turkey is a strategic move as the EU introduces extra tariffs for vehicles shipped from China to the EU, which would see a further 17.4% added on top of the existing 10% import duty. However, Turkey is part of the EU’s Customer Union, so vehicles made in the country and exported across the EU would not be subject to the additional tariff.
The Turkish Government have also put in place an extra 40% tariff on imports of Chinese vehicles, in an effort to support the country’s car makers.
Europe
Alcaraz Secures His Second Wimbledon Victory
The Men’s Singles Wimbledon final was an all too familiar site again this year with Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic facing off in the final. Alcaraz had the possibility of three championship points, but each one fell short. However, in a third-set tiebreak, Alcaraz was victorious achieving a 6-2 6-2 7-6 (7-4) win over Djokovic.
At only 21 years of age, Alcaraz becomes the youngest man to win at both Wimbledon and the French Open in the same year. However, his win leaves Djokovic still seeking that 8th Wimbledon men’s title to go equal to fellow rival Roger Federer.
Alcaraz is now playing alongside his longtime hero and fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the men’s doubles at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Spain Wins Euros 2024
The final of the UEFA European Football Championship (Euros 2024) saw England face off against Spain in Berlin at the Olympiastadion venue. After 58 years of pain and disappointment for England, the final ended in an all too familiar feeling with Spain going ahead early on in the second half with Nico Williams scoring a powerful shot against England’s Jordan Pickford.
England saw some hope with the introduction of Cole Palmer onto the pitch who scored just a moment later giving hope to many England fans. Although, this had both sides fearing the possibility of extra time and penalties.
However, the game came to a close as Mikel Oyarzabal scored in the 86th minute giving Spain the win and leaving English fans heartbroken once again. The Spanish side’s performance throughout the tournament had been excellent, with the young Lamine Yamal scoring his first European Championship goal at just 16 years of age.
The Olympics Begin in Paris
The 2024 Olympics has begun with athletes from across the world competing to show they are the best of the best across 32 sporting events. The Olympics kicked off with a ceremony stretching the River Seine with boats carrying each country’s team parading down the river, whilst the riverbanks saw performances, artistic displays and even a few celebrity surprises highlighting everything that Paris has to offer.
However, one part of the Olympic Games which has caught media attention is its commitment to sustainability. The organisation committee vowed to ensure that it was the greenest Olympic games in history, intending to have half the carbon footprint of London 2012 and Rio 2016. The committee has devised tables made from recycled shuttlecocks, plant-based menus and beds made from cardboard. This commitment to delivering sustainable games has also been highlighted in its choice of venues, as it is utilising 35 stadiums across Paris and only 2 of these will be built with the Olympics in mindcompared to the 6 built for London in 2012 and 10 for Rio.
Kenya National Shipping Line Ltd.
The shipping industry of Kenya has seen a sharp increase in recent years with global companies utilising it as a key hub for cargo movement between Africa and other international markets. The country is home to one of the busiest ports along the East African coastline, the Port of Mombasa, which is vital for bringing cargo in and out of Kenya, and to neighbouring countries. To ensure this movement of cargo runs smoothly across international waters and within Kenya, the Kenya National Shipping Line Ltd. (KNSL) offers a vital and comprehensive shipping service which aims to bring national economic development through the facilitation of cargo on a global scale.
For over 35 years, KNSL has been a leading and reliable shipping and logistics company that services the maritime and cargo industries moving both within the African continent and across international markets. The company began in 1987 under the Companies Act, to be Kenya’s national carrier, formed through a joint venture between the Kenyan Government (via the Kenya Ports Authority) and strategic partnerships with Unimar and DEG in Germany. This joint venture set out on a mission to provide a competitive shipping and logistics service that would bolster the national economy and contribute towards its role across global shipping markets.
Pioneering Excellence In Logistics.
FOCUS CFS is a premier Container Freight Station offering toptier logistics services for cargo through the Port of Mombasa, serving East Africa. As a market leader, we specialize in handling containers, loose cargo, motor vehicles, reefer containers, export cargo, warehousing, and project cargo.
Exceeding customer expectations with our professional, efficient, and reliable services.
Today KNSL continues this mission, and in 2022, following some restructuring of its shareholders, outlined a set of strategic objectives which would enhance the shipping, clearing, forwarding, warehousing, and consolidation of cargo, as well as provide essential recruitment and placement services to seafarers. These objectives include the growth of cargo volume handled by the company to meet the increasing demand for products in Kenya and across Africa, whilst also bringing vital economic development to the region because of this. In addition, KNSL is working to enhance the efficiency of its logistics values chains, ship management and terminal operations through vital investments, as well as in partnership with local suppliers to bolster its operations across the coast. These objectives hope that with good governance and continual institutional growth, it will enhance its logistics delivery service and be the shipping line of choice for its customers. Additionally, through its crewing and manning services, its final objective is to promote and facilitate the placement of Kenya within the global maritime labour markets.
KNSL’s objectives here highlight the allencompassing role KNSL plays in supporting the shipping industry of Kenya so it can continue to function smoothly. The shipping line works closely with Kenya Ports Authority, as well as with vital logistical services across the country to ensure that the shipping line brings the vital cargo to the shores and then works with those on the ground to make the movement of this cargo to end markets seamless. Therefore, KNSL is primarily known for providing world-class shipping services catered towards the containerized and conventional cargo sector.
To move this cargo, KNSL operates an ocean freight service which works directly with its
Kenya Ports Authority:
Improved efficiency boosts performance at the Port of Mombasa
The Port of Mombasa has defied global economic challenges, compounded with heavy rains in 2023 to achieve its targets and solidify its position as the Port of choice.
One of our notable achievements was the successful commencement of night pilotage of oil tankers courtesy of the operationalization of the new Kipevu Oil Terminal (KOT). We are optimistic that the 24/7 service for oil tankers is progressively reducing ship turnaround time and attendant costs.
Additionally the Port of Lamu is steadily gaining business muscles and global recognition owing to our continued marketing efforts. Recently, the Port received its first hinterland bound cargo from World Food Programme (WFP) followed by a cruise ship and a naval ship calls. All along, the Port has been handling transshipment consignments.
We have also made strides in capacity expansion initiatives that include expansion of container handling berths, increased automation of services, acquired modern ship and cargo handling equipment and improved partnerships with key government agencies and stakeholders to enhance synergy. Acquisition of the new equipment is expected to double berth productivity and reduce ship working time.
Moreover, the procurement for the construction services of Dongo Kundu Berth 1 (DK 1) is almost complete with construction expected to commence soon. The facility is strategically important in catalyzing the development of the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone which upon completion, will not only boost the economy of the Country but, through enhanced trade, drive major business growth for Mombasa Port.
We are now back on a steady recovery path having witnessed remarkable improvement in port performance. This year, our total cargo throughput grew by 1.587 million tons or 5.1% recording 32,950,000 tons between January and
November 2023, compared with the same period in 2022. By the close of 2023, we expect to have handled 35 million tons.
Total container traffic recorded 1,470,754 TEUs in January – November 2023, which is an increase of 145,702 TEUs or 11% compared with the same period in 2022. We expect to reach 1.6 million TEUs by end of the year.
Transshipment traffic registered 177,144 TEUs in January – November 2023 which is a drop of 11% compared with the same period in 2022. However, we expect transshipment traffic to grow further due to the congestion currently being experienced in other regional ports. Transit traffic grew by 10.8% registering 10,425,000 tons in January – November 2023. The annual forecast for 2023 is expected to reach 11 million tons.
Recently we launched our five-year Strategic Plan 2023/24 – 2027/28 which provides a roadmap in furtherance of our mandate towards realizing our vision - world class ports of choice. This strategy is driven by four strategic directions: customer focus, operational excellence, business growth and good governance. We are optimistic that the initiatives that we pursue will not only positively impact on our customers’ experiences but will exceed their expectations.
According to the latest Africa Ports Productivity 2023, the Port of Mombasa is ranked second in Africa pointing to improved efficiency. This is also supported by the new shipping lines making maiden calls to the port to deliver transshipment cargo destined for other regional ports and a vote of confidence to the port.
As the Port continues to make strides in enhancing its operational capabilities, stakeholders within the maritime industry are optimistic about the prospect of sustained growth and heightened competitiveness for the Port of Mombasa
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customers to provide integrated logistics supply chains through its agency network spanning the globe. These services look to ensure that dry bulk, liquid bulk, project and specialised cargo reaches end markets, and is moved through bunkering husbandry and protective agency services across the logistics chain to achieve the best operational efficiency possible. The comprehensive role of KNSL is known for providing intermodal solutions for forwarding - specifically designed to provide a one-stop shop for inland shipping requirements which work with local stakeholders to move cargo across the road, rail and inland waterway networks of Kenya with the help of local and international shipping networks.
However, just a few years ago it was a different scene for KNSL as it did not have its own vessels and containers to be able to compete with some of the larger shipping lines operating across the African coast. Therefore, to revive KNSL, the Kenyan government unveiled plans that would help KNSL play an even larger role in developing the Kenyan economy and expand its role across the country’s shipping industry. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Kenyan government along
Competitive Global Shipping
with the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) outlining a plan which would see KNSL allocated cargo slots at the Port of Mombasa, and an amendment to the Merchant Shipping Act 2019 to facilitate KNSL and MSC to jointly run the port’s second container terminal (CT2). This would give both companies greater priority in their shipping lines across the main port of Kenya and highlight the valuable role they both play in delivering vital cargo to Kenya. Phase one of the CT2 project increased the port’s annual capacity to 550,000 TEU, and the second phase completed in 2022 would bring the capacity to 1 million TEUs. The MoU hoped to see the company contribute a further $3 billion annually to the economy and create 6,000 new jobs. Therefore, the government’s vital investment in KNSL through the Port of Mombasa highlights the valuable role KNSL will continue to play as the national shipping company for Kenya.
Consequently, a key aspect of KNSL’s operations is in working with the Kenya Port Authority (KPA) across the country’s most vital ports. The Port of Mombasa has continued to defy global economic challenges, and following heavy rains in 2023, was still able to achieve its targets and solidify its position as the Port
Kenya National Shipping Line Ltd.
of Choice for Kenya under KPA’s management. The Mombasa port was ranked second in the 2023 Africa Ports Productivity report, highlighting its improved efficiency and the increasing number of new shipping lines making maiden voyages to the port each year. Therefore, as a leading shipping line in operation at the port and alongside KPA, KNSL ensures that the shipping and cargo industry of Kenya remains profitable and effective to meet the growing demand for goods and highlight Kenya as a key hub for shipping activity along the East African coastline.
