In The Spotlight

Groundbreaking ceremony of the Nxtra by Airtel Africa 44MW Data Centre at Tatu City SEZ, Kenya (IMAGE SOURCE: Tatu City)
Airtel has started work on what is set to be East Africa’s largest data centre at Kenya’s Tatu City Special Economic Zone
The Nxtra Data Centre facility will deliver 44MW of IT power capacity in phases, and house new-generation servers as well as high-density GPU-ready racks with 99.999% uptime, multiple redundant fibre paths, and advanced security systems.
The data centre hub is supported by Tatu City's provision of 95% renewable energy, making the location one of the greenest in the world for data centre investors and clients.
“By building the largest data centre in East Africa, we are laying the groundwork for a thriving digital ecosystem that empowers businesses, supports governments, and unlocks new opportunities for communities across the region,” said Yashnath Issur, CEO, data centre, Airtel Africa.
“Nxtra by Airtel will be built to the highest global standards, ensuring reliability, scalability, and energy efficiency. Beyond capacity, our focus is on sustainability and resilience, enabling customers to fully leverage next-generation technologies in a secure environment."
Tatu City, a 5,000-acre new city on Nairobi's doorstep, is Kenya's first operational Special Economic Zone, located 30 minutes from Nairobiand being developed by Rendeavour.
It has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in world-class infrastructure to become East Africa's data centre hub.
The city's utilities include a 135MVA power substation and distribution network with 99.7% uptime, the country's only location with 24/7 water supply for industries, comprehensive storm water management, 70km of international-standard roads, and more than 120km of secure underground fibre.
“For more than a decade, we have invested in world-class infrastructure and sustainable energy at Tatu City to make it the natural home for data centres in East Africa,” said Stephen Jennings, founder & CEO of Rendeavour.
“Airtel's decision to locate Nxtra here is a powerful endorsement of this vision. As Nxtra joins over 100 global and local companies already thriving at Tatu City, we are confident that many more data centres will follow.”
One third of Tatu City’s energy demand is met directly by solar power, which is boosted by Kenya's predominantly renewable national grid.
Other major businesses already operating at Tatu City include Emirates Logistics and Heineken.
Read more:
Pepsico, Congo Petrol invest in Lubumbashi SEZ
Emirates Logistics to build new facility in Kenya's Tatu City

Collaboration to deliver step-change capabilities through software-defined vehicle and autonomy platform. (Image source: Komatsu)
Komatsu has announced a strategic technology collaboration with Applied Intuition, a Silicon Valley-based leader in vehicle intelligence, to accelerate the development of its next-generation mining equipment
The partnership is focused on equipping Komatsu’s machinery with advanced technologies and real-time adaptability, enabling customers to achieve higher productivity, minimise downtime, and operate with greater precision.
By combining Applied Intuition’s expertise in vehicle operating systems, autonomy stacks, and AI-powered tools with Komatsu’s extensive background in off-highway autonomy and mining applications, the two companies will jointly create a unified software-defined vehicle (SDV) and autonomy platform. This platform will serve as the central intelligence of Komatsu’s future mining machines. Considered one of Komatsu’s most significant technology undertakings, the initiative signals a decisive move toward increasingly autonomous, software-driven mining operations.
“Komatsu is committed to creating value together with our customers, and this collaboration represents a step change in how we bring innovative, high-performance technology to their operations,” said Peter Salditt, president, mining business division, Komatsu and CEO, Komatsu Mining Technologies. “By combining Komatsu’s deep mining expertise with Applied Intuition’s cutting-edge AI and SDV solutions, we’re enabling a future where our equipment continuously evolves to meet customers’ unique mine site needs.”
The platform will deliver advanced machine intelligence through several core features:
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A software-defined vehicle architecture that supports continuous feature delivery over the machine’s lifecycle, with built-in data management, cybersecurity, and connected support.
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Scalable autonomy capabilities ranging from operator-assist functions to full autonomy on a single adaptable platform, suitable for diverse fleets, commodities, and operational conditions.
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Embedded AI and machine learning to enhance functionality and enable continuous adaptation to site-specific requirements as environments change.
With these innovations, mining companies are expected to see improved equipment performance, lower downtime, and higher return on investment. The architecture also aims to accelerate deployment, simplify support, and provide scalability across mines of varying sizes and locations—an important advantage for an industry navigating labor shortages, difficult environments, and growing global demand.
