Volume 4 Issue 018 September - October 2015
Endless Creativity Elegant, Unique Designs are the forte of Studio Infinity Architects
• Xenocon Consulting Engineers bets big in experience and customer service • Construction Methodology in Africa due for overhaul • Construction of power projects in Tanzania set to start • From Timber to Furniture: Shah Timber Mart’s journey • Liquid Telecom Kenya completes fibre protection for El Niño
Editorial... A
Ensure safe buildings, whatever the weather
Editor Eric Obwogi Advertising Executives Collins Ogonda - Kenya Jobunga Ndere - Uganda W. Minga - Tanzania Eva Gichohi - Rwanda Photographer Samson Wire Media Manager Peter Acham Design & Layout Ted Ojijo teddojijo@gmail.com Published & Printed by Spako Media Limited P.O. Box 4517-00100 Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254-20-2395373 Cell: +254-712-896013 / 712-422212 / +254-773-547046 E-mail: admin@eainfrastructure-engineer.com Web: www.eainfrastructure-engineer.com
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review Journal is published bi-monthly and is circulated to members of relevant associations governmental bodies and other personnel in the building & construction industry as well as suppliers of plant and equipment, materials and services in East Africa. The Editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in this journal. Views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. © All rights reserved.
t least 35 buildings have collapsed in the last five years, killing more than 350 people and trapping hundreds more for hours before illequipped responders arrived for the rescue. A three-year study by Questworks, a design and engineering firm, found that three out of four buildings would sustain serious damage in case of an earthquake. Weather, wet conditions for that matter, also has its own effects on buildings. Going by the frequency of buildings tumbling down even without the ravages of heavy rains and seismic activity provokes the question – what if? If the weatherman is correct and we should brace ourselves for the El Nino phenomenon - we have no reason yet to doubt him, then we may have a clearer picture of whether we are indeed safe in our own dwellings. A recent study by the National Construction Authority revealed that a significant number of buildings in the City do not pass the safety test for human habitation. A finger of accusation has been pointed at the Local Authorities for the existence of such buildings. With good reason, it must be said. The Local Authorities are the principle regulatory bodies responsible for enforcing the Building By-Laws, for ensuring that plans submitted for building approval comply with the laid down regulations and that the buildings are actually constructed in accordance with the approved plans. Furthermore, the Local Authorities are required to inspect and approve critical stages of the building works in progress. They have wide ranging powers and are able to, and sometimes do, halt construction works. While the Building Inspectors manage to “visit” almost all the construction sites the inspections are not exhaustive and quite often there is no action taken against violations. This issue must be addressed very seriously and improvements made. In order to avoid the recurrence of tragedies such as the ones witnessed, it is vital that the operations of building departments (in all counties) be streamlined professionalism enhanced among staff to fulfilling their obligations. It is necessary to strengthen the personnel capacity of building department and employ officers who are competent and able to enforce the By-laws firmly, without compromise. Taking stock of all buildings within the counties by NCA is commendable, but a corrective follow-up will indeed make the exercise worthwhile. Compliance with By-Laws should also be strictly policed, in particular, for safety provisions. Owners of buildings falling short of this should be compelled to make necessary alterations to comply with the By-Laws. It has been suggested that the councils lack the capacity to supervise construction work effectively, and should enlist the services of consultants to do the job. A strategy to achieve this type of cooperation, collaboration and industry teamwork should be worked out to achieve lasting sanity in the crucial construction sector. Shelter is one of the fundamental human rights. Let’s make it safe too. With all the available expertise and resources, nobody should be worried whether their house will survive El Nino at this point in history!
Eric Obwogi, Editor.
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inside...
CONTENTS Uganda to revamp its Roads Network
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960km Eldoret-Juba Road in Kenya to start construction 6 Construction of power projects in Tanzania set to start
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Muzizi Hydro-Power to be constructed in Uganda 14 Construction management methodology in Africa due for overhaul
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Dangote to commission newly constructed
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cement plant in Tanzania
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Geothermal Power enhances Kenya’s electricity export capacity
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Liquid Telecom Kenya completes fibre protection for El NiĂąo
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SMEs tap into heightened construction activities with lift tower cranes
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Gem Archplans, Interior Designers and Planners
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Davis & Shirtliff:
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iDAYLIFF - let your pumps talk RYCE ENGINEERING holds a conference for Mombasa Consultants & Contractors
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
NEWS / KENYA
NEWS / EAST AFRICA
Boost for EAC as construction of major road linking Kenya and Tanzania launched
Implementation of the project will cut transport costs due to the reduced distance
This road is a vital link and an important road for both Kenya and Tanzania in particular the Southern parts of Tanzania that rely heavily on import and exports through the Port of Mombasa.
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ast Africa integration has received a boost following plans to construct a major road linking Kenya and Tanzania. The road project that will be funded by African Development Bank, was launched by Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Kikwete. The road will link East Africa to the northern corridor. The road construction project which is intended to reduce the time taken for goods to be transported especially from the port of Mombasa to Arusha will increase the imports and strengthen the ties between countries. It will link Kenya to Tanzania and reduce the distance from Mombasa port to Bujumbura, Burundi, by 400km. This initiative will increase the imports between Burundi and Rwanda through the Mombasa
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
port and cut transport costs due to the reduced distance. It will be cheaper for northern Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda and eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo to import and export goods through Mombasa using the new road compared to Dar es Salaam port. During the project launch, President Jakaya Kikwete told the residents that the multi-national Arusha-Holili-Taveta-Mwatate road construction is going to be a game-changer for people in both Taita-Taveta and Moshi/Arusha. “This road is a vital link and an important road for both Kenya and Tanzania in particular the Southern parts of Tanzania that rely heavily on import and exports through the Port of Mombasa,� said Kikwete. The construction of the road linking Kenya and Tanzania will boost connectivity and trade necessary for EAC integration.
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NEWS / UGANDA
Uganda to revamp its Roads Network
The project will cost US$ 26 million
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he government of Uganda has announced that it was embarking on a road maintenance programme to boost transport. Public roads in Uganda according to the government need a face lift. The maintenance of public roads in Uganda will cost a whopping US$ 26m. Michael Odongo, the executive director of the Uganda Road Fund confirmed the
reports and urged the Government to play their oversight role over the money. 111 districts, 22 municipal councils and 174 town councils, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) have already got their funds according to their work plans submitted to the Uganda Road Fund secretariat. UNRA is implementing a National Roads Maintenance and Development Plan, through which designs are prepared
in advance, while substantial civil works contracts to rehabilitate the network, upgrade roads to better standards and increase the capacity of others is under execution. Their mission is to develop and maintain a national roads network that is responsive to the economic development needs of Uganda, to the safety of all road users, and to the environmental sustainability of the national roads corridors.
Mulago Hospital in Uganda to undergo US$ 50m renovation MULAGO Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda is set for a major upgrade starting next month, after the African Development Bank gave out a US$ 50m loan for this purpose. As part of the upgrade, a new women’s hospital is being constructed within Mulago hospital to handle most female issues to ease congestion currently being experienced at the female wing at Mulago hospital. The new hospital is being constructed at US$ 33m loan from the Islamic Development Bank. The hospital is also going to have a
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new intensive care unit (ICU), a children’s ward and the current wards will be partitioned into cubicles and water fountains will also be added around the hospital, as part of the renovation works. The hospital is also going to procure medical equipment, which will include CT and MRI scans and the renovation of theaters halls. The current bed capacity at the ICU ward will be increased to 40 up from 12. Mulago hospital serves as a National Referral Hospital for the entire country and a general hospital as well as Health Center IV, III for the Kampala metropolitan.
The renovation is welcome, considering that most Ugandans prefer travelling to the neighbouring countries to seek healthcare services. Most prefer Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital; Kenya’s second largest referral hospital, which is nearer Western Uganda, while those who are financially able visit the Nairobi Hospital, The Aga Khan University Hospital and Kenyatta National Hospital which are in Kenya. Renovation works at the Mulago Referral Hospital are expected to be complete by next year.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
NEWS / KENYA
National Construction Authority in Kenya says most builders untrained
Eligible workers will trained and registered
The National Construction Authority in Kenya(NCA) has lamented lack of skills among construction workers in Kenya. In its new report, NCA reveals that 83 per cent of construction workers in Kenya lack formal training and that they mostly learn through experience. NCA also revealed that only 139,523 construction workers are registered. 40,076 have been registered in the Nairobi head office, 16,560 in Mount Kenya regional office, 11,723 in Central Nyanza, 12,235 in North Rif, 9,004 in Coast, 10,019 in Lower Eastern, 13,018 in Western, 12,243 in Central Rift, 4,302 in South Nyanza, 8,529 in Upper Eastern and Northeastern has the least with 1,814. According to the NCA report, the organization has started a training pro-
gramme that will see all eligible workers trained, registered and issued with identity cards to act as proof. The move is aimed at addressing the deficiency of skilled workers in the industry. “National Construction Authority in Kenya has embarked on a programme to train workers and register them and an identity card will be issued to them indicating their area of operation and skills,” said the construction authority’s Executive Director Daniel Manduku. The report which was conducted in
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
11 regional offices across the country showed that only three per cent of workers in the construction industry are women. In a move that is fast gaining traction among industry players, Bamburi Cement has announced that it would train 1,600 masons. The National Construction Authority in Kenya is mandated to streamline, overhaul, and regulate the construction industry.
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NEWS / EAST AFRICA
960km Eldoret-Juba Road in Kenya to start construction
The Eldoret-Juba Road in Kenya set to start modern construction
The new road construction project will be constructed to bitumen standards and a one-stop border post built at Nadapal besides other transport amenities 6
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he 960km Eldoret-Juba road in Kenya is set to start construction after being neglected for 30 years. Kenha chairman Erastus Mwongera said the Kenya and South Sudan governments have coordinated the improvement of the highway to ensure social and economic benefits are met. Turkana County Governor Josphat Nanok confirmed the reports and said that the road will cost US$ 512m and will take six years for the construction to be complete. The 960km Eldoret-Juba road construction in Kenya is expected to change the lifestyles of the residents from pastoralists to entrepreneurs and also help fight poverty as the cost of transporting goods will reduce hence leading to the economic growth of West Pokot and Turkana counties .
