Post news about Infrastructure Development from all over the continent here.

Roads Agency Paves 1,500 Kilometer Trunk Roads
Dar Es Salaam — About 1,500 kilometres of trunk roads have so far been paved by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS).

This is according to the agency's performance assessment 2003/04-2007/08 report released last week in Dar es Salaam.

The agency has also rehabilitated a further 600 kilometres of trunk roads and 4,000km of regional roads. Maintenance allocations have increased from TShs1.3 million per kilometre to TShs4.3 million per kilometre per year. According to the report, the agency has substantially improved the condition of the main road network; from 30 percent in poor condition in 2003 to only 10 percent in 2008.

The agency also practically phased out force account works and helped to build up a local road contracting industry; from virtually zero local (private) road contractors to currently about 800 who manage the entire maintenance allocation.

It also successfully absorbed the massive increase of the fuel levy in the financial year 2007/08 and managed an increase of 100% of the budget.

The vision for the roads sector is embodied in Tanzania's Development Vision 2025 which accords high priority to investment in infrastructure.

In Sub-Saharan Africa road transport is the dominant mode of transport. that is essential for socioeconomic development.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902021343.html)

Improved Infrastructure Key to Economic, Social Progress
Addis Ababa - Addressing an African Union (AU) summit focused on enhancement of the continent's poor infrastructure, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said today that public works were the cornerstone to economic and social progress.

"Africa needs good roads, schools and hospitals; as well as reliable and efficient water services, electricity grids and telecom networks, while information and communications technologies must also be a bigger part of Africa's future," Mr. Ban told leaders of the 53-State organization, meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

"These remain the building blocks for job creation and the ability to compete in global markets," he added, in a speech that also ranged over a raft of peace and security issues on the continent, as well as climate change and the global economic crisis.

Mr. Ban stressed that infrastructure development is also an opportunity to 'go green' by tapping geothermal energy in the Great Rift Valley; solar energy in the Sahara, and other renewable sources that have great potential to create jobs and lay the groundwork for a low-carbon economy.

Given the large number of small and landlocked countries and shared resource belts in Africa, he maintained that regional approaches to providing infrastructure are also essential, pointing to the various river basin initiatives as a good first step in this regard.

"There is great benefit to be derived from the economies of scale that cross-border cooperation brings," he stressed, saying it should be complemented by public-private partnerships, the building of indigenous scientific and technological capacities and tangible investments in education.

He urged all stakeholders to mobilize the estimated $52 million needed each year to significantly upgrade Africa's infrastructure in those areas.

In his discussion of security and democracy, Mr. Ban touched on the situations in Sudan's Darfur region, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe and Cote d'Ivoire.

Commending Ghana for what he called its "smooth democratic transition of power, he noted that the AU had made it clear that it would not accept unconstitutional changes such as those that recently took place in Guinea and Mauritania.

"I welcome and encourage this strong, principled and consistent approach and commend the African Union for the adoption of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance," he said.

Expressing concern over disputed leadership in Madagascar, he urged the parties there to address their differences through existing constitutional mechanisms.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902021520.html)

Government to Allocate Sh235 Billion for District Roads
1 February 2009

Kampala - The Government plans to allocate sh253.4b for district road maintenance in the country in the next two financial years, works state minister John Byabagambi has said.

"We want to make sure that all roads in the districts are in good shape. A good road network is a catalyst for economic growth because other sectors depend on the adequacy and quality of the road network," Byabagambi said.

He was speaking at a workshop with local government leaders on the proposed policy changes for improving management of district roads at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala on Saturday.

Byabagambi said the workshop was aimed at discussing the proposed policy which would be presented to Parliament for approval by the end of March.

The policy changes include reviving the practice of routine maintenance by labour gangs, providing road equipment to all districts and to allocate sufficient operational funds.

Byabagambi said a full equipment unit comprising a motor grader, two tipper trucks, a wheel-oader, a water bowser, one smooth self-propelled roller, a pick-up truck, two motorcycles, and a pedestrian roller would be purchased for every district.

Other items to be funded include a bulldozer, excavator, mobile and regional workshops to be shared among districts.

The policy, Byabagambi said, also focuses on the re-establishment of road gangs in districts, whereby workers would be paid sh60,000 per month to maintain one mile per month within their areas of residence.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902020031.html)

$8 Billion Rail Contract - FG Orders Project Review
4 February 2009

Onyebuchi Ezigbo

Abuja — The Chinese firm handling the implementation of the $8.3billion railway modernisation project, China Construction Engineering Company (CCEC), said the Federal Government directed it to scale down the project in view of the present financial limitations.

The Nigerian Consultant to CCECC, Chief Chike Udenze, told THISDAY that the company and Federal Government were working closely to see to the actualisation of the railway project.

"Federal Government has asked us to prepare a proposal and advise it on how the rail modernisation can be scaled down without having to lose money", he said.

He said government urged the company to prepare detailed over-view of the project, highlighting achievable milestones based on the present state of paucity of funds.

According to him, government wants the company to prepare and submit a comprehensive work plan for the completion of the Lagos-Ibadan and Minna-Abuja-Kaduna railway line.

He said the company was also to give a detailed bill of quantity with all the relevant back-up information on the actual cost of the project as against the provision sum contained in the contract agreement.

As part of the efforts to refocus the project, government said the Chinese firm should compile a technical report supporting the work plan and a detailed master programme including the resources required to complete the project on time, he said.

When THISDAY visited the CCECC headquarters in Abuja, the Vice President of the company, Mr. Chen Xiaoxing, was said to have flown into the country to consult with the project team and to see how to meet with government's demands.

Udenze, however, said the details would take a reasonable length of time because it was a very rigorous process that involves every aspect of the entire project design from start to finish.

Regarding the competence or otherwise of the Chinese firm to deliver on the project, he said CCECC had proven capability in the area of railway construction. "We have been commended by government committees which evaluated the job done so far as being of good standard and we are determined to ensure the completion of the survey and design which is now at about 91% completion stage," he said.

"If we are not good and can deliver quality job the two federal government committees report world not have certified our work. What we agreed with government is that we will all sit down and try to scale down the project so that it can be executed in stages in such a way that Nigeria will not loose money", he said.

Udenze said the company had only received $250m out of the $1.3bn stipulated in the contract agreement as take-off amount for project.

According, to the consultant, the company is requesting government to try and utilise the $500m loan from the Chinese Exim-Bank to implement the project to a certain level and then make further request for additional fund from the bank.

Minister of Transport, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio, while receiving the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Xu Jianguo, in his office in Abuja, said the planned reactivation of the abandoned multi-billion dollar railway modernisation project may take a long time to materialise because of the current financial crunch.

He said federal government has asked the contractor, Chinese Construction and Engineering Company (CCEC) to consider reviewing the terms of the contract to accommodate the exigencies of the moment.

" We have met with company to plan how to scale-down the project to be able to execute it in view of the financial crunch. The way forward is that we have told the company our position and asked them to go back to their home government to work out a new programme, if it is acceptable to us then fine", he said.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902040298.html)

Govt Makes Case for Trans-National Projects Across Africa
Juliana Taiwo

4 February 2009

Abuja — Nigeria has called on African leaders to initiate projects that will traverse the sub-regional countries as a step towards achieving expansive development of infrastructure in the continent.

Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan who represented President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua made the call at the 12th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government at the ongoing African Union Summit in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia.

Citing the West Africa Gas Pipeline project that traverses Nigeria, Republic of Benin, Togo and Ghana, and the proposed Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline project from Nigeria to Algeria as examples, Jonathan charged African leaders to identify and initiate such wide-ranging projects, and also source credible funding for them.

He tasked the relevant arm of the AU to examine the infrastructural needs of the continent with a view to identifying and initiating mega projects across it while cautioning that resort to international bodies for funding should be based on projects that will boost the continent infrastructurally.

According to him, the theme for the Summit - "Infrastructure Development in Africa" was apt and timely, and urged African leaders to exercise political will in projecting clear-cut policies that will accelerate Africa 's infrastructural development. He also pledged Nigeria's continued contribution to energy production in the continent.

President Moammar Gad-affi of Libya had Monday emerged as the new Chairman of the AU through a motion unanimously adopted by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government. In his acceptance speech, Gadaffi had said African leaders must unite against any attempt to re-colonise the continent under any guise.

Former AU Chairperson, President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania, in his valedictory speech, had canvassed for a special conference of African leaders to appraise the current global financial crisis and adopt measures to cushion its effects on Africa.

He emphasized the need for regular meetings of African leaders, pointing out that the AU Summit alone is inadequate.

In his contribution, UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki Moon, said Africa required about $52 billion annually in public and private partnership to address her infrastructural needs.

The current global economic crunch will dominate discussions as the Summit draws to a close.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902040179.html)

Quite a good prospect!

ERA Signes Road Projects Worth 1.8 Billion Birr
Fikremariam Tesfaye

5 March 2009

Addis Abeba — The Ethiopian Roads Authority (ERA) on Tuesday signed agreements with three road construction projects worth over 1.8 billion Birr.

The Adura-Akobo and Adura-Burbe road project in Gambella regional state is intended to upgrade the approximately 125 gravel road to a Main Access Road.

The 823 million Birr project was awarded to SATCON Construction plc, a local private company which, under the agreement, will have to complete within 48 months period.

The project works, apart from a 7meter-wide carriageway, involve of construction of pipe culverts, inlet and out structures together with erosion protection.

The Director General at the signing ceremony detailed that, Adura-Akobo and Adura-Burbe road project is construction of gravel road to a standard of Main Access Road which is approximately 125 km and is located in the western part of Gambella Regional State in the Nuware zone. The project works involves of construction of pipe culverts, inlet and out structures together with erosion protection.

The second project-the Sanja-Keraker Road Project in the North Gondar zone of the Amhara regional state will cover the 48 km road with a DS 5 standard gravel .

The project work also involves construction of new road surfaced with sub-base gravel wearing course and DBST for some steep sections streching approximately 17 km including pipe culverts, inlet and outlet structures together with erosion protection in a 7 m wide carriageway.

The project has been awarded to Tibeb Construction plc with the cost of nearly 547 million Birr. The contract is expected to be completed within 36 months period under the finance of the government of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The third project in the Benishangul Gumuz Regional State in the North West part of Ethiopia involves upgrading the nearly 100 km Assosa-Kurmuk road.

The road is the last segment of Addis Ababa-Nekemt-Assossa- Kumruk road, a major trunk road which connects to the Sudanese border through Kumruk.

The project was awarded for the Chinese company named Sinohydro Corporation Ltd with a cost of over 502.8 million Birr.

It involves upgrading of the existing road surface to DBST standard including pipe culverts, inlet and out let structures. The road will have a 7m wide carriageway and 1.5 m shoulder each side.