What sets KNSL apart from its rivals is its role in the crew and manning of seafarers to vessels throughout its agency network. Through KNSL’s network, it can pair employer and employee in mutually beneficial partnerships that will continue to benefit Kenya’s shipping industry going forward. KNSL utilises recruitment matrixes which outline the travel arrangements, visas, supply of work gear and other services to ensure that the employee is well matched to the employer, and both parties continue to be supported by KNSL to build a reliable and integrated global network.
A key part of the crew and manning division of KNSL is its work with international cruise lines and vessel management companies, who utilise the company’s global network to access a thorough and well-updated database of potential crewing
candidates which are ready for employment and deployment. Therefore, KNSL’s reputation across global cargo, cruise and vessel management networks makes it the go-to destination to find skilled employees and employers to continue to develop shipping operations across the globe. This reputation for providing only the best employers and employees further supports Kenya’s reputation as a vital shipping port within global markets which is supported by the best in the business.
Ultimately, KNSL plays a vital role in maintaining the reliable movement of cargo from overseas and into Kenya and then beyond through the company’s vital shipping network. This network works in partnership with vital stakeholders spanning local and global supply chains to ensure that Kenya’s shipping and logistic industry maintains its worldclass reputation. With the development of its crew and manning division, KNSL goes one step further and is working to pair skilled workers across the country with essential roles within its global network to highlight the skilled workforce supporting shipping in Kenya. We look forward to seeing how KNSL continues to expand its role across the shipping and maritime industry, and as it continues to position itself as a world-class company offering integrated and reliable shipping solutions to Kenya and beyond.
City of Cape Town
As the oldest city in South Africa, Cape Town is the country’s legislative capital and is home to more than 4 million residents. With such a diverse population spanning the city, it is no surprise that its everyday functioning, success, and development play a vital role in keeping it as a rich and thriving hub for South Africa. Therefore, the government-run City of Cape Town is responsible for ensuring that the city’s services, infrastructure, and development are designed to meet the needs of today whilst building on the needs of the future.
The City of Cape Town’s central role is to work together with vital stakeholders, governmental officials and the local community to ensure that it is always working towards building Cape Town into a prosperous, inclusive and healthy city for all those who live and work in it. To achieve this, The City is entrusted to distribute public resources to help achieve these goals over a 5-year term, each one outlined with a central mission for what that term hopes to do for Cape Town.
The current June 2022 to June 2027 term is well underway, with the central vision being ‘A City of Hope for All’. This vision is utilised by The City to formulate a strategic plan underlined by policies, objectives, initiatives and programs which provide a roadmap for how the current term aims to make this vision a reality. This roadmap is called the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) which is required by law to outline the strategic framework for how it aims to develop Cape Town over the coming years. However, rather than simply being a legal document with a goal, The City utilises it as an almost step-by-step guide to how it is going to achieve every single step and, as a result, its overall vision.
The IDP is split into 2 vital parts, with the first being a strategic plan which comprises community needs and stakeholder inputs, as well as a full contextual analysis and evaluation of the existing state of Cape Town. By fully assessing the position of Cape Town and its existing infrastructure, resources and needs, the IDP can more effectively identify which areas are in need of vital development in order for the ‘City of Hope’ vision to be achieved. Once this had been established, The City began outlining the second stage of the IDP which is the implementation plan. The implementation plan takes the identified points or challenges facing the city and devises key strategic programmes, projects and initiatives which will take place over the 5-year term. Once these have been identified, the development projects are then divided between the relevant departments of The City to ensure that each one is focused and responsible for their role in developing the city.
The thorough process of the IDP development plan is what allows The City to be so successful in achieving a clear vision and providing an evidential
basis from which resources are dispersed. The ultimate goal of the IDP is to speed up the delivery of development in vital areas, whilst attracting investment into Cape Town, to establish it as a city that is constantly developing towards a more successful infrastructure where prosperity and community are at the forefront. In the current IDP, the central priorities are economic growth, safety and basic services, and then housing, public space environment and amenities. The development of Cape Town’s economic growth however is its central priority in the existing IDP period, with many of the projects and initiatives playing a role in developing the city towards greater economic prosperity in all aspects. Then, the focus on services ensures that citizens have access to essential things such as water, energy, and sanitation, whilst upholding a firm level of safety for all across the city. The final main goal of The City is to bring more development across public spaces, with environmental issues and transport infrastructure playing a vital role in ensuring a more hopeful future for Cape Town.
Purposeful
City of Cape Town
These central goals are supported by three vital foundational goals which help ensure the main projects and initiatives of these 5 years can be achieved. These foundations include building a resilient city that is more spatially integrated and inclusive, with the support of a capable and collaborative-focused government. To achieve the main goals set out in the IDP, The City has set out 16 objectives to make these a reality, all of which are broken down into programs and projects. The objectives cover the three main goals looking to increase jobs and investment, making access to basic services more reliable, improving infrastructure, working with the community to strengthen partnerships, refurbishing recreational facilities and making a more spatially integrated city. All of these objectives are then broken down into specific projects or initiatives which aim to achieve these objectives, and as a result, meet the overarching goal of the IDP.
Some key projects under the current IDP 20222027 are the desalination project, groundwater project, catchment management project and water
reuse project. These are working to make Cape Town more water resilient, and so reduce the need for severe water restriction which has been seen across the country during periods of drought. It aims to achieve this by utilising catchment and groundwater collection, as well as working with the vital infrastructure and water systems to clean and reuse water more efficiently. These projects have been enhanced in recent months with the establishment of 3 more Catchment Management Fora (CMF). The introduction of three new CMFs will promote the sustainability and resilience of water resources across the city and develop a more integrated water management system. The project brings together vital stakeholders across governmental, private and business sectors, as well as working directly within communities. By fostering a unified and cohesive approach to water resilience, The City aims to make water flow more freely across the city.
The significant impact of the CMF announcement was highlighted by Councillor Zahid Badroodien with
“The establishment of these mark a significant step forward in our strategic commitment to preserving and enhancing Cape Town’s water resources”. The Councillor’s comment highlights how vital water as a resource is for the country and the role it will continue to play in the security of water resources for its future.
In fact, in the last year, natural disasters have brought widespread devastation across South Africa with wildfires, droughts and even flooding causing threats to life and livelihoods. Therefore, alongside its development projects, The City has also been working to ensure that its preparedness for extreme weather is in place. Following significant rainfall earlier last month, The City issued more than 10,000 flood kits to vulnerable areas such as informal settlements which are often prone to flooding in the wetlands. The kits help families better protect themselves and their homes from flooding and highlight The City’s mission to help its citizens
better protect themselves from natural disasters throughout every aspect of its operations.
Ultimately, The City of Cape Town continues to be developed towards a future where there is no poverty or hunger, and where good health, education, and gender quality are promoted for a better living environment for all of its citizens. With the establishment of a new IDP every 5 years, The City remains focused on ensuring that the management of the city and its resources are always meeting the current and future needs of the people of Cape Town. As we have seen, the current push is towards economic growth, with vital works in place to develop infrastructure, the environment, and service management. We look forward to seeing how The City will continue to carry out more of its operations under the current IDP term as it works to continue to establish Cape Town as a thriving hub primed for continued investment.
AngloGold Ashanti Ghana
AngloGold Ashanti Plc (AngloGold Ashanti) is one of the largest mining companies in the world focused on delivering a range of diverse, high-quality portfolio operations, projects and exploration activities spanning 9 countries across the globe. Throughout its operations, AngloGold Ashanti has been set on a mission to utilise mining to empower people and communities and ensure that all of its operations are working towards the collective goal of bringing economic and social development to vital regions across the globe.
AngloGold Ashanti’s operations predominantly work to turn vital gold resources across the world into economically viable assets that bring stable economic benefits across the world. This goal to develop vital assets is something that began the company in 1998 when it was just called AngloGold Limited as a consolidation of AngloAmerican Plc. In 2004, AngloGold combined with the Ashanti Gold Fields Company Limited, under the new name AngloGold Ashanti Limited, where the company we know today took full shape. In 2023, the company experienced vital restructuring and formed AngloGold Ashanti Plc and changed domicile due to its new registration in the United Kingdom. Today, AngloGold Ashanti has established a rigid strategy to ensure that it can generate sustainable cash flow improvements across its gold assets and bring long-term benefits to the communities and stakeholders with which each mine site interacts. Currently, AngloGold Ashanti has vital gold projects in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, the United States, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. However, one of the current key countries for development is Ghana, where AngloGold Ashanti has two key mining operations.
Africa has long been a vital continent for AngloGold Ashanti, with Ghana’s Iduapriem and Obuasi projects adding key gold reserves to the company’s portfolio. Obuasi is a underground mining operation located in the Ashanti region. The mine consists of a single access decline with interlevel development between 15 and 30 metres, as well as various shafts. The mining operations encompass the existing infrastructure including a 2.4Mtpa processing plant with flotation and bacterial oxidation, hoisting shafts with associated infrastructure, and power and water reticulation facilities.
Production at the Obuasi complex began in 1897, however, this was brought to an end in 2014, with only a very limited portion of the mine’s facilities functioning under limited operational conditions. One of these limited operations was the development of an underground mine decline, which following a feasibility study in 2017 indicated a strong technical and economic case for the mine and would suggest a possible 20-year life of mine operation for Obuasi. The feasibility study received strong approvals from the AngloGold Ashanti Board,
and so in 2019, the current project at Obuasi began with a projected three-phase approach.
The first phase of the current operations began in September 2020 with the conceptualisation and planning of the site. The second phase included the construction of the mine and its development which was completed in 2021 bringing a capacity of 4,000tpd of gold a day. The current and final phase of the project is working on establishing the infrastructure necessary to ramp up production of the Obuasi mine to an intended 5,000tpd capacity. This final phase is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.
The second vital project for AngloGold Ashanti is the Iduapriem mine site located in the west of Ghana. Much like Obuasi, the project is 100% owned by AngloGold Ashanti and spans 137km2 inclusive of the Ajopa southwestern region of the country. The initial feasibility of the mine was completed in 1990, with the original owners (Golden Shamrock Limited) beginning construction in 1991 utilising a semiautogenous million circuit and carbon-in-pulp (CIP) plant. Official construction began the following year in 1992, when it also poured its first gold. By
Economic and Community Development
AngloGold Ashanti Ghana
2000, AngloGold had purchased the site and began upgrades which saw the mine’s operation output capacity increased to 4Mtpa following the merge of Ashanti with AngloGold in 2002. Today AngloGold Ashanti has continued to expand the plant and it now has a current 5.2 Mtpa capacity.
