In The Spotlight
New subsidiary targets renewable energy driven data centre growth across Mozambique and Southern Africa
Yellow Tulip Inc has announced the launch of Cleanwatts Mozambique, a new majority-owned subsidiary dedicated to building renewable energy-powered data centres in Mozambique and across the Southern African region
The venture is being established in partnership with Memoryvanguard and Nyala Capital.
The new entity will deploy Cleanwatts Digital’s AI-driven energy management platform as the technological backbone of its data centre projects. Designed to optimise energy use, integrate battery storage and coordinate Virtual Power Plant operations, the platform will support the development of sustainable, grid-independent computing infrastructure. This approach aims to address the accelerating demand for AI and cloud computing capacity across Africa.
Mozambique presents a strong case for such investment, offering plentiful renewable energy resources, a strategic coastal location and rising regional demand for digital infrastructure. The country’s extensive hydroelectric generation capacity, strong solar potential and available natural gas reserves create multiple pathways to power high-density, energy-intensive data centre facilities. In addition, its coastline enhances access to submarine cable systems, strengthening connectivity to international networks.
Cleanwatts Mozambique will follow a development-for-sale strategy, focusing on institutional investors and infrastructure operators looking for ready-to-operate, renewable-powered data centre assets. Each facility will be delivered in line with international standards and will incorporate Cleanwatts Digital’s energy management solutions from inception. This ensures that buyers acquire fully operational assets engineered for efficiency, resilience and sustainability from the outset.
"Cleanwatts Mozambique represents a significant expansion of Yellow Tulip's footprint into one of the most promising markets for sustainable infrastructure development," said Basílio Simões, CEO of Yellow Tulip Inc and chairman of Cleanwatts Mozambique. "The convergence of AI-driven compute demand and the global imperative for sustainable infrastructure creates an exceptional opportunity. By combining Mozambique's renewable energy potential with Cleanwatts Digital's proven platform, we are positioned to deliver data center assets that meet the highest standards of performance and sustainability. Our strong pipeline reflects great market interest, and we look forward to bringing these projects to market for institutional investors seeking exposure to Africa's digital infrastructure growth."
Cleanwatts Digital, part of Yellow Tulip’s investment portfolio, supplies the AI-based energy management system that will underpin all Cleanwatts Mozambique developments. The platform currently oversees 1.5 TWh of energy each year across four continents and has a proven track record in enhancing renewable generation performance, managing battery storage systems and balancing complex energy loads.
Aerial view of the onsite power project in Burkina Faso (Image source: Africa Power Services)
Africa Power Services has released images of a recently-completed project in Burkina Faso to supply an undisclosed mining site
The on-site power project dates back over two years, the France-based company noted in a statement posted on its social media.
“On a mining site in Burkina Faso, the project began in 2023 with the rental of a power plant to secure the existing electricity supply,” it commented.
“Two years later, in 2025, our client renewed its trust in us for the construction of its power plant under an EPC contract.”
To initiate this new phase, Africa Power Services teams deployed an 8 MW rental power plant, available 24/7, and capable of taking over instantly in the event of a grid failure, calling it a “key solution to ensure uninterrupted operations throughout the construction phase.”
The project then continued with the construction and commissioning of a 16 MW thermal power plant, designed to provide long-term reliability, the company added.
Africa Power Services said the project demonstrated its expertise in supporting clients and delivering scalable, complementary solutions, from rental through to EPC.
At the end of last year, the company also commissioned a hybrid power plant in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for another mining site.
After months of mobilisation in challenging terrain, its team successfully commissioned a 19 MWp solar field and 18 MVA BESS that will strengthen an existing on-site hybrid power plant, as part of a transition to reaching 100% renewable energy production.
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At Mining Indaba 2026, Ecobank Sierra Leone announced landmark financing deals supporting rutile and diamond projects through African capital mobilisation.