“In a world where autonomy is becoming the norm, our goal is to ensure our customers don’t just keep up—they lead,” said Qasar Younis, co-founder and CEO of Applied Intuition. “The mining industry is one of the most regulated in the world, and as the bar keeps rising around emissions, human safety and geopolitics, Applied Intuition and Komatsu plan to build the next generation of mining products and redefine modern software product development. The team is looking forward to breaking new ground and digging into the future.”
This collaboration strengthens Komatsu’s long-term vision of fully autonomous mining operations while also addressing urgent industry challenges. As demand for minerals accelerates and fewer skilled workers enter the sector, autonomy becomes increasingly vital for safe, efficient, and scalable mining.
Together, Komatsu and Applied Intuition are setting the stage for mining machines that can think, learn, and evolve—helping operators worldwide enhance efficiency, unlock more value, and build a more sustainable mining future.
Rheem Middle East, a global leader in HVAC and water-heating solutions, has introduced Rheem Centurion, a next-generation system designed to set new performance standards in heating and cooling across the MEA region.
Engineered for maximum efficiency, Rheem Centurion delivers up to 84% energy savings by recycling waste heat from air conditioning units to produce hot water while cooling indoor spaces at the same time. This dual functionality helps reduce energy costs, cut carbon emissions, and ensure reliable year-round performance for residential, commercial, and hospitality applications.
Tailored to the region’s climate and sustainability priorities, Rheem Centurion supports energy-smart building technologies in line with regulatory requirements and long-term green goals. As urbanisation, population growth, and large-scale developments accelerate across the MEA, the system offers developers and operators a future-proof solution that balances comfort with sustainability.
Versatility is central to its design. Rheem Centurion integrates seamlessly into a wide range of building types and can heat water up to 70°C, making it particularly suitable for high-demand facilities such as hotels, hospitals, resorts, and multi-family housing. Its advanced smart controller enables users to optimise efficiency through three operating modes—cooling, heating, or simultaneous use—while maintaining whisper-quiet operation to enhance indoor comfort.
By capturing and reusing otherwise wasted energy, Rheem Centurion not only supports cost savings but also delivers measurable environmental benefits, positioning it as a key innovation for sustainable infrastructure across the MEA region.
Brian Hempenstall, vice president and general manager at Rheem Middle East, said, “Rheem Centurion is more than a product launch; it represents a significant step forward for the built environment in this region. By combining air conditioning and hot water generation in a single, highly efficient system, we are helping developers, hoteliers, and homeowners meet today’s demands while preparing for tomorrow’s sustainability standards. At Rheem, our mission is to deliver comfort without compromise — comfort that is smarter, cleaner, and built for the future of the Middle East and Africa.”
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In the final webinar of its African Review-hosted 2023 campaign, Convergent Group explored its modern, eco-friendly concrete solutions for African projects
Such solutions – delivered to cut maintenance costs by eliminating hazardous silicate products – were showcased by company experts in the form of Jean-Claude Biard, SEO of Convergent Group SA; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent Group SA and founder of Bondeko MB (exclusive distributor of Convergent Group in Africa); Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group (Spanish distributor for Convergent Group); and Amritpal Singh Sura, external consultant for flooring treatments, former distributor of Convergent products in the Middle East.
“A number of projects we were doing in the Middle East required protection,” remarked Sura. “Longevity of protection requires a system which basically impregnates and becomes a densified surface as opposed to something which is topical and lifts off due to moisture migration. I found that being exposed to Convergent, it was important to stay focused on those systems in the Middle East. Jean-Claude, Mputu and I met several times in Dubai and there was emphasis on providing systems which were affordable and still ending up having a robust, lasting longevity of product. So you are not spending money all the time in order to maintain the finishes which you have already paid for.”
Over the course of the session, the participants guided the audience through the potential of cutting-edge lithium silicate technology for enhancing the protection of concrete surfaces, maximising cost-effectiveness and meeting sustainability targets.
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In a comprehensive webinar hosted by African Review, a panel of professionals associated with Convergent Group explored new generation lithium silicate technology and why it is emerging as the optimum solution for concrete floor protection.
Robert Daniels, editor of African Review, was joined by Jean-Claude Biard, CEO of Convergent Group; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent and founder of Bondeko MB, an exclusive distributor of Convergent; Hicham Sofyani, president of Texol; Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group; and Marc Puig, commercial manager of Comace Import.