“This road will help us fight poverty as the cost of transporting goods for sale is so high due to bad roads,” Mr. Nanok said. South Sudan Roads under Secretary Gabriel Amour said this development will facilitate trade amongst millions of people and tackle insecurity. Currently, the Eldoret-Juba road is in a deplorable state, partly due to high traffic by relief agencies’ heavy commercial vehicles taking supplies to South Sudan and lack of regular maintenance. The new road construction project will be constructed to bitumen standards and a one-stop border post built at Nadapal besides other transport amenities. South Sudan which is the youngest nation in Africa is currently trying to open up its economy to trade with partners in eastern Africa in a bid to strengthen its growth.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / XENOCON
Xenocon Consulting Engineers: Bets big on experience and superior customer service for market leadership
A section of Bahati Ridge located in Thika
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ith increased activity in the construction and infrastructure sector, the engineering profession is constantly called upon to play an important role in the successful delivery of projects in Kenya. The East African nation now boasts a sizeable number of qualified engineers. However, the number of complex projects being undertaken is clearly stretching the available supply of experienced, practicing professionals. Of the 5,000 graduate engineers in Kenya’s job market, only about a quarter of this number are Registered Engineers. Demand for qualified and
experienced engineers is therefore quite high and the few who fit into this category are constantly engaged. Xenocon Consulting Engineers Limited, one of the most established market leaders in the Civil and Structural Engineering consultancy sector in Kenya, has grown tremendously since inception in 1991, its capability statement clearly seen in the variety and complexity of projects the firm’s team of professionals have undertaken as Consultants for a cross-section of Clients. Along the way, valuable experience has been gained, putting Xenocon Consulting Engineers firmly on track towards anchoring itself as a leading indigenous engineering consultancy firm in the country with the ability and
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
established track record to offer highly professional consultancy services in the field of Civil and Structural Engineering to its clients, with the aim of achieve its long term vision and strategy to be a market leader in the construction industry. Xenocon Consulting Engineers places emphasis on providing timely professional input on projects undertaken, well considered solutions and advice, while adhering to business best practices and professional ethics. The core Engineering Consultancy services offered by Xenocon include Planning, Design and Construction supervision of projects in various fields; such as infrastructure - roads and drainage projects; and structural
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PROFILE / XENOCON
engineering services for high rise, commercial and institutional buildings. In civil engineering, the company continues to provide superior quality consultancy services for projects geared towards the supply and distribution of water resources. Health engineering consultancy services are also provided for projects concerned with Sanitation, Wastewater and Sewerage Systems in the Public Health sector. The scope of services offered for each project varies depending on the terms of engagement but include among others the following: • Project Planning and Appraisal • Feasibility Studies and Preliminary Designs • Detailed Engineering Designs and Cost Estimates • Economic and Financial Analysis • Environmental Impact Assessment • Contract Documentation and Evaluation • Construction Supervision and Contract Administration • Project Evaluation and Appraisal In order to enhance quality and value of both building and built environment, the firm ensures a strict follow up of the entire project implementation process, starting from planning through supervision of construction and necessary inputs during the defects liability period. Eng. Njau Njoka points out that lack of knowledge of planning requirements, professional advice or guidance on both technical and financial matters; as
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well as absence of proper project implementation plans are some of the challenges faced by developers during project inception and implementation. This is also where professional consultants come in, and Xenocon Consulting Engineers is well equipped with the know-how and necessary experience to offer solutions. ‘We advise developers on the need to familiarize with the planning guidelines of the local authority and the importance of hiring professional consultants to offer technical and financial guidance in the planning and their project implementation plans,” says Eng. Njoka. A recent survey indicated that about 50 per cent of buildings in Nairobi are defective. Eng. Njoka blames this on developers’ ignorance of the implications of the must-haves before embarking on construction activity, instead of taking short cuts and not using approved building plans, nor seeking professional input from consultants, such as architects and engineers. He also says that in many cases there is no proper supervision
during construction with only the occasional perfunctory inspection by the respective local authorities. Substandard building materials also compromise the structural integrity of buildings. The incidence of buildings collapsing is a worrying indictment on standards in the construction industry in Kenya. Eng. Njoka blames this on inadequate supervision emanating from the relevant authorities of projects, who lack the capacity to supervise all ongoing projects. This leaves loopholes for unscrupulous developers to use short cuts – for example to use sub standard building materials to construct buildings whose designs were properly approved. Eng. Njoka proposes that local authorities consider using the services of professional consultants and charge the cost to developers who are reluctant to seek professional input before putting up structures.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / XENOCON
Valji Karsan Contractor
The Architects behind the Tanzania
BUILDING AND GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Specialists in Water Proofing
Parliament and the Modification of the Kenya Parliament.
We are proud to be associated with Xenocon Consulting Engineers
We are proud to be associated with Xenocon Consulting Engineers P.O.Box 57480-00200, NAIROBI-KENYA Mobile: +254 722 722 957 / 722 512 275 Email: hvekaria42@gmail.com
LENANA RD/WOOD AVE. P.O Box 76240-00508 Nairobi PHONE: +254 02 2723298, 0722 779464
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
WIRELESS: +254 20 2669841,NAIROBI EMAIL: consult@kmarchplans.com WEBSITE: www.kmarchplans.com
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PROFILE / XENOCON He also recommends the setting notable residential jobs include Bahati up of a proper development control Ridge Housing Estate in Thika and mechanism through the County Windsor Park Phase 1 Housing Estate Government, which should ensure in Kigwa Ridge Nairobi. Others are the that all building plans for proposed Methodist Ministries Centre in Lavington, developments are executed under CMM Brothers on Rhapta Road among professional supervision. others. “Enforcing the use of Registered Civil engineering projects in the Professionals (Architects and Engineers) country include designs for Kabati for the design and construction Kangunduini - Kariua, Design of Kikima supervision of all the development Kali Kwa Mutisya and Kaharati - Njiris projects and approval of construction Roads; and the design of Umoja works by the professional consultants Kangundo Road (C98). and the local authorities at all stages of Eng. Njoka says that Kenya can the project implementation will also go achieve further economic growth a long way in ensuring safe structures,” through sustainable development. He he adds. Eng. Njoka also points out that recommends the use of locally available adequate accesses and safe parking materials as well as utilization of local places should be provided for when labour force and technologies, aspects constructing residential properties . that have been embraced at Xenocon The experienced engineer outlines Consulting Engineers. the process of delivering a successful Eng. Njoka is optimistic that the construction project as follows: current growth momentum will propel • Project planning to meet the set Xenocon Consulting Engineers to objectives. undisputed market leadership in Civil • Field surveys and investigations both Structural Engineering Consultancy at the preliminary and details design services in the country at its 25th stages. anniversary. During this time,, the • Preliminary and detail designs of the engineer intends to nurture the the excellent design, construction and project. company’s younger talent deeper into supervision of the structural and civil • Construction supervision during the the fabric of the company’s ethos to be engineering components of the projects project implementation. in a position to lead the company to the undertaken. • Professional contract management next level. Some of most memorable jobs the in the implementation of the project. “I would like to see a deeper company boasts under its portfolio (due • Follow up on the various aspects involvement of the younger Engineers to their sizes and complexity) include the during the defects liability period. in the management of the firm and a mixed Development for Safaricom Staff Currently, Xenocon is undertaking more elaborate adoption of emerging Pension Scheme, the Kenya Railways several structural, civil and technologies in the operation of Office Block and the magnificent Real infrastructural engineering projects, Xenocon Consulting Engineers in the Insurance office block. Some of the which are at various stages of future,” he concludes. completion. These projects include; Proposed Mixed Development for Safaricom Staff Pension Scheme COnst ingconsult at Mavoko, Machakos Quantity Surveyors & County; Kenya Railways Construction Management Consultants Office Block in Westlands Nairobi; Real Insurance Office Block, Upperhill; in Nairobi and the Kenya Institute of Business Training at Ojijo Road, Nairobi. These are some of the projects that highlight the exemplary involvement of Xenocon Consulting Engineers in real estate Office Block for Kigali Heights in Kigali, Rwanda Canaan Flats for the BSK development and infrastructure as Consulting We are proud to be associated with Xenocon Consulting Engineers Civil and Structural Lenana/Wood Avenue Junction, 51 Lenana Road, Office Suite B3 / P.O. Box 51509-00200, Nairobi Engineers. In this role, Te: +254 (0)20 386 0640 / Wireless: +254 20 265 0954 / Cell: +254 728 891 924 the firm has stood out for Email: consult@costingconsult.co.ke
Xenocon Consulting Engineers places emphasis on providing timely professional input on projects undertaken, well considered solutions and advice, while adhering to business best practices and professional ethics.
Constingconsult Ltd Quantity Surveyors & Construction Management Consultants
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015 Office Block for Kigali Heights in Kigali, Rwanda
ENERGY / EAST AFRICA
Construction of power facilities in Africa to receive a boost from AfDB
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he African Development Bank now says that it will focus more on efforts to construct more power facilities in Africa in a bid to tackle the chronic power shortages in the continent. AfDB new president Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said that the move will help unlock Africa’s economic potential and end its vulnerability to fluctuations in commodity prices. According to the International Energy Agency, Africa requires an additional $450 billion in power sector investment to halve blackouts and achieve electricity access for all in urban areas by 2040. Speaking in Kampala this week, at the end of a roadshow that also took him through Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, The chief executive of Elecrama 2016 Mr Uttam Kumar said that Africa needs to add 250 gigawatts by 2030 to light up the two-thirds of her population that currently lack access to electricity. He adds that this can be made possible with continued support of construction of power facilities in Africa. Kumar added that Africa can take advantage of the recent evolution of
renewable energy technology and reduced cost to leapfrog the path taken by industrialised economies. “To meet this demand, an additional investment of $450 billion in the power sector is needed,” Mr Kumar said, adding that Africa can take advantage of the recent evolution of renewable energy technology and reduced cost to leapfrog the path taken by industrialised economies.
According to Mr Aaditya Dhoot, the chairman of Elecrama 2016, at 1,750 gigawatts, Africa’s onshore wind resources exceed the continent’s total demand for the foreseeable future and at the forum, sector planners can invest in technology, best practices, new systems and forecasting trends in the future of electricity to better position themselves on how to enhance electricity in Africa.
Construction of power projects in Tanzania set to start
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onstruction of power projects in Tanzania is set to begin after 4 companies in the country were announced beneficiaries of US president Barrack Obama’s Power Africa initiative. The companies will eventually help in the expansion of renewable energy solution which targets rural areas. The grants to construct the power projects in Tanzania which have been awarded by General Electric Africa in conjunction with the US African Development Foundation (USADF) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) will see each winner receive up to US$ 100,000. Several small power projects in Tanzania are expected to especially
connect rural areas with electricity and eventually boost their economy. Power Africa said in a statement that the beneficiaries in Tanzania include the Benedictine Sisters of St. Gertrud Convent in the Njombe Region who plan to connect villagers to lowcost, sustainable electricity produced by the constructed 317 KW small hydroelectric power plant (SHEPP), Maasai Pastoralists Development Organization (MPDO), which will construct and install solar PV systems at seven Maasai schools in rural northern Tanzania, providing reliable electricity to students, teachers and the surrounding community. Others are Sustainable Energy Services Company Limited (SESCOM)
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
which will install a 20 kilowatt microgrid powered by biomass (primarily maize cobs) in rural Kibindu village in eastern Tanzania and Watumia Umeme Cooperative Society (WUCS) will install a ten kilowatt solar micro-grid in Masimbwe village, in southwestern Tanzania with no access to the national grid. Through this program, many households will do away with the kerosene and firewood sources and have access to solar power which is efficient and healthier. Other beneficiaries come from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Ethiopia. Power Africa initiative aims to expand access to electricity across sub-Saharan Africa.
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ENERGY / EAST AFRICA
Construction of Rusumo Falls Hydropower Project along Rwanda-Tanzania border to begin
Rusumo Falls along RwandaTanzania border
The transmission lines are anticipated to transport both imported and exported power from Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania once the plant is complete.