At Mining Indaba 2026, Ecobank Sierra Leone unveiled two major financing deals that highlight the growing role of African capital in supporting mining projects that promote local beneficiation, economic development and sustainable growth
The first transaction, concluded with Sierra Rutile Limited (SRL), the world’s leading producer of rutile, will finance the acquisition and relocation of the Kwale Mineral Sands Processing Plant from Kenya to Sierra Leone. The move supports the development of SRL’s Sembehun Project and represents a significant step in strengthening the country’s position within the global titanium supply chain.
In a second announcement, Ecobank revealed funding for Meya Mining that will support the acquisition and installation of advanced diamond processing equipment, mining vehicles and associated infrastructure. This investment will enable Meya to scale its operations responsibly and efficiently as it moves into full commercial production.
A milestone for Sierra Rutile and African mining finance
The Sierra Rutile transaction, led by Ecobank Sierra Leone with support from Ecobank Ghana, marks a turning point for the country’s mining and financial sectors.
Rutile is a critical mineral used across aerospace, medical and advanced manufacturing industries. By securing the future of the Sembehun Project, one of the world’s largest and highest-grade rutile deposits, the deal reinforces Sierra Leone’s role as a key supplier of titanium feedstock to global markets, ensuring long-term supply stability.
The transaction is also a first for Sierra Leone’s banking sector, demonstrating the maturity of the local financial market and the ability of African banks to structure and lead complex, risk-sharing deals that have traditionally been dominated by international lenders.
In addition, the project offers a practical example of intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By reusing and relocating existing high-quality industrial assets from Kenya, rather than importing new equipment from outside the continent, the approach reduces capital costs, lowers carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and logistics, and shortens project timelines.
Supporting growth in Sierra Leone’s diamond sector
Alongside the Sierra Rutile deal, Ecobank Sierra Leone Limited, supported by Ecobank Ghana Plc, announced a US$25mn financing package for Meya Mining Limited. The facility reinforces the bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable development in Sierra Leone’s diamond industry.
The financing will strengthen responsible diamond production, support compliance with international frameworks such as the Kimberley Process, create local employment and contribute to national beneficiation objectives. It also aligns with Sierra Leone’s broader development strategy by linking financial solutions to long-term economic impact.
The transaction is expected to stimulate local supply chains through domestic payment flows, create and sustain more than 400 direct jobs with the majority sourced locally, and strengthen Sierra Leone’s standing in the global diamond market through traceable and responsibly mined stones. It also encourages further downstream investment, including cutting and polishing, to maximise value retention within the country.
Sebastian Ashong-Katai, managing director of Ecobank Sierra Leone, commented, "The Sierra Rutile transaction is a powerful demonstration of Ecobank’s pan-African network in action. We are not just providing capital; we are bridging continental gaps by facilitating the complex logistics and cross-border financing required to move critical industrial assets from Kenya to Sierra Leone. By leading this deal domestically, we are demonstrating that Sierra Leone’s financial infrastructure is ready for large-scale, long-term investment. Our support for Meya Mining shows that domestic capital can mobilise to support key projects that will drive local value addition, employment and growth."
"This partnership with Ecobank allows us to structure and execute a capital-efficient transition to the Sembehun Project, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our operations. It is a vote of confidence in Sierra Leone’s mining sector and a testament to the capacity of African financial institutions to structure world-class mining deals," stated Sierra Rutile CEO Lima Sufian-Kargbo."
“Ecobank’s support is especially valuable amid current challenges in the diamond market. This highlights the distinct geo-economic potential presented by the Meya deposit in Sierra Leone and further enhances the Company’s vision of what the future holds," said Meya Mining Limited CEO Jan Joubert.
"Ecobank’s facility will support the mine’s shift to commercial production, following an investment of more than US$100 million from shareholders in resource and initial mine development."