Each providing a unique angle, the panellists combined to provide a masterclass around concrete treatments and the increasing challenges around them, explaining to attendees how to choose the right formula for their requirements and touching on issues such as why lithium densifiers are better than sodium and potassium densifiers.
Throughout the session, those watching were treated to informative case studies showcasing how Convergent eco-friendly products are increasing abrasion resistance, raising ease of maintenance, and ensuring the highest quality gloss retention.
By the end of the webinar, a majority of attendees (many of which had not had much experience with Convergent) expressed their interest in using the company’s new generation lithium silicate technology with the rest indicating their desire to learn more about Convergent and its products. Watch the webinar, in full, to discover why viewers were convinced and learn more about advanced floor care solutions for your operations.
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Presenting on an African Review-hosted webinar, Martin Provencher, global industry principal for mining, metals and materials at AVEVA, explored the digital transformation of mining operations and its impact on sustainability.
“Sustainability is becoming a key aspect for mining operations,” remarked Provencher. “If we look at the latest EY research on the top ten business risks and opportunities for mining and metals globally in 2023, ESG remains at the top. Of course, most companies have environmental goals or are expected to reach a net zero emission by 2050, which is a pretty aggressive target. Many of them are targeting 30% reduction by 2030; seven years from now. So there is a lot of action that needs to take place quickly to get there. It is possible to get there, but we need to make sure we are doing this correctly.”
Fast becoming a huge part of ESG initiatives is fleet electrification where particular progress is being made in underground mines. While some countries are certainly more advanced than others here, Provencher noted that 40% of total emissions from the mining industry come from diesel trucks, making EVs a very attractive low-hanging fruit for companies to pursue.
There are, however, a number of challenges associated with bringing in electric vehicles which remains a barrier for introduction. One of the predominant reasons, is the limited range of EVs against diesel counterparts. To mitigate this, Provencher continued, data management is key and ensuring a strong grasp of real-time information coming in will show operators when machinery needs to be charged, allowing them to plan effectively for maximum efficiency on site.
Indeed, this is but a small advantage that digitalisation can bring to the mining industry as it grapples to meet ESG goals while achieving production targets. By getting a better grip of their data and using it to empower tools such as artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and machine learning, companies can achieve tangible benefits such as reduce downtime, enhance worker safety, cut operating costs and, of course, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and targets.
Through the course of the webinar, Provencher outlined this in more detail and explored AVEVA’s suite of cutting-edge software solutions, specifically designed to help mining companies make progress on their digitalisation journey and empower their operations.
Watch the full webinar, completed with detailed case studies and an insightful Q&A session.
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Convergent, in association with African Review, has held a detailed webinar exploring the usage and effectiveness of lithium silicates and densifiers over traditional methods of concrete surface management which often struggle to meet the increasing challenges posed by concrete surface management.
Convergent experts including Mputu Schmidt, CEO of Convergent; Carlos Garcia, product manager end-user solutions, construction chemicals, Spain and Portugal for the RD Group; Matteo Mozzarelli, CEO of concrete Solutions Italia; and Jean-Claude Biard, global senior executive for the Convergent Group, presented across the session.
Together, they delved into the latest cost-effective application methods for long lasting finishing of concrete that can help reduce maintenance costs and avoid unexpected repair action. In addition, they examined the advancements in technologies that can sustain increased abrasion resistant stains and ensure gloss retention to the highest quality.
As part of the webinar, the representatives explored case studies including a case in DRC where a medical centre had been constructed with a low-quality concrete floor. The customer was considering completely replacing the floor but instead, Convergent put forward a special treatment with its 244+ Pentra-Sil lithium hardener, densifier and sealer. With this solution, Convergent can increase the hardness of a surface by up to 40% and therefore saved the customer significant recuperation costs over a complete replacement. Convergent were happy to report that the solution was perfect for the facility and the customer was pleased to avoid the extra construction work that would have been required for a complete replacement.
Watch the full webinar, including more information about Convergent’s innovative solutions.

Teraco completes JB4 Bredell Campus expansion in South Africa, adding 30MW critical IT power for hyperscale clients. (Image source: Teraco)
Teraco: A Digital Realty Company, Africa’s leading interconnection hub and vendor-neutral data centre provider, has announced the completion of its JB4 Bredell Campus expansion in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg
The expansion adds 30MW of IT power capacity, making JB4 the largest standalone data centre in Africa, supporting 50MW of critical IT load. This new phase comprises six data halls, featuring multiple design enhancements. Notably, each hall now accommodates 5MW of allocated critical IT power, a first for the African market. The halls are fully liquid-to-liquid cooling enabled, supporting high-density air-cooled cloud deployments and direct-to-chip cooling for AI workloads.