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onstruction works of the 80MW Rusumo Falls hydropower project which is funded by the World Bank and the African Development Bank is set to begin next year. The construction project will be located at Rusumo Falls along Rwanda-Tanzania border . The announcement comes after the families who were living in the area were relocated. “Holding other factors constant, the civil works should start in the first quarter of 2016,” said William Katete, the Communications Officer of the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project. The governments of Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania jointly agreed on this project which is fully funded by the World Bank and African Development Bank (AFDB). World Bank contributed US$ 340m, while US$130m for the construction of the transmission lines and substations was obtained from the African
Development Bank and extended to the three countries. The costs of the construction project which totals to US$ 470m will be constructed in two phases where the first phase will involve the construction of the power plant and the second will entail installation of high voltage transmission lines. The transmission lines are anticipated to transport both imported and exported power from Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania once the plant is complete. The tendering process to select firms to construct the dam is now in the pre-qualification stage with commissioning expected to be done in 2019. Each of the three countries will receive 26.6MW of power. The power station is on the Kagera River, along Rwanda’s international border with the Republic of Tanzania and approximately 2Km downstream of the tripoint, where the two countries share a common border with the Republic of Burundi.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
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ENERGY / UGANDA
Muzizi Hydro-Power to be constructed in Uganda
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he Ugandan and two companies from Germany and France has signed a US$ 76m agreement that will see the construction of the Muzizi hydro-power project come to birth and help in providing power to more than 60,000 homes. Germany Development Bank (KfW) and the French Development Agency are the two other companies that are financing the construction of Muzizi hydro-power project. Under the mutual reliance initiative, KfW will contribute US$ 4.5m, French development agency US$ 50m while the government of Uganda will put in US$ 23m. Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL) Managing Director, Dr.
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Harisson Mutekanga confirmed the news and said that the consultancies to design the project which will cover the districts of Kibaale, Kyenjojo, Kabarole, and Ntoroko, will cost US$ 4.5m. “We are getting a resettlement action plan consultant to work with the government valuer to look at the affected people and determine the right amount for compensation,� Dr Mutekanga said. UEGCL is responsible for the construction of the 44.7-Megawatt hydro-project whose ground breaking is expected in 2017 and completion in 2019. The Muzizi Hydro-power project is at River Muzizi which is 6km upstream of Lake Albert in Kibaale District extending to Kabarole, Kyenjojo and Ntoroko districts in western Uganda.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / STUDIO INFINITY ARCHITECTS
Elegant, unique designs are the forte of Studio Infinity Architects Building complexes like the Citadel, Geminia Plaza, the Lavington Curve, Saj Ceramics headquarters, Thika Road Mall, Harleys Building, the real estate projects - Mitini Scapes, Migaa, and Lakeview Estate and the popular Billionaire Casino, Malindi, among others, are part of the iconic architecture conceived in the creative mind of Studio Infinity Architects, a firm whose name aptly captures the philosophy of endless creativity, and whose vision is “to create designs which provide visual and functional poetry and emanate human ego.”
Arch. Sandeep Rehal, Co – founder and current team leader spoke to The EA Infrastructure & Engineering Review. Excerpts follow. EA Infrastructure & Engineering Review: Please give us a brief background of Studio Infinity Architects. What were the defining objectives for forming the company and how far along are you down that road? Sandeep Rehal: Studio Infinity was evoked by Sandeep Rehal and Gurvinder Manku in 1998. The passion for architecture and creativity was the main objective for forming the company
and since its birth it has been an ever growing and exciting endeavor. Invaluable experience was obtained while working within the industry before the creation of studio infinity. As an architect, the pleasure obtained from designing and conceptualizing your thoughts from the drafting table to a feasible built entity is what led to the formation.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
EA I&E: Some of the milestones you have marked in the growth of the company? Sandeep: The road has definitely been a bitter sweet journey with a lot of obstacles, but just like in life everyday is a learning experience with exciting opportunities and ideas around every corner. I think every project no matter how big or small, done to our standard, is a mile stone and its success is what
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PROFILE / STUDIO INFINITY ARCHITECTS
we strive to achieve. I&E: You obviously draw from a wealth of collective experience… Sandeep: There is a lot of experience and enterprising zest in the infinity team and every individual is encouraged to invoke their creative sparks, and to push the envelope in all aspects of their work. I&E: What are some of the recently delivered projects? Which are some of the most memorable ones in the history of the company to - date and why? Sandeep: Like I mentioned earlier every project is a memorable one, but some that stand out are GEMINIA INSURANCE UPPERHILL, TRM THIKA ROAD, NAN CHANG HOTEL WESTLANDS ROAD, upcoming DUNHILL TOWER WAIYAKI WAY, ANANAS MALL THIKA ROAD, BILLIONAIRE CASINO, HOTEL LA MAISON ROYALE I&E: You head a clearly motivated team. Please describe briefly your management and working strategy with your team - as team leader, what can you say about the position the company finds itself in at this point in time? Sandeep: Studio infinity, just like the name suggests, strives to keep the office environment as a creative studio, and so every individual is pushed to express their ideas in all projects and every thought and critique is appreciated. There is always a lot of laughter, music
Please elaborate on how you leverage on technology to keep up with new demands from clients and developments in the industry. Sandeep: The innovation of new and dynamic materials and systems is an exciting sector in our field. We do attend seminars and presentations of various suppliers as well as invite them to our office to present so we may be knowledgeable and thus advise our clients accordingly. I&E: An architect thrives on innovation. How does this embed itself in your philosophy? Sandeep: Very important. Being innovative ensures that what we design and the end product is not only successful to the client’s needs but sets a bench mark for future developments. I&E: Some clients are sometimes shocked at the estimated cost of the structures they wish to put up, when estimates are presented to them. How do you reconcile cost and quality issues? Sandeep A project is only developed if it is feasible and therefore we advise the client on the development strategy as well as other factors like zoning, building laws and codes that could affect the shift in development. All costs are presented by a quantity surveyor once the design has been developed to a concise stage.We explain these costs to the clients and it is a back and forth exercise from there to ensure a
Some projects that stand out include Geminia Insurance Upperhill, TRM Thika Road, Nan Chang Hotel Westlands Road, Upcoming Dunhill Tower Waiyaki Way, Ananas Mall Thika Road, Billionaire Casino, Hotel La Maison Royale
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and most importantly joy within the team. I&E: What values define your value proposition as to what clients should expect from you in terms of quality? Sandeep: in one word, integrity. I&E: Please comment on the pace of delivery of architectural solutions to clients and response to clients’ enquiries; how soon are you able to generate realistic images of the projects you undertake,as well as technical information for the construction team? Sandeep: Different projects will require more thought and time but fundamental time frame for conceptual design is around 14 days. After that a lot of factors come into play to get the schematic drawings, submission drawings and eventually working drawings developed. I&E: Architecture is a constantly evolving discipline, with new systems, techniques and materials emerging each day.Customers have also become more knowledgeable and discerning.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
ROADS / UGANDA
PROFILE / STUDIO INFINITY ARCHITECTS the operating environment sufficiently conducive? What, in your opinion could be done better? Sandeep: Regulatory authorities is something we take very seriously as it deals with the safety aspects of the construction industry. As architects we support all authorities and push them to further implement stringent policies for more cohesive and impregnable developments in our country. I&E: Do we have enough architects to sustain the construction industry in Kenya, in your opinion? Also, Kenyan training institutions have been accused of churning out graduates who are not really ready for the job market. Do you feel architectural firms have a role to play to help bring the graduates up to scratch and ready to enter the fray? Sandeep: Do we have enough teachers, enough doctors etc in the country? No. There are a large number of growing architectural firms with in the major cities, for obvious reasons, but not enough in upcountry. Kenya has to develop as an entirety to grow as a
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major economic force within the region and the world. We need to change our pace and realize we can create a dynamic and exciting environment full of opportunities for future generations. I&E: What are some of the challenges you have faced so far? How did you surmount them? Sandeep: The level of professionalism in the engineering and respective subcontractors is lacking. I&E: With an amazing array of top notch projects already, where do you see the company in another decade? What plans do you have for the region? Sandeep Architecture needs to impact our lives as we are part of it and it is part of us, it should bring delight, sadness, perplexity and awe, all this while providing its main purpose, shelter. All said and done, we wish to create sustainable, profitable and most importantly exciting developments that impact the environs positively. May it be environmentally, socially or intellectually, you can decide.
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balanced, feasible project is realized. I&E: There is an increase in the clamour for sustainable buildings. Do your clients appreciate the long term savings resulting from incorporating green aspects in their buildings? Sandeep: We are definitely seeing a shift towards sustainable development albeit a bit cautious. This shift is key to ensuring all developments are sensitive to their environs and we encourage and advise clients accordingly. Local authorities should also add incentives to developments which lean towards this “green design� I&E: Please comment on the commercial success of the buildings so far designed by Studio Infinity Architects team. Sandeep: There has been success of commercial projects spearheaded by us, but that all is integrated more into the local market prices and the demand for space. I&E: Please comment on the policy and regulatory environment you are working in.Please give a brief insight on how seriously you take regulatory issues. Is
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GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS The Oval, 5th Floor Jaralam/Ring Road Junction P.O. Box 60070 - 00200 Nairobi,kenya
Office Tel: +254-20-2135460/1, 0702135460 Wireless: +254-2135460 / 2135450 Workshop: 254 20 8018775 Fax: +254-20-2451052 E-mail: info@seyanibrosk.com
Dunhill Towers
We are proud to be associated with Studio Infinity Architects East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
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CONSTRUCTION / EAST AFRICA
Construction management methodology in
Africa due for overhaul The African property development industry is rich in new developments, pressured successes and epic challenges. Lessons can be learnt by examining these projects, their strengths and weaknesses, their management strategies, and the reasons for their success or failure. Eventually, construction management methodology in Africa will need a complete overhaul. 18
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outh African managing director of Onsite Control Systems, developers of a cloud-based collaboration system, John Haefele, believes that all projects have the potential for efficiency, effectiveness and cohesion, but unfortunately
many projects conducted in today’s African environment are inherently inefficient. “Teams work ferociously against inherent problems to keep the project aligned, but due to the industry’s traditional methodologies and historically flawed tendencies, these issues prevail and the project is not always a success.” Haefele, who has 20 years’
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
CONSTRUCTION / EAST AFRICA experience in the African construction arena, says that the industry norm is anything but acceptable. He has played a direct role at varying disciplinary levels on many large-scale developments: “Diligent project teams and wellorganised project managers do their best to tackle the challenges presented within the available systems and using traditional methods, but due to the lack of alternatives the results tend to be less than desirable. The reasons for any project’s failure are easily recognisable, definable, and can be
overcome with the appropriate system and management mind-set change.” Redefining management processes “Traditionally, we built with a notepad, landline telephone, fax and a 2-way radio,” he says, but 20 years on and very little has changed. The fax evolved into uncontrollable and numerous
emails; the landline has been replaced by the intrusive and contractually limited cell phone; while the trusty pocket notepad and 2-way radio still remain. Although these tools provide flexibility, it is the inherently flawed nature of this ‘toolset’ that results in the industry’s persistent challenges. “The multiple channels and methods of communication create the challenges we face on a daily basis and are the reason we continue to struggle,” Haefele explains. “Slow adaption towards any change in
the traditionally accepted method of information creation and flow, as well as the technology required, are significant challenges and definite stumbling blocks. These issues need to be addressed now if we are going to successfully move the construction industry forward.” He acknowledges that the reality of construction is time consuming, difficult
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
and a stressful arena for all disciplines involved, but says that all disciplines on any development should rather be seen as one system rather than a group of individual parts within a system. “It is important to realise that the main contractor’s or subcontractor’s internal management ‘methods’ are just as much of a risk or benefit to the project as the architect’s, engineer’s or principal quantity surveyor’s internal management ‘methods’. The same can be said for any discipline on the project and it’s important to understand that these ‘methods’ are inherently hindered by traditionally accepted methods.” Any solution to the challenge of construction information management that benefits only a few levels of any project team structure, while not equally catering for the internal management ‘methods’ of all other levels, will not succeed. Teamwork is part of the single system solution It is not enough to digitise the currently accepted information flow. Rather, a successful solution will re-engineer and ease the previously accepted method of information creation, work flow and execution management, and as a by-product deliver effective results and reports, while increasing transparency along the way. It will deliver a substantial change to the industry across all disciplines, and allow the team to act as one, from feasibility to handover. It will support all involved, assisting on every hierarchical level to achieve the project team’s goals. In 2005, Haefele envisaged Onsite Control Systems (OCS) and teamed up with a senior solutions architect and owner of the software development firm Haefele Software in the United Kingdom to develop and launch the OnSiteIMS™ System. The system, patented through Bowman and Gilfillan IP Attorneys, in 2008, 2010 and annually since, was created to resolve these historical challenges and tendencies in the project and contracts management arenas. Years of contract management and project management experience through these challenges have culminated in, and continue to be, incorporated into the functionality of the OnSiteIMS™ Solution.