The contract is expected to be completed within 36 months under the finance of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and the Ethiopian government.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902050149.html)

U.S.$308 Million to Meet Electrification Target of 16 Percent By 2012
Eugene Kwibuka

5 February 2009

Kigali — The Rwandan government is in high consultations with stakeholders as it struggles to meet its target of enabling 16 percent of the Rwandan population access electricity by the year 2012, the State Minister for Energy and Communication revealed yesterday.

According to Eng Albert Butare, an estimated US$ 308million (Approx Rwf 174bn) needs to be invested to achieve this target.

Butare said that many projects are underway countrywide, to generate electrical energy and circulate it in different areas but he cautioned that more labour, materials, and financial support were needed to achieve the envisaged goal.

"It is a great plan, we need a strong workforce," Butare said shortly after meeting government partners at Serena Hotel as he reflected on the country's target with regards to country's electrification.

In Rwanda's five-year plan to develop key sectors on which development hinges, the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS), the country pledges that 16 percent of the population will have access to electricity by 2012.

He said that some of these funds have been availed and used while government hopes to successfully out source the remaining portion though he could not reveal the amount.

"There are clear commitments [by partners]," he said, revealing that government will hold a round-table with its partners next month on electrification projects.

He said that the funds needed to implement electrification projects will be provided by government, donors, and citizens who will have to pay their contributions to be connected.

During the meeting in which international donor groups, Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), UN Agencies, and the Rwandan Private Sector were invited, it was observed that electrification projects need to involve members of the Rwandan private sector to be successful.

This comes at a time the country has embarked on promoting Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to finance some development activities.

It was particularly observed that members of the Rwandan private sector can invest in manufacturing both poles and electrical wires and other materials that are needed during connection.

Government estimates that currently, six percent of the population in Rwanda has access to electricity.

It hopes the figure will have grown to at least 16 percent in 2012 with all administrative offices and health centres in the country connected while about 50 percent of schools will have a connection by then.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902050213.html)

Oilmoz Hopes to Have Refinery Operational By 2014
5 February 2009

Maputo — The Mozambican company Oilmoz hopes that it will have an oil refinery up and running in Maputo province by 2014.

The company presented its plans for the refinery at a meeting in Maputo on Monday. Oilmoz Chief Executive Officer Fausto Cruz puts the total cost of the refinery at eight billion US dollars. The refinery would produce 350,000 barrels of fuel a day.

The exact location of the refinery has not yet been chosen, but there are five possibilities. Despite this uncertainty, Oilmoz hopes that construction will begin in late 2009 or early 2010.

Cruz estimated that the construction will employ 15,000 workers, and that, when operational, the refinery will provide 2,000 full time jobs.

But where will the money for such a gigantic investment come from? Cruz told reporters that Oilmoz is negotiating a loan of three billion dollars, but declined to reveal which bank or banks the company is talking to.

The economic viability study for the refinery is in the hands of Shell Global Solutions. The construction will also include an off-shore terminal, to receive the tankers carrying the crude oil, water and waste treatment stations, new roads, and a variety of other social and economic infrastructures.

Asked who the Oilmoz shareholders are, Cruz refused to give a straight answer, replying simply "It's a company owned by individual Mozambicans".

But one of the partners of the project is the Joaquim Chissano Foundation, set up the country's former President. The company has turned to the foundation to assist in matters of "corporate social responsibility", said the Foundation's executive director, former foreign minister Leonardo Simao, who is also the Oilmoz chairperson. Chissano himself was among those attending the Thursday meeting.

The chairperson of the board of directors of the state fuel company Petromoc, Mateus Katupha, thought the planned refinery could be of great importance for the national and regional economy, since it would make refined fuels available at a lower price than imported fuels. Katupha argued this would provide an opportunity for Petromoc "to enter the regional market".

Mozambique currently consumes an estimate 17,000 barrels of fuel a day. Since Oilmoz expects to produce 350,000 barrels a day, the bulk of this production will be exported to other countries in the SADC (Southern African Development Community) region.

Should oil be discovered in Mozambique, as a result of the current exploration, notably in the Rovuma basin in the far north of the country, Cruz said that Oilmoz would clearly prefer to use Mozambican crude than import its raw material from elsewhere.

A second refinery, in which the main shareholder is the American company Ayr Logistics, is planned for Nacala in the north of the country. Cruz said Oilmoz was not worried by competition from this refinery. He was sure the market would prove large enough for both of them.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902050694.html)

Govt Awards N7Billion Road Contracts
Mansur Sani Malam

6 February 2009

Kano — Kano State government has awarded contracts worth over N7billion for the construction of five major roads in the metropolis to two contracting firms.

Speaking during the signing of contract agreements, the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Alhaji Yakubu Ali Bashir, explained that the contracts were awarded in accordance with the state government's policy on city renewal programme.

Bashir, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Alhaji Muhammad Salis El-Hassan, said the contracts were also awarded after following due process and meeting all necessary requirements by the contracting firms.

He further stated that Borini Prono construction firm has been awarded the contracts for the reconstruction of Kano Club Road, at the cost of N1, 133 billion, Mandawari Road to Aminu Kano Way at N396 million and Darmanawa (Yantsaki-Yankatako) Road at the sum of N2 billion.

On the other hand, Triacta Nigeria Limited would reconstruct Zoo Road at the cost of N1 billion, while that of BUK Road is expected to gulp N2 billion.

The commissioner then urged the contracting firms to complete their projects within the agreed 20 months period and charged them to commence work on the projects in earnest, emphasising on qualitative work that would last long.

Bashir then solicited the cooperation of the people of the areas affected by the projects while construction is in progress.

Responding , the project managers of the two companies promised to do a good job and complete the projects within the stipulated time, and expressed desire to control congestion on the affected roads.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902060336.html)

"Aldeia Nova" Starts Sugar Cane Production
Luanda — The agricultural project "Aldeia Nova" Thursday in the locality of Lonhé, central Kwanza Sul province, launched a sugar cane plantation plan over an extension of 44,000 hectares.

The launch of the plan took place during a ceremony witnessed by the provincial governor, Serafim do Prado.

The project, called "Procana", started with the plantation of sugar cane over an area of 25,000 hectares, expected to produce about 120 tons per hectare. Varieties of sugar cane from India and Uganda are being used.

Speaking to Angop, the project director, José Serqueira, said Procana, whose production will be secured by the Brazilian firm, "Co-geração", has created 10,000 jobs.

Procana's research started late in 2006, upon selection of an area of 106 hectares in the district of Cela, where a nursery was built. The project was designed by a British firm.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902060524.html)

Electrogaz to Commission New Thermal Plant
Kagire Edmund

6 February 2009

Kigali — The national water and power utility, Electrogaz, will at the end of the month commission a Thermal Plant worth Euro 19.2m that is expected to add another 20 Megawatts to the country's electricity grid.

According to John Mirenge, the Managing Director of Electrogaz, the plant located at Jabana is a state-of-the-art thermal generator, which uses cheaper, heavy fuel oil instead of Diesel.

Mirenge said that the new thermal generator is environmentally friendly despite using heavy fuels known to emit a lot of smoke.

The plant comprises of a furnace tube in which combustion of the fuel takes place to generate fumes which are re-combusted, reducing the proportion of nitrogen oxides present in said fumes, minimising the effect.

He added that the new plant will be an addition to the many micro-hydro electricity projects currently being set up by the Government including those at Rukarara and Rusizi expected to be ready by June next year, as part of the 4-year countrywide electrification access programme.

Mirenge assured the country that electricity tariffs will go down when all these projects are completed and when the company switches from using diesel to heavy fuel oils.

The Electrogaz chief also said that the US $40m government funded water supply expansion project at Nyabarongo is well underway and is expected to produce 800.000 Cubic Metres of water daily.

The project is aimed at increasing water supply in Kigali City to its population which now has an estimated one million residents.

Mirenge said that the old system was meant to supply water to about 200.000 people and could not fully satisfy the water needs of the fast growing population of the city, prompting the government to sink money in the expansion project.

He reiterated that currently 40.000 Cubic Metres are produced following the completion of water reservoirs at Nyarutarama, promising residents of Kigali that there will not be more water shortages and crises in Kigali into the near future.

Meanwhile the Electrogaz MD denied that there is a water crisis in Gisenyi Town in the Western Province for the last two weeks as media reports had earlier indicated.

He however admitted that on Wednesday last week, road works by STRABAG in Gisenyi interfered with the water system which indeed affected the water supply in the town and the surroundings, "but it was fixed the following day, not for 2 weeks as it had been reported."

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902060550.html)

Zambezi Bridge Structurally Complete By June
6 February 2009

Maputo — The contractor responsible for building the new bridge over the Zambezi river in central Mozambique, the Portuguese engineering company Mota Engil, on Thursday guaranteed that that the bridge will be structurally complete by June.

"The construction of the bridge is absolutely under control", declared Jorge Coelho, chairperson of the Mota-Engil Executive Commission. Mota-Engil and a second Portuguese company, Soares da Costa, form the consortium that won the tender to build the bridge.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Prime Minister Luisa Diogo, Coelho said the bridge will be delivered within the deadlines initially agreed with the government, between May and June this year.

Since work on the bridge began, about three years ago, it has been interrupted twice, by the major Zambezi floods of 2007 and 2008. Coelho said the time lost "has all been recovered", and any flooding later in the 2009 rainy season will not affect the work.

The bridge, between Caia in Sofala province and Chimuara in Zambezia, is a key link in Mozambique's main north-south highway. It is 2.5 kilometres long and 16 metres wide. It possesses two lanes for traffic and a walkway for pedestrians. It is budgeted at 78 million euros (about 105 million US dollars). The European Union is providing 25 million euros, Italy 20 million, and Sweden 18 million. The Mozambican government is participating with 13 million euros.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday evening, Coelho was more precise, venturing 31 May as the date for the completion of the bridge. In addition to the Prime Minister, Coelho said he had also been received by President Armando Guebuza, and Public Works Minister Felicio Zacarias. But his first port of call in Mozambique had been the bridge site itself to receive a full technical briefing on the progress of construction.

Coelho said that Mota Engil has also won the tender to rebuild a 50 kilometre stretch of the north-south highway in Inhambane province that is currently in very poor condition. He said the company would be interested in building a bridge across Maputo bay, linking the locality of Catembe to the heart of the city.

This is a longstanding government dream for which, to date, the funds have not been available. Currently people who live in Catembe, but work or study in Maputo, are dependent on a ferry service.

Coelho said Mota Engil is also interested in mining projects in southern Africa, but he could reveal no details due to professional secrecy. He said negotiations are furthest advanced in Malawi, but the company is also looking at possibilities in Mozambique and Angola. He declined to say what minerals are involved.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902060694.html)

Over 3,000 Kilometres of Roads Paved in Six Years
3 February 2009

Luanda — About 3,325 kilometres of roads were paved over the last six years of peace in Angola, by the Angolan government, on Tuesday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, said the Speaker of the National Assembly, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos.