Customers can select their preferred base and coupling configuration, ensuring each SEW-EURODRIVE power pack is precisely matched to the application’s performance and reliability requirements. (Image source: SEW EURODRIVE)
Comprehensively supporting the mining sector with commodity-specific drive train solutions, SEW-EURODRIVE has cemented its reputation as a trusted partner to the industry - a testament to its customer-centric approach, says National Sales and Marketing Manager Jonathan McKey
“Twenty years ago, we secured our first major power pack contract for a platinum mine in Limpopo,” McKey recalls. “That project marked the beginning of our deep involvement in mining and today our gearboxes, motors and coupling combinations are operating in almost every mining environment across the continent.”
From platinum and gold to coal, copper and beyond, SEW‑EURODRIVE’s engineered drive train solutions have become integral to mission-critical applications, underscoring the company’s strong track record and ongoing commitment to the mining sector.
“As in every industry we serve, the success of our power packs lies in a systematic responsible approach that begins with a clear understanding of what the customer really needs,” McKey explains. “We don’t just develop application-specific solutions - we take it a step further by building a sustainable cost effective supply chain and long term support ecosystem to back those solutions well into the future.”
McKey notes that SEW‑EURODRIVE takes a deliberate and strategic approach when entering new sectors, ensuring that each move is carefully planned, focused and sustainable. “We prioritise focus,” he says. “It is about understanding the landscape before we enter - not just from a technical standpoint, but also from a long term support and capacity perspective.”
With mining, the company’s journey began in the platinum sector, where SEW‑EURODRIVE developed gearbox solutions specifically engineered for the prevailing conditions on site.
“It was vital to understand the gear ratios, power requirements and velocities commonly used in platinum operations,” explains McKey. “That insight allowed us to rapidly grow our footprint in that segment expanding into neighbouring operations and quickly growing our customer base. From there, we moved into chrome mining.”
As SEW‑EURODRIVE expanded into new mineral commodities, it applied the same principle - understand the application first, then develop fit-for-purpose drive train systems. In chrome, this meant developing a new stocking standardised gear ratios and power ratings for its power packs. When coal mining became the next target segment, the unique characteristics of that environment called for yet another redesign, this time with lighter material and faster conveyor speeds requiring adapted solutions.
“Today, we are arguably the dominant force in mining across Africa when it comes to industrial gearbox solutions,” says McKey. “That position wasn’t built overnight. It was the result of a highly informed, step-by-step expansion that has seen the company entering each commodity with a clear operational plan and investing heavily in building our local capacity to support it.”
That investment began with local assembly, first introduced at SEW‑EURODRIVE’s Nelspruit facility in 2006. Over time, this evolved into a significantly expanded local production and warehousing operation at the company’s head office in Aeroton, Johannesburg - where a Phase 2 expansion is now nearing completion.
Service and technical support have always been at the heart of SEW‑EURODRIVE’s value proposition, and the mining sector was no exception. “We knew early on that delivering quality products wasn’t enough - we had to match that with world class aftersales service,” McKey says. “That meant upskilling local service teams and embedding our global standards into everything we did on the ground.”
“Alongside our new designs, local assembly and upscaled stockholding, we brought in additional service staff and trained them extensively,” he continues. “We never enter a sector lightly. When we commit, we invest and this is to ensure every customer is fully supported across the entire lifecycle of their equipment.”
“Today, SEW‑EURODRIVE is not only a trusted partner for electro-mechanical drive solutions, but is also helping customers embrace smart mining with the introduction of automation and digital control technology,” McKey says.
“The traditional combination of motor, gearbox and fluid coupling for controlled start-up is evolving,” he notes. “Now, customers want flexible drive systems with precise speed control and the ability to adjust production rates on demand - and our technology is delivering that.”
In addition to its core gearmotor offering, SEW‑EURODRIVE also provides full open gearing solutions for mills and other critical applications. This includes girth gears, main mill motors and gearboxes, pinions and related components; all of which can be manufactured and delivered quickly, offering a reliable drop-in replacement for competitor systems.