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CONSTRUCTION / EAST AFRICA One platform The OnSiteIMS solution is a cloud-based collaboration system that provides one platform for all your development related information. It re-engineers information creation methods across all channels and from all disciplines, allowing the channelling of any information type (instructions, tasks, documents, actions, drawings, requests etc.) between the client, developer, professional team and contractor, and onto subcontractors and suppliers in a manner that is manageable, productive, efficient and traceable, from both mobile and online interfaces. It provides one easily manageable, secure, reliable, and always available framework for all communication creation and flow, reducing the resourcing needed to manage the various disciplines as well as in managing themselves. “The current construction and project management methodology is in dire need of an upgrade. The industry requires a change toward reduced complexity; increased realtime accountability and streamlined key processes, to reduce the excuse of non-performance, and to free up limited resources and time to be better spent on those aspects that create success. With the recent release of the OnSiteIMS 2015 Online™ and OnSiteIMS 2015 Mobile™ platforms, we finally have a collaboration solution that fits the bill,” concludes Haefele. With branches in Africa and Europe, Onsite Control Systems is the first Africa based information management consultant for the construction industry and the largest construction collaboration provider in the southern hemisphere, currently assisting project teams to meet their goals on developments to the combined value of over R12 Billion in Ghana, Namibia and South Africa. The OnSiteIMS solution provides: Documentation collaboration Online document management platform for the issuing, distributing and recording of all formal documentation and general
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correspondence between members involved in the build. Reliable, anytime access. Contract | Site Instruction governance Replaces the SI and CI hard copy book employed on the site with a reliable successor. Digital creation of Site and Contract Instructions via online or mobile, including optional 2-step authorisation protocols with tracking and completion control. RFI | Query resolution tracking Online or mobile RFI (Request for Information) issuing. Response | resolution tracking & correspondence control with photo | video attach function and realtime RFI status reporting. Project | Site Team action management Consultant and site team action management for the recording of information | procurement deadlines and actions across all disciplines. With Consultant, Main Contractor and Subcontractor efficiency | non-performance early warning monitoring and reporting. Drawing management Replaces consultant managed drawing registers with one contractually reliable and upto-date online drawing register with real-time site receipt status. Online collaboration of drawings issued for design, information or construction, including approval procedures. Printing | delivery tracking for 3rd party printing company, plotters on site or consultant delivery. Quality | Inspection list management Online or mobile issuing and management of weekly quality and inspection lists by Consultants.. Online list item interaction and update ability with graphical reports on completion status in real-time. Including photo marking-up, floorplan location pinning, commenting, action tracking & automated re-inspection notification processes.
It is important to realise that the main contractor’s or subcontractor’s internal management ‘methods’ are just as much of a risk or benefit to the project as the architect’s, engineer’s or principal quantity surveyor’s internal management ‘methods’. Contractual completion control Online or mobile issuing and management of contractual completion lists, with marked-up photo attach and floorplan pinning ability. Online/mobile list item update function with real-time graphical reports on completion status. Including commenting, action tracking & automated reinspection notification processes. Covers all list completion phases, Pre-Practical, BO, Practical, Works, Final and Latent Defects Lists. (Customisable for NEC, FIDIC or other building contracts) Progress recording & virtual site presence technology The Visual Progress Module stores all progress photographs and videos taken during the project into an easily accessible dynamic online timeline. With Google Street view like software, the system is capable of remote site viewing and virtual tours of your project from anywhere in the world. Shopdrawing tracking The real-time creation and automated workflows allows the tracking of all shopdrawings on the project in order to meet project installation deadlines, with reporting on progress of installation at factory or on site. (due for release end 2015).
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / SHAH TIMBER MART LTD.
SHAH TIMBER MART LIMITED: From Timber to Furniture, a remarkable journey into market leadership
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hen Shah Timber Limited took up the job to refurbish the iconic Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa’s South Coast, the magnitude of the job was to prove a formidable test to the company’s credentials as a market leader in the local industry. Whitesands was a particularly challenging job, involving the project involved fit-outs for Furniture, doors and frames as well as wardrobes for over 100 rooms. The extreme weather condition would wreak havoc on the wood based materials if not pre-oriented against its vagaries to safeguard the eventual finished products and surfaces from heat and humidity. Adapting of personnel and material to the oppressive conditions amid tight timelines was the first challenge that had to be overcome. Furthermore, the hotel was in full operation at East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
the time, which also had a bearing on the team’s activity. A hotel environment is a 24-hour business and any interruption to operations has monetary implications. Shah Timber’s team therefore found themselves in new waters and a new offering on their job menu. Stripping down the existing fittings in 100 rooms and completely replacing them with new ones was arduous. The timber materials were first optimized and adapted for the coastal conditions treating them for stability in readiness for the peculiar sea salt atmospheric conditions. This was done in Nairobi and then transported to Mombasa, which was not a walk in the park either. Shah Timber Mart’s team was ready, however. “Our dedicated, well trained, highly skilled and experienced professionals were up to the challenge and managed to tackle each and every issue as, and when it came up,” says Chetan Shah, CEO of Shah Timber Mart Limited. “Our
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PROFILE / SHAH TIMBER MART LTD.
hands-on approach and experience in production, finishing and fitting proved the difference,” he adds. The whole job took one year and involved a team of 50 to complete it to satisfaction. The Whitesands project stands out among some of the largest and most challenging undertakings by Shah Timber and demonstrates the firm’s great capabilities to deliver even in the most daunting of conditions and timelines. It is also a clear indication of the confidence inspired by the Shah Timber team in a market that has become distinctly sophisticated and demanding, and characterized by cutthroat competition. In the last decade Shah Timber has been involved with many prestigious projects of similar or larger magnitude. From hotel fit outs, renovations
and refurbishments, lodges and housing projects, both exclusive and commercial, Shah Timber has established an enviable track record. Some of the prominent names on the company’s client list include The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel, The Inter Continental, Serena Hotels, The Fairview Hotel, Sarova Panafric, Enashipai Resort & Spa, Sarova Mara, and Sopa Lodges which are only a representative few that stand out in the hospitality industry. Other notable projects are Fedha Towers, The Standard Chartered Bank Headquarters, Thika Greens, and English Point Marina among others. The outstanding jobs done on projects for such clients present significant capability statements for Shah Timber Mart Limited. To achieve the highest standards of workmanship with accuracy and
meet the client’s expectations, the company is keen to involve Architects, Project managers, Interior designers, contractors and the client, but is quite flexible in dealing with the client or contractor directly. Some of the well-known construction companies and architectural firms Shah Timber has collaborated with include Small black square, Laxmanbhai Construction Company, Symbion International, Seyani Brothers, Beglin Woods, Sentrim Contracts, Dimensions Architects, Triad Architects, Planning Systems, Artizans, Studio 62, Giriraj Builders, Studio Infinity and 360º. It is a significant vote of confidence to be able to work with such dignified market leaders and indicates Shah Timber’s coming of age in a journey spanning 55 years, over two family generations to date. Shah Timber mart Limited started from very humble beginnings and the grit and determination to succeed is the culmination of the work and vision of Mr. Chetan Shah’s grandfather. When he started the company back in 1960, old man Shah’s business was selling timber. He used to deliver his merchandise from Makuyu to Nairobi on a hand-pulled cart, a trip that took 2 days each time. The origin of the name Shah Timber Mart comes from this original business. Doors and cabinetry work were the in-thing at the time; but along the way, Shah Timber Mart evolved to meet the needs of the ever-changing business environment. By the time Chetan was joining the company, the hotel industry was growing and so he suggested that they branch into making quality furniture,
We are proud to be associated with SHAH TIMBER LIMITED P. O. Box 43436-00100 G.P.O. Nairobi-Kenya Tel: +254 20 2217002 / 2216990 / 315680
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Fax: +254 20 2217005 / 2218314 Website: www.sentrim.co.ke Email: sentrim@sentrim.co.ke
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / SHAH TIMBER MART LTD. with an orientation towards the high end wood products segment. This value added product range caters for entire spectrum of residential and commercial ventures. It also includes fit outs and site installations, high quality premium products and services in terms of finishes to satisfy a wide range of discerning tastes. “Our products and service reliability has been well established in the market and has been the main driving force behind our success, together with our trained and qualified personnel both in the workshop and on sites,” says Chetan. He also points to the company’s considerable investment in modern machinery to cater for new and innovative products. Shah Timber Mart is now a major player in the market, and currently operates from a 70, 000 square – foot facility standing on 2 acres of land in Nairobi’s Industrial Area, and employs over 150 highly talented and motivated artisans who are entirely Kenyan.
Decking As its core business, Shah Timber Mart Limited installs windows, high quality fit outs of wardrobes, cabinets, ceilings and attics, staircases, fireplaces
and accessories from scratch. Wooden floors that can add a touch of wood to living rooms and outdoor decking, which extends the wood finish to house and hotel exteriors are also done to perfection at Shah Timber.
timber corner limited
We Power your Business Vision
Everything under one roof
Dealers in office stationery, laptops and desktops, printers and scanners, office furniture, mobile phones and accessories, computer accessories and much much more... Office Mart Ltd is a gold partner of HP and Intel. Certified partner for Microsoft. Preferred partner for Lenovo, Asus, Dell, Toshiba, Transcend, Fellows, Brother, Epson, APC, Samsung, Canon, Office Point, Skool Point, Kangaroo, Rexel, Maped, Steadtler and several other leading world renowned brands We undertake corporate orders and do free delivery within Nairobi. Our current clients include NGO's, Large corp orates, Small and Medium enterprises, Banks, Insuarance companies etc.