As the Iduapriem Mine operation looks towards the future, AngloGold Ashanti has begun a joint venture with Gold Fields which aims to merge the existing Tarwa mine in Ghana. This merge would create one of the largest gold mines in Africa, and highlight even further the vital role that Ghana has continued to play in gold production and marketing worldwide. In fact, developing the Iduapriem Mine towards the future has been a central mission for AngloGold Ashanti’s current daily operations as it has set out plans to open a trial farm on part of the Old Tailing Storage Facility (OTSF), a rehabilitated area of the mine, which would look to enhance the ecological processing on the site and support growth in the local community through training and employment across the farming land.
The farming land on the previous OTSF site highlights AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to ensuring that the community surrounding its
operations are provided with vital socio-economic benefits from the mine site. Therefore, the proposed rehabilitation of part of the Idupriem site would see vital employment across the local community as they oversee farming and crop production. This aims to provide both economic development to those in the local community and provide long-term skills and benefits to support the workers going forward. Furthermore, the work to rehabilitate the land will play a vital role in understanding how the mine can be utilised and redeveloped when it is one day closed.
AngloGold Ashanti recently announced that the company has partnered with Absa Bank Ghana Limited in conjunction with the MasterCard Foundation, to bolster local economic growth and empowerment of local businesses. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines 4 main projects which are planned to support the sustainable expansion of small and medium businesses in Obuasi and provide the impetus for future economic development across the region. The project includes the Business Acceleration and Sustainability initiative which is aimed at providing SMEs with organisation systems and models to
increase operational capacity and secure financing. This will allow businesses across the region to bring more investment into Obuasi and access new and international markets. Across the various projects outlined by Absa Bank Ghana and AngloGold Ashanti, they aim to bring more entrepreneurial opportunities for local operations and enhance the role of local businesses in stimulating the Ghanaian economy for many years to come.
As we have seen across AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Ghana it is working to enhance the existing mining potential of the region and strategically place them as vital producers for the company and for Ghana as a whole. However, throughout these projects and initiatives hoping to develop the mines of Ghana, it is also working to bring significant economic development for the country and their respective communities. Through vital work and partnerships, AngloGold Ashanti aims to continue to bring investment into the region and position the local communities of Ghana as a priority in the development of AngloGold Ashanti’s mining operations going forward.
Economic and Community Development
ENSURING FOOD SECURITY ACROSS THE GLOBE
Written by Carley Fallows
Food insecurity has become an increasingly alarming concern for many communities around the world as climate change, political unrest and poverty have left many families without reliable access to food. Seed Programs International (SPI) began its operations in 1998 as a nonprofit with a mission to improve food security, strengthen communities and cultivate sustainable livelihoods through agriculture. We had the absolute pleasure of talking with Brian Love, Strategy & Operations Director at SPI, who outlined some of the global work SPI does to help ensure a future where food security instead of hunger exists.
SPI was founded by John Batcha in 1998 after he noticed that good quality seeds were being thrown away due to overproduction and changes in customers’ preferences. He knew this seed could be repurposed to support communities experiencing hunger and poverty. By providing these seeds to international humanitarian organisations, the seeds could be grown by families struggling with food insecurity so that they could produce their own crops to feed their families. In addition, excess produce could be sold at market to generate income. This is what formed the basis of SPI’s operations 25 years ago, and today their support has expanded to provide funding for training, resources and inputs to support programs worldwide. Over their history, SPI has had a positive impact in 94 countries, having provided over 17 million packets of seed to communities – enough seed to grow over 58 thousand tons of food and 644 million servings of vegetables.
In many ways, SPI’s goal is to work itself out of a job by catalysing successful food production and supporting communities to access and procure the inputs they need to sustainably grow food. SPI achieves this goal by partnering with organisations
local to the program’s geography to build their capacity and create a program tailored to the community’s needs. This methodology increases community buy-in and keeps successes locally owned. Participants are provided with the knowledge and tools needed to grow nutritious food for their families and continue to grow food without the continued support of external aid.
SPI understands the critical role women play in agriculture, household nutrition and children’s education. As such, one of SPI’s main areas of focus is supporting women farmers. According to the FAO, women produce more than 50% of food in developing nations, however, they experience greater difficulty in accessing land, quality seed, technology, agricultural resources, and education. Improving women’s access to resources increases crop production and helps build community food security. SPI focuses on vegetable crops due to their compatibility with household gardens that are often managed by women, their nutritive value that complements staple grains, and their marketability which generates income. SPI currently partners with women-focused programs in Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Senegal, Kyrgyzstan and Guatemala.
SPI recently released its 5-year strategy which outlines their approach to deepen and scale their impact by focusing work on key target segments: women, children, and people feeling environmental and/or human caused crises. The plan also identifies high leverage pathways for scaling the dissemination of quality seed and associated knowledge needed to improve food production. Additionally, SPI proposes
Projects and Non-Profits
how to couple dissemination of seed and knowledge with feedback mechanisms that ensure farming family voices are heard and can inform future innovation in the seed sector. When we spoke with Brian Love, he highlighted the opportunity that exists to mobilise current improved crop varieties that are not being used. “Decades of research and millions of dollars of investment have created improved varieties for growers in many countries and regions, yet when you look at what is being grown, these varieties remain on the shelf. How do we get these varieties off the bench and into the game?” Brian’s comments here highlight SPI’s work to ask difficult questions and work towards actions that will improve food production and lead to increased food security in hard-to-reach geographies. SPI has been steadily building a network of partners that can disseminate trial quantities of seed and foster real-time grower feedback that can be temporally and spatially mapped to generate insights about what farming families need.
What stands out about SPI is its passion for helping people, and this comes through when speaking with Brian. When asked what he feels is the best thing that SPI offers, Brian said that SPI strives to be a trusted
partner who listens and understands the personal circumstances and needs of the communities being served. SPI is passionate about working with implementing partners to develop customised approaches that foster sustainable food production and enable upward mobility for families struggling with hunger and poverty. Through this focused approach, SPI can provide tailored approaches that improve food security and enable systems that can create tangible, long-term improvements for program participants.
Overall, SPI is an organisation with a global reach, but a customised, personal focus in the fight against food insecurity. Farmers around the world encounter different challenges, which are constantly changing and evolving. By forming partnerships and enabling access to quality seed, training, and agricultural resources, SPI helps communities acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to sustainably improve their lives. We look forward to catching up with SPI again soon to see how its 5-year development plan continues to progress, as it works to support families around the globe to improve their food security.
Dubai Duty Free
With over 40 years of experience in one of the busiest airports in the world for international passengers, Dubai Duty Free (DFF) provides the best customer services across its retail and affiliated operations to promote Dubai to a global audience. Operating out of Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, DFF provides top-of-the-line products spanning from luxury beauty, to leading fashion and jewellery brands, as well as many quality liquors perfect for treating yourself or a loved one to a luxury treat – all with a duty-free price tag!
Every year Dubai sees millions of people travelling from all corners of the world to experience the scenery, culture and cuisines of the United Arab Emirates. However, whilst being known for its luxury resorts and culture, Dubai is also known as a key shopping destination, bringing shopping tourists from across the world descending upon the city to visit the expansive shopping malls and grab a great deal. Therefore, there’s no better place to start than in the airport, where these tourists can make the most of the duty-free price lags on some of the world’s leading luxury brands. Therefore, DDF was established in 1983 to make the duty-free retail experience an essential and enjoyable part of travel in Dubai, whilst offering the best shopping experience through a wide range of products and services both in-store and online to its customer base.
The central mission of DFF is to promote Dubai to a global audience, and its operations aim to make the city an attractive and worthwhile destination for both local and international travellers. The promotion of Dubai through its retail locations works alongside the Dubai Government’s goals to increase tourism to Dubai steadily over the coming years. The Dubai Tourism Strategy 2020 outlines a mission to attract 20 million visitors to the city by 2020, which when amended in 2018 would increase this goal to 21-23 million visitors in 2022, and a further 23-25 in 2025.
Unfortunately, with the global Covid-19 pandemic shutting down the tourism industry in 2020, these goals were not met. However, in the first 4 months of 2024, Dubai saw 8.12 million overnight visitors, showing a 10% increase in tourism compared to the same January to May period in 2023. This highlights that tourism is a vital part of Dubai’s economy, and so its prevalence across every industry of the city significantly impacts the local economy. Therefore, DFF aims to continue to promote Dubai through its various operations to bring continued tourism to the region for greater economic impact.
With more than 120 airlines operating from Dubai International Airport, millions of people are making their way through the duty-free section of the airport and so DFF makes billions a year providing these passengers with great deals at duty-free prices. With no duty to be paid on the products, passengers are likely to purchase more premium
products that would come with much higher price tags at other shopping centres or retail outlets. DFF offers a range of products from beauty, liquor, tobacco, technology, food, watches, jewellery, fashion, luggage, travel essentials, toys, books, health and wellness products as well as souvenirs – to name just a few.
Across these product ranges, there are big brands such as Bottega, Dior, Gucci, La Mer, and Destination Champagne. These are things that passengers typically may not splurge on in everyday life, but with the excellent customer service, great prices and wide selection of items passengers are willing to spend the extra money to grab themselves a deal. We can see this from the US$2.16 billion in sales turnover that DFF achieved in 2023, a significant increase from the US$20 million reached in the first year – already a significant amount even in the first year of operation!
One of the most prominent purchases at the DFF is from the fragrance and perfume shops, where many people are treating themselves to a new
Dubai Duty Free
Loacker
Loacker was founded in 1925 and went from being a local patisserie to a global brand. An international company which even after three generations still maintains a family-run business model. Values and beliefs such as high-quality and genuine products, sustainability, and a people-centric approach are at the heart of its constant growth.
Packaging is at the heart of Loacker’s sustainability policy. It pursues two main goals: recycling packaging and eliminating unnecessary packaging. Since 2022, the company has focused on increasing single-material, recycling ready, plastic packaging and eliminating unnecessary packaging along the entire value chain, maximising sustainability without compromising product quality and freshness.
The South Tyrolean company has launched five Loacker specialty selections in the Duty Free channel in outer pouch made of FSC®certified paper: Minis Mix, Best of Moments, Gardena Minis Mix, Patisserie Selection and Tortina Selection. The paper pouch reduced the plastic packaging content of the entire packages between 56% and 63%, compared to the previous packages with plastic-only outer pouch.
The total weight of the packs was reduced between 20 percent and 7 percent compared to the previous all-plastic packs.
Last year, the paper pouch line generated about 60 percent of duty-free channel sales, suggesting a growing consumer focus on environmentally friendly packaging.
Policy. With perfumes as our top selling category, this initiative will help prevent the effects of glass tester bottles ending up in landfills”. Cidambi’s comments highlight the valuable role these kinds of sustainability programs play in ensuring that DFF can continue to meet the consumer demands of passengers across its airports of operation, whilst making strategic steps to protect the environment at the same time.