Designed with sustainability in mind, JB4 uses a closed-loop chilled water system that delivers free air cooling. AI-enabled technology adjusts data hall cooling in real time according to IT load and dispersion. This innovative setup achieves best-in-class Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), reducing energy consumption while eliminating water use during ongoing cooling—a crucial feature in a region with water scarcity challenges.
The JB4 expansion, built to hyperscale specifications, significantly boosts South Africa’s and sub-Saharan Africa’s data centre footprint. This follows the recent completion of Teraco’s JB5 Isando facility, which adds another 30MW of critical IT power at the Isando Campus.
Jan Hnizdo, Teraco CEO, commented, “South Africa has become the technology and data centre hub for sub-Saharan Africa, acting as a springboard for cloud, AI and content provision into Africa. Massive global investments in undersea cables, such as Equiano and 2Africa, further strengthen this position. This will enable global cloud providers to service not only the South African market but also the rest of the sub-Saharan African region.”
“Teraco is dedicated to expanding its capacity across key hubs, ensuring our clients have the flexibility to scale and fully leverage digital transformation across the region. We continue to make significant investments in ICT infrastructure and have established Africa’s largest data centre platform. We are proud to offer open-access interconnection and deliver world-class data centre solutions to all our clients,” added Hnizdo
Situated in the heart of Ekurhuleni’s Aerotropolis, the JB4 facility provides access to numerous network service providers, regional IXPs, content delivery networks, cloud service on-ramps, and peering at NAPAfrica, the world’s eighth-largest internet exchange.
Teraco’s data centre platform now totals 189MW of critical power load across the Isando Campus (JB1/JB3/JB5: 70MW), Bredell Campus (JB2/JB4: 64MW), Cape Town Campus (CT1/CT2: 53MW), and Durban (DB1: 2MW). Local and global organisations increasingly rely on Teraco to scale IT infrastructure, deploy hybrid multi-cloud architectures, and connect with strategic business partners within the Platform Teraco ecosystem. The addition of JB4 strengthens this ecosystem, offering enterprises a secure, high-performance, and reliable platform for IT deployment, providing access to the broadest range of carriers and network service providers—a foundation for resilient and future-ready interconnection strategies.

Integrated Pump Technology appointed Grindex distributor in West Africa, boosting dewatering support across mining operations. (Image source: Integrated Pump Technology)
Integrated Pump Technology has officially been appointed as the distributor for Grindex submersible pumps in West Africa, strengthening its presence in the region and marking another milestone for the South African-based dewatering specialist
Effective July 2025, the appointment comes after the company was recognised as the largest Grindex distributor worldwide, a distinction earned through sustained growth and performance in key African mining markets. The company already has a significant footprint across South, Central and East Africa with its Grindex electric submersible dewatering pumps and Godwin diesel-driven pump solutions. Securing distribution rights for West Africa is described as the next logical expansion.
“We see substantial opportunity in the West African market which is characterised by high rainfall and a large number of wet mining operations,” remarked Jordan Marsh, managing director of Integrated Pump Technology. “The need for reliable and efficient dewatering is continuous and we are well positioned to support customers with proven technology and deep application expertise.”
The distributorship covers all West African countries except Ghana. However, a bonded warehouse has been set up in Ghana to ensure quick turnaround and minimise lead times. The first consignment of Grindex pumps is already on its way to the facility. Marsh explains that stock selection was guided by close collaboration with mining customers across the region and a strong understanding of daily dewatering requirements.
Among the first shipment are high performance models such as the Grindex Maxi, rated at 37 kW, designed for moderate to high flow applications in both underground and surface mines. Also included is the Grindex Mega, a 90 kW unit built for the most demanding dewatering tasks, including deep level mines. Both machines have proven their reliability in Africa’s harsh mining environments, valued for their durable design, low maintenance needs and energy efficiency.
In addition to electric submersible solutions, Integrated Pump Technology will continue serving West African clients with its established range of Godwin diesel or electric driven dewatering pumps. One example, the Godwin HL150, is already in operation at an open pit mine in Senegal, providing dependable high head dewatering performance under tough site conditions.