We are proud to be associated with Shah Timber Mart Limited.
Congratulations!
OFFICE MART LTD P.O.Box 43407 - 00100 Tel: +254 20 2434009 / 11 Mobilie: +254 707 346 347 E-mail: info@officemart.co.ke Homa Bay Road (Head Office) • Kenyatta Avenue • 680 Hotel • Standard Street The Junction • Yaya Centre
We are proud to be associated with
Shah Timber Limited. Corner of Jirore / Enterprise Road P.O. Box 42651 - 00100, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (020) 556156, 556368, 554875, Mob.: 0736 668 007 / 0728 333 417 Email: info(@)timbercorner.com
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
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PROFILE / SHAH TIMBER MART LTD.
Together with outdoor wooden decking, the firm also offers composite decking – the eco-friendlier option. Composite is the product of roughly equal mixture of recycled plastic and recycled wood fibers. Its long lifespan makes up for the costly price of choosing it over wooden decking. It is already proving popular among the hotels. Shah Timber recently did 20, 000 square feet of decking at English Point Marina. In a market that has woken up to enhanced competition occasioned by the construction boom in Kenya, it is an achievement to stand out in terms of high quality products. However, companies that treat the customer with respect and individuality and pays close attention to market dynamics will achieve market leadership in this dispensation. To the rest the message is clear, R.I.P! “The most satisfying aspect of our relationship with clients is that many of them are repeat clients. Our goal is not only to provide quality products, but outstanding service as well, and this has given us favourable status in the market” says Chetan. With clients increasingly persuaded to have their products made locally, quality and delivery timelines are distinguishing factors influencing their choice of who to work with. And Shah Timber Mart has passed that particular test with flying colours. The fact that at Shah Timber Mart the client is able to be involved in the process of crafting their products is an added incentive to continually
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engage the company. Clients are quite keen on local products due to their reliability, service and warranty. Creativity is also an important part of Shah Timber’s success. The company’s team has maintained an innovative streak that not only brings out architects and interior designers’ ideas into tangible reality, but also surprises clients on how much better the desired products can be captured by the superior craftsmanship at of Shah Timber Mart’s staff. At Enashipai Resort in Naivasha, beds supplied by Shah Timber seamlessly married in with the traditional African theme dominant around the facility, testament to a growing reputation to the company’s ability to adapt and deliver on clients’ unique and varying demands. Supply and Installation At Shah Timber clients are offered the option of supply only, or supply and installation. “We recommend the latter in order to guarantee that a client will have a top quality finished product installed by our professional, trained and vastly experienced installation staff, which a client is sure to enjoy for many years. Our installation teams are sure to eliminate the chance of damage or the wrong installation and finishing on site techniques that can be the case if done privately. This is especially important in the installation of staircases, flooring, decking etc.,” says Chetan.
“We will dedicate an installation team for the duration of our work at your project to ensure that the work is completed smoothly and on time, and any issues can be rectified,” he adds. With economic development enhancing people’s spending power and influencing lifestyles, clients are engaging professional interior designers and architects develop novel and sophisticated concepts. At Shah Timber, customers’ unique individual requests can be catered for at commercial costs. “Clients are welcome to visit us and share their own ideas and requirements which we will use to design and build a customized product that they will enjoy. This will enable us to gain a better understanding of what you want and what we can do. After this a time span can be given for completion of the product depending on its detail, quantity and our workshop. We also have a wide variety of catalogue products for your lounge, bedroom, and kitchen and outdoors that can be customized to your preferences,” says Chetan. Continuous training at Shah Timber and keeping in touch with trends in the market has equipped the company’s team to deal with virtually any customer query or demand. And Shah Timber’s product quality does speak for itself. The company recently marked a milestone when its entry won the people’s Choice Award at the Prestigious Ideal Interiors Exhibition held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / SHAH TIMBER MART LTD. Environment: In this industry, it is difficult not to talk about environment as the core product revolves around timber as a raw material. The forestry industry has not performed particularly well in recent times. “Shah Timber Mart actively strives to operate in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. By taking cognizance of current environmental conditions and directing our efforts accordingly, we can contribute positively towards the environment of tomorrow, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Company,” says Chetan. “Furthermore, operating within environmentally sound principles leads to a stable and consistent product supply, allowing our Customers to plan
and develop with confidence,” he adds. Shah Timber Mart’s manufacturing and board plant processes make use of timber sourced from sustainably managed plantations. Shah Timber is looking at expanding its operations as inquiries keep coming in from across the borders. Service
oriented installation is however the preferred option for engagement outside the country for now. The future is sure bright for Shah Timber Mart Limited, its standing already assured among the market leaders in the country. While insisting on tentatively exploring the opportunities that emerge in the East African region, Chetan says that the company intends to consolidate its market position locally while exploring the appropriate strategy to more aggressively engage across the borders. Currently, the terms of engagement have been limited to installation for a select number of clients in Uganda and Rwanda.
We deal in high quality timber joinery which includes doors, floors, wardrobes, cabinets, furniture and well-seasoned construction timber.
Shiv Insurance Brokers Limited
We are proud to be Business Associates with Shah Timber Limited for over 40 years and we would like to congratulate them on all their achievements over the years.
P.O. Box 39032 - 00623, Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: 4449166/68, Fax 4449168 Mob.: 0700 652040 E-mail: shivinsbro@nbi.ispkenya.com, shivinsbro92@gmail.com
We are proud to be associated with Shah Timber Limited.
Compliments and Best Wishes from Occidental Insurance Company Limited & Shiv Insurance Brokers Limited.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
P.O. Box 182-10400, Nanyuki, Kenya Tel ;- 062- 2032530 Mobile:- 0720438181, 0722511691 e-mail- info.mountkenya@gmail.com
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INFRASTRUCTURE / TANZANIA
Dangote to commission newly constructed cement plant in Tanzania
The plant is numbered fourth in the expansion series after Ethiopia, Zambia and Cameroun.
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eading cement manufacturer in Africa Dangote Cement is set to commission a new cement plant in Tanzania in October. The 3.0 million metric tonnes per annum cement plant is constructed in Mtwara District. The commissioning of the new cement plant in Tanzania is part of the company’s expansion strategy in Africa. The plant is numbered fourth in the expansion series after Ethiopia, Zambia and Cameroun. However, other cement plants in Senegal and South Africa are due for commissioning this year as construction works are ongoing in several other African countries. The ground-breaking for the construction of the cement plant in Tanzania was done on May 27, 2013. It is now 24 months down the line and the plant is now ready for commissioning. Tanzania is at the verge of becoming one of the African self-sufficient countries in cement production. Dangote
Group is also expected to hold the groundbreaking ceremony for the 25 hectares of jetty land at Mgao village in Mtwara District in Tanzania the same day. Different African Presidents have applauded the Nigerian entrepreneur, Dangote for his company’s massive investments across Africa, among them being the Cameroonian President, Paul Biya, who recently commissioned the 1.5 million metric tonnes per annum Dangote Cement grinding plant in Douala. President Biya described the cement plant as a significant project that will develop the industrialization of the country’s economy. Dangote is said to have spurred the industrialization of many African economies through the establishment of integrated cement plants. The plants are however, geared towards growing the directly engaged African countries to be selfsufficient in cement production.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
ENERGY / EAST AFRICA
Construction of Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya power interconnector in Progress
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onstruction work has begun on different sections of the sites identified for power lines for the Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya power interconnector. In a recent meeting of energy held in Arusha, Tanzania, for permanent secretaries, senior officials and experts form Zambia, Tanzania and Kenya, it was indicated that outstanding progress had been made on the interconnector. Power Pylons, Substations and cabling had already been constructed. Upon completion of construction of
the Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya power interconnector, it would have a long term objective of providing opportunities for power trade in the region. This will also help facilitate the creation of a PanAfrican power market from Cape Town in South Africa, Cairo in Egypt through to Tripoli in Libya. Financing of the project comes under the 10th European Development Fund through an implementation agreement signed in 2011 between COMESA and Zambia’s Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Development. The money for the project has
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
aided the three countries to hold their ministerial, project steering committee and official’s meetings. The agreement also provides legal mandate to the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Development through the office for Promoting Private Power Investment (OPPPI) to implement the grant agreement. The Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya (ZTK) power interconnector will be developed, owned and managed by the three countries in their relevant geographical boundaries.
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / DANAFF KENYA
DANAFF KENYA: Delivering innovative project management solutions from inception to commissioning
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anaff Kenya Company Limited was established in Nairobi in the year 2006 as a registered construction company focusing on building construction, property development and project management. Since formation, the company has been providing clients with reliable solutions to complex Kenyan construction challenges. The company’s expertise cuts across the construction industry from small renovations to large scale projects for both private or the public sector. Some of the projects done for the government of Kenya include infrastructure projects waste water
treatments plants. Danaff Kenya Company Limited’s success is driven by more than building some of the most advanced facilities for corporate, institutional and government clients. More and more of the company’s clients have identified with the company’s distinctive ability to implement innovative project management techniques and to serve as a reliable provider of knowledge-driven solutions for their complex construction projects. Danaff Kenya team has construction professionals that offers a single-source solution for all of construction-related needs. Whether it is restoration, site preparation, a new facility or
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
renovation, the Danaff team has the experience and personnel to provide the highest quality construction on schedule and within budget. “We support our clients from project inception, to the commissioning of the fully operational facility. And our network of local offices enables us to offer our clients the dual advantage of a strong local presence and broad geographic reach,” says Mr. Dennis, assistant general Manager, Danaff Kenya Company Limited. Since starting operating in Kenya, Danaff has carried out large and middle projects around Nairobi, Mombasa, Naivasha, Nakuru, Kisumu and Kericho. The company has successfully built
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PROFILE / DIMENSIONS ARCHITECTS
PROFILE / DANAFF KENYA
several contract project such as Awendo Water Treatment Plant, Thika Greens Golf city roads and boundary wall, Sunning Hills Apartments Kileleshwa, Sunnings Hills Apartments Laington, Bloomfield town houses in Kileleshwa, Kadeya Villas in Ngon’g town, Jessy Apartments Westslands Nairobi, Blue water resort Mombasa, Bloomfield Apartments Kilimani and several other running projects. Real Estate Development Danaff Kenya has also invested in real estate around Nairobi. The company has developed the following projects within 5 years. Sunning Hill Apartments, Kileleshwa. Located in Ring road Kileleshwa Nairobi and covering an area of 1.2 Acres, it is the first project of the Danaff Kenya Company Limited, designed, invested and constructed fully by the company. Costing Ksh 249 Million back in 2009 (US$3.5million), Sunning Hill Apartments has four blocks housing 40 units of high-class apartments and a total construction area of more than
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Danaff Kenya Company Limited’s success is driven by more than building some of the most advanced facilities for corporate, institutional and government clients. 7,800 square metres. For You Chinese Restaurant This is a Chinese Restaurant located along Gitanga road, Valley Arcade Nairobi. The project was fully designed and built by Danaff Kenya Company Limited. The elegant finishing was
carefully selected by Danaff Designers to make sure that the Restaurant meets international standard in order to have an appealing taste to patrons of international origin that live around Valley Arcade. The Restaurant is a land mark in the area and has won the hearts of many Kenyans and foreigners that visit the place for lunch and dinner. The place also holds lots of events such as birthdays and companies’ end of year parties. The design of the restaurant has enabled Danaff to win a number of Restaurant renovations and re-designing around Nairobi. In more of its recent investments, Danaff has an upcoming Chinese Restaurant in Riverside Drive in Kileleshwa Nairobi and Bloomfield Restaurant in Kilimani Diani, Mombasa Cottages Project Located in the South Coast Mombasa, Kenya, Diani Beach rests between the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and open plains of the Shimba Hills National Reserve. Stretching 25 kilometres along the coastline, pearl white sands and lush green forests
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
WATER / KENYA
PROFILE / DANAFF KENYA
provide a backdrop of serenity that defines paradise. The project started in 2011 to 2013 being an investment of a group of Mombasa Hospitality Companies. There were a total of twenty one cottages for luxury facility in South Coast. Danaff Kenya company Limited was contracted to design and build the project. The investor’s intention was to attract tourists through high class hospitality facility in Diani area, one of the best beaches in East Africa. In Diani the place is frequented by European tourists. The project owners’ aim was to have their clients feel at home and comfort that is not available anywhere else. The place also hold lot of events such as birthdays, companies end of year parties. The design of the restaurant has made Danaff to win a number of Restaurant renovation and re-designing around Nairobi. There is an upcoming Chinese Restaurant in Riverside Drive in Kileleshwa Nairobi and Bloomfield Restaurant in Kilimani.