This need to give back is something that DFF are very committed to, not just in providing great deals for its customers, but through the establishment of the Dubai Duty Free Foundation. The DDF Foundation was launched in 2004 as a charitable body founded under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of DFF, along with Colm McLoughlin as the chairman of the board.
The DFF Foundation aims to raise funds for worthy causes with a particular emphasis on causes that directly benefit children and the community. Over the last 2 decades, DDF Foundation has donated to 59 local and 60 overseas charities highlighting DFF’s commitment to do more than just provide a retail service. Instead, DFF is passionate about making a future for Dubai where all aspects of its operations are working towards driving positive change.
In a further effort to bring significant economic development to the city, DFF runs a separate Leisure Division from its retail stores which is focused on enhancing tourism across the region via sport. A key part of DFF’s marketing strategy since 1983 has been toward sports, sponsorships and support for international sporting events. These include its role as a sponsor of the Dubai
Dubai Duty Free
Bottega, Italian Sparkling Life
Strictly connected to the vine since the 17th century, Bottega is now a family business who produce sparkling and still wine, liqueurs, spirits and grappa in the name of quality and sustainability. All raw materials are carefully selected and crafted with artisan care to provide a final product which is the expression of Made in Italy, innovative approach and sustainability. From reducing, reusing and recycling, our commitment to sustainability is paramount. We use 100% renewable energy, dark bottles are made from at least 85% recycled glass, only waterbased paint is used for metallised bottles, our vineyards are managed according to organic farming criteria. Recently we also incorporate recycled ocean plastics in the back labels. Bottega’s commitment to quality has led to the distribution of our products in more than 160 countries, achieving hundreds of awards and recognitions. Bottega Gold is our flagship product, a Prosecco DOC Brut with a fruity and floral bouquet and a fresh, elegant taste. Thanks to its unmistakable features, it has been recognised as the best-selling sparkling wine in the Duty Free market (IWSR Report 2022).
Discover more about us bottegaspa.com
Instagram @bottegaspa
ITALIAN
Desert Classic and the Dubai Moonlight Classic golfing events which are held at the Emirate Golf Club every year. In addition to golf, DFF also supports and hosts a range of tennis and even horse racing. By supporting sporting events of all levels in Dubai, DFF continues to promote the sporting, leisure and business facilities of the city. This promotion not only encourages more sportspeople to see Dubai as a vital stage to showcase their talents, but it also allows DFF to provide another avenue for promotion and subsequent tourism aside from its commercial role as a retailer.
Ultimately, DFF make the duty-free shopping experience one that every passenger looks forward to when travelling into Dubai via the airports in which it operates in. With excellent customer service, great price points and a whole range of luxury brands and products to choose from, there’s no surprise that DFF has seen so much sales turnover over the last 4 decades of its operation. With vital investment into the retail sector, as well as sporting and charity events, DFF is highlighting the valuable role it plays across Dubai’s tourism industry.
ITALIAN SPARKLING LIFE
Fill your glasses and celebrate!
Africa Global Logistics
As a leading logistic operator across Africa, Africa Global Logistics (AGL) provides innovative and customised solutions to suit every one of its customers spanning the continent and beyond across the globe. Having recently joined the MSC Group, AGL has continued to expand its network and now is the major transport and logistics company at the heart of Africa’s shipping industry pushing towards the development of the continent’s logistics sector. With 250 maritime and logistic operations under its management, AGL thrives on providing tailor-made solutions which are strengthened by its competitively connected network bringing speed, efficiency and expertise across all transport and logistics operations.
Shipping and logistics are such a vital part of many businesses’ operations, whether that be transporting goods on a local or international scale. However, to achieve these operations, companies rely on logistical services to make the transportation and delivery of goods seamless. Across Africa, this is ever present as the demand for goods continues to increase, and so more logistical services are required to get these goods to their end markets. Consequently, AGL has been a major player in Africa’s logistics industry since 1986, having established a rich and skilled network across the continent and into international territories. However, at a time when global supply chains are facing increasing pressure as the demand for goods has stepped up, AGL became part of the MSC Group to strengthen its relationship across Africa and bring together the two company’s vast networks. MSC Group is a privately owned global shipping company that is a world leader in providing container shipping throughout its international network. Therefore, AGL brings its expertise across Africa and MSC its global network, the result is a company that is positioning Africa as a transformative hub for global logistical solutions.
AGL’s span covers 25 logistics and maritime agencies. 23 port and rail concessions, 66 dry ports and 2 river terminals, serviced by a workforce of over 23,000 strong and operations across 49 countries worldwide. Therefore, AGL’s reach across the globe is expansive and ensures that Africa remains well connected to the rest of the world as a hub for global cargo movement. However, to achieve its operations across such an expansive area, AGL relies on its 250 subsidiaries across Africa, Haiti and Timor which provide port, ocean, logistics and railway solutions to keep cargo moving seamlessly. These subsidiaries highlight the vital partnership and investment that AGL places across Africa to ensure import and export goods can reach even the most remote areas thanks to its expertise in cargo transhipment.
A key area for development for AGL in recent years has been in Namibia as it works to implement its port, shipping, logistics and rail networks to enhance the Namibian economy and positively contribute towards its role as a key logistics hub in Africa. For the last 14 years, AGL has been in operation
in Namibia offering innovative and complex logistic solutions to meet the needs of all sectors requiring logistic solutions for their operations. AGL’s role is to bolster the Namibian economy by ensuring that shipment in and out of the country is made seamless and is supported by its global network. This network utilises internationally recognised operations which are designed to make shipments more efficient to save time and money - in turn helping to support local and international businesses so they can grow within Africa and provide the country with even more economic development thanks to its logistics operations. Currently, logistic services in operation include clearing, forwarding, warehousing, vessel agency and husbandry, all of which have been playing a strategic role in the socio-economic development of Namibia as a whole.
Namibia’s vital location on the West African coast makes it a vital location for cargo coming into Africa, and then moving into neighbouring countries who do not have such a vital connection to the sea.
In Namibia, Port Walvis Bay is the most prominent port on the country’s coast which is responsible for handling container imports, exports, and transhipments. These include bulk and break-bulk commodities, and so AGL plays a vital role in working with key organisations within the country to help deliver this cargo to the port and take it beyond into neighbouring countries for the economic benefit of Namibia. A key organisation AGL works with in Namibia, is Namport (Namibian Port Authority), the state-owned entity responsible for overseeing the ports of Namibia and ensuring its trade meets the current and future demand of the country’s cargo and maritime sector.
Therefore, Port Walvis Bay is essential for AGL’s operations and so often works alongside Namport to facilitate state-of-the-art maritime, port and logistical solutions. All of these solutions are working towards ensuring that the port remains a vital shipment hub along the West African coast. The work to develop and maintain Namibia as a
Africa Global Logistics
hub for international trade is vital to its role under the Southern African Development Community, in which 16 countries/states come together to provide strategic expertise and organisations to strengthen the economic development, peace, security, and growth of the region to alleviate poverty and enhance the quality of life in Southern Africa.
In fact, in April this year, AGL signed a contract to manage Walvis Bay’s Multipurpose Bulk Terminal to offer local businesses and communities with opportunities to promote employment and deliver sustainable development of the country’s logistics industry. The contract was signed in the presence of Tony Stenning, regional director of South Africa for AGL and Andrew Kanime CEO of the Namport. The signing highlights the confidence of Namibia’s local authority in AGL to deliver top-of-the-range logistic and container solutions at the Multipurpose Bulk Terminal thanks to its stellar reputation across Africa.
Therefore, the signing of the contract for AGL at Port Walvis Bay highlights the company’s commitment
to delivering the best possible services throughout its warehousing and container terminal operations. However, a vital role of the Walvis Bay Multipurpose Bulk Terminal is for use by the energy, mining and industrial projects industry, as AGL will also be providing these industries with integrated services of the highest industry standards to ensure these vital sectors for Namibia are supported by a trusted and reliable shipping partner to ensure global trade remains flowing for the knock on benefits for the country.
Olivier de Noray, Director of Ports and Terminals at AGL highlighted the vital contract signing for AGL as, “We are honoured by the trust that the Namibia authorities have placed in us. Our vision is to make the Port of Walvis Bay a model of international connectivity, sustainable development and economic growth. Together, we will build a strategic hub for global trade, which will serve the prosperity of Namibia and Africa as a whole”. These comments highlight the reputation AGL has established for itself
as a vital logistics company that the authorities of Namibia can entrust with the vital job of developing the Multipurpose Bulk Terminal and bring significant economic development for the country spanning across all aspects of global trade.
Ultimately, AGL’s operations span the globe but in Africa its reputation for excellence across the shipping, transportation and logistics industry is incredibly evident. Each operation and solution is designed to deliver the best-in-class solutions for its customers, and in turn bring significant economic development for each respective region going forward. The contract awarded to AGL across Walvis Bay highlights the valuable role AGL continues to play in developing Africa as a global hub for trade, and as we look towards the next few years, we look forward to seeing how AGL continues to develop operations across the continent to bring continued
Rental Support Services
Rental Support Services, 100% Namibianowned and operated company, was founded in 2004 in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Initially established to provide shore-based logistics support to the offshore industry along Namibia’s coast, the company has significantly expanded over the years. Today, Rental Support Services caters to various industries, including Shipping, Ship Repairs, Construction, and the Oil and Gas sector in Namibia. Recently, RSS entered a joint venture with Swire Energy Services, the world’s largest supplier of DNV offshore containers, to deliver safe, cost-effective, and reliable services to the Namibian market.
info@rssnamibia.com | +264 64 284 800 | Walvis Bay, Namibia the “Authority” in equipment rental
Virginia Department of Transportation
As many of us are aware, having topquality transportation links, reliable roads and accessible bridges is one of the most vital parts of everyday life. Almost every single industry relies on transportation of some kind to ensure that daily operations can function well – this includes everything from public transport to large cargo shipments for a whole range of industries. With such a vast spread across industries which are pivotal in keeping the economy running, the role of keeping the highways, railways, and port links running smoothly cannot be understated. This role is even more vital in Virginia, in the United States of America, where the country’s third largest state-maintained highway system is in place. Therefore, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) play a vital role in supporting the transportation sector of Virginia, to ensure that it can continue to support the businesses that rely on these vital links every day.
