Africa

Suntech Power Holdings Co Ltd, China's largest maker of solar panels, has signed a deal to develop solar plants in South Africa with up to 100 megawatts in capacity.

The move comes as South Africa looks to increase its clean energy output, as well as boost manufacturing and infrastructure as its seeks to broaden its economic appeal beyond its wealth of natural resources.

The total investment required for building a 100 megawatt solar power plant is estimated to be between $350 million and $400 million.

Mining giant Xstrata has agreed to acquire Australian iron ore developer Sphere Minerals for A$428 million (approx. €300 million), it has been announced.

Buying Sphere will increase Xstrata’s iron ore presence in Africa through the Australian company’s three iron ore projects in Mauritania. These include the $1.65 billion Guelb el Aouj development, operated asa 50/50 joint venture with Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM), Mauritania’s state-owned iron ore producer.

A slowdown in nuclear projects is posing no problem for Lesedi Nuclear Services. The company is successfully drawing on its comprehensive base of resource and skills to further cement its reputation as a well-established and reliable player in all sectors of the energy market, as Andrew Pelis discovers.

It’s vital to build on solid foundations; and underneath an increasing number of bridges and buildings in South Africa is piling work undertaken by Fairbrother Geotechnical Engineering. Ruari McCallion finds out more from Adrian Meerburg.

Moves by Namibia to capitalise on its extensive diamond resources have stepped up a gear since the creation of the Namibia Diamond Trading Company. Andrew Pelis talks to CEO Shihaleni Ndjaba to find out more.

The importance of a reliable and safe bus service cannot be underestimated in South Africa. Mphumudzeni Muneri talks to Andrew Pelis about how Great North Transport has driven home a competitive advantage based on reputation.

Public transport in South Africa has long been a topic of much debate. Today, competition remains as rife as ever, despite the recent downturn in the economy. One company that has ridden out the tough times better than many has been Great North Transport (GNT).

Mozambique is on the brink of a transformation driven by its mineral resources; and Riversdale Mining is bringing some much needed expertise and capital to the party, as chief operating officer Andries Engelbrecht tells John O’Hanlon.

Riversdale Mining, a resource company with its headquarters in Sydney, Australia, was set up in late 2004 by a group of experienced coal mining professionals interested in exploration, mining and development projects.

Namibia’s telecommunications infrastructure is currently undergoing amazing transformation. Andrew Pelis learns exactly why Telecom Namibia has been recognised for the impact its work has had on the creation of a vibrant national business environment.