and modern, and are set on serene lush gardens at the vicinity of Ngong Township. They have a true taste of urban lifestyle with a big swimming pool; a children’s play area, a shop and many more all modern facilities. It has beautiful views and close proximity to Ngong hills, which also guarantees fresh breeze to the property. All units are very spacious with an additional domestic servant quarter with an open Kitchen (American style).
Kadeya Villas, Ololua Rd, Ngong Town These are serene, spacious and luxurious houses developed by Kadeya Company a Chinese developer with years of experience in Kenya's Real Estate Industry. They are located in the beautiful Ngong Town. They make up a gated community with 45 units in 5 1/2 acre land, each unit on 1/8 acre comprising of 3 Bedroom 200sqm, 4 Bedroom 220sqm, and 5 bedrooms 240sqm of high quality and spacious houses. The neighborhood has several famous schools, health facilities, government institutions and police station for security in the area. It is a secure environment with each house having a siren and electric fence. Danaff is aiming to finish the project by end of 2015.
Bloomfield Apartments Almost complete, these are upcoming Danaff Kenya Company Apartments for sale under the project name ‘Bloomfield Apartments’. There are a total of 72 units under construction and to be completed by Oct 2015. The project is located along Muringa road, Muringa Groove. The company intends to continue growing and not only investing in real estate in Kenya, but also playing a more active role in up-coming construction projects in the country.
Kadeya Villas Also designed and built by Kadeya Company Limited, KADEYA Garden gated community Villas are impressive
collonades consultants ARCHITECTS, DESIGN & BUILDING CONSULTANTS
Volume 2 Issue 009
er 2013
November - Decemb
ucture: Growth in Infrastr a
New facilities as turns 50
Keny
Introdu c
Ultra M cing the Bran o d Comp dern Thika R New us oad Volume
2 Issue
010 Jan
uar y -
Februa
ry 201
4
ZHU 7DULIIV ‡ (5& 8QYHLOV 1HZ 3R 6HUYLFHV ‡ 7ULRVFDSH 3ODQQLQJ LO 3XPS 0RQLWRULQJ ‡ 'DYLV 6KLUWOLII 8QYH 7HFKQRORJ\ G LOOLRQ LQ WKH UHYDPSH ‡ 595 WR LQYHVW P ‡ 7XOORZ 2L 7RURUR 3DNZDFK /LQH 7XUNDQ O GLVFRYHUHG 0 RUH 2LO L D Q ‡ $FFHVV .HQ\D . ([SDQV HQ\D 7DUJHWV & RXQWLHV LRQ SODQ LQ LWV ‡ &KLJZ HOO RI /LIH +ROGLQJV /WG $ %HWWHU 4 XDOLW\
We are proud to be associated with
Danaff Kenya Company Limited St. Georges House, Opp. Professional Centre, Parliament Road, 1st Floor, Room 113 P.O.Box 67388-00200, Nairobi, Kenya.
For more information, visit our wesite
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
www.eainfrastructure-engineer.com
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
ENERGY / KENYA
Geothermal Power enhances Kenya’s electricity export capacity
E
lectricity exports from Kenya to Uganda and Tanzania have significantly increased as of July this year, Energy Regulatory Commission in Kenya has noted. According to the regulator the move is due to the recent addition of geothermal power into the national grid. “The country has increased power sales and cut imports largely due to the additional geothermal energy to the grid,” said John Mutua, senior manager for economic regulation at Energy Regulatory Commission in Kenya. 110.2 per cent growth was recorded meaning that Kenya has exported 26.56 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) to Uganda and Tanzania in the year to July, up from 12.63 million kWh in the same period last year. According to data from the ERC, Uganda bought a bulk of electricity exports from Kenya at 25.33m units while Tanzania on the hand bought 1.23m units.
The additional geothermal power has made Kenya to look into exporting power to Rwanda as well as from next year. Electricity distributor Kenya Power’s Managing Director Ben Chumo last month said Kenya would export 30 megawatts of electricity to Rwanda “in the next three months”. In this regard, the country is planning
on constructing a US$ 51.2m power transmission line that will link Kenya with Tanzania that will strengthen their power trade. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has the following objectives and Functions:-Regulate the electrical energy, petroleum and related products, renewable energy and other forms of energy.
Delays hit construction of Coalfired power plant in Kenya
T
he construction of the first coal-fired power plant in Kenya is set to delay due to government plans to resettle people on the coastal site. The construction of the power plant was to start in October this year. Francis Njogu, Chief Executive of the consortium, Amu Power Company confirmed the reports and said that a resettlement plan is yet to be finalized first by National Land Commission (NLC) before construction begins. The environmental impact report of the Coal-fired power plant in Kenya will be submitted to the National Environment Management Authority
(NEMA) for approval. “We are working closely with NLC, as soon as they give us the report, we will complete a few other small processes, and then we will start. We are ready to go,” Njogu said, adding that the consortium could start construction within 60 days of receiving NEMA’s approval. The 1,000 MW coal power plant which is a Kenyan and Chinese venture is anticipated to boost Kenya’s installed capacity to about 6,700 MW by 2017 from about 2,500 MW. According to the Energy and Petroleum Ministry, bids have already been invited for the project and
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
construction is expected to take 30 months. The consortium that won the contract last year comprises of Kenyan firms Centum Investment and Gulf Energy, alongside Chinese companies China Huadian Corporation Power Operation Company, Sichuan Electric Power Design and Consulting Company, and Sichuan No. 3 Power Construction Company. Amu power is a consortium of local companies led by Gulf Energy and Centum Investment Group that was awarded a tender to construct Kenya’ first coal power electricity plant in September 2014.
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COMMUNICATION / KENYA
Liquid Telecom Kenya completes fibre protection for El Ni単o
L
iquid Telecom, which carries most of the country's banking data, keeping ATMs working and transactions flowing, as well as providing bandwidth to many of Kenya's telcos, has this week completed a two-month project to protect its network during the anticipated heavy El Ni単o rains. "We launched an intensive contingency project as soon as reports began to come through of particularly heavy rains ahead," said Ben Roberts, CEO of Liquid Telecom Kenya. "We fully appreciate the disruption signal failure can cause and have thus worked at three levels to ensure the best possible service through any storms and flooding ahead." The company has protected its networks by ensuring all of its customers will switch data flows seamlessly in the event of a disruption. It has additionally ensured instant power back up at all hub sites, and relocated fibre and equipment in high risk areas, in an exercise of assessment and relocation that has involved more than 100 field staff and contractors over recent weeks. "The contingency measures fully cover the Nairobi east and west regions, western, central, and coastal regions," said Liquid Telecom Kenya's Head of Field Operations & Maintenance Mr Fredrick Okello. To man the 1,591km of cable spanning from Malindi to Malaba, Mr Okello now has a field team of 100 people consisting of Liquid Telecom staff and local contractors. The majority of Liquid Telecom's fibre network - which includes the biggest independent data network in Kenya - is underground, running beside highways as a national backbone. The standard depth of the fibre is over 1 meter, keeping it safe from most water. Modern-day fibre also benefits from advanced water-
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to leave their vehicle behind and trek some distance to the required sites," said Mr Okello. A particular focus has been high hill transmission sites, which can pose a problem during thunderstorms, with one job at Nandi Hills seeing the team unable to go up towers for safety reasons and having to wait through a storm to climb the mast when proof coatings. However, severe flooding can sometimes see splice enclosures (where stripped fibre is fused and sealed from contamination) fail to keep water away from the fibre. This has seen the company relocate fibre cable from high risk areas, particularly those at risk from river flooding. It has reinforced bridge attachments over the Nyali Bridge and the River Nzoia, Yala, Nyando, Sondu, Chania, and Voi, and also relocated cables away from construction sites, where the soil is disturbed and can more easily be washed away by flood waters. Where soil erosion is a major risk, gabions, or earth supporting walls, have been built to protect the cable. "It has been an intensive exercise," said Mr Okello, who has visited sites across the country, along the length of the Mombasa Road, and in Muranga, Karatina, Embu, Mwea and Western Kenya. "In Kisii, we have created two routes, one over head and one underground. In Nyeri Hill, we have ensured there is no compromised cable depth. In Muranga, where we are anticipating landslides, we have relocated the cable from the road construction vicinity where the soil has been weakened by the earth movers to other sections which are secure." The project has presented multiple challenges, however. "In Kisii and Nyeri Hill, trees were constantly falling and blocking access roads. The team had
the skies cleared. Another priority has been transmission sites in areas such as Kano Plains that are at high risk of flooding due to alluvial soils that have very poor drainage. Other flood prone areas where the company has provided contingency solutions include those between Kericho and Molo, Mau Summit, and Eldoret. It has also run power simulation tests countrywide to establish that there will be a reliable and seamless electricity supply switchover at the hub sites. "There is no doubt in our minds that contingency measures deliver such significant benefits to our customers as to fully merit the attention, effort, and expense we have given them," said Mr Roberts.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / ITRADE COMPANY LTD.