The Angolan official presented this figure at the 12th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), taking place under the theme "Development of infrastructures in Africa, with highlight to transports, energy and investments".

The Angolan Parliament Speaker also revealed that another 10,400 kilometres are under construction, adding that on the same period built 34 definitive bridges, with 516 others being currently under construction as well.

He informed that the roads for regional links are in an advanced state of execution, as well as the construction studies for the link between Soyo District (north of Angola) and Mwanda (Democratic Republic of Congo, through a 25-kilometre railway bridge.

This bridge will comprise a 1,6 kilometre central point over Kongo river, with a bifurcation from Mwanda to Cabinda and Mwanda to Boma (DRC).

The Speaker of the National Assembly also announced that are also under repair some ports, with highlight to the Lobito one, that is being modernised and extended with the creation of new terminals for containers, minerals and support for oil activity, in order to meet the demands from neighbouring countries that will use that corridor.

Other ports will be constructed in the northern Cabinda and Luanda provinces, the official said, without giving further details on the future works.

On railways company, he said that a plan named "Ango-Ferro" is in progress, comprising the rehabilitation and modernisation of the existing lines, their inter-connection in a network system, building of new lines and connection with neighbouring countries in six points.

"Thus, we will have the conclusion of the Luanda railways, in an extension of about 500 kilometres", he said, adding that the Moçamedes Raiway, that comprises 900 kilometres, will be finished in 2010.

Other works are related to the elaboration of studies and projects for the construction of the line that will link the country's railway system to Namibia, as well as the 1,500 kilometres to the DRC and Zambia, through Benguela Railway company that is to end in 2011.

Projects and studies are also being carried out for the construction of a line to reach Zambia, whereas another line has been conceived to link Luanda to Cabinda, as part of trans-African connections.

Commenting on airports, the Speaker of the National Assembly said it is in progress the rehabilitation of 24 airports, with highlight to the building of the Luanda International Airport.

He considered that these works by the Angolan government, in recovering and building new infrastructures of transports and energy, satisfy not only the national needs, but also the regional and continental ones.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902030496.html)

Japan to support rice production in Mozambique
Maputo, Mozambique, 3 Feb – Mozambique is in the list of 12 African countries that will benefit from a credit of US$4.2 billion for rice production and other development projects, Rádio Moçambique reported in Maputo.

The radio station noted that the funding had been announced by the representative of the Japanese National Rice Development Strategy, Hiroshi Chioroaka speaking Wednesday in Abuja, during a meeting on rice production held jointly with the African Alliance for the Green Revolution and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency.

Chioroaka said that the government of his country had also announced, via its Finance Ministry, loans of US$150 million to fund technical cooperation projects and of US$100 million to support the World Bank Project for Rice Development in Africa.

According to Chioroaka, as well as Mozambique, the list of countries includes Cameroon, Ghana, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda.

This support may contribute to efforts made by the Mozambican government to mass produce rice with a view to eliminating imports of the crop by 2011.

Lat June, the government approved the National Plan for Food Production, 2008/2011, with the aim of reducing the deficit of the main food products such as rice and wheat, boosting and promoting production on a wide-scale of maize and cassava, crops of which the country currently has a surplus.

Mozambique currently has a deficit of 316,000 tonnes of rice. Annual requirements of this cereal total 539,000 tonnes, but the country produces just 223,000 tonnes.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=6822)

Nigerian Firm, Dubai to Build New Port in Lagos
11 February 2009

Lagos — A Nigerian firm, Sifax Group of Companies, is discussing with Dubai Ports Authority, on the establishment of a modern port complex in Lagos.

Managing Director of Sifax Group, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, told newsmen in Lagos that the Dubai authority had shown great enthusiasm in the proposed venture. Afolabi said the port would on completion, be the first direct response of an indigenous company to the Federal Government's call for development of green fields, to decongest existing ports.

Afolabi expressed regrets that lack of space, slow cargo delivery and government's inability to establish new ports were major causes of the present congestion at the ports.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Ports and Terminal Multi-Services Ltd, a subsidiary of the Italian shipping giant - Grimaldi, built the new Roll On/Roll Off (RORO) Port inaugurated in 2006, by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Afolabi said a subsidiary of Sifax - Port and Cargo Handling Services Ltd, operators of Terminal 'C' at the Tin-Can Island Port, had added value to the nation's economy by investing about N15 billion, since it took over the terminal in 2006.The terminal operator pointed out that in addition to the huge investments, the subsidiary employed about 3,000 Nigerians.

He said the company had four gantry cranes and 22 cargo handling equipment procured at the sum of $50 million, adding that to ease the pains of congestion, especially for its numerous clients, the company had procured 35 new trucks for transferring containers to bonded terminals, and that additional 100 trucks would soon be bought.

He, however, observed that with the take over of port operations by the port concessionaires, there had been efficient service delivery at the ports.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902120100.html)

FCT to Spend N9 Billion on Power in Satellite Towns
12 February 2009

Abuja - The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will spend N9billion on the improvement of power supply in the Satellite Towns in 2009 alone.

This fact was disclosed Tuesday by the Minister of State, FCT, Chief Chuka Odom at Abaji during the kick off of his trip to the Area Councils in the Territory.

This, he said, was in addition to other plans by the Federal Government to ensure that Nigerians enjoyed uninterrupted Power Supply.

Also, the Minister said that arrangements have been concluded for more funding for the purchase of transformers in areas of need towards the enhancement of Power Supply.

Similarly, while speaking at a reception in his honour, Odom commended the Abaji Council for proper prioritization of projects and adequate utilization of fund and noted the asphalt roads and damages constructed by the Council.

On the proposed Abuja university of Technology , the Minister promised to take up the matter with the Minister of Education to ensure that it takes off as soon as possible.

Odom expressed his delight at the effort by the Council to look inwards especially in the area of making available solar Power to the people even as he pledged to access money from ecological fund to assist in erosion control in Abaji.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Abaji Area Council, Hon. Yahaya Musa Mohammad appealed to the Minister for assistance in the implementation of the Abuja Master Plan which designated Abaji as the industrial area of the territory.

According to him, the "FCT administration should extend her developmental programmes to Abaji Area Council so that investors could come and make use of our viable potentials."

The Chairman also used the opportunity of the Minister's visit to appeal for more "funds to the local government so that projects that will touch the lives of the people can be carried out".

In his remarks while welcoming the Minister to his Palace, the Ona of Abaji, Alhaji Adamu Baba Yunusa requested for the dualization of the Zuba - Lokoja road as well as providing more vehicles for the police to assist them in the task of combating the menace of criminals in the area.

The royal father also called the attention of the Minister to the need by the communities in the area for potable water which he said could be enhanced by sinking more boreholes.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902120163.html)

Hilton Hotel to Open in December

Francis Kagolo

10 February 2009

Kampala — THE 235-room five-star Kampala Hilton Hotel is to open in December, the AYA Group's human resource manager, Arthur Hanyurwa, has said.

Hanyurwa told reporters recently that the building, which is to have 21 floors, had reached the 11th floor.

"We are remaining mainly with putting up suites at the top. This is easier compared to what has been done. We are working 24 hours," he said.

The hotel will also have 37 presidential, diplomat and project suites and 10 separate apartments. A shopping mall, business centre and restaurants will also be put up.

Hanyurwa said close to $80m (about sh154b) had been spent since construction began. The entire project, which is being erected by Abu Contractors, is estimated to cost $500m (about sh985b).

"Our target is to finish at least a floor per month. At the same time, we are making sure we do not achieve this target at the expense of durability," an official added.

Once completed, he added, the hotel is expected to create 1,000 jobs for Ugandans.

Hanyurwa said: "We do not believe in employing many foreigners. We shall train local workers and employ them."

About the five former workers who perished in an accident when a lift at the construction site collapsed last December, Hanyurwa said preparations to compensate the bereaved families were on.

He said negative media reports were the biggest challenge they had faced since the project kicked off.

"We are happy the Government has supported our investment."

He, and other officials, declined to comment on the conflict with their former lawyer, Muzamiru Kibedi of Kibedi & Co. Advocates over payment of $2.5m (about sh5b) in legal fees.

Last year, they clashed with the lawyer over fees. Kibedi allegedly claimed he was not paid for services he rendered to the investors in securing a $41.5m loan from the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa in 2006, a claim Aya denied.

"We shall comment on that when the right time comes. This is not the appropriate forum," said Hanyurwa.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902110083.html)

Nigeria: FG Assures On River Niger Dredging
Chris Ochayi

18 February 2009

Abuja - The Federal Government yesterday declared that it was committed to ensure the completion of the dredging of the 574-kilometre Lower River Niger from Warri to Baro and the execution of the Kano-Lagos rail project this year.Minister of Transport, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio, who stated these yesterday while inaugurating the newly-appointment chairmen and members of the board of parastatals under the ministry in Abuja, said these were two key projects that President Umaru Yar'Adua would like to see its completion in 2009 as a non-negotiable priority.

Bio added that there was urgent need also to complete the central rail system from Ajaokuta to Warri and on the medium term, to rehabilitate the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line in addition to the procurement of new locomotives to awaken the rail system once again in this country.

He said: "As you all know, the transport sector is vital to the socio-economic, political and strategic development of any country. It represents the veins, arteries, channels and tracks through which the economic life-blood of any nation runs."

The transport sector, according to him, requires to be strategically repositioned in order to play its role as a catalyst to our economic growth and development".

"There is no doubt also that any meaningful strategy that can battle and win the war against poverty and unemployment by the Federal Government, or any government where-ever in the universe, has to recognize that fixing the transport sector remains sine-qua-non to any quest for meaningful economic growth and development such as it is envisioned in our country's vision 2020".

Identifying factors militating against achieving sustainable transport sector development since he assumed office, Alhaji Bio said absence of, or lack of focus in the enforcement of laws/rules in policy implementation, e.g, ineffective planning in the management of trade/commerce in Ports and Waterways sub-sectors.

He also identified other hiccups to include non-performance of budgetary provisions by a number of the agencies, which has led to the truncation of the execution of vital projects meant to make life easier for the ordinary Nigerian.

Noting the inauguration event marked another step in the march towards the sustainable development of the nation's transport sector, the minister called on the board members to join hands with the ministry to realise the dream of transforming the transport sector.

Chairman of the Board of Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Chief Tony Anenih who spoke on behalf of other Chairmen and members of the boards under the ministry, said they are going to justify the confidence reposed on them by the Federal government.

The former Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), also promised that the teams would perform their functions without fear or favour.

Other boards chairmen inaugurated include, Dr. Bello Haliru Mohammed, Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), A.T Turner, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Senator Baba Tella, NIMASA, Mrs. Mariam Ali, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Lulu-Briggs, Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN) and Captain S.P Poopola, Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT).