“The Godwin and Grindex ranges give us a comprehensive dewatering portfolio to meet virtually any pumping requirement, from high volume pit dewatering to underground sump clearance,” commented Marsh. “Our approach in West Africa mirrors our successful operating model in Southern and Central Africa which includes local stockholding, rapid technical support and a strong customer-first philosophy.”
With mining operations in West Africa expanding and deepening, demand for reliable and efficient dewatering solutions is expected to grow significantly. Integrated Pump Technology’s appointment as Grindex distributor reinforces its ability to supply world class equipment backed by technical support and service excellence that mining operations can depend on.
Ethiopian Airlines and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have signed a mandate letter for financing what will be Africa’s largest aviation infrastructure project
The bank will contribute US$500mn towards the financing of the new Bishoftu airport, which is expected to be Africa's largest when completed in 2029.
The four-runway airport, to be sited near the town of Bishoftu, about 45 km southeast of Addis Ababa, will position Ethiopia as a leading air transport hub for the continent.
The total project cost is estimated at around US$10bn, with the airline expecting to provide around 20% of the funding and the rest to come from creditors.
The signing of the mandate letter — naming AfDB as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger for the financing of the mega airport — is a big step in attracting full funding for the remainder of the project.
“We are pleased to partner with the African Development Bank in arranging the required financing for the development of this iconic aviation infrastructure,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew.
“The signing of this mandate letter marks a decisive step toward realising a world-class pan-African gateway that will boost intra-African trade, regional integration, tourism, and global connectivity.”
The new greenfield airport will have an initial capacity of 60 million passengers annually, with future expansion to 110 million, making it the largest airport in Africa, and one of the top global hubs.
The mega airport will serve as a future international hub for passenger and cargo traffic at Addis Ababa, complementing the existing Bole International Airport, which will retain its domestic operations.
The airport will also anchor a so-called ‘aerotropolis’ designed to stimulate regional development, enhance logistics capacity and generate tens of thousands of jobs.
Read more:
Abusera international airport is a go
Ethiopian Airlines to explore electric air taxi service
Ethiopian Airlines bolsters fleet with A350-1000

SEW-EURODRIVE’s TrueDNA delivers integrated, high-performance drive solutions with faster lead times and extended warranties. (Image source: SEW EURODRIVE)
The introduction of SEW-EURODRIVE’s TrueDNA package responds directly to challenges faced by industry when mixing components from multiple suppliers in a drive solution
Performance inconsistencies, compatibility issues and support gaps have often compromised efficiency and reliability.
By offering a complete power pack solution from a single original equipment manufacturer (OEM) comprising the highest quality components, SEW-EURODRIVE ensures every component works in perfect harmony - guaranteeing optimum performance, streamlined support for extended warranties and peace of mind.
TrueDNA from SEW-EURODRIVE, a global leader in automation and drive technology, is a fully integrated turnkey drive solution designed for maximum flexibility, performance and efficiency. Engineered to cover a wide range of power, torque and speed characteristics, it can be easily adapted to drive various equipment across multiple heavy industries.
“A major advantage of the TrueDNA package is the significant reduction in lead times,” commented Jonathan McKey, national sales and marketing manager at SEW-EURODRIVE. “Because the majority of components are stocked items, customers can typically expect delivery within six to eight weeks from date of order - a notable improvement compared to traditional sourcing processes. This means quicker access to the latest technological advancements without lengthy delays, enabling customers to start production sooner, generate revenue faster and achieve savings on shorter timelines.
Each TrueDNA solution typically includes a base plate, gearbox, coupling and motor - all precisely matched to ensure seamless compatibility and optimum operational performance. Most customers opting for TrueDNA have selected the innovative X.e series gearbox, renowned for its enhanced efficiency, durability and energy-saving features.
The drive train is pre-filled with the customer’s lubrication of choice, although SEW-EURODRIVE recommends its latest advanced oil technology which offers extended lifetime, superior lubrication
properties and improved efficiency in power transfer. With proper maintenance, customers can further reduce costs through extended oil change intervals.
“Choosing the TrueDNA package not only means acquiring cutting-edge drive technology, but also gaining additional value through extended warranties and complimentary maintenance training for end-user personnel,” McKey noted. “We are committed to ensuring optimum long term performance
and supporting our customers’ operational excellence.
With TrueDNA, SEW-EURODRIVE redefines industrial drive solutions - simplifying procurement, optimising performance and delivering a future-ready package built to meet the toughest demands of modern industry.