Afreximbank accession to help power South Africa’s economy (Image source: Adobe Stock)
South Africa has joined the ranks of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), bringing with it an US$8bn country programme that will target industrialisation efforts in the republic, and support projects in sectors like mining, automotives and manufacturing
It becomes the 54th state to accede to the banking group, marking the formal entry of one of Africa’s largest economies into the Bank’s membership, “heralding deeper financial sovereignty,” an Afreximbank statement read.
The bank called the accession a “historic milestone” as the two partners seek to unlock trade opportunities “within a global financial architecture that is rapidly fragmenting due to protectionist policies and shifting trade blocks.”
The US$8 billion country programme aims to enhance industrial development and regional supply chains and boost intra-African trade and investment flows, Afreximbank said.
“We have put together what we consider an important package of US$8bn for South Africa,” said Dr George Elombi, the bank’s president and chairman.
“The country programme is aligned with South Africa's national development plan 2030 and national industrial and trade priorities, and targets key strategic areas.”
He added that Afreximbank’s current pipeline of projects in South Africa, at different stages of review, already exceeds US$6bn, spanning healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, energy and the industrial and mining sectors.
Leveraging Afreximbank’s trade infrastructure and pan-African reach, South Africa can also more readily diversify export markets and further regional economic integration.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called it a milestone in the quest to realise the economic integration of our continent.
“South Africa’s accession to the African Export-Import Bank affirms our commitment to African industrial development and to deepening trade, investment and development across our continent,” he said.
“Once finalised, the South African-Afreximbank country programme will be operationalised with a finance package that will initially support a range of strategic projects across the trade and industrial cluster.”
He said one of those areas to receive immediate effect will be the nation’s Transformation Fund with the aim of supporting more black businesses.
“This partnership will strengthen in more ways than one South Africa’s ability to support South African exporters, industrial projects and regional value chains while advancing our continent’s progress.”
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Africa poised for growth despite geopolitical upheaval
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New All-in-One energy storage system targets residential and small C&I users with scalable, intelligent performance. (Image source: GoodWe)
Building on the strong market reception of its single-phase ESA Series, GoodWe has unveiled a new three-phase All-in-One energy solution tailored for residential and small commercial and industrial (C&I) applications
Designed to seamlessly combine solar power generation, energy storage, and intelligent energy management, the new system raises the bar for flexible, high-performance energy solutions, offering greater efficiency, autonomy, and reliability across a wide range of use cases.
Simple installation, flexible expansion
The ESA three-phase solution features a pre-wired, modular architecture that enables fast installation and straightforward commissioning. With one-click configuration and upgrade capabilities, users can deploy the system quickly with minimal complexity.
To support evolving energy needs, the system is compatible with four battery module capacities — 5, 6, 8, and 9kWh, and allows mixed use of new and existing modules with different capacities. This approach enables capacity expansion without replacing current equipment, safeguarding the user’s initial investment.
The system supports the parallel connection of up to 12 battery modules, delivering a maximum storage capacity of 108kWh, while up to six systems can operate in parallel in both on-grid and off-grid modes. With a scalable range of 5–30kW / 5–108kWh, the ESA three-phase solution is well suited to both homes and small C&I environments.
Higher output, lower overall cost
Engineered to deliver strong performance with reduced upfront investment, the system is designed to maximise energy output while controlling system complexity and cost. Dual output ports simplify overall system design by minimising the need for additional components, reducing installation time and long-term maintenance, while also enabling full off-grid operation for enhanced energy independence.
With 1C charge and discharge capability, the system supports faster energy cycling, allowing the same power output to be achieved using fewer battery modules. Support for 21A per string PV input and up to 200% PV oversizing further enhances solar harvesting, helping users increase self-consumption, shorten payback periods, and maintain a stable power supply during peak demand or low-sunlight conditions.