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902180535.html)

Togo: Can a Second Green Revolution Work?
18 February 2009

Lome — After emerging from years of donor sanctions, plummeting harvests and persistent food shortages, Togo has pledged to invest US$178 million to revive the agriculture sector, which employs two-thirds of the population. Farmers who lived through 1970s agricultural reforms told IRIN they hope this time the effects last longer.

"As overjoyed as we are by the government's promises, it is very important that the government be vigilant in managing this programme so as to not repeat past errors," said Baba Djabakatié, president of the National Federation of Cotton Producers.

Take one

After a series of droughts and resulting food shortages in the 1970s, then President Eyadéma Gnassingbé launched what he called a "green revolution" to increase local production. Radio broadcasts and street signs promoted the "return to the countryside", with slogans "Produce more - the land will not let us down" and "Each Togolese will depend less on imports."

In the early 1980s the reforms helped boost Togo's agricultural production enabling it to start exporting cotton, according to government reports.

But the improvements did not last long, according to former Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Anani Akakpo-Ahianyo, who served during the reforms. "The land was still not cultivable, producers not trained and rural roads not constructed to link the countryside to markets." He added that political turmoil that broke out in the 1990s curtailed agricultural reforms.

Political violence led to donors cutting back or pulling out in protest of widespread human rights abuses, including security crackdowns during the 2005 presidential polls.

But for Akakpo-Ahianyo, the agriculture sector was a victim not only of political violence but also of "poor planning and bad management" under the former president.

Take two

In the latest push, the Togolese government on 30 January convened donors in Kara, 420km north of the capital Lomé, to remind donors of the "funds, technical assistance and materials" needed to launch agricultural changes, said Minister of Cooperation Gilbert Bawara. Donors represented included the World Bank, West African Development Bank, International Monetary Fund, UN Food and Agriculture Organization, European Union, UN Development Programme, French Development Agency and Islamic Bank of Development.

Donors have agreed to give Togo $57 million for agriculture in 2009, for fertilisers, research, training for farmers, creating producer associations and improving yields - with a focus on rice, according to Minister of Agriculture Messan Ewovor.

Rice grower Paul Ahianyo told IRIN his field, 45km northwest of Lomé, is cut off from the closest market and has no equipment. "We do not have any roads to transport our products [to market]."

The Agriculture Minister said 90 tractors have been sent to rural zones for shared use and that farmers will receive 25,000 metric tons of fertiliser in early March - the beginning of the 2009 growing season.

An estimated four million people work in agriculture based on the 2006 government census.

In its agricultural production strategy for 2008-2010 the government targeted cocoa, coffee, fish and rice as ways to improve livelihoods and reduce malnutrition. A 2006 government study showed 26 percent malnutrition among under-five children. The UN is working with the government to update this survey.

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has said unless major changes are made with the way food is produced and handled around the world, food crises could worsen in the years to come.

In Matékpo, 95km northeast of Lomé, IRIN spoke with farmer Sam Kossi in February as he prepared for the planting season. "I am praying this agriculture revitalisation is a real success," he said. "Perhaps we will have a real chance to escape poverty this time."

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902180842.html)

Nigeria: Rivers to Spend 188 Million Euros (About 242 Millions Dollars) On PH Mono-Rail
George Onah

19 January 2009

Port Harcourt - The Rivers State Government plans to spend 188 million Euros on the construction of a mono-rail in Port Harcourt and has earmarked one billion naira for a cable stayed bridge and ring road in the city.

The government has also asked the newly created Ministry of Niger Delta to assist the state government in the construction of the projects.

For the mono-rail, the government said it would aid in easing the transportation difficulties currently encountered by the people because of the sacking of commercial motorcyclists from Port Harcourt.

Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi told Chief Ufot Ekaete when the minister visited Port Harcourt, last weekend, that the Federal government had abandoned the state in terms of citing projects in the state, pointing out that it was a serious problem that must be resolved immediately.

"We think that part of the solution to that problem is to build a monorail that will be able to handle mass transportation of people and we will commence as soon as the Assembly passes the Appropriation Bill into law and we wish that you can partner with us".

Amaechi said it was regrettable that the topography of the area had made the cost of road construction so expensive, explaining that the state was the only one with about 3000 creeks, "causing people untold sufferings".

Particularly, he told Ekaete that many lives had been lost in the state as a result of cholera outbreak emanating from the pollution of the environment. He then begged the federal government to clean up the environment for the sake of the people.

He then identified unemployment, poverty, lack of infrastructural development and non-enforcement of the law as the factors responsible for the crisis in the Niger Delta, expressing the hope that the minister would use his experience to muster the necessary political will to find solutions to the problems.

Ekaete on his part agreed that the budget to the ministry this year was paltry in comparison with the myriad of problems but that it was better to start from somewhere and with what was available "and ask for more later because there is no time to waste".

He warned that some thieves who would come in the name of being contractors will be brought on their knees "because any project not properly executed in accordance with acceptable standards would be promptly terminated and the contractor and those connected thith the shoddy jobs prosecuted and public funds recovered."

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200901191455.html)

Link: http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090222/FOREIGN/961179336/1135


‘A gateway for investors in Africa’
Matt Brown, Foreign Correspondent

http://adimg.sv.publicus.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=AD&Date=20090222&Category=FOREIGN&ArtNo=961179336&Ref=AR&Profile=1135&MaxW=300
The Djibouti port, which saw commissioning of a new terminal this month, will be able to move 1.5 million containers a year.

DJIBOUTI // In November, four Super Post Panamax ship-to-shore cranes arrived at the port of Djibouti. Three months later, the massive cranes are busy offloading 65-tonne containers from a Chinese ship.

Two more cranes are expected this month, completing the expansion of Djibouti’s port, which is run by a Dubai company. While Djibouti sits in the middle of a dangerous maritime area, its port remains the lifeline of this Red Sea state’s economy.

“The port is the most important activity in Djibouti’s economy,” said Zeinab Ali, the executive director of Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority. “It’s the economy’s engine.”

The new container terminal of Doraleh, which opened this month, is operated by Dubai-based DP World, one of the largest marine terminal operators in the world. Besides the port, UAE companies have invested in Djiboutian hotels, free trade zones and operate Djibouti’s customs.

“We have invested both financial and human resources in Djibouti over the past nine years as part of our long-term commitment to our partnership here,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the DP World chairman. “That investment in efficient infrastructure has helped stimulate the economy and supported trade, which in turn has benefited our business. But importantly, it has created jobs, created wealth and created opportunities for young Djiboutians.”

With less than one per cent arable land and few minerals to speak of, Djibouti’s economy relies almost entirely on the service sector, and its modern port is the centrepiece of that sector. Djibouti is strategically located at the mouth of the Red Sea on one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. Ships going from Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal must pass by Djibouti, making the port a prime transhipping location.

“The advantage we have is our location,” said Aden Douale, chairman of the port authority. “Most of the world’s traffic is going to pass through us. Djibouti is in an ideal position.”

When it is at full capacity, the port will be able to move 1.5 million containers per year, making it one of the busiest ports in Africa. But before the supertankers can dock at the port in Djibouti, before the giant cranes can begin moving around cargo, the ships must navigate the pirate-infested Gulf of Aden, some of the most dangerous waters in the world.

Last year, pirates off the coast of Somalia attacked more than 100 vessels and hijacked dozens. Ship owners paid ransoms of up to US$3 million (Dh11m) for the release of their boats. The territorial waters of Djibouti, which is next door to Somalia, have not experienced the pirate scourge. But some shipping companies have avoided Djibouti and the Red Sea recently for the safer but longer route around the Cape of Good Hope.

Nigeria: Total Expresses Interest in $12 Billion Trans-Sahara Gas Pipeline Project
Chika Amanze-Nwachuku

26 February 2009

Lagos — French oil giant, Total, has expressed interest in participating in the $12 billion Trans-Saharan gas pipeline project.

With the execution of the project, Nigerian gas is expected to get to the European market by 2015.

Already, Niger Republic had been admitted as a co-sponsor of the pipeline project, which is about 4,400km long, while Russian gas giant, Gazprom and the Algerian National Oil Company (SONATRACH) had indicated interest in the project.

Managing Director of Total Exploration and Production in Nigeria, Guy Maurice, who spoke at the ongoing Nigerian Oil and Gas conference in Abuja said the pipeline would be a long-term strategic investment for Nigeria, adding that "Total is ready to be involved in this project".

The project said to be commercially viable is seen by European governments as a potential route to reducing their dependence on Russian energy.

Reports yesterday had it that Gazprom's interest in the scheme was part of a wider strategy of gaining access to Nigeria's vast gas reserves, seen as crucial to future energy security in Europe and the US.

According to the report, Total's announcement suggests western energy companies are also starting to look seriously at the pipeline in spite of the huge technical and commercial challenges of pumping gas from Nigeria's restive Niger Delta to export terminals on Algeria's Mediterranean coast.

Disruptions in Russian supplies to Europe had heightened anxiety in the EU, which depends on Russia for a quarter of its annual gas consumption of 300 billion cubic metres. The planned Trans-Sahara pipeline could provide 20-30 billion cubic metres", the report added.

Gazprom signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) September last year to cooperate on gas exploration, production and transportation.

The Russian gas monopoly said it would start work in Nigeria by investing at least $2.5 billion to develop government plans to build a network of pipelines and processing plants to harness gas for local use.

"We're continuing to say that though we are very interested in the trans-Saharan pipeline, trans-Saharan starts after the Nigerian gas grid is completed," Managing Director of Gazprom's subsidiary in Nigeria, Vladimir Ilyanin, told the conference.

SONATRACH had last week expressed interest in the pipeline project, although a consortium to build the project has yet to emerge.

Ilyanin disclosed that Gazprom would be willing to consider working with other companies, including Total, to make the pipeline a reality.

Gazprom's offer to develop Nigeria's domestic gas industry appeals directly to the ambitions of Umaru Yar'Adua, Nigeria's president, who has made harnessing gas to fuel local power generation and industry a priority since he came to power in May, 2007.

Nigeria's government has long complained that Western majors such as Total, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron and ExxonMobil have been content to export the country's oil and gas while doing little to ensure the energy spurs development in Nigeria.

This Day (http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=136698)

Nigeria: FG Increases Agric Budget By 12 Percent
Ayodele Samuel

26 February 2009

Lagos — Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources, Dr. Sayyadi Abba Ruma has said that the Federal Government has increased the country's agricultural budget by 12 per cent to achieve the vision 2020 goal.

The minister, who was represented by the Minister of State, Mrs Akuabate Njeze made this remark when a trade delegation from Argentina visited him in Abuja to express their intentions to partner with Nigeria in the agricultural sector.

Ruma stress that about N244 billion has been set aside for the agriculture Special Intervention SIF Fund programme aimed at generating employment and ensuring food security the mainstream of the President Umaru Yar'Adua's administration.