Established in 1906, VDOT is the state highway commission for Virginia which is committed to ensuring that the operation, maintenance and development of Virginia’s state transportation system remains responsive to the needs of the state. Across Virginia, VDOT is the operator across almost 60 miles of highway systems, made up of interstate, primary, secondary and frontage roads. However, its role does not end on the road, instead, it is also responsible for overseeing the management of bridges, signs, signals, and ferry services, as well as commuter car parks and various rest areas across the state. These include more than 11,900 bridges, 7500 culverts, 6 tunnels, 4 tolling facilities, 3 ferry services, 41 rest areas and 100 car parks. Therefore, VDOT’s operations cover every corner of the state, and ensure that whether people are travelling by car, bus or ferry they will be met with the best quality transportation infrastructure possible. One of the current major projects being carried out by VDOT is the development of the I-95 in Fredericksburg, where the commission has 7 projects underway. These include the development of express lanes and access ramps connecting Route 17 and Old Courthouse Road to serve more motorists. This aims to dissipate the existing gridlock that frequents the I-95 and keep people moving more freely throughout the area. In addition to this, VDOT is also currently expanding the capacity
Virginia Department of Transportation
on the I-64 interchange with the goal of reducing congestion across the Southside Hampton roads. The development of this plan underwent thorough research under VDOT to ensure that all improvements would mitigate the existing problems, whilst also working to ensure that the environmental impacts from such a development were monitored.
This attention to detail throughout every project by ensuring that it is thoroughly researched and mapped out ensures that every dollar spent on the development is justifiably utilised for the benefit of the state’s transportation infrastructure. However, VDOT also remains focused on ensuring that safety remains a top priority throughout every development project. This was highlighted with its current Pedestrian and Bicycling Program which aims to provide safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists across the state, particularly in areas surrounding schools across the state. To achieve this VDOT has implemented neighbourhood traffic programs, highway safety corridors, a safety service patrol and a Virginia statewide traffic incident
management system to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists are protected at all times.
To achieve such widespread projects, VDOT relies on businesses across the state with contractors, consultants, and suppliers to help them achieve these vital infrastructural developments. We saw this just last month with the Commonwealth Transportation Board, part of VDOT, awarding a $361 million contract to Branch Civil Inc. for the widening of Interstate 81. The work will see both the north and southbound sides of the interstate widened providing three lanes between exit 143 in Roanoke Country and exit 150 in Botetourt Couty. The project is expected to begin in 2025 and is part of VDOT’s Corridor Improvement Programme (CIP) which aims to improve safety, increase reliability and foster economic growth for the State.
Program Delivery Director for VDOT, Dave Covington, outlined the project as “…the largest contract that we’ve awarded for I-81 to date, and it reinforces our commitment to improving this vital corridor”. As Covington outlines, the I-81 is a vital
link spanning over 300 miles within the state, making it the longest interstate highway within Virginia. Therefore, the interstate provides essential transportation links across the state and allows for people and cargo to be able to travel into and out of the state down this vital network.
VDOT is a vital service which keeps the transportation infrastructure functioning at its best. Covering a vast network of road, rail and even ports, VDOT’s operations play a significant role in almost every industry within the state by providing efficient, reliable and functional transportation networks to get people where they need to be going faster but more importantly safer. With the essential help of local businesses to help with the engineering, procurement and construction of these improvements, VDOT can ensure that no matter where you go in Virginia you have access to one of the best transport networks in the country.
Water is a vital and precious resource for life, and therefore, it is this belief that powers the Water Authority of Cayman to work tirelessly to protect and regulate water across the Cayman Islands to ensure that everyone has access to clean, pure and affordable water resources every single day. To make this mission a reality, the Authority has rolled out a strategic plan to ensure that all water, from drinking to ground, and even wastewater is met with the same care and protection to ensure that across the Cayman Islands, every drop of water counts.
The Water Authority of Cayman was established in 1983 under the Water Authority Law as the statutory authority within the Cayman Islands responsible for the development, control and protection of the Island’s water resources. Today, the Water Authority employs more than 100 people and is committed to supplying pure, wholesome and affordable water to more than 17,000 customers across the Islands. Its role today is a big step up from the origins of the company that began with just a few members of staff working from a threebedroom house in George Town all those years ago.
The expansive role of the Authority now works closely with researchers, suppliers, governmental figures and the communities across the Cayman Islands to ensure that it can deliver the best water services possible. To achieve this central mission of ensuring the population can access
pure, wholesome and affordable portable water resources, the Authority has set out key objectives to achieve this. These objectives include the protection and development of groundwater resources for the benefit of present and future generations of the Islands. This ensures that the Authority is implementing procedures and operations which focus on the longevity of such a vital resource. A key way this longevity is achieved is through the collection, treatment and disposal of sewage across the islands in a safe, efficient and affordable way.
As the Authority moves towards the future, it has implemented vital technological advancements across its operations to ensure the protection of water and provide its customers with greater authority over their water accounts. As part of its future development plans, the Authority has developed a new customer portal which allows customers greater freedom over their water authority accounts, making it easy to view and pay bills, manage consumption history and register as
Protecting Water Resources
a tenant online in a much easier way. The portal is designed to provide greater transparency for its customers and improve customer service to deliver a reliable service to people across the country.
The final key mission of the Authority is to operate in a way that is financially responsible and contributes towards the development of the Islands in a way that will bring vital capital investment into the region to continue to support the water resources of Cayman Islands. All of these objectives together provide a clear view of how the Water Authority of Cayman aims to use its authority and support from the government to ensure that the people across the region can access clean drinking water without restriction.
A key way that the Authority utilises the vital water of the Cayman Islands is through its research laboratory which is responsible for testing and analysing water and wastewater across the
Water Authority – Cayman
Islands to ensure it is top quality for people and the environment. The laboratory was set up in 2002 and became the first lab in the Caribbean that specialised in the testing of water resources. Through the vital testing programs of the laboratory, the Authority can implement and manage the water quality of the resources across the region for the betterment of the people and environment of the Cayman Islands. Thanks to its vital research, the Authority can mitigate the contamination effects of water resources to ensure that drinking water, crop production and vegetation are not negatively affected by poor water quality.
This passion for ensuring that the water resources of the Cayman Islands are top quality, highlights the Authority’s mission to ensure that the communities across the islands are constantly benefitting from its operations from drinking water to the role of water in farming. All of these aspects highlight the valuable role of water which is utilised in many industries to bring economic development (e.g. in agriculture). Therefore, by protecting and ensuring these resources are of the best quality possible, the Authority is also contributing towards the economic development of the region through the role of water in supporting business operations.
Protecting Water Resources
However, the Authority’s commitment to promoting, developing and enhancing the Cayman Islands through its water resource operations, does not end with the research and accessibility of water. Instead, the Authority is committed to ensuring that those living across the Islands have access to work experience and educational programmes that encourage personal development and set up the Water Authority for many years to come. A key way this is achieved is through the Authority’s scholarship program which provides a qualified candidate with CI$140,00 for use to obtain an undergraduate academic and technical/vocational degree or diploma within the water field of study. By providing this scholarship, the Authority is inspiring the next generation of water resource protection workers, and in the process encouraging more research and education for water resource protection which will support the Cayman Islands now and in the future.
Ultimately, all of the work under the Water Authority of Cayman is to give back and highlight what it means to be a good corporate citizen. The Authority is committed to consistently investing and donating back to charitable initiatives and fundraising events. However, what remains the same throughout every aspect of its operations, is its commitment to ensuring that every drop of water across the Cayman Islands is just as valuable as the last. Through its research, scholarship and management systems, the Water Authority of Cayman is developing the islands’ vital water resource towards a future of clean and reliable water security.
National Roads Authority in Cayman
For the National Roads Authority (NRA) in the Cayman Islands, roads are a symbol of a country’s stability and strength as they are the passageway that allows daily life to happen. With a reliable and developed infrastructure system, NRA believes that real social and economic growth is possible by supporting access to businesses, health centres, financial institutions, and supermarkets, as well as importantly providing the vital link to visit friends and family.
Established in 2004 by the National Roads Authority Law, NRA was put in place to manage, control, develop and maintain the Cayman Islands public roads and related facilities. This role includes ensuring that signals, stormwater facilities, roadway lighting and directional signage are well maintained to ensure that the road network across the Islands can support its people and businesses daily. So that NRA can meet the needs of the roadway systems of the Caymans, the Authority is required to publish a long-term National Roads Plan (NRP) every four years outlining how the current board of directors will develop and meet the needs of the island’s road systems.
NRA is operated by a Board of Directions that is responsible for implementing policy and running the general affairs of the road network, and so with each term, it sets out objectives which aim to outline upcoming projects and how funding will be allocated. Therefore, the NRP provides a roadmap for which NRA will operate in the medium to long term. However, these plans are required to be updated annually to ensure that each one is meeting the current and future needs of Cayman roads.
To achieve the NRP, NRA is split into three vital divisions spanning from planning, engineering and finance. The first unit is the Transportation and Planning Unit which is responsible for outlining the current needs of the islands, and then working to effectively plan and organise a range of short- and long-term solutions which can then be passed onto the engineering implementation teams. The Engineering and Operations Unit is divided into 2 main roles, the first deals with the projects raised by the Transportation and Planning Unit and provides the necessary services required to prepare and manage projects, whilst working to design construction plans.
The second part of the Engineering and Operation Unit is working to provide essential maintenance operations across the roadways of the Cayman Islands. These operations include the maintenance of NRA’s fleet of equipment, whilst looking after all the signs, road striping, traffic signals and lighting across the roadways to promote everyday safety. This focus on safety is at the heart of NRA’s operations because its roadways provide the best possible conditions and ensure that no matter
Developing Efficient Infrastructure
where you’re travelling throughout the islands the safety of locals is always the priority.
The final vital unit is the Finance and Administration Unit, which manages the human resources of NRA. This unit is responsible for ensuring that all operations under NRA are adequately financed, and budgeted to ensure that vital developmental infrastructure can be carried out, whilst reserving the vital funds needed for any emergency works which may be necessary over the year. In addition to this, the finance and administration unit maintains responsibility for all collection and computer support services. Therefore, these vital units work together as a cohesive operation to outline the needs of the Cayan road network, and then plan and budget large-scale roadworks for the benefit of the roadway infrastructure of the Islands - all whilst maintaining the existing network to ensure
National Roads Authority in Cayman
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A major developmental project is currently underway in Grand Cayman for the CUC Roundabout to Tomlinson Roundabout Corridor Multimodal Improvement Plan. The project spans a busy corridor between Bodden Town and George Town, where there is currently increased congestion as it is a major route between these two towns. Therefore, the expansion project aims to improve the existing multimodal transport roadway system between the two towns to accommodate further growth, whilst increasing the safety of the roadway between them. This development is vital as the project is anticipated to run alongside the development of the mixed-used land surrounding the roadway, which is being transformed into a new residential and retail/commercial hub.
This residential and commercial development will bring great economic potential to the region, however, it means NRA has to balance the competing needs in the area to maximise the roads of commuters between Bodden Town and George Town, whilst also providing a safe and accessible network for pedestrians and cyclists to reach the commercial and residential areas. Therefore, NRA is working closely with contractors and authorities to develop the CUC Roundabout corridor whilst bringing vital transportation development to the region.