Intelligent energy management for greater value
The system integrates seamlessly with GoodWe’s SEMS+ intelligent energy management platform, turning advanced hardware into measurable user value. Leveraging AI-driven algorithms, SEMS+ forecasts power generation using weather data and dynamically optimises charging and discharging to maximise solar utilisation.
Users also gain access to detailed energy usage analytics and revenue reports, offering clear visibility and control over consumption patterns while supporting both financial savings and sustainability goals.
Safe, quiet, and dependable operation
Designed with safety and comfort in mind, the ESA three-phase solution incorporates AI-powered protection features, including six-layer safety protection and AFCI 3.0 technology to guard against overheating, overcurrent, short circuits, and arc faults.
The system is built for dependable performance in demanding conditions, featuring an integrated heating function for stable operation down to -20°C and an IP66 rating for resistance to dust and water. Smart fan cooling keeps operational noise below 35dB, while ultra-fast backup switching of less than 4ms ensures uninterrupted power during grid outages.
From single-phase to three-phase applications, and from residential to small C&I use, the GoodWe ESA All-in-One series continues to evolve. With its focus on flexible scalability, intelligent cost efficiency, and robust safety, the new three-phase solution sets a new benchmark for energy storage across diverse scenarios.
Looking ahead, GoodWe remains committed to advancing innovation in the renewable energy sector, delivering smarter and more sustainable energy solutions worldwide, and supporting the transition toward a greener, low-carbon energy future.
Proving the viability of Madagascar’s mini-grids. (Image source: CrossBoundary Access)
CrossBoundary Access and ANKA have completed the acquisition of an asset company owning four operational mini-grid projects developed, built, and operated by ANKA in Madagascar
ANKA is a mini-grid developer, while CrossBoundary Access describes itself as Africa’s first blended finance platform for mini-grids.
The Madagascar portfolio comprises 1.7MW of solar PV and 5.6MWh of battery storage, serving thousands of customers across the Atsimo-Andrefana region.
“This acquisition demonstrates our confidence in Madagascar’s mini-grid market and ANKA's proven track record,” said Gabriel Davies, managing director, CrossBoundary Access.
“It shows that best-in-class mini-grids developers, working with supportive government policies and donor support, can deliver both impact and commercial returns.”
The acquisition is the first phase of a US$20mn partnership announced by Access and ANKA in June 2025.
Together, the two sides will finance, build and operate mini-grids to provide power to over 62,000 people across Madagascar, aligned with national energy priorities and the Mission 300 Initiative.
CrossBoundary Access becomes new majority shareholder alongside ANKA which remains a shareholder of the asset company.
The two companies aim to demonstrate that decentralised infrastructure can reach scale, liquidity, and profitability — all while delivering universal energy access and complying to the highest technical standards.
In a statement, CrossBoundary Access noted that Madagascar presents a “compelling investment opportunity for mini-grid infrastructures.”
It added: “With a national electrification rate of 36%, and a rural electrification rate of 15%, and clear regulatory framework, the Malagasy market has established the foundations for private sector energy access solutions.”
It noted that the transaction paves the way for more developers and investors to structure similar microgrid partnerships, with a “replicable example” of how to align early-stage venture capital, concessional funding, project cashflows, and local developer capacity.
Camille André-Bataille, founder and CEO of ANKA, called it a signal to the market.
“It supports the business model of developers, and shows that when execution meets ambition, the developer itself becomes investable. This is what the sector needs to grow: unlocking corporate finance for developers who can replicate these successes across multiple geographies.”
Read more:
Sierra Leone solar mini-grid project
Solar mini-grids could power 8.5 million Zambians by 2030
https://africanreview.com/energy/grant-funding-approved-for-12mw-eritrea-mini-grid-project
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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.
Uganda to get transmission boost (Image source: Adobe Stock)
UK-based Gridworks has has signed two agreements with the Ugandan government that will enable its Amari transmission project to begin construction in the coming weeks
It follows an Implementation Agreement with Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, and a Transmission Services Agreement with the national utility, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL).