The minister, however, stated that the partnership idea was a welcome development and that the country was always ready to partner with any country in order to bring about desired development.

He expressed delight that Argentina , a country rich in agriculture, especially in livestock processing, was ready to partner with Nigeria to boost the economy.

Speaking earlier, the head of the delegation, Ambassador Empire Nduka Kanu, promised the introduction of good farming technology such as tractor to the country to aid farmers.

He said that if the partnership is reached, tractors worth $20-60,000 would be imported, adding that they were engaging in tractors because it would generate wealth and alleviate poverty.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902260459.html)

Mozambique: Cahora Bassa and Mpanda Nkuwa dams may provide more energy to Southern Africa
Maputo, Mozambique, 23 Feb – Mozambique may provide an additional 6,000 megawatts to Souther Africa’s energy resources by 2014 as new investments are made, the Mozambican prime minister said Friday in Maputo.

Luísa Diogo told the Reuters news agency that Mozambique had potential to provide energy to the Southern African region, where investments projects are being abandoned due to cuts in electricity supply.

The projects include the second phase of the Cahora Bassa Hydroelectric facility, which will produce 2,000 megawatts of electricity, the Mpanda Nkuwa hydroelectric dam, which may produce 1,500 megawatts of electricity and the Moatize power plant with expected production of 2,500 megawatts.

“Over the next five to six years if we can invest in these projects we could contribute 6,000 megawatts to Southern Africa via the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP),” the prime minister said.

Diogo also said she hoped that foreign investors would put invest in the country’s hydroelectric potential, which is estimated to total 14,000 megawatts, particularly in the provinces of Manica, Tete and Niassa.

The Cahora Bassa hydroelectric dam currently provides 60 percent of the energy it produces to South Africa’s Eskom, 35 percent to Zimbabwe’s Zesa and to Mozambique, which consumes the remaining 5 percent.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=6931)

Rwanda: Railway Construction to Begin Next Year - Bihire
Robert Mugabe

26 February 2009

Kigali — The long awaited construction of the railway line that will connect Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania will begin next year. The development was confirmed Tuesday by the Minister of Infrastructure, Linda Bihire, during an exclusive interview, with The New Times.

She said that the construction had been planned to begin from Isaka in Tanzania, to Kigali but due to the upgrading of the infrastructure currently going on there, construction works will begin from Dar es Salaam and will kick-off at the beginning of 2010.

"The project is promising and exciting; all stakeholders are positive and responding. Very soon we will have a cheap link to our neighbours which will ease movement of goods and people," Bihire reiterated.

She added that the project is facilitated by the three countries and implementation will be based on equity share, based on the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model which was adopted for the development of the railway line.

Bihire said that upon completion, the railway line will create jobs for Rwandans and ease the burden of expensive transportation of goods and personnel.

She revealed that next month, a roundtable will be convened in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa bringing together the three partner States and African Development Bank; the main development partner in the Multi-million project, to discuss the feasibility report that will be delivered by TPS Engineering.

"The railway will be locomotive but there is a possibility of switching it to electrical. It's a standard gauge moving 120KMH different from the one now operating in Tanzania which is narrow gauge," Bihire said.

The cost of the project is estimated at between $2.7bn and 3.5bn.

The three governments have agreed to establish a Joint Technical Monitoring Committee (JTMC) responsible for monitoring and managing the technical aspects while Rwanda has been tasked with coordinating the railway project.

The New Times (http://www.newtimes.co.rw/index.php?issue=13818&article=13706)

South Africa: 'Promising Market' for Hydro Turbines
Siseko Njobeni

26 February 2009

Johannesburg — Sub-Saharan Africa's focus on the potential of hydropower is opening up a potentially lucrative market for hydro turbine suppliers, according to energy consultants Frost & Sullivan.

Notwithstanding the abundance of natural energy resources such as sunlight and water, investment in renewable energy in the region has remained low. But Frost & Sullivan yesterday said the hydro turbine market in sub-Saharan Africa earned revenues of $120m in 2007 and was expected to reach $425m by 2013.

Africa was turning to hydropower sources to avert the rising cost of thermal power production. The fluctuating international prices of coal and oil rendered electricity generation in Africa expensive, it said.

"The hydro turbine market in Africa has embarked on a high growth trajectory owing to the region's new focus on refurbishing existing plants and building new hydropower plants. This strategy has been aimed at reducing the region's reliance on coal and oil power generation," company research analyst Moses Duma said.

Sub-Saharan Africa was expected to build additional hydropower generation capacity of at least 20165MW by 2014. Frost & Sullivan said several African governments were taking advantage of the readily available hydro resources to broaden their energy mix and reduce their overdependence on thermal sources, which are susceptible to international commodity prices.

"However, the siz able initial capital required to build new hydropower plants as well as the stringent requirements for environmental assessments are tarnishing the attractiveness of hydropower projects, especially for cash-strapped state utilities," the company said.

Business Day (http://www.businessday.co.za/articles/topstories.aspx?ID=BD4A947458)

Angola: German company studies hydroelectric projects in Huambo
Huambo, Angola, 23 Feb – A study on the water potential of the Kuando Hydroelectric dam in Angola’s Huambo province is due to be carried out by Gauff Ingenieure Africa, a subsidiary of German group Gauff Ingenieure.

At the Kuando dam, 13 kilometres to the east of the city of Huambo, drinking water ducts will be set up in order to supply the neighbourhoods of Cruzeiro and Cambiote (on the outskirts of the city).

Speaking to Angolan news agency Angop, the provincial director of Energy and Water, Adolfo Elias, said that Gauff planned to support the Huambo provincial government in building mini hydroelectric facilities in the municipalities of Ekunha, Bailundo and Alta-Hama, to provide electricity.

With thsi in mind two Gauff engineers surveyed the hydroelectric potential of those municipalities, so that, as they develop other municipalities with good water resources can be covered, Elias said.

The government and Gauff signed a protocol with a view to the company being involved in the drinking water and electricity supply sectors.

Gauff has been working in Angola for over two years on inspecting reconstruction work on roads and supporting projects related to energy and water, agriculture, and hotels and tourism.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=6932)

Nigeria: 6,000mw - NNPC Guarantees 2 Billion Cubic Ft of Gas Daily
Ese Awhotu

25 February 2009

Abuja — The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has announced specific plans in place and rigorously tracked to deliver about two billion cubic feet of gas daily to support the delivery of the 6000mw of power targeted by the federal government by end of 2009.

Announcing the plans yesterday at the ongoing 2009 Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference, the group managing director of the NNPC, Alhaji Sanusi Barkindo, said, "In addition, supply development will be done in a framework that supports commerciality.

"NNPC is leading a major reform of the gas sector. Specifically, plans are in place and rigorously tracked to deliver 2bcf/d by end 2009.This gas volumes will support the delivery of the 6GW power target by end 2009."

Speaking on the transformation of the NNPC, Barkindo said the corporation is set to be an international national oil company and its vision would be realized in three critical steps, which are not mutually exclusive, the first being focused on weathering the short term storm.

"In the short term we will focus on securing our revenue base and begin to incubate the plans for medium and long term growth. We will re-tune the organization for performance, accountability and growth and we will lunch NNPC as a major international national oil company," he explained.

In another development, the NNPC yesterday signed a $1.691billion joint venture agreement with Shell Producing Development Company for the Gbaran Ugbie gas project in Bayelsa State.

Barkindo, who signed on behalf of the NNPC, described the project as a very important one being a source of fixed stocks for the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

According to him, "It is the fastest growing LNG facility in the world. The life time of the project is 30 years and first production is expected in 2010."

On the current economic crunch, Barkindo stated, "I am confident that, working together, we will be able to survive the storm".

The managing director of SPDC, Engr. Motu Sunmonu, who signed on behalf of Shell, said the agreement was the single largest modified carriage agreement signed so far. He disclosed that since May last year a total of $3 billion agreements have been signed between Shell and NNPC.

He said the loan would generate significant wealth and employment as he called for the settlement of all outstanding matters.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902250513.html)

Mozambique: Petromoc to invest in increasing fuel storage capacity
Maputo, Mozambique, 24 Feb – Petroleos de Mozambique (Petromoc) will continue to invest in increasing fuel storage capacity this year in the country’s three regions, company chairman, Mateus Kathupa has said.

Quoted by the Maputo newspaper, Noticias, Katupha, who did not reveal figures, said that the initiative is part of a series of challenges his company faces this year including the opening of new service stations, the exploration of gas condensate fields, as well as the construction of an oil pipeline to take petroleum products from the port of Matola to the industrial region of Nelspruit, in South Africa.

In the case of the oil pipeline from Petromoc’s facilities in Matola to South Africa, extending 450km and with a capacity of five million cubic metres per year, he said that work would begin the end of this year.

The main impact from this project is the reduction of delays at the port of Maputo, as well as gains from the use of the port infrastructures, with the increase in operative efficiency, reduction in thefts and the consequent reduction of costs and fuel prices.

With an estimated investment of US$537 million, the project will be operational between 2010 and 2011.

In the gas condensation field, it is hoped that Petromoc’s involvement will bring about solutions for the transformation of the natural gas from Pande and Temane into cooking gas to supply principally the domestic market.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=6938)

Liberia: Monrovia Street Rehabilitation Formally Launched
26 February 2009

Monrovia — President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has formally launched the commencement of road rehabilitation for the streets of Monrovia, reminding Liberians that benefits from her travels to mobilize resources are now paying off.

Speaking Thursday at a ground breaking ceremony to commence the project, the President expressed appreciation to Liberia's international partners for the overwhelming response to the country's development programs. The rehabilitation of roads, the President said, is not only restricted to Monrovia but covers other parts of the country.

The Liberian leader called for patience and understanding, noting that the successful implementation of the projects will require money, skills, talents, time and cooperation.

Amid cheers by workers, the President also urged the Chinese contracting firm, CICO, to foster strong partnership with the workers for a smooth implementation of the project. "All the workers want is to have a decent pay," the Liberian leader reminded the Chinese firm.

Also speaking at the occasion were the Minister of Public Works, Mr. Loseni Dunzo, World Bank Country Representative Ohene Nyanin, and Chinese Ambassador Zhou Yuxiao. They men assured the Liberian leader of their institutions' cooperation in ensuring the successful implementation of the road rehabilitation project.

The rehabilitation work which has already commenced is expected to be completed in two years. The rehabilitation will cover all major streets in Monrovia including the Caldwell to St. Paul Bridge road. The project, estimated at nearly US $16-million, is being funded by the World Bank. It is being supervised by the Ministry of Public Works.

Meanwhile, the President has urged residents of Monrovia to support current clean up efforts being carried out by women groups in the city. The President again reminded individuals erecting makeshift and other structures in the city that Government will enforce the zoning laws of the city. She appealed to those concerned for their cooperation. "We have to keep this city cleaned so that we all can be proud of it," President Johnson Sirleaf reminded residents as she made stops along the streets of Monrovia to thank the women and other volunteers for the hard work.