With the development of the road network, NRA is committed to ensuring that its operations are meeting the needs of the people of the Cayman Islands, whilst protecting the environment in the process. To ensure that its operations are meeting environmental reduction standards, NRA announced in March the launch of a new website which would allow the general public to learn about the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies which are underway across its projects. The EIA currently outlines the East-West Arterial (EWA) road development and evaluates its potential environmental impacts. The EIA is therefore a vital document to help the Cayman Islands Government make the final decision for the EWA scheme.
The roadway development would provide a vital link for Grand Cayman, however, the government, NRA, and all those involved in the project are committed to ensuring that it adequately balances the
significant economic impact of the development, whilst also managing the environmental impacts the development could have. It is this balance between development and conservation that makes NRA’s operations so vital, and therefore, through the visibility and transparency of its findings through the EIA study, NRA is committed to ensuring that everyone across the islands has a say in the positive and potential environmental effects of the project in the area.
Edward Howard, Managing Director of NRA outlines that “EIA is a required step in the EWA’s development process. […] The EWA EIA does not make decisions but does provide decision-makers in Cayman with the best information to balance the needs of Caymanian families and residents with sustainable development and environmental conservations”. Howard’s comments highlight the invaluable role
Developing Efficient Infrastructure
NRA therefore plays in working with the government and investors for the Cayman Islands to develop the EIA to help all those involved best understand the potential impacts of its operations written by the people who understand the road network the best.
Overall, NRA is committed to ensuring that the transportation infrastructure of the Cayman Islands is developed towards a future where the road network is designed for the people, businesses and industries that continue to develop the islands towards a future of economic prosperity. We look forward to seeing how the EWA project continues to develop as a result of NRA’s EIA study, as well as how the CUC Roundabout to Tomlison Roundabout Corridor Multimodal Plan looks set to bring vital investment into the Cayman Islands, whilst working to improve commuting for those across the islands.
Malaysian Palm Oil Association
Palm oil has continued to play an increasingly popular role across industries worldwide, with the global consumption of palm oil reaching 78 million metric tons in 2023. Malaysia is responsible for producing more than 80% of this global supply and is currently the second leading producer of palm oil in the world behind Indonesia. Therefore, as such a lucrative and growing industry for Malaysia, the Malaysia Palm Oil Association (MPOA) was established to bring together all aspects of the industry and work towards ensuring its long-term profitability and stability by providing a single unified voice across the country’s palm oil industry.
MPOA was established in 1999 as a unified voice for the palm oil industry in Malaysia, taking over from three large plantation sector associations: the Rubber Growers Association, the United Planting Association of Malaysia, and the Malaysia Oil Pal Growers Council. With the support of the government, MPOA unified these associations and councils into one overseeing body which would bring together all aspects of the industry from farming to the production and marketing of palm oil. Therefore, over the last 25 years, MPOA has played an important role in supporting the needs and interests of businesses, stakeholders and people working across the Malaysian palm oil industry. This support has ensured the continual synergy and development of the plantation industry on a national and international scale.
Under MPOA are a range of members who span the entire palm oil industry, these members include individuals and corporate bodies spanning across the crop plantation sectors which are planting and farming palm, rubber, coconut, sugar cane, cocoa, tea, banana and pineapple crops. These members play a vital role in ensuring that every step of the Malaysian palm oil and agricultural industry’s supply chains are represented from the planting, marketing and development of palm oil and associated crops to their harvesting.
To achieve this united voice for the palm oil industry, MPOA is governed by a council consisting of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and 13 members. Across the council are three major committees which are working to control the developmental role of palm oil. The first committee is Stakeholder Affairs which oversees governmental figures and landowners across the industry. As part of this committee’s operations, it reviews federal and state laws and regulations, whilst lobbying proposals and presentations to enhance the industry for legislative and regulatory bodies. The second major committee under MPOA is the Sustainability, Research & Development Committee which is responsible for maintaining close relationships with research institutes such as the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), to ensure that technical knowledge is made readily available across the industry. Through the support of
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With over 40 years in the market, conducting research and development alongside important institutions such as CIRAD in France, we have acquired enormous experience in constantly improving oil palm seeds and their various versions. Both E. guineensis (Dorado Plus) and interspecific hybrid OxG are genetically enhanced to provide great characteristics. A proven higher productivity, higher oil extraction rate, annual height growth of 20 to 25 cm which facilitates their management and harvesting cycles of 21 days are a few of the many benefits of our seeds. Making it an attractive and sustainable alternative for farmers.
Malaysian Palm Oil Association
research and expertise, MPOA is continually pushing towards the development of the sector to meet the demands of the palm oil markets. A key part of this committee’s operation is towards sustainability as the palm oil industry has seen increasing pressure from environmental movements worldwide which are pulling away from palm oil usage due to its links to deforestation. Therefore, MPOA is focused on ensuring that all operations across the country make the most of every drop of palm oil produced while mitigating excessive environmental damage in the process.
However, the environment is continuing to play a vital role in the future of palm oil production as the kind of extreme weather we’ve seen across the world with both droughts and mass flooding has led to lower crop yield. With lower crop yield less palm oil can be produced, and so Malaysia’s ability to meet the global demand could be reduced. Therefore, the Promotion, Market Intelligence & Analytics Committee under MPOA are working to continue to
promote and enhance the image of Malaysian palm oil and its other commodities towards international markets by working with the Malaysia Palm Oil Council (MPOC) to ensure that it can continue to position Malaysia as a leading palm oil producer.
A key way MPOA promotes the palm oil industry of Malaysia is through working with vital players across the industry and providing a channel for which communication between research sectors, stakeholders, government officials and farmers is more readily available. By sharing vital palm oil crop information, farmers can produce greater yields, and then through the formation of vital relationships with stakeholders and government bodies, these can be marketed and supported by legislation to ensure that the industry remains a prominent and vital driver of the Malaysian economy.
As we have seen, MPOA plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term profitability of the Malaysian palm oil industry, by supporting farmers, research and networking between all the vital players across the industry. With a vast network of members under the Association, MPOA provides an essential unified voice to ensure that the infrastructure and development of the industry remain a priority concern for key figures across the country. As the industry looks to deal with climate change struggles and environmental pressures, we look forward to seeing how MPOA continues to bring a unified voice to the Malaysian Palm Oil Industry and how it continues to meet and sustain palm oil demands across the world.
THE SECRET SKY ISLAND OF MOZAMBIQUE
Written by Carley Fallows
Located in the north of Mozambique sits Mount Mabu, home to a mediumaltitude forest famous for its old-growth trees. The forest sits high above the lowlands and provides a unique spectacle for scientists with its very own ecosystem that in many ways is isolated from the surrounding area. Therefore, Mabu is commonly referred to as ‘sky island’ home to an extremely diverse range of wildlife, many of which have never been recorded before by scientists.
Mount Mabu was first discovered by those outside of Mozambique in 2004 when Professor Julian Bayliss was looking over satellite imagery of the mountain range. He noticed a dark spot, that to his knowledge had not previously been recorded, and so the following year Bayliss set out on an expedition to this unknown area. The forest is well known to locals, with many utilising the forest to maintain healthy livelihoods, but the recording outside of Mozambique was largely undocumented. Bayliss’ expedition uncovered that the forest was in very good condition, and it was in fact the largest single block of rainforest in Southern Africa.
Amazing World
After this initial expedition in 2004, multiple research trips have been undertaken to Mount Mabu as the ecological understanding of the region presented something new and interesting to scientists. As the rainforest is at a higher altitude than the surrounding lowlands, the animals and insects that inhabit the forest are unlikely to meet or breed with other populations outside of the forest. This means that the possibility of evolution within this isolated ecosystem presents something new to scientists to understand how this isolation has developed new species not seen in other places on the globe. In fact, throughout the expeditions over the years, more than 25 new species have been identified including snakes, butterflies, dung beetles and chameleons.
Large animals such as lions and rhinos no longer inhabit the forest, thought to be due to the civil war that for many years kept this part of Mozambique untouched by the outside world. However, the potential to study new species on Mount Mabu is very exciting for scientists, as they can see the effect of isolated evolution across the rainforest, whilst searching for rare species that are thought to be extinct in other places where deforestation has destroyed habitats. On one conservation trip, researchers were hunting for the Manuli Apalis, Africa’s rarest bird, to see if it was still present on the mountain range. The researchers actually captured its call, highlighting that the ‘sky island’ holds so many vital species that will provide essential understanding for conservation scientists and researchers going forward.
Today, Mount Mabu has been given special conservation rights by the Mozambique government and will be turned into a community-protected area where no mining or logging will be allowed. The land will instead be a place of research and conservation, with only those in the local community who rely on the forest for their livelihoods will be able to use it. As research on Mount Mabu continues to be conducted, it is thought that the magic of the ‘sky island’ will bring with it the discovery of many new and exciting species.
For over 116 years, Macsteel has been leading the steel industry across South Africa providing manufacturing, merchandising and distribution of steel and value-added steel products. Through its strategic network of service centres, branches and warehouses, Macsteel is leading the industry across the continent by providing its customers with exceptional levels of personal services and products across a whole range of industries. Therefore, through its robust infrastructure, technical development and striving to continually improve, the company has solidified its reputation as the preeminent supplier of steel across the African continent.
As a leading manufacturer, merchandiser and distributor of steel, the company is leading the way in providing products such as general steel, coil processing, tube and pipe, roofing, special steels, stainless steel, VRN, fluid control pipes, fittings, and flanges, as well as a range of Harvey Roofing products. These products are available across a whole range of industries from construction, mining and manufacturing to food and beverage or consumer/retail industries. The company’s operations are vast and with this, the services that Macsteel provides are equally as expansive, to process, cut, treat, and deliver highquality and reliable steel solutions for its customers’ every need.
Macsteel has adapted its operations since it was established in 1904, now it is an expansive operation across South Africa and has become a household name due to its powerful brand and great reputation. It continues to promote success throughout the company by operating as a wider nationally run business, which instils matching strategies throughout all its 40 service centres, branches, and warehouses. By adopting an overhead structure, Macsteel can ensure that its operations remain customer focused. Macsteel is committed to adapting and innovating in line with its customer’s needs and demands, and as the world moves towards a more sustainable future, we can see throughout the company’s services and operations they are implementing and creating new solutions to meet these demands.
One of the noticeable qualities of Macsteel is its desire to constantly be evolving to meet the growing steel needs of the customers and their respective industries, whilst paying close attention to developments towards a more sustainable future. A key way Macsteel have been doing this is through its divisional business, Harvey Roofing Products, which under the Macsteel Group name has recently announced the development of a new roofing title which will provide more sustainable and reliable roofing lightweight steel roofing products. The subdivision is known for using only the best materials available in its manufacturing to deliver products that are consistently high quality and
Macsteel South Africa
suitable for a wide range of roofing applications including commercial, domestic, and industrial settings.