It means Amari will become the first independent transmission project (ITP) on the continent to move into the construction phase, marking a major milestone in the adoption of private sector funding models for transmission infrastructure in Africa.
“This is a decisive step that will allow the Amari transmission project to move into construction,” said Gridworks’ CEO Chris Flavin.
“By prioritising strategic transmission infrastructure, the government is laying the foundations for reliable power supply, industrial growth, and long-term economic development. We now look forward to starting construction in the coming weeks and to delivering this important project.”
The US$50mn project will upgrade four high voltage electricity substations at key points on Uganda’s grid:
Tororo 220kV station, in eastern Uganda, close to the Kenyan border.
Nkenda 132kV station, in the West, at the intended high voltage interconnection point to DRC.
Mbarara North 132kV station and
Mbarara South 220kV station in western Uganda.
According to Gridworks, a subsidiary of British International Investment (BII), the UK government’s development finance institution, the project will improve the supply of electricity to industrial users in line with Uganda’s plans to improve the competitiveness of its industry, particularly the manufacturing sector.
Amari will also allow the uptake of more renewable energy onto the grid and provide capacity to support future regional interconnection with Uganda’s neighbours.
Once completed, it will support Uganda’s growing electricity demand, enable the evacuation of current and future generation capacity, and contribute to lower system losses and improved power quality across the network.
“As UETCL, we view this partnership as strategic and transformative and we look forward to the effective implementation and tangible improvements to the national grid,” said Richard Matsiko, CEO of UETCL.
As a pilot for private sector transmission in Uganda, the project has supported the creation by the government of a regulatory framework equipped to attract finance for future grid investment.
There is a growing trend of African governments beginning to work with the private sector to develop and fund critical electricity grid infrastructure.
Several countries have initiated private transmission projects or regulatory reforms designed to allow private finance to flow into the sector.
Ruth Nankabirwa, Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, called the Amari project a “strategic pillar” within the government’s long-term agenda to modernise the nation’s power network.
“By strengthening transmission infrastructure, we are enabling reliable power supply for industrial growth, regional power trade, and inclusive socio-economic transformation,” she said.
“Our partnership with Gridworks reflects our commitment to mobilising sustainable private capital and expertise to accelerate delivery of priority energy investments.”
Gridworks has a portfolio of further ITPs in development, including Chimuara-Nacala (Phase II & III), a US$450mn, 460km high voltage transmission line connecting the central and northern regions of Mozambique; and Mbale-Bulambuli, a project building 80km of high-voltage lines and two new substations in eastern Uganda.
Most recently, it announced an agreement with the Ethiopian government to develop two large scale transmission projects, Degehabur–Kebridehar and Hurso–Ayisha, covering over 400km and with a combined value of around US$400mn.
The Gridworks portfolio also includes Moyi Power, a greenfield, solar-powered utility that will provide electricity to a million people in three cities in DRC; and distributed utility companies, Sustainable Power Solutions and Anzana Electric Group.
“Transmission is a vital part of electrifying the African continent,” said Chris Chijiutomi, managing director and head of Africa at BII.
He said the Amari announcement “demonstrates the role that development capital can play in connecting millions of families and businesses to reliable and affordable power.”
Read more:
Mozambique gets transmission lines, data centre boost
South Africa secures World Bank loan for infrastructure revival
Weza Power to accelerate Burundi electrification
New subsidiary targets renewable energy driven data centre growth across Mozambique and Southern Africa
Aerial view of the onsite power project in Burkina Faso (Image source: Africa Power Services)
Zahid Group leads a consortium to take Barloworld private, reinforcing long term Saudi and South African business ties
Zahid Group has spearheaded a consortium to complete the strategic management buyout of Barloworld Limited, taking the 123 year old South African industrial group into private ownership
The move underscores strengthening commercial links between Saudi Arabia and South Africa and highlights Zahid Group’s sustained confidence in South Africa as a long term investment market.
