Africa

As discovery succeeds discovery, the Gulf of Guinea is shooting up the ranks of global oil and gas producing regions—and servicing its demands is Luba Freeport, the new Jebel Ali.

It was in 1999 that the government of Equatorial Guinea realised that the port of Malabo would never be able to cope with the demands of an oil industry. But the island of Bioko is perfectly placed, not 50 miles from the coast of Cameroon and nestling between the Bight of Biafra and the Gulf of Guinea.

2011 is poised to be a stellar year for Ukuvula Automotive Investment Holdings. Executive director of the automotive division Achmat Mohamed brings Jayne Alverca up to speed with the latest developments.

Dutch construction company Remco Afrique has announced plans to continue its expansion into new markets in Africa.

The Best, Netherlands-based company, which specialises in building industrial premises, is taking advantage of the growing demand throughout Africa for new industrial buildings.

The company is currently constructing three industrial buildings in Gabon, with a total surface of 23,650 square metres.

China will loan nearly $700 million to Zimbabwe in a deal that will provide a major boost to the struggling southern African nation.

The loans awarded by China’s Export-Import Bank include $342 million for agricultural equipment and machinery, $99.5 million for health equipment and supplies, and $144 million for the renovation of Harare’s water and sewerage system.

China also provided $102 million to Zimbabwe’s government and two grants worth $14 million.

Zambia-based oil and gas exploration company Mafula Energy has attracted $60,000 of investment from London-based investment company Hot Rocks Investments.

Mafula is currently focused on establishing a portfolio of oil and gas exploration assets in Zambia. Nearby countries including Angola, Uganda, DRC and Tanzania have all made significant oil discoveries—thought to be due to their position within the oil-rich East Africa Rift System, from which Zambia could also benefit.

A service provider in the oil and gas sector, Century Energy Services Limited has carved a niche for its brand through quality service provision to the big players. Group CEO Ken Etete gives an insight into the business terrain during 2010, and the company’s plans for 2011.

As Just Refrigeration gears up to expand its marketplace across Africa and Australasia, general manager Chris Turner talks to Gay Sutton about setting the company on a firm corporate footing, and implementing strategies for quality, efficiency and innovation.

Chicken is a valuable and popular source of protein; but its production requires a well-oiled machine, as Alan Swaby discovers.

Let’s start with a guessing game: how many chickens do you think are consumed in your country every week? Whether your guess is accurate or not, the numbers will certainly be enormous and probably far greater than you imagined.

Newmont Ghana Gold Limited is determined to take the lead in both delivering shareholder value and implementing a far-reaching corporate social responsibility strategy. Adriaan van Kersen, group executive, operations for Africa, talks to Jayne Flannery.

Gem Diamonds is planning major investments at two diamond mines, buoyed by increasing global demand for the precious stones.

The London-based company, which recently announced its 2010 results, is betting on the price of rough diamonds continuing to rise this year. The increase is partly driven by strong demand from Chinese consumers.