The President also toured the Jallah Town road project which is now nearing completion.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902260956.html)

South Africa: Construction At King Shaka Airport Advancing
24 February 2009

Durban — Construction of the King Shaka international airport in Durban is on track, especially with regards to the construction of the air traffic control tower, cargo and terminal buildings, says Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).

"We are on track with the milestones that we have set ourselves. The project is now looking like the vision we had. I am extremely proud of our achievements so far," said Sean van der Valk, Project Manager at ACSA in a statement on Monday.

The construction site has been a hive of activity, despite civil works at the aprons and main access road having been brought to a halt due to the rainy weather over the past four months.

Various specialist teams have been busy locally and internationally testing some of the bulk infrastructure such as the air bridges, baggage systems, cargo systems and public parking systems.

The bulk of the electrical works and fuel pipelines are currently being completed to ensure the road changes that are currently taking place on the access and road interchange will be finished on time.

Mr van der Valk said all concrete work in the terminal building should be completed by the end of March 2009 with the exception of the southern ramp and underpass.

"The structural steel is progressing well with the roof sheeting having commenced on the main terminal this month on the northern airside corridor. The manufacture of all 16 passenger boarding bridges has been completed," he said.

The terminal floor plan has been approved following consultations with stakeholders and possible tenants of office space within the terminal.

"The cargo handling teams have commenced with their program with the first sections of the ULD rack structures already installed in the building together with the construction of the aprons around the cargo building already started in January 2009," said Mr van der Valk.

The mobilisation of the Glidepath baggage handling system has been completed with the first sections of the baggage conveyor already positioned on the arrivals mezzanine level.

Parking facilities at the airport is 80 percent complete.

Construction of the roof of air traffic control tower is being completed after the tower was hoisted in December. Further consultations are taking place with Air Traffic and Navigation Systems (ATNS) to review their requirements in terms on the internal layout.

The runway, taxiway and aprons projects are progressing well with the bulk earthworks and layer works on schedule.

As the construction of the new airport is taking shape, ACSA is busy with other areas that are critically related to the project, said Mr van fder Valk. These include the operational readiness and relocation program that will assist ACSA and the relevant stakeholders to plan and implement the transition from the current site to the new airport by the deadline.

ACSA has also, in line with the project program, advertised and issued tenders for the retail opportunities at the airport consisting of shops and car rental. The retail tenders were issued at the ICC last week when about 800 people were present at a public session.

Once the tenders have gone through a strict evaluation process the successful business tenants will need to move on site by the beginning of August 2009.

Terence Delomoney, General Manager of Durban International and National Airports said ACSA was keeping a watchful eye on the progress of the project. "We are happy with the achievements so far. Our teams are ensuring that all operational and statutory processes will be adhered to and complied with so that we are able to meet the deadline."

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902240500.html)

Rwanda: Rwf40 Billion Worth of Bonds to Support Kigali City 'Master Plan'
John Gahamanyi

27 February 2009

Kigali — According to officials, Kigali City is issuing the first ever municipal bond in East Africa.

Officials say the bond will be listed on the Rwanda-over-the-Counter Market by late March or early April

Kigali City Council (KCC) will borrow Rwf40 billion from the public by issuing municipal bonds for the next three years. Municipal bonds are debt obligations issued by states, cities and other governmental entities to raise money to build schools, highways, hospitals and sewer systems, as well as many other projects for the public good.

If one purchases a municipal bond, he or she is lending money to an issuer who promises to pay a specified amount of interest (usually paid semi-annually) and return the principal to the purchaser on a specific maturity date.

According to officials Kigali City is issuing the first ever municipal bond in East Africa. Bruno Rangira, KCC's Director of Communications said the bond should be listed on the Rwanda-over-the- counter market by late March or early April.

Rangira said that the city's administration has not yet decided the coupon rate for the 8 year bonds. But he believes it is likely to be between 10 percent and 11 percent.

"We are waiting for the final draft of the business plan," he said.

The move could attract a large number of investors who will be paying attention to the high interest income associated with it. It will also offer more investment alternatives on the Rwanda-over-the-Counter market (ROTCM).

At present, amongst all bonds listed on the Rwanda OTC market, the Commercial Bank of Rwanda (BCR) corporate bond offers highest interest rates. It has a coupon rate of nine percent.

Issuing the municipal bonds will help Kigali City to raise funds required to finance its various commitment in the embedded 50 year renewable Kigali Master Plan which was launched recently.

The city is supposed to avail water, electricity, roads and sewage systems in the proposed areas and then sell the projects to investors for further development.

KCC has already contracted Dyer & Blair Securities, as the sponsoring broker to carry out the proposal of the bond and authorities said by listing they expect no shocks resulting from the offer despite Rwanda's high inflation rate.

Kigali's new central business district is part of the projects area that have been lined up for development. According to the Kigali City, the city has now engaged qualified consultants to implement this phase of the master plan.

OZ International from USA and SCE-SURBANA from Singapore have been contracted to effectively develop detailed physical plans for immediate zones.

The zones includes the Kimihurura Gateway for the development of commercial, tourism and recreation facilities in Kimihurura, a commercial district at Muhima and Kimicanga and Akumunigo Development Zone for a self sufficient residential hub in Nyamirambo-Nyarugenge.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200902270196.html)

Nigeria: FG Approves N340 Billion for Power Projects
Ayodele Samuel

10 March 2009

Lagos — The Minster of Power, Dr. Riliwan Babalola, has disclosed the Federal Government's approval of the sum of N340 billion for the execution of various National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) in the country.The minister said that N300 billion out of the money was approved for the National Independent Power Projects (NIPP), and the remaining N40 billion would be an intervention fund.

Speaking in Lagos, the minister disclosed that the duration of the project is from 2006 till 2009. In the framework of the projects, Babalola said several power stations would be built. These include; Ihovbor Power Station Benin, Edo State, with the capacity of 4 x 125MW, Calabar Power Station, Cross River State, with the capacity of 5 x 125MW, Egbema Power Station, Imo State, with the capacity of 3 x 125MW, Gbarain Power Station, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State with the capacity of 2 x 125MW, and Sapele Power Station, Delta State, with the capacity of 4 x 125MW.

He expressed optimism that the gas shortage will soon end, "with the completion of some major gas projects like Afam 6, own by Shell', Babalola added that his ministry would look at hydropower to generate additional icity. He said, "i don't think there is any state in the North which does not have a dam. The issue now is that these dams have been lying there for more than 20 years without being annexed into generating electricity.

We are going to look at these dams and see the ones with which we can generate additional electricity." He stressed that power stations needed at least one billion standard cubic feet of gas supply per day to be able to deliver the 6000 mega watts targets by December, 2009. Babalola said that that the major problem facing the sector is gas as it only get about 400 to 500 standard cubic feet of gas per day from the Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) which affects its output distributions and generations.

He stressed that to meet the 6,000MW target of electricity at the end of this year, government has decided to beat a fast retreat to the nation's much-maligned dams and the hydro system of power generation. "If it is our gas that goes to Spain and positive things are happening to their electricity, questions are needed to be asked. 'If we can build a gas pipeline from Nigeria to Ghana and there is no gas pipeline from Port Harcourt to Abuja , it shows that something is wrong." he said.

Babalola said his ministry would soon take a survey of all dams in the country that are currently not utilised for power generation, with a view to co-opting them into its strategies for improved electricity supply nationwide. The minister stressed that diversification in the power sector had become necessary in order to expand the scope of electricity generation in the country. "We are going to diversify by using what we have to get power. We will identify existing dams across the country for this purpose.

"The ministry will work on existing Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) facilities to generate about 1000MW more, which would be lumped with the current available capacity of 4000MW and1000MW from Independent Power Projects (IPP) to bring total output to 6000MW", he disclosed. He said that government investment in the power sector would cut across generation, transmission and distribution to achieve the 6000MW target.Babalola also noted that gas was critical to the success of power generation in the country, saying that although PHCN currently has the capacity to generate 4000MW; lack of gas had militated against the energy firm.

Leadership (http://leadershipnigeria.com/news/119/ARTICLE/7940/2009-03-10.html)

Nigeria: Indigenes to Raise N10 Billion for Mega City Project
'Lola Adewoyin

23 March 2009

Lagos — Ambra Investicorp Trust Ltd, an investment company promoted by League of Anambra Professionals (LAP), has unveiled its private placement offer of shares to raise N10 billion for the planned, sustained and sustainable development of Anambra State.

At the event, AMBRA presented the phase one of the project which involves raising N10 billion of the One trillion naira needed to develop the state into a mega status by the year 2030.

AMBA, whose vision is to make Anambra the most industirlaised and commercialised state in Nigeria by setting up world class businesses, thereby creating a modern, free and safe state, intends to make the state attractive to investors and other high quality person from other parts of the country.

In a speech read by Coodinating Director, AMBRA Investicorp, Dr Ndi Onuekwusi, the model is a hybrid of Israeli and Dubai developments adapted to the state's circumstances. "We must necessarily operate within the mcro and macro economic conditions of Nigeria as well as an uncertain local political environment," he said.

He said development of the state shall be in phases. "The sequencing of projects in each phase shall be to maximize knock-on effects and synergy. We shall have projects that are enabling, catalizing as well as producing. All projects must be profitable and shall be in three major sectors of, primary sector of agriculture and raw materials, manufacturing and services," Onuekwusi said.

At the event were prominent Anambra indigenes, including the state Governor, Peter Obi, Dr A.B.C. Orjiakor and Managing Director, Capital Oil and Gas, Mr Ifeanyi Uba, who donated N1billion which will be spread within 10 years.

This Day (http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=138887)

Mozambique: Sea container terminal projected at port of Nacala
Nacala, Mozambique, 23 March – A sea container terminal may soon be built at the port of Nacala to process container cargo from the northern Indian Ocean, said Fernando Couto, the chief executive of the Northern Development Corridor (CDN).

According to Mozambican newspaper Notícias, Couto said that there were solid prospects that the Project would go ahead, although the country had competition from other countries in Southern Africa such as the Comoros Islands and Mauritius for carrying it out.

Couto added that the board of the CDN, the body that manages the facility, was currently working with other partners in order to make the project viable.

“The port of Nacala is situated in a strategic area of the Indian Ocean, with the best natural conditions and thus it can be the future container terminal for the southern parto f Africa,” he said.

Couto announced other projects that were underway and that could make the port more profitable, specifically the banana plantation Project at Namialo, which could soon begin exporting large quantities of bananas via the port.

“When the main buyers with whom we have been in contact begin to export bananas, in December of this year, we will have around 145 containers per week leaving Mozambique for the Middle Eastern market, essentially, and also for the southern European market," he noted.