The transaction builds on Zahid Group’s existing minority stake in Barloworld and brings together two established Caterpillar dealers with deep regional roots. Zahid Group has more than 75 years of operating history in Saudi Arabia, while Barloworld has served the South African market for over 96 years.
Under the revised ownership structure, Barloworld will continue to operate as an independent South African business, retaining its brand identity and existing executive leadership team.
As part of the new arrangement, Zahid Group will take representation on the Barloworld board, supporting closer strategic alignment and future growth initiatives. These include collaborative programmes focused on skills development and youth upskilling across both countries, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.
The buyout represents a landmark moment in Saudi and South African commercial relations and reinforces Zahid Group’s long term commitment to sustainable growth, industrial capability and international partnership.
XCMG loaders drive urban construction across Africa. (Image source: XCMG)
Komatsu will unveil new machinery, digital solutions, and autonomous technologies to boost jobsite productivity and safety. (Image source: Komatsu)
Metso’s advanced Concorde Cell technology boosts flotation efficiency and concentrate-grade consistency at Lumwana project. (Image source: Metso)
Barrick Gold Corporation has chosen Metso’s Concorde Cell flotation technology for its Lumwana expansion project in Zambia’s North-Western Province
The Concorde Cell flotation cells will operate alongside the previously selected TankCell technology for the project.
Metso’s high-intensity Concorde Cell is an advanced solution for processing complex orebodies. Combining Concorde Cell with TankCell technology provides a reliable and efficient method to optimise the flowsheet. The forced-air pneumatic Concorde Cell is known for delivering faster flotation kinetics, excellent recovery of fine and ultra-fine particles, and enhanced consistency in concentrate grades.
In 2024, Metso announced an order for the supply of complete concentrator plant equipment for the Lumwana copper project. The value of the Concorde Cell equipment order was recorded in the Minerals segment’s third-quarter 2025 order intake.
At Mining Indaba 2026, Ecobank Sierra Leone announced landmark financing deals supporting rutile and diamond projects through African capital mobilisation.
Customers can select their preferred base and coupling configuration, ensuring each SEW-EURODRIVE power pack is precisely matched to the application’s performance and reliability requirements. (Image source: SEW EURODRIVE)
MSC strengthens Africa intermodal connectivity. (Image source: MSC)
MSC is drawing attention to the scale and reach of its intermodal logistics solutions across Africa, illustrating how the integration of rail, road and port infrastructure is reshaping inland cargo movement
By extending connectivity well beyond coastal ports, MSC is helping customers access critical hinterland markets with greater reliability, efficiency and control.
Intermodal transport has become a cornerstone of resilient supply chains across the continent. By reducing transit times, improving schedule predictability and strengthening links between landlocked economies and global trade routes, integrated inland solutions are responding to a growing need for dependable connectivity. MSC’s expanded intermodal offering is designed to meet this demand, providing customers with flexible, end-to-end transport options that support long-term planning and operational stability.
Abidjan–Ouagadougou: A strategic rail corridor
The first feature in the series focuses on the rail corridor linking Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, one of West Africa’s most active trade routes. Stretching approximately 1,150–1,260 km between the Port of Abidjan and Ouagadougou, the rail connection offers a reliable inland alternative to road transport, helping to ease congestion and create more consistent cargo flows.
Serving key sectors including agriculture, FMCG, mining and temperature-controlled cargo, the corridor enables customers to move goods inland with greater security and predictability. Through MSC’s intermodal network, shippers benefit from stable inland-to-port connectivity, improved transit time consistency and the confidence to plan operations year-round.
Building value across Africa’s key trade lanes
Beyond the Côte d’Ivoire–Burkina Faso rail link, the series will highlight other corridors where MSC’s intermodal solutions are delivering measurable value for customers.
In Cameroon, the focus turns to cargo flows supported by Kribi Port and improved trucking routes, which are strengthening access to inland markets and streamlining trade connections.