Itrade Co. Limited signs into market leadership with lifestyle changing housing solutions
Itrade Company has steadily grown from a nascent land buying company to a serious trail blazer in the real estate sector. The companywas formedin 2006by ten young minds with the ambition to enter the fray in the property industry in Kenya. Starting with an original core of four students at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, like – minded colleagues were invited so as to pool cash resources for investment
R
eal estate was foremost in their minds and they set out building capital by investing in shares at the Nairobi Stock Exchange. With the accruing profits, they changed focus to land buying, which was deemed a faster route to grow capital.The journey to the housing development business had started. “We started small, purchasing two plots at Membley, next to Kenyatta University, each costing KSh. 300, 000, purely for speculation purposes,” says Mr. SamuelGachombaNjenga, Managing Directorat Itrade Co. Limited. Some more buying and selling at Kitengela at the outskirts
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
of Nairobi boosted their financial base. By 2009 they had the title deeds to four prime plots, but then decided to adopt a different model; buying bigger chunks of land with the intention of selling them off in subdivided pieces. The youthful group was now wading into a property market notorious for inefficiencies and fraud,on a landscape dotted with ruined dreams of numerous customers who had lost their savings to conmen.Generating trust from the onset was crucial.Initially they went round the problem by inviting friends to invest in their company’s vision, and purchase Itrade’s products. Within a short period, a capital base of KSh. 10 million was
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PROFILE / ITRADE COMPANY LTD.
MATIGARI General
Merchants
P.O. Box 1186, Ruaraka, Nairobi. Tel: 0722 523635, 0715 245 459 E-mail: matigarimerchants@yahoo.com
We are proud to be associated with
Itrade Company Ltd. Managing Director, Mr James Kaharuka Tel: 0722 523635
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Marketing Manager, Mr Samuel Chege Tel: 0715 245 459 chegeexcavitor@gmail.com
achieved, at around the same time the financial environment was also becoming more investmentfriendly with readily available and affordable credit, a welcome development for Itrade Co. Limited who could now secure funding to invest in the real estate development business, the desired next level. Itrade Park Estate was conceptualized and with it, the company made a successful entry into the housing property market. An exceptional residential development comprising of 12 homes, Itrade Park was a hitand quickly sold out. Every
home, a three bedroom Bungalow with DSQ, was tastefully designed and built with care and attention to detail so as to provide a serene family atmosphere. With shrewd management and aggressive marketing,Itrade Limited has continued to grow and has established itself as a firm to watch in the local property market. The company has emerged as an ideal provider of superior housing solutions, with a firm focus on profitable increase of its market share building on the current gains. With their finger on the pulse of the market dynamics, Itrade intends to retain customer loyalty by consistently engaging them in order to understand their changing preferences. “At Itrade we provide a vehicle through which the process of acquiring a property can be turned into a pleasant one through provision of accurate and relevant advice to our customers to enable them make informed decisions so as to reap maximum benefits from their investments,” saysNjenga. Integrity and transparency “Our dedication to customer satisfaction is unmatched and since property acquisition is a complicated process for most people, we ensure that the customer is updated at each step of the process.Guided by the key values of integrity and transparency and with high
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / ITRADE COMPANY LTD.
regard and firm emphasis on maximizing on customers’ satisfaction, Itrade is growing to claim our position as a leader in real estate in Kenya by making the acquisition of property a pleasant experience for our customers,” he adds. This is captured in the company’s latest addition to the housing products menu – Signature Apartments, which isalready making wavesin the market. Signature Apartments located in Lower Kabete constitutes of 34spacious 3-Bedroom apartments, Master Ensuite each on a spacious plinth of 150SqMetres. Complete with Solar heated water system, perimeter wall with electric fence, self-contained guard and security control room,lift, gym, kids play area and other facilities. These units leave nothing to chance in offering the best of quality in a serene homely environment where space meets lifestyle, with attractive payment terms.
ITRADE GARDENS Itrade Gardens is the company’s third housing project and consist of80 apartments with (60) 3 bedroom units and (20) 2 bedroom unitslocated in Ruiru, 1km off the Eastern by - pass; 3 KM from Thika Super Highwayabout twenty minutes’ drive from Nairobi’s CBD.These are spacious 3& 2 Bedroom Master Ensuite units and a landscaped garden plus parking for two vehicles per unit.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
The property market is indeed lucrative, but it calls for astute navigation of the pitfalls that lurk in the way of inexperience and an increasingly changing environment. This is what has been keeping Itrade’s executives on toes, to ensure that they are armed with a firm grasp of the developments in the international housing solutions arena as well as the evolving client tastes.
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PROFILE / ITRADE COMPANY LTD.
We are proud to be associated with
Itrade Limited Suite 29 Lower Hill Duplex, Upper Hill Road Opposite Upper Hill School P.O. Box 19424-00100 Nairobi, Kenya Tel (office) +254 20 205 3658, Mobile +254 724 786 256 E-mail: info@designnscope.com
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Led by values of integrity, honesty and transparency in a sector notorious for corruption and fraud, the company’s tag line as; Your trusted real estate partner,Itrade has sought to enhance its image as a customer friendly organisation by keeping the prices of its housing solutions within reach. This is a crucial differentiator in decision making for customers. “We are our own contractor, and we are able to leverage on that status to enable usto pass on the savings to our clients,while enhancing revenues and customer loyalty. In addition, we have been able toguarantee important infrastructure and services within our estates,� says Njenga. While Itrade has its sights on becoming a leading regional market player, the young company has so far concentrated its activities mostly within Nairobi, the outskirts and several neighbouringcounties such as Machakos, Kiambu, and Kajiadowhere land is still affordable. It is not without challenges that the company has come this far. Financiers are yet to accept funding developments that come with new technology. The business environment could also be made a bit friendlierif incentivized. Not to be daunted, however, Itrade Limited has plans to push more products into the market, expanding their target to the lower end segment of the market. According to Njenga, Itrade is celebratingthe commercial success of its housing units, confident that they have created a name that is associated with quality and affordability. In this way, the company is focused on positively influencing the landscape pursuant to its 5-year vision. The company has a young, energetic professional team to deliver on this promise.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
CONSTRUCTION / KENYA
SMEs tap into heightened construction activities with lift tower cranes Vendors that offer superior construction materials are more likely to receive government and private sector contracts in the long run. Furthermore, the projected higher economic growth is expected to ensure continued growth of the construction industry in East Africa
I
t has been a booming business for nearly every enterprise associated with the construction industry in East Africa,what with cranes hovering over the region's capital cities. In Nairobi's Upperhill area for example, the new financial center serving the region, there are several buildings under construction that will surpass the 30 storey height. For Rufus Ragui, the managing director of Bonfide Group, a company that leases lifting equipment, business has been good. We started offering lifting services in 2008 with only one crane, today, our company ha 20 such cranes,”he said. He is now planning to expand operations into Tanzania and Rwanda by the end of this year. “The business is good and growth prospects are positive,”he said. According to South Africa based global research company Frost&Sullivan, the East African construction industry
was valued at $5.9 billion in 2009 and could reach $9.3 billion in 2016, indicating sustained business opportunities. The forecast is based on research in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Various institutional reforms to promote the development of the construction industry are being implemented in East Africa. For example, the Kenya Slum Upgrading Programme (KENSUP) is an initiative to eliminate the housing problem in Kenya. The research firm cites intense competition from Chinese construction companies and the high cost of borrowing as major obstacles to the development of the East African construction industries. Reforms that require stringent building planning regulations and high infrastructural standards are pushing companies to implement best practices for greater chances of receiving contracts in the East African construction
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
industry, a situation that is benefiting vendors of lifiting equipment like Rock Plant, Bonfide Group, Elite Tools Ltd and Mantrac. “Vendors that offer superior construction materials are more likely to receive government and private sector contracts in the long run. Furthermore, the projected higher economic growth is expected to ensure continued growth of the construction industry in East Africa,”noted Frost&Sullivan. Vendors of the lifting equipment say that most of the business in the region is from Kenya. According to Mr. Ragui, there is need to regulate the construction equipment industry to ensure a fair playing field and that all vendors offer certified equipment to guard against endangering the lives of customers and workers. Another need for regulation is the prevalent price undercutting in the industry.
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CONSTRUCTION / KENYA
Mantrac maintains the lead in the Kenyan market for various construction equipment. High competition in the heavy construction equipment market in East Africa has not affected the market hold of Mantrac Kenya, the local vendors of Caterpillar Products (CAT) branded equipment. While the industry standard for instance to lease a lifting equipment is between Sh16,000 and Sh18,000 per hour, some of the vendors drop their prices as low as Sh10,000 per hour. There is also the challenge that most of the East African citizens are not able to enter the business because it is capital intensive yet there is a shortage of financing options especially for entrepreneurs who cannot raise adequate collateral for bank loans. Unfortunately for construction equipment vendors in a country like Kenya, the newly formed regulatory body, the National Construction Authority (NCA) is not empowered to regulate them. “We approached NCA and they told us their mandate does not extend to regulating construction equipment vendors,”said Mr. Ragui. Mantrac maintains the lead in the Kenyan market for various construction equipment. High competition in the heavy construction equipment market in East Africa has not affected the market hold of Mantrac Kenya, the local vendors of Caterpillar Products (CAT) branded equipment. Adel Selim the managing director of Mantrac East Africa, said the company has succeeded in maintaiing its market lead and reputation of selling high quality premium equipment on the back of high quality customer service. “There
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is a perception that CAT brands are expensive, this may be true for the initial cost but they have less breakdowns, require less maintenance and less spending on spares,”said Selim. He said CAT equipment offer more production time, therefore high value on the investment to the equipment owner. For instance, there are equipment the company sold locally as early as 1980s, but are still functional and deployed today. CAT has been a household name in East Africa's heavy construction equipment market. Despite an increase in the number of brands in the market, especially in the past decade, the company has maintained that market leader perception, underlined by its high quality equipment and services. The company is a beneficiary of high investments in infrastructure projects in the past 10 years. The company has as a result reopened its sales points in Kisumu and Mombasa, which had been closed in 1998 because of shortage of business. It plans to open more regional offices in Kenya to serve the increasing number of clients. Mantrac has also established a new division to tap into the emerging option of leasing rather than buying especially for companies whose core business is not construction, principally cement and mining companies. Leasing is for a mini-
mum of three months. One of the company's competitive advantage in Kenya is its strong after sale services backed by readily available spare parts. At any time the company has 14,000 units of different spare parts in its warehouses. Its range of construction equipment include wheel loaders, skid steer loaders, dump articulated trucks, backhoe loaders, excavators, motor graders, track type tractors, BCP products. It also distributes mining, power systems and forklifts, material handling and warehousing equipment for a wide range of industries and applications. Other key players in construction include Rock Plant Kenya Limited, which is the sole dealer for Hitachi Construction Equipment in Kenya. “We supply a wide range of new and used equipment with full back up and support. We also supply used fixed and mobile crushers and offer transport solutions all over East Africa,”notes the company profile. Elite Tools Limited also supplies lifting equipment. “We are a growing company in the field of construction and industrial machinery, lifting and rigging equipment, welding equipment, tools and instruments covering construction and industrial sectors,”noted the company's profile.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
PROFILE / GEM ARCHIPLANS
Gem Archplans, Interior Designers and Planners
Some of the projects associated with Gem Archplans include Everest Park Apartments, Apple Wood, Adams Acarde, Waira Centre – Ruiru, and the Rwanda Trade Fair.
G
em Archplans is a professional consultancy firm offering services in the field of architecture, interior design, urban and Environmental planning (EIA - NEMA). Initiated and registered in Kenya in 2005, the company is a fully locally owned firm founded on realism ideals of the highly dynamic architectural facets that is inherent of the 21st century. The firm packs a wealthy inventory of
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
experience gained through diverse projects handled both separately at individual level gained from previous postings, and collectively as a firm. The company is guided by the vision to use architecture to guarantee decent housing for all and be the engine of Kenya's and Regional economic prosperity. Though a young firm, Gem Archplans boasts of some of the finest projects in the region. The company’s team of dynamic Architects and assistants work cohesively together for integrated input to all projects.