Macau Hub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7095)

Nigeria: Delta State Gov. Partners Italian Power Firm
Victor Efeizomor

21 March 2009

Asaba — Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has held a preliminary discussion with the Italian electricity power giant, ENEL, on how to build and generate 250 megawatts of electricity in the state based on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

The Italian company is the second largest electricity company in the world.

Uduaghan, in a meeting with some of the company officials, led by the vice president of the ENEL group, Mr. Pablo Muscati, which also included the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Massimo Baisistwech, had in attendance Nigeria's ambassador to Italy, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediawa as well as Mr. Alfred Okoigun of Arco Petrochemical limited, the co-sponsor of Warri Industrial Business Park.

Uduaghan decried the less than 100 megawatts of electricity the state receives from the national grid.

He said Delta State was prepared to utilise its abundant gas reserves which constitute 40% of the nation's gas reserves to power electricity for the growth and development of the state and the country at large.

He said the state in other to achieve power stability is exploring all avenues including partnering with the Federal government in the implementation of the National Independent Power Project. "We are working towards achieving 150 megawatts per day of electricity and to do this we have paid for the turbine that will give us about 24 megawatts, we are negotiating for another one or two turbines that will give the balance" he further disclosed.

He said despite efforts by some energy companies like, "Shell Petroleum Development Company and Chevron that do their own power productions, they have a lot of short falls in what they are producing, they will readily take up any power generated", he said.

On other plans and strategies to attract investors to the state, Uduaghan said that the Warri Industrial Business Park will be equipped to an international standard, stressing that the development of deep sea ports including the Koko Export Processing Zone will be given priority.

The vice president of the ENEL group, Mr. Pablo Muscati impressed by Uduaghan's presentation, explained that his company was interested in exploring for gas and would be willing to partner with the state government to boost its power supply. He said his company has a vast business interest in Eastern Europe and Latin America and would want to explore new markets in Africa.

He explained that in his group because of its interest in exploring for gas has held discussion with vice president, Dr Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Nigerian's Ambassador to Italy, Crown Prince Erediauwa, said the power problem in Nigeria will be solved if the partnership with the Italian company is properly harnessed. He commended the Warri Industrial Business Park, stressing that project will promote the economic development of Nigeria.

This Day (http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=138713)

Nigeria: Akwa Ibom Govt Spends N150 Billion On Roads
21 March 2009

Lagos — Akwa Ibom State Government has spent more than N150 billion on roads since 2007. The state Commissioner for Information and Social Re-orientation Commissioner, Mr Aniekan Umanah, said N81 billion out of the amount was spent on federal roads in the state.

The state government, he said, had also constructed and rehabilitated more than 27 roads in Ikot Ekpene, 49 in Eket, 21 in Oron and 18 in Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas.

"We have taken delivery of 31 tractors for distribution to all the council areas under the Rural and Infrastructure Roads Maintenance Agency to ensure functional socio-economic infrastructure in the state," he added.

On education, he said more than N8 billion was spent in 2008 on the Free and Compulsory Education Scheme.

To boost the morale of teachers under the scheme, he said the state government decided to pay additional N300 and N100 subvention per term per child to Principals and Head Teachers respectively.

The subvention, according to Umanah, is to enable schools to buy basic needs without placing such financial burden on parents.

Umanah also said the rehabilitation and construction of new classroom blocks in some schools were carried out.

Investigations from the Ministry of Education in Uyo, indicated that with the free education scheme, primary school enrolment would increase to 932,872 from the present 761,422.

It also indicated that post primary enrolment, which stands at 159,099, would increase to 93,601 for Junior Secondary School next year.The commissioner also said the Ibom International Airport would start operation in September 2009, noting that the 4.5kilometre runway was ready.

He added that work was nearing completion on the Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) component of the airport.

Umanah, who expressed worry that the state was under the threat of gully and marine erosion, said N13 billion had already been spent on erosion control in Uyo.

He also said the N2.8 billion Government House in Uyo, which was started in 2008, would be ready in June.

Justifying the pulling down of the former Government House, which was built by retired Col. Yakubu Bako's administration, Umanah said the cost of rehabilitating the former building was too high when compared with building a new one.

This Day (http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=138710)

Uganda: Sh5 Billion Masaka Road Plan Launched
Dismus Buregyeya

22 March 2009

Kampala — A three-year programme to rehabilitate roads in Masaka district has been launched. The sh5b project, funded by the African Development Bank, will cover 180km of roads in Bukulula, Lwengo and Kyanamukaka sub-counties.

Speaking at the launch in Kyanamukaka sub-county on Wednesday, Vincent Ssempijja, the district LC5 chairperson, said three modern markets would also be rehabilitated in the three sub-counties. Local committees had been formed to check shoddy work on roads, Ssempijja said.

He added that families whose crops would be damaged during the exercise would not be compensated.

The district council speaker, David Muzanganda, urged the locals to cooperate with the authorities to ensure that routine road repairs are carried out.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200903230261.html)

Cape Verde: Electra to double production of desalinated water in Praia by the end of the year
Praia, Cape Verde, 23 March – Cape Verdean water and electricity company, Electra plans to double the production capacity of the Palmarejo desalination plant by the end of the year. The plant supplies the city of Praia and its new capacity will total 12,000 cubic metres of water per day.

Speaking to Cape Verdean news agency Inforpress, the director for Production and Distribution for the Southern Region, António Pina, said that Electra was also seeking funding for other projects to double installed capacity in Praia, including assembling a unit with a 5,000 cubic-metre capacity and boosting the water storage system at Monte Babosa.

According to Pina, the Project also aims to boost the water duct that transfers water to the desalination plant, boosting the pumping system from the plant to Monte Babosa and some work to expand the water distribution networks in Praia.

If Electra reaches production of 12,000 cubic metres per day, each of the capital’s residents will have an average of 82 litres of water at their disposal each day, which is an amount higher than that stipulated by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which recommends a minimum of 80 litres per day in small towns and 1,000 litres per day in significantly industrialised cities.

Meanwhile, Electra is preparing to double its desalinated water production capacity in the Summer from 6,200 to 8,600 cubic metres per day in the city of Praia with the installation of two container units with capacity for 2,400 cubic metres per day.

Electra currently operates with two desalinated water production units located at Palmarejo: One belonging to the company with a 5,000 cubic-metre-per-day capacity and another rented from an independent producer, which provides nominal daily production of around 1,2000 cubic metres per day.

Macau Hub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7098)

Angola: Small Scale Model of New Basilica Released

http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/pt_pt/files/highlight/0,d9ec9094-adc3-41c7-a9a0-a966e86d7f2c.jpg

20-03-2009 21:22

Luanda - A small scale model of the Basilica of Our Lady of Muxima was on Friday presented to Pope Benedict XVI, in a ceremony held at the main hall of the Presidential Palace.

The ceremony was attended by the Head of State, José Eduardo dos Santos, government officials and by the Pope's delegation.

Due to the dynamic of the Pope's activity, journalists were not informed on the likely date for the start of the construction works and its costs.

The Basilica was be situated in front of the former chapel that exists since 1645 and dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception, in a dialogue uniting the ancientness of one and monumentality of the other.

Between them shall exist a space capable of hosting 120,000 pilgrims, and the whole area shall be rehabilitated, respecting the local use and the pilgrims.

A concepção arquitectónica da Basílica obedece a princípios conceptuais da geometria do sagrado que projecta duas formas (quadrado/terra e o círculo/céu), a base da simbologia cristã.

The Catholic Church of Our Lady of Muxima is situated in the Muxima village, northern Bengo province, 130 kilometres from Luanda, Angolan capital.

Deriving from the kimbundo vernacular language, the word Muxima means heart. This name was attributed to this sanctuary due its localisation (in the centre of the province, along the coast of the Kwanza River).

The festivity to honour Lady Muxima has been happening every December 08, since 1833. Due to its importance and historic significance, in 1924 the Church of Our Lady of Muxima was considered as a national monument.

Since 1645, or before this date, thousands of people flock annually to its venue to speak about his worries, agonies and desires.

In 2008, the festivities in honour of Our Lady of Muxima gathered about 150,000 pilgrims.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/noticias/sociedade/Maquette-Our-Lady-Muxima-sanctuary-presented,26b309a9-70ee-43c9-838f-887ca7442383.html)

Angola: Housing Industry Seeks to Develop Over 3,000 Acres

23-03-2009 12:41

Huambo - At least three thousand and 600 hectares of reserve land, available in the capitals of 18 provinces of the country will be urbanized by the end of this year, under the National Housing Program, said Saturday in the city of Huambo, the deputy minister of Urban Planning and Housing, José Ferreira.

According to the deputy minister, which ended Saturday a three-day visit to Huambo, the land that these reserves will be developed with funds available in the industry, will join with the other not yet ready to be counted in other municipalities of each province.

The development of those acres, the 100 thousand provided in the 2009/2012 period, will focus on blending the terrain, streets, installation of the system of public lighting, water and waste drainage ditches.

Without specifying the amount available for the implementation of this pilot plan, José Ferreira stressed that the ministry carries out a process of awareness and mobilization of private partners in 18 provinces of the country.

In the city of Huambo, in the context of reserve land, 300 hectares are available that, shortly after the selection of entrepreneurs in the industry are beginning to be developed residential.

Besides the city of Huambo, are also properly defined reserve land in the municipalities of Bailundo CAAL and, pending the pronouncement of other administrations that have to prepare at least 100 hectares for this purpose, whose work will be the responsibility of local authorities, based on plans drawn up by industry.

The national program provides housing in the next four years, building self-directed, not only of a million homes, of which 500 thousand in rural areas, low, medium and high income, an action that will count on the sector private.

During the stay of the delegation of housing and urban development in Huambo training meetings were conducted on terms of reference type, type of institutional organization for management of reserve land and environmental licensing of projects in development.

With the same objective the task of the Ministry of Urban Housing worked before in the provinces of Benguela, Kwanza Sul and Huíla.

Under the national program for housing, urban planning and housing ministry carries out a series of meetings for information and training of local administrators, community, traditional authorities, members of government and business and property developers in various parts of the country, informed the deputy minister, José Ferreira.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/pt_pt/noticias/economia/Sector-Habitacao-pretende-urbanizar-mais-tres-mil-hectares,66cf758d-10d3-42c0-be7f-9f63d597d36a.html)

Rwanda: Government, Donors Commit U.S.$ 228 Million for Energy Sector
James Karuhanga

24 March 2009

Kigali — The national electricity access programme roundtable meeting in Kigali, yesterday, saw government and donors commit to developing the country's energy sector.

The government and its development partners raised about US$ 228 million in "new pledges" - over 95 percent of the remaining US$ 240 million required for the five-year programme meant to see access to electricity significantly improved nation-wide.

Prime Minister Bernard Makuza, earlier while presiding over the opening session of the meeting, stressed that this was an "important exercise" for Rwanda since it presents an opportunity to review accomplishments and challenges in enhanced investment in sustainable energy.