Across South Africa and Namibia, MSC’s trucking network is enabling dependable cross-border transport, with particular emphasis on reefer cargo supported by the Durban reefer warehouse, ensuring temperature integrity throughout the journey.
In Kenya, the spotlight follows agricultural exports from origin to port, offering a full view of how MSC’s integrated inland network supports a seamless land-to-port logistics chain.
Together, these corridors reflect MSC’s commitment to building predictable inland transport solutions that reduce operational complexity, enhance supply chain visibility and connect African markets more efficiently to global trade.
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Africa well positioned despite current global uncertainties (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The countries of sub-Saharan Africa are set to become more important as the global economy realigns in the face of wider geopolitical shifts, a new report suggests
South Africa, as one of the so-called BRICS nations, also stands to prosper.
The report, by Boston Consulting Group, suggests that global trade will show some resilience, and could grow 2.5% annually through to 2034 despite rising fragmentation.
According to the report, nations in the so-called ‘Rest of the world’ category — which includes all of sub-Saharan Africa, with the exception of South Africa — look set to gain overall on the back of strategic neutrality.
“These free agents, however, will become increasingly important in the future, both as markets and suppliers of goods and services,” the report notes.
While there are a wide range of trade scenarios, reflecting current volatility, small non-aligned countries appear to be relatively isolated from any potential negative fallout.
The BRICS+ nations — including South Africa, and countries that joined later, such as Egypt and Ethiopia — will also seek to expand relationships within the Global South.
“BRICS+ countries have been taking steps to collaborate with each other on trade, which they see as a driver of growth,” the report notes. But their approach to trade differs, with some negotiating deals with other groupings and some not.”
BRICS+ nations (excluding China) could see 3% growth with the rest of the world over the period as well as trade growth among themselves, it adds.
“Global trade isn’t retreating, it’s reorganising,” said Marc Gilbert, managing director and senior partner, Global Leader of the Center for Geopolitics, and a co-author of the report.
“Leaders who embed geopolitics in capital and strategic decision-making will be best positioned to navigate the next decade of change to secure resilience as well as growth.”
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SANY opens global remanufacturing hub. (Image source: SANY)
SANY Group has officially begun operations at its first global engineering machinery remanufacturing hub, the SANY Hunan-Hainan Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Park
The launch marks a major step in SANY’s globalisation and sustainability strategy, with the company securing CNY100 million (US$14.27mn) in orders from clients in Southeast Asia and Africa on the opening day.
The Park represents China’s first industrial facility co-developed by a pilot free trade zone (FTZ) and a pilot free trade port, advancing cross-regional collaboration between Hunan and Hainan provinces. By leveraging both provinces’ industrial strengths and policy incentives, the Park is designed to support Chinese enterprises in expanding their international footprint.
Construction of the Park began in August 2023, covering approximately 10 hectares (150 mu). With a total investment of CNY600 million (US$85.62mn), it is expected to reach an annual output value of CNY750 million (US$107.02mn) when operating at full capacity.
Positioned as a regional remanufacturing hub and resource distribution platform, the Park focuses on the maintenance and remanufacturing of core engineering machinery components as well as second-hand equipment from domestic and international markets. The facility promotes the circular reuse of industrial resources, aligning with SANY’s commitment to sustainability.
Operating under the Hainan FTZ framework, eligible value-added processing activities enjoy tariff preferences, while remanufacturing operations under bonded supervision may qualify for corporate and personal income‑tax incentives. The Park benefits from the “Dual 15%” tax-incentive policy, receiving approval for outsourced processes to enjoy a 15% corporate income-tax reduction.
“The project represents a key strategic initiative for SANY to deepen its globalisation, digitalisation, and low-carbon transformation. Moving forward, SANY will continue to actively explore new models for remanufacturing, promote the circular reuse of industrial resources, and jointly advance the global engineering machinery industry's transition toward a greener, low-carbon future,” said Tang Xiuguo, chairman of SANY.
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