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Caterpillar’s Century-Long Presence in Africa: Building a Sustainable Future

  • January 21, 2025
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Caterpillar, a global leader in manufacturing construction and mining equipment, industrial engines, and diesel-electric locomotives, has had a longstanding presence in Africa for nearly 100 years. The company’s journey on the continent highlights a deep commitment to fostering sustainable growth and infrastructure development.

Africa’s Role in Supplying Critical Minerals for the Green Energy Revolution

  • January 14, 2025
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As the global economy pivots towards sustainability, the demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements (REEs) has surged. These materials are the cornerstone of modern clean energy technologies, powering everything from electric vehicles (EVs) to renewable energy storage systems. Africa, endowed with vast deposits of these resources, is increasingly at the forefront of the green energy transition. But how can the continent navigate its opportunities and challenges in this burgeoning sector?

Ivanhoe Mines Targets Record Copper Output in the DRC for 2025

  • January 10, 2025
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Ivanhoe Mines, listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), has set an ambitious production target for its flagship Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), aiming for between 520,000 and 580,000 tonnes of copper in concentrate in 2025. This target builds on the record-breaking success of 2024, where the complex produced 437,061 tonnes, marking a 12% year-on-year increase.

Opening South Africa’s Rail Network: Transnet Prepares for Private Operators

  • January 10, 2025
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South Africa’s rail sector is set to undergo a major shift as the newly established Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) gears up to allocate rail slots to private train operating companies (TOCs). This marks a significant move toward integrating third-party operators, enabled by the release of the long-awaited Network Statement in December.

Dangote Refinery Reaches 85% Capacity, Poised to Transform Nigeria’s Fuel Market

  • January 6, 2025
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Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery, one of the largest privately-owned oil refineries in Africa, has reached an impressive 85% of its refining capacity, signaling significant progress towards full-scale operations. This milestone was confirmed by Edwin Devakumar, the head of the refinery, who stated that the facility is now refining 550,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil. The refinery, which is capable of processing 650,000 bpd, is expected to deliver European-standard refined products by January, further solidifying its position as a major player in the global oil refining market.

Kenya Airways Resumes Trading After Suspension: A New Chapter for the National Carrier

  • January 6, 2025
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Kenya Airways PLC, the country’s national carrier and one of Africa’s largest airlines, has seen a significant turn in its fortunes as the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) lifted the suspension on its trading shares. This decision marks a major milestone for the airline, as it comes after a period of turbulence in both its operations and financial performance. The suspension, which had been in place since 2020, was lifted on January 6, 2025, following a positive shift in the airline’s performance and the withdrawal of the National Aviation Management Bill of 2020, a piece of legislation that had proposed the renationalization of the airline.

Unlocking Africa’s Growth Potential: The Role of Transport Infrastructure

  • November 28, 2024
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Africa’s economic growth and social progress hinge on modern, integrated transport infrastructure to connect communities, boost trade, and reduce inequality. Challenges such as poor road networks, congested ports, and inadequate cross-border systems hinder the movement of goods and people, raising logistics costs and limiting competitiveness. Governments are prioritizing transport infrastructure under initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), supported by innovative financing models like public-private partnerships (PPPs). Institutions like Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking play a crucial role in mobilizing investment to unlock Africa’s potential, paving the way for a connected, prosperous, and inclusive future.

Mitsui’s High Stakes in Zambia: A Tale of Copper and Opportunity

  • November 19, 2024
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In the heart of Zambia’s copper belt, where red metal veins hold the promise of a greener future, Mitsui & Co. emerged as the leading contender in a $2 billion bid for stakes in First Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel and Kansanshi mines. As global demand for copper surges, fueled by electric vehicles and renewable energy ambitions, Mitsui’s strategic offer reportedly outpaced Saudi Arabia’s Manara Minerals. With Zambia accounting for half of First Quantum’s output and $450 million in operating profit last year, the stakes are monumental—not just for the corporate giants vying for control, but for a nation poised at the crossroads of economic opportunity and global resource competition.