The Harvey EcoTile™ was announced in July and has been developed to be a lightweight yet superior in strength roof title, which is easily installed and boasts top quality weatherproofing, whilst being lower in cost for roof structure and transportation. The tile reimagines roofing, which conventionally uses titles made of clay, cement, and steel profiles.
The conventional tiles are known for their excessive weight, fragility, and high price point, whilst requiring continual maintenance. The conventional tiles are also not great for the environment either, whereas the EcoTIle™ is made of 98% recyclable waste material, provides excellent weatherproofing, and is virtually unbreakable with a significantly longer lifespan compared to other options.
Mike Benfield, CEO of Macsteel, said in the press release on the Harvey EcoTile™ that “It is a very exciting product, not only for the market that is waiting in anticipation for it to drop in full force but also for Harvey Roofing products diversifying their well-known band. It de-risks us from the volatility of the steel price and moves our business to sustainability with the promise of new ground-
breaking product”. Although the tiles are still being developed by Harvey Roofing Products under Macsteel, the EcoTile™ provides great potential for the future of sustainable roofing as the company works to revolutionize the market towards more efficient, cost-effective, and durable steel roofing solutions.
Macsteel has a long history of supporting its local communities through sports development, donations to community organisations and NGOs, as well as a range of contributions towards other corporate sponsorships. The company is working to connect, nurture relationships, collaborate and impact the surrounding communities positively. Its central focus has been to develop the economies of its communities through education, building, health, wellness, engagement, and welfare projects to ensure that throughout every aspect of its operations, Macsteel is leaving a positive legacy of developmental success.
We can see that throughout Macsteel’s operations, and even sub-divisions, the corporate social responsibility of the company is always at the forefront. CEO of Macsteel Mike Benfield outlined this focus as “Our new positioning statement is ‘Pursuing Reinvention’, this is very appropriate to both the steel industry and South Africa. We at Macsteel are very proud to be part of the transformation journey in South Africa and being
a good corporate citizen”. He continues, “Our investments in our corporate social responsibility program is part of this journey of reinvention and transformation”. Benfield’s comments show how committed Macsteel are to promoting a future of sustainability whilst invigorating the regions that it operates within, to ensure they are playing an active role as a good corporate citizen.
Overall, Macsteel is a massive company which is leading the way across the South African steel landscape to provide its customers with highquality, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions suitable for a wide range of industries and vast uses. We can see their development across industries, and through their sub-divisions, that sustainability and working towards a wider community-supportive goal is paramount. The company’s long terms goals are looking to grow its market share and diversify its product portfolio, whilst bringing improved shareholder returns to establish itself as a singular constant supplier of steel. It plans to do this by establishing rich and beneficial relationships across the industry in Africa and towards its everincreasing global network.
South African Steel Success
Unica Iron and Steel is a fully integrated mini steel plant, manufacturing light and medium structural steel from iron scrap.
Established in Babelegi 2006, the company manufactures quality light structural sections (window sections, square bar and angle iron) commercially. The company boasts a state of the art straight line rolling mill which allows it to produce bigger sections.
Perseus Mining Limited
With crucial developments in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, Perseus Mining Limited has developed its operations from a junior exploration company to a wellestablished multi-mine gold producer with a reputation for being a strong and diversified gold production, development, and exploration company. Now in 2023, Perseus is working across its vast array of mining sites and gold deposit exploration projects to generate material which benefits its stakeholders, whilst remaining as environmentally and socially responsible as possible. Ultimately, Perseus is positioning its entire business operation to continue to expand its gold production with integrity, teamwork, commitment, and achievement.
Perseus has spent the last 9 years as a rapidly growing African-focused gold producer, developer, and explorer, producing 521,221 ounces (oz) of gold at an all-in-sustaining cost (AISC) of US$941 per ounce in 2022, and so is leading the way as a crucial gold company across the West of Africa. Under Perseus are three major operations in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which the company has acquired over the years to expand their network. In Ghana, Perseus has 90% ownership of the Edikan Mine, which is a large-scale, low-grade, multi-open pit operation which is located on the Asankranwa Gold Belt. With the beginning of commercial production at the Edikan Mine in 2012, it has since produced more than 2 million ounces of gold and consequently established Perseus as a key producer of gold for the region. As of June 2022, the remaining reserves at the Edikan Mine totalled 1.34 million ounces, with an average grade of 1.31 grams per ton (g/t), making Perseus’ first mining operation a huge success. The gold from the Edikan Mine is sourced from several open pits and is processed through a centralized processing facility with the
African Gold: Producer, Developer and Explorer
capacity to process up to 8 million tonnes of ore per annum.
Sissingué Gold Mine was the second mine developed by Perseus and is situated in Côte d’Ivoire. The mine’s development was based on the early explorations done by the company in its junior exploration phase, and in 2018 the mine reached commercial production.
The mine is a key success for Perseus, as it consistently exceeds internal targets and surpasses expectations for gold production, run time, recovery, and costs. Located near the border of Mali, the mine produces high-grade gold ore from its main open pit, and several smaller satellite open pits. With the development of its satellite deposits including Fimbiasso and Bagoé, Perseus has extended the life of the Sissingué Gold Mine to March 2026, with the potential for further extensions by processing low-grade stockpiles.
The Sissingué Gold Mine plays a crucial role in the development of the local community it
operates in as the mine is a major provider of formal employment in the local community with over 600 people employed through the mine. Furthermore, to ensure that they are giving back to the local community, Sissingué Mine donates 0.5% of the mine’s total annual revenue to the Community Development Fund (CDF) which is managed by a representative committee to deliver infrastructure and programs for the 12 communities nearest to the mine. Therefore, whilst Perseus is developing the gold industry across the West of Africa, they are ensuring that throughout every aspect of their mining, processing, development and exploring that they are giving back and supporting the communities in which they are operating.
Perseus also have a 90% ownership stake in the Yaouré Gold Mine in central Côte d’Ivoire which was Perseus’ third gold operation in western Africa. Commercial production of the mine began in 2021, with an expected yearly output of 200,00 ounces of gold per year for the first 5 years of its mine life. The gold produced at the mine has an average AISC of roughly US$745, and Perseus has identified several
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Perseus Mining Limited
highly encouraging nearby ore exploration targets. Much like the Sissingué Gold Mine, the Yaouré Gold Mine donates 0.5% of its annual revenue towards a CDF to fund a range of community-determined, infrastructure and livelihood development projects.
Finally, Perseus has a 70% interest in Meyas Sand Gold Project (MSGP), which covers 2 main gold deposits close to Sudan’s northern border near Egypt. The government of Sudan hold a 20% stake in the project, with Meyas Nub, a local Sudanese enterprise, holding the remaining 10% stake. The development in Sudan comes as it is one of the largest producers of gold in Africa. However, at present the gold industry in the country is driven largely by unregulated, artisanal mining. Furthermore, the country is still largely unexplored for gold using modern exploration techniques, therefore it makes a crucial site of development and exploration for Perseus.
However, following the outbreak of conflict in Sudan earlier this year, Perseus withdrew most of its employees from the MSGP site pending the resolution of the conflict. Protected by the Sudanese Mining Police, Perseus announced in June that key employees and contractors would
be able to safely return to the site as the conflict had not taken place close to the project. Perseus commented in their press release that the safety of their employees and contractors is the main priority, will continue to monitor the situation and is ready to react should the situation change.
Overall, Perseus Mining Limited is a company that has developed over the years to expand its operations from exploration to development to processing. It continues to expand its influence not just over Africa’s gold industry, but its impact and development of the local communities in which they operate. As a vital gold company across the west of Africa, it is focused on maintaining a high level of gold production by extending the life of existing assets, whilst tirelessly working to discover or acquire new material reserves and assets. Therefore, Perseus has perfectly positioned itself to sustain gold production across West Africa, and vitally develop the economies of Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Sudan. However, Perseus would not be where it is without its workforce, many of which are from the local areas around its mines, and so their safety, support and championing remain a priority throughout the company’s operations.
As India’s largest zinc producer and one of the world’s leading integrated silver producers, Hindustan Zinc has spent the last 50 years excelling in its operations across the mining sector. The company, therefore, has established itself as a leading global supplier of zinc-lead and silver metals. Through the company’s commitment to the environment and ensuring that the mining of such finite resources is carried out in a responsible way, Hindustan Zinc continues to demonstrate world-class standards of governance, safety, sustainability, and social responsibility. Therefore, Hindustan Zinc has positioned itself as a leader in the mining industry and continues to set a new standard for responsibility across mining practices which paves the way towards a more sustainable future in the sector.
Hindustan Zinc provides a range of mining, smelting, and processing services for zinc-lead, and silver metal deposits. The company operates across 5 districts in Rajasthan, and a district of Uttarakhand, with total metal production of 1.123 Metric tons (Mt). As a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited, which owns a 64.9% stake in the company, Hindustan Zinc has operations across lead-zinc mines, hydrometallurgical zinc smelters, lead smelters, pyro-metallurgical lead-zinc smelter, as well as ownership of a sulphuric acid and captive power plant in the north of the country. The Indian government has also retained a 29.5% stake in the company, but it is all of these stakeholders which work together to develop the industry towards global economic recognition. As a result, they are collectively enhancing the stakeholder value through exploration, innovation, operational excellence, safety, and sustainability.
With roughly 13 million tonnes of Zinc produced worldwide every year, 58% of this is used for galvanising which is used in industries such as building, construction, infrastructure, household appliances, automobiles, and steel furniture, where the zinc coating in this instance is sacrificed itself to protect the underlying steel from corroding.
Hindustan Zinc is also producing lead ingots which have a minimum of 99.99% purity which is used across industries, but especially in battery segments, lead-based pigments, and cathode ray tubes. Both Hindustan Zinc’s zinc and lead are produced at its world-class Chanderiya Smelting Complex, and its products are registered on the London Metal Exchange (LME). The LME has some of the highest standards for metals in the world, to show that only metals which are high in quality, have uniform physical characteristics and are consistent are included on the exchange. Therefore, Hindustan Zinc’s lead and zinc products being included on the LME signify the capability and commitment to achieving and maintaining high standards throughout their operations and consequently their products.
As one of the largest integrated silver producers in the world, Hindustan Zinc is producing high-
quality refined silver as a by-product of the zinclead facility. Hindustan Zinc produces silver bullions which have a minimum purity of 99.9% and are listed on the London Bullion Market Association (LMBA). Its silver is produced in 30kg bars, 1kg bars and silver powders, which are used in a range of applications for its heat and electric conductivity, its decorative nature in jewellery and silverware, and in the industrial sector in things such as alloys, batteries, and circuits.