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PROFILE / GEM ARCHIPLANS The company’s lead principle is a client oriented one, synthesized with the diverse parameters of the socio-economic fabric, built environment and commercial viability in pursuit to improvement of quality human life and fostering the development of the nation. In pursuit of quality and aptness to designs by the company’s team, Gem Archplans extensively draws the services of other concerned building and built environment specialists. And to keep with the fast changing information and building technologies, the firm actively participates in all relevant seminars and written material correspondence. Gem Archplans holds this as true: Architecture is about life; man's interaction with nature. It is rich and diverse, comprising of built structures, landscape, planning, urban design, and conservation.
niture - all of which need to be designed, built and managed. It is the founders of Gem Archplans’ mission to offer architectural services that resonate with the social, cultural, and economic context in the country and region, espousing the core values of Imagination and Creativity, learning and Knowledge, Perceptiveness and Perseverance, Open mindedness and Diversity and Professionalism and Timeliness. Some of the projects associated with Gem Archplans include Everest Park Apartments, Apple Wood, Adams Acarde, Waira Centre – Ruiru, and the Rwanda Trade Fair. To achieve their desired goals, Gem Archplans works with many other technical specialists, often in large multi-disciplinary teams, to turn conceptual ideas into reality, and from this derives the confidence and loyalty of clients.
In pursuit of quality and aptness to designs by the company’s team, Gem Archplans extensively draws the services of other concerned building and built environment specialists. A career in design of the built environment involves creative, technical, theoretical and managerial work to meet society's need for shelter, accommodation and organisation. These needs range from the larger scale of cities and regions, to the intermediate scale of buildings and parks, and to the small scale of rooms and fur-
Asili Towers, 3rd Fl, Suite 11, Ngara P.O.Box 6665-00100, Nairobi Tel. Office: 020-2509133 Email: info@riaraconstruction.co.ke
We are proud to be associated with
Gem Archiplans, Architects & Interior Designers
in their projects
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
CONSTRUCTION / KENYA
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts to construct first property in Kenya
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will be part of high end hotels like Villa Rosa Kempinski, Radisson Blu and the Sankara, among others, which could have a short-term impact on revenue per room.
M
övenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced plans to construct a 223 room property in Kenya as of mid 2016 a move that is set to boost the hospitality industry in the country. The Swiss company will construct the property in Nairobi’s Westlands area. “The hospitality landscape in Nairobi is evolving with the arrival of new design-led upscale hotels giving legacy properties a run for their money,” Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts’ senior vice-president for Africa Alan O’Dea said in a statement. The property in Kenya which will constitute of 223 rooms and 54 spacious contemporary one- and two-bedroom apartments is set to target business tourists and long-stay couples and families. “Visitor numbers to Kenya are expected to
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
increase with growth driven by China, Russia, the Middle East, India and neighbouring African nations,” said O’Dea. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts will be part of high end hotels like Villa Rosa Kempinski, Radisson Blu and the Sankara, among others, which could have a short-term impact on revenue per room. “While this has put pressure on revenue per available in the short term, the forecast upswing in inbound arrivals and the Kenyan government’s proactive approach to promoting business tourism set the scene for strong market growth and we are well placed to capitalize on this positive trend with the opening of Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi,” the senior vice-president added. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is a hotel management company headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. They are owned by Mövenpick Holding and the Kingdom Group.
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EXPERT CORNER
iDAYLIFF
LET YOUR PUMPS TALK
O
ne of the key strategies set out in the Vision 2030 blueprint for the manufacturing industry is value addition to imports in particular by leveraging science, technology and innovation. A growing paradigm that is redefining interactions in the world is the Internet of Things (IoT) - people, machines and electronic devices communicating with each other over the internet. Machine to Machine (M2M) is one of the key building blocks of IoT that enables connectivity, providing telemetry and allowing control of the machines. While M2M is not new, the current solutions being rolled out have benefited greatly from ubiquitous
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GSM coverage. This is the case with common M2M solutions deployed in Kenya in security and surveillance, and fleet management. Previously two way radios would be used to provide such wireless solutions. The advantages of using existing GSM coverage cannot be gainsaid. Providers do not have to invest in expensive wireless communication equipment. The size and cost of remote terminal units (RTU) used in M2M is also falling; this manifestation of Moore’s law serves as a catalyst to the industry. What does it take to enable pumps talk with other pumps, computers and mobile phones? As mentioned earlier, the most cost effective way is to use existing mobile networks. Sensors and actuators are also necessary at the
equipment level. Different sensors can be used to provide crucial data about the status of the pumps. On the other hand the addition of actuators can be used to control pump operation. Typically an RTU is usually included in the control panel for the pump system. It has a battery backup for operation when there is mains failure. Using power sparingly is essential during such times. An event based system lends itself well to this. By sending alerts during occurrence of select events, a crucial picture of pump status can be built in near-real time. To this end, there are merits and demerits of using circuit switched (CS) versus packet switched (PS) data connections. SMS is CS while GPRS is PS. SMS
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
EXPERT CORNER
is appropriate for cases where low volume of data is transmitted once in a while. In this case programming of RTU to send reports at certain times of the day will flag any device anomalies. GPRS on the other hand is appropriate for cases where high volume of data and periodicity with no latencies is essential. However it requires major software development. Yet mobile phone networks were not designed for this type of communication. It is worth noting that pumps unlike say trucks being monitored in fleets are stationary. Thus if installed in a place with poor network coverage, the pump would never communicate with the central server. Remote management of SIM Cards is also another challenge for firms venturing into M2M. Worldwide, Telcos like Vodafone and Bharti Airtel have recognized the potential of M2M and have unveiled services tailored for this type of communication. To deal with poor network, SIM cards in permanent roaming mode would be most ideal even though more expensive. However when using a local SIM Card, there is no support for national roaming. Thus there is need to engage the Telcos in the country to stimulate growth in this field by way of provision of M2M SIM services. Using this technology Davis & Shirtliff has internally developed its own M2M solution that allows customers to remotely monitor and control their pumping equipment. At the heart of the system is an RTU fitted with a SIM Card that transmits data to a central server. Users have access to a web-based system (i.dayliff.com) that they can log into to observe pump status and access reports and other analytics. An android application iDayliff is also available free on Google Store that users can down-
Using this technology Davis & Shirtliff has internally developed its own M2M solution that allows customers to remotely monitor and control their pumping equipment. load and use to control and monitor their pumps remotely. Alerts and reports can also be sent via SMS and emails. Depending on the sensors provided, the following parameters can be monitored: pump start and stop, pump trip due to overload and subsequent resets, low water level conditions, motor current, power supply failure, water flow rate and system pressures, and energy consumption. This technology has enabled quick turnaround to site attendance. The entire system enables improved and
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
central water management that is in line with the company’s vision of providing energy and water solutions for Africa. Being locally designed iDayliff also offers a number operational advantages including lower installation cost, immediate availability and, importantly, much improved serviceability and Davis & Shirtliff is proud of providing a locally designed solution that will have great potential in improving the reliability of water supplies, especially in remote areas.
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SANY Group was established in 1989 as a small welding material factory. After 25 years, it has now grown into a global corporation with five industrial parks in China and four R&D and manufacturing bases in America, Germany, India and Brazil. Its products covers concrete machinery, excavator, hoisting machinery, pile driving machinery, road construction machinery, port machinery and wind turbine.
On April 6, 2013, International Construction magazine released the list of 50 companies in international construction machinery industry on its Yellow Table. Sany Heavy Industry ranks No. 5 among global construction equipment manufacturers and No.1 in China. On July 23, 2014, 22 excavators and 17 motor graders touched down this beautiful and mysterious island city Mombasa, all of them are going to help boost this country’s construction business. For so many years, Sany has always been trying real hard tohelp Kenya finish one feat after another, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, Mombasa-To-Nairobi Railway Gauge, etc.
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East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
EXPERT CORNER
RYCE ENGINEERING holds a conference for Mombasa Consultants & Contractors
R
yce engineering (a division of Ryce East Africa Ltd-Member of SAMEER GROUP) who are the Distributors for SDMO Generators in Kenya, On Friday 9th October held a conference for consultants in the heart of the construction business in Mombasa. “You are our face for our clients during the planning and construction phase, we therefore want to impact as much knowledge on generators as, experts in this field, to enable clients to make informed decisions’ said Mr. Balakrishnan the General manager for Ryce engineering. “Tonight is a meaningful evening as we come for one mission, to seek a long-term union for development of the coastal region. We should take this opportunity to sketch our vision and determine the direction for our future cooperation together” Added Mr. Ayub the General Manager. With the just completed English point project it is a clear indication of the changing skyline in Mombasa. Ryce Engineering will partner with Mombasa all the way. In attendance as well was the SDMO team from Brest – France. ‘SDMO is a total energy solutions provider, with each client we identify the power output needed, space provided among others to customize our product to match the client’s needs.” Added Jean – Charles & Stephane from SDMO France. Pharis Kamunyu the Manager of Ryce Engineering has expressed the SDMO generators are low level noise emitting generators as informed by National Environmental Authority demands that seeks to reduce noise pollution in the country. During the conference Mr. Rutere, the Technical manager at Ryce Engineering took the audience though the demo of the SDMO DG sets which have inbuilt Synchronization compatibility Com-
mand, which allows the client to link more than one generator and also drops them depending on the power output required. With clients in the major retail outlets, hospitals, hotels, office towers, Apartments, banks and Manufacturing. Ryce east Africa ltd has proven to be “the reliable one” when it comes to complete energy solutions.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015
ENERGY SOLUTIONS-
Whatever the power output... Whatever the application
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TRANSPORT / KENYA
Construction of the Mass Rapid Transit System in Kenya gets green light
C
onstruction of the Mass Rapid Transit System in Kenya which will cost US$ 4m is set to be launched in the capital Nairobi and will be fully funded by the National Treasury. The acting Director-general of public debt management at the Treasury, Jackson Kinyanjui confirmed the reports and said that the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure accepted the proposal for the allocation of US$4m for the construction of the Mass Rapid Transit
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System. “Treasury has accepted the implementation of the project. We are looking forward to smooth implementation,” said Mr. Kinyanjui in the letter addressed to Transport Principal Secretary John Mosonik and copied to Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero. The new project which will be 167 km and will see the construction of new roads and railway lines linking Nairobi to other towns. Construction of the Mass Rapid Transit System in Kenya is part of the bigger
plan that was launched last year which includes the construction of a commuter railway line along Outer Ring, Jogoo, Mombasa, Limuru, Lang’ata, Ngong roads and Waiyaki Way corridors. Nairobi is one of the fastest growing metropolises in the world characterized by significant traffic congestion throughout the city. The current initiative that is named Mass Rapid Transit System is going to very useful to the city and the neighboring towns in terms of faster movement of goods and services hence increased economy.
East Africa Infrastructure & Engineering Review | September / October 2015