Having strived towards excellence for decades, Hindustan Zinc puts as much importance into the productivity of its mining operations as it does in ensuring that sustainability measurements are upheld across the company. The company has been using bestin-class technology to implement smart, safe and sustainable operations across its sites. The holistic digital transformation across the company is driving them towards a more sustainable future, through a data-driven, agile, integrated, and collaborative approach.
A Role Model for Responsible Mining
The new technologies allow for real-time databased decision making which works to reduce waste, increase resource efficiency and drive-up productivity. This decision has also improved safety across its operations, all with the combined goal of being productive and safe whilst harnessing renewable energy sources.
Hindustan Zin’s overarching goal is to produce ‘Mines of the Future’ which are bringing digital data-driven and sustainably driven processes to mining, milling, and smelting goods before they go to market. An example of this is the use of drones in underground mining, which are used to scan stopes and produce volume measurements of bulk materials. These drones use vision-based technology to detect quality defects and unsafe conditions to improve efficiency, product quality and safety across mining operations. Hindustan Zinc also uses IoT (Internet of Things) in mining, which deploys smart sensors on heavy earthmoving machinery (HEMM). This system monitors performance, health, and reliability on a real-time basis across all its underground operations.
Notably, Hindustan Zinc is the first mining company in India to introduce electric utility vehicles into underground mines, and consequently, the country has plans to invest 1 billion USD to convert all diesel-run mining vehicles in the mines to batteryoperated ones over the next 5 years.
This investment recognises the efforts the company is striving towards to be both efficient, productive, and technologically advanced, whilst working in every aspect to bring higher standards of sustainability across India’s mining industry. Further systems by Hindustan Zinc include 3D simulators, augmented/virtual reality, electrical substation automation, as well as automated and tele-remote drilling operations. These operations are working to strengthen the mining operations of the company but are all made to ensure the safety and sustainability of practices towards the future of mining.
Overall, Hindustan Zinc is leading the way with its high-quality and efficiently mined products which are renowned globally on the LTE for their purity. They
remain a leader in the industry with implemented technological advancements which are constantly improving productivity and safety across its 5 regions of operations. However, the company works beyond the confines of mining and processing to ensure that they are positively impacting the local communities and restoring vital biodiversity to promote a more sustainable future for the world, and critically for the mining industry. Consequently, Hindustan Zinc is a shining example of a company that has put people and the environment first to not only be a world-leading metal producer, but a role model for sustainable mining operations across the global industry.
GHH Group is a total solution provider to the Underground Hardrock and Softrock Mining and Tunnelling Industries, with a core focus on low profile, narrow vein and mid seam
mass mining applications.
GHH Group is comprised of GHH Fahrzeuge GmbH (Germany), GHH Mining Machines (South Africa) , Mine Master (Poland) and BAT Bergbau Services (Germany), including various strategic partner companies. They have long been part of the Schmidt Kranz Group, a privately owned German based company, although at the moment are in the process of being acquired by Komatsu, a Global OEM in the underground and surface mining industry.
GHH Group provides loaders, trucks, scalers, face drills, roof bolters, long-hole production drill rigs and rock tools. GHH has various partners, in geographical locations, that have ranges of products that all add to the “total solution provider” approach.
Through deep cooperation with partner companies like Titan from Turkey, UVB from Botswana and Tembo from Netherlands, GHH Group has added a significant number of products to their portfolio including low profile utility vehicles, spray concrete units, general utility vehicles, passenger transporters, light cranes, scissor lifts, mini dumpers, lifting platforms and ANFO loading trucks as well as light duty full electric vehicles.
GHH Group not only provides new, used and rental equipment but they also provide aftermarket parts and service support through the entire life of the machine from start-up to decommissioning. GHH provides field service support, parts supply, complete rebuilds of components and equipment, as well as tailored aftermarket solutions depending on location and customer needs.
Mota-Engil Africa
The Mota-Engil Group has long been a leader across Portugal, which has expanded its operations in infrastructure, transport and logistics, energy, oil and gas, mining, and environment solutions across the globe. With crucial developments in Europe, Africa and Latin America, the overarching company has holdings in 228 companies, with projects across the globe. However, following the establishment of the company’s work in Angola in 1946, Africa has been a key division of development for the country, which has seen Mota-Engil Africa expand its operations to 13 countries across the African continent. Therefore, as a goto provider of a range of infrastructure, engineering, and mining solutions, MotaEngil leads the way across the continent as a crucial contractor developing the region towards a more efficient and sustainable future.
Mota-Engil Africa has spent the last 70 years providing a range of infrastructure solutions across Africa, including 68 engineering and construction projects, 8 environment and services projects, 9 mining projects, and 3 transport concession projects. Africa was a natural market for Mota-Engil to expand across due to its long-standing relationship and deep knowledge of the area following the initial development by the company in Angola. The company aims to establish close partnerships in infrastructure projects across a variety of solutions, to continue to broaden the company’s overall role across Africa.
Mota-Engil has been expanding its operations into new markets of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) space, by developing and building on its existing technical and financial capacity. In doing so, Mota-Engil can develop projects which are tailored to its customer’s needs, whilst contributing to the overall goal to bring the African Continent continued development.
We can see that Africa makes a key home market for the company, with a large percentage of its operations taking place across the continent, having expanded its original customer base from Portugal to the expansive markets of Africa. Consequently, Mota-Engil is striving to be an international reference across the broad variety of sectors in which they operate, which, when combined with core values of innovation, ambition, integrity, cohesion, and group spirit positions the company to lead the industry across the continent. Having further expanded its operations in Africa in 1975, Mota-Engil has been involved in a variety of key projects that have developed their respective regions towards success. These projects included the construction of the Dreihuk Dam in Namibia, the infrastructure of the Sun City Resort and MatooserBierkaal Road in South Africa, and the Lonhlupheko –Lomahasha Road in Swaziland. These constructions began Mota-Engil’s progressive internationalization of its operations and business, to today have over 85 projects across the continent. Current, construction and engineering projects include the Tilenga Upstream Development project, in which Mota-Engil was awarded a contract worth 162.4 million USD by TotalEnergies.
The Tilenga Upstream Development Project takes place in Uganda and, through the project’s key investments, develops the country’s energy sector. Mota-Engil is involved in the “Site Preparation for Enabling Infrastructure – Wellpads” phase, as well as having been awarded further contracts for the “Site Preparation for Enabling Infrastructure Industrial Area” and “Upstream Facilities – General Civil Works” phases. The project marks some key contracts awarded to Mota-Engil in Africa for key construction and engineering services.
Mota-Engil also has a keen mining presence in Africa, with 9 mining projects which span the continent. The Latigué Project is a crucial mining project awarded to Mota-Engil, in collaboration with Endeavour Mining, to deliver mining solutions across the Ivory Coast. The contract shows the role MotaEngil plays in the wider sphere of mining solution providers as it works to develop its reach through strategic and rich partnerships with other key players in their respective industries.
Over 70 Years of Solutions Across Africa
Consequently, the contract is worth roughly 600 million USD and shows the ongoing work the two companies are working on across the Ivory Coast.
Mota-Engil has 3 transport concession projects across the continent, including the Labito Corridor project in which the company is providing rail services and logistical support concessions to provide a key route connecting the mine of the Democratic Republic of Congo (RDC) with the port of Lobito in Angola. These vital infrastructure links allow the RDC to transport products from its mines towards the port, for crucial access to international markets. The contract is set to span 30 years and will provide essential logistical movement for the RDC and even further development for Angola. MotaEngil is also involved in 8 environment and services projects, one of which includes a new 290-euro contract for the construction of water collection, treatment, and distribution infrastructures in Angola. In partnership with Soares da Costa and Suez, the contract, which is financed by World Bank, will provide the country with further environmental development services.
A key pillar of Mota-Engil’s operations is to ensure that sustainability is upheld throughout
Mota-Engil Africa
their operations. Mota-Engil highlights the role that companies must play in implementing sustainability agendas, as they pride themselves on being “a global company focused on sustainably delivering value to all stakeholders”. As announced recently in MotaEngil’s 2022 Sustainability Report, the company has set out a Strategic Plan timeline for 2022 to 2026 which aims to protect the climate, inspire progress toward sustainability, foster well-being and equality, accelerate the innovation of the business towards sustainable goals/solutions, all whilst empowering and supporting local communities.
These crucial pillars of Mota-Engil’s operations allowed them to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in 2022, and so continue its commitment to being fully carbon neutral by 2050. This process will include constructing more efficient buildings, promoting electrical mobility, optimising processes and material use, investing in renewable energies, and integrating environmental requirements into procurement policies company wide. Therefore, it is clear that striving for sustainability is a key priority for Mota-Engil Africa, and so its customers can be sure that by choosing Mota-Engil they will also be investing in a more sustainable future.
Overall, Mota-Engil is working to establish itself as a first choice for a wide variety of service needs across its central regions of operation. However, with such key contracts taking place in Africa, it is clear to see how the company’s development of this division is crucial for expanding both its international reach and its role as a reliable provider of solution needs.
Every project is working with key partners across the industry to provide life-changing development goals through infrastructure, construction, engineering, mining, transport, and energy sectors. However, it is evident that throughout every operation, service, or solution; Mota-Engil is keenly concerned with ensuring that they are working toward a more sustainable future by meeting crucial goals to make their work and the world a more sustainable place.
JAPAfrica, a key player within JAP Group, has made significant strides in the mobility solutions sector in Africa.
Their representation of Premium brands as MAN Trucks & Bus and Hyundai Construction Equipment is particularly noteworthy, underscoring their commitment to high-quality, reliable machinery and vehicles.
Their product range includes mainly Solutions for Mining & Construction as Trucks (Service Trucks, Tippers, Bowsers, Cranes, etc.) and Construction equipment (Crawler/WheeledExcavators , Wheel loaders, Articulated Dump Trucks, etc.).
This extensive offering is backed by on-site technical support, maintenance contracts, ensuring customers have the best support across Africa. Beyond sales, JAPAfrica’s commitment to their customers shines through in their tailor-made solutions. They customize trucks according to customer needs and provide robust equipment from the best
suppliers. This customer-centric approach, coupled with their deep understanding of the African market, truly encapsulates their mission and dedication to serving the African continent.
JAPAfrica’s local support is guaranteed by its dealerships in Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya (through the Mobikey brand), Angola (Automatriz) and Mozambique (Entreposto)
This local presence supported by highly trained staff ensures that customers receive timely and efficient service.
In conclusion, JAPAfrica, under the umbrella of JAP Group, continues to uphold the group’s legacy, established in 1904. Their mantra, “Africa is our home, mobility our expertise,” is testament to their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