"If we are to achieve our long-term vision for socio-economic transformation, affordable and adequate supply of energy has to be a key priority," Makuza had noted.

The Premier also stressed that the present challenge "in terms of access to electricity" is evident, with "only about six percent of our households and businesses" having access to electricity.

"In light of this fact, efforts to achieve our objective - improving lives of our people to the level of a middle income country by 2020 will have to be stepped up significantly."

He underscored that Rwanda has set the target of connecting 350,000 homes by the year 2012.

After the Premier's opening remarks, participants embarked on progress presentations, development partner consultations and a pledging round that saw the $228m raised.

Participants, including World Bank (WB) Country Manager Victoria Kwakwa, were pleased with the outcome.

"The World Bank is very happy to be partnering with Rwanda in the energy sector that we all acknowledge is critical in achieving the development objectives that Rwanda has set itself," she noted.

"I am very glad we have a government partner that is very bold and brave in tackling the challenges that Rwanda faces."

Kwakwa, on behalf of the WB, pledged $70m which will be disbursed starting "early July this year" until June 2012 and, indicated "additional resources" to a tune of $8.3 for technical assistance support.

While chairing the final part of the roundtable, Finance Minister James Musoni noted that government too, "on behalf of our taxpayers" was pledging US$ 40 million.

Water and Electricity public utility, Electrogaz, also pledged "about" $27m.

"We at Electrogaz are greatly encouraged by this show of support and basically add effort in what we started a few years ago," said Electrogaz Managing Director John Mirenge.

An upbeat Mirenge also vowed that Electrogaz will ensure that the programme "runs very transparently" and, stressed that accountability will be high on agenda to ensure that the money goes to the right place and doing what it was meant to do.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) country representative, Jacob Diko Mukete, while reading the closing government-donor joint statement underlined that development partners re-affirm support for the government's efforts in the energy sector.

"In light of the high and sustained investments of the programme and financing requirements for technical assistance and implementation, the partners agreed that every effort should be advanced to seek ways and means of lowering unit connection costs over the programme period," Mukete read.

According to a current study, over 60 percent of the population live within a range of five kilometres of the existing electricity network with 110,000 total connections (6%).

Projections for the year 2012 are 16 percent connections while by 2020, 35 percent of the population will be connected.

The New Times (http://www.newtimes.co.rw/index.php?issue=13844&article=14428)

Nigeria: Delta Begins Construction of Three Bridges in Warri
Emma Amaize

24 March 2009

Lagos - Delta State Government has started the construction of three major bridges in the oil city of Warri. The projects are being handled by the Niger Construction Company Limited (NIGERCAT).

The bridges are located on the Okere road, which is being dualized by the Delta State Government and Bowen Avenue road. The piling of the Okere Bridge has been completed and as at Tuesday, Bowen Avenue was closed to traffic as a result of the construction two bridges on both lanes.

Engr. Habib Shammout, Project Manager of Niger-Cat told journalists the three bridges would be completed in record time. "As you can see for yourself, we are working round the clock already to ensure the early completion of the Okere Bridge and the two bridges on Bowen Avenue, all materials for the projects have arrived," he said.

Engr. Shammout said, "We are determined to make the three major bridges in Warri, the best around. The length of the Okere Bridge is 17.5 metre while the width is 12 metre and we are making progress on their construction."

"The Bowen Avenue is now a two- lane road and that means that we are constructing two bridges on both sides of the lane. We want to work round the clock to see to the quick completion of the two bridges because this is a very busy road in Warri," he stated, appealing to residents of the city and other road users to bear with NIGERCAT during this period of the construction.

His words, "We want to appeal to residents of Warri to bear with us in this period and we are truly sorry for the inconveniences the closure of this road will cause as a result of the on-going work on the road."

Vanguard (http://www.vanguardngr.com/content/view/31773/44/)

Nigeria: FG Allocates N20 Billion to Revive Railway
24 March 2009

Lagos — Minister of Transportation, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio, yesterday said the Federal Government had earmarked N20 billion for revival of the railway system.

Bio told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, that the move was aimed at making the railways functional by the first quarter of 2010.

"This year, the proposal is to rehabilitate the old narrow guage, which has not been in use for more than 20 years, and also to see if we can install the modernised standard gauge," he said.

Bio said President Umaru Yar'Adua made provision in the 2009 budget to kick-start the project that would be in phases.He said part of the money would be spent on rehabilitation of the abandoned Ajaokuta-Warri railway line, payment of debts owed some contractors; rehabilitation and purchase of coaches and locomotive, as well as communication and signal equipment.

He said most of the wagons and coaches "that are scattered in workshops in Enugu, Zaria, and Lagos would be rehabilitated and put back on track."

Daily Triumph (http://www.triumphnewspapers.com/fga2432009.html)

Uganda: Sh2 Billion Road Project Starts in Kibaale
Ismael Kasooha

23 March 2009

Kampala — The Community Agriculture Infrastructure Improvement Programme road project worth sh2b has been launched in Kibaale district. Speaking at the launch of the Mabaale-Kyadyoko-Kyamasega road construction last week, the LC5 chairman, George Namyaka, appealed to the community to support the project.

He said the project would be implemented in Mabaale, Nalweyo and Mugarama sub-counties, which were selected from the three counties that make up the district. In Mabaale sub-county, the Mabaale-Kyadyoko-Kyamasega 21km road will cost sh339m.

In Mugarama, the 20km Katete-Bujogoro-Muzizi road will cost sh324m, while in Nalweyo sh274m will be spent on the 18km Irindimura-Buruko-Kinunda road.

Namyaka said farmers, whose crops would be destroyed during the construction, would not be compensated. "The success of the project will depend on the cooperation of the residents," he said.

Joseph Sazzi, the head of Jox engineering services, the company that was contracted to build the Mabaale-Kyadyoko-Kyamasega road, said work would start soon.

The project coordinator, Eng. Julius Mwesigwa, said the programme would also fund the construction of markets, maize mills and rice hullers in the three sub-counties.

He said the Government would assist farmers to market their produce. Mwesigwa said if the community did not improve its output, it would not gain from the five-year project.

New Vision (http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/18/675582)

South Africa: Transnet, Japan Sign Loan Agreement to Widen Durban Harbour
Neo Semono

27 March 2009

Johannesburg — State owned utility Transnet has signed a R4 billion loan agreement with the Japan Bank for International Co-operation (JBIC) to fund the widening and deepening of the Durban harbour.

Speaking after the signing of the agreement on Thursday, acting Transnet Chief Executive Officer Chris Wells said the project is primarily intended to enable the port to accommodate larger vessels and benefit Japanese companies.

"The nature of the loan is that it will be supportive of Japanese projects in South Africa," said Mr Wells.

He thanked the JBIC for its confidence in the company as well as the country.

Loaning the money is in line with JBIC mandates, according to its finance department head, Toshiro Machii.

The bank has a mandate to secure natural resources for Japan, promote Japanese business abroad to enhance international competition and provide assistance to respond to the financial crisis.

JBIC has leveraged 40 percent participation of other Japanese financial institutions including the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation in the loan.

"We are very grateful that we could come to the execution of this loan," said Mr Machii, adding that Transnet had shown strong leadership.

He said the project will benefit both the South African economy and the Japanese companies.

"This project has a very significant implication for the South African economy as well as the regional economy but at the same time it brings a lot of benefits to Japanese companies operating in the region," said Mr Machii.

He said these companies relied heavily on the harbour, adding that he hoped the project will be implemented smoothly.

Transnet will make 20 repayments to JBIC over the next 10 years.

JBIC is in talks with other South African businesses for funding new projects, but these are still in early stages, said Mr Machii, adding that the bank is not yet in a position to disclose details.

All Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200903270361.html)

Nigeria: FG Assures on Dredging of Calabar Port Channel
Godfrey Bivbere and Chris Ochayi

27 March 2009

Federal government is to commence the dredging of the Calabar port channel before the end of the second quarter to enable bigger vessels call at the port.

Position of government was recently in Calabar while on an assessment visit to the port, Minister of Transport, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio, said government was not comfortable with the congestion at the ports in Lagos, stressing that the dredging would help prevent future congest.

The Minister however regretted that $56 million was wasted on the dredging projects under the immediate past regime of Olusegun Obasanjo.

He said, "during the handing over and taking over, I also realize that Calabar port was surveyed in 2003 for dredging. And dredging was commenced in 2006. However, due to some reasons, technical or whatever, I don't know, the dredging was not completed".

According to him, the nation is back to square one following the shoddy and lackadaisical manner at which the contractors handled the project before abandoning it.

The Federal Government, he said awarded the contracts without adequately getting any result or any benefit from this project.

According to him, "there is need for us to revisit again and dredge the whole channel of about 84 kilometres so that Calabar port will once again be very vibrant. This is one of the major reasons one I am here to take on the spot assessment of the port and the facilities with a view to addressing them as quickly as possible".

"Provisions have been made in the 2009 budget and it for us now to start the process, because we need carry out a survey of the whole channel once again to able to access and know the exact volume that we to remove for the port to be effectively put to use", he said.

He added, "We agree with me that if properly harness water transportation particular the maritime the services we will able to complement the oil industry in our national economy, apart from diesel, petroleum the next most vibrant more revenue yielding ministry is Ministry of Transport".

The Minister regretted that current efforts to decongest the Lagos ports through a directive to shipping agencies to divert vessels to Eastern ports was not implemented because the investors shunned the directive for fear of militant activities.

According to him, "we think that they will find the Eastern ports convenient. We have already directed that they should be diverted. We have given that directive almost a month ago but the implementation is what they are not willing to do. So the issue of diversion has been authorised".

He said "but they are raising some issues, one is based on security, they are saying that the Eastern ports zone there is security implication due to militancy activities. And the other area is the dept of the channel to be able to accommodate big vessels".

"You will agree with me we have a port in Calabar, which by all standards have not been very active. It is supposed to be one of the vibrant ports but however for technical reasons, the port has not been very vibrant.

"And with the congestion in Lagos there is a need to further look at the other ports and try to make them more active so that this issue of port congestion will be addressed. The eastern ports or Port Harcourt, Warri, Onne and Calabar are supposed to complement the maritime activities in Nigeria but however that has not been the case and there are two reasons for that affect the eastern ports".

Vanguard (http://www.vanguardngr.com/content/view/32059/49/)

East Africa: Dar-Kigali-Bujumbura Railway to Be Ready by 2014
Kigali — The Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi railway, which starts this year is expected to be completed in 2014, according to experts.

Construction experts said last week in Kigali that construction costs might drop by 30%.

The Dar es Salaam-Isaka railway line will also be modernised to 1,435mm standard gauge railway.

The new development comes after earlier studies had indicated that the project would cost US$3.5 billion.

Rwanda's infrastructure minister Eng. Linda Bihire last week said costs have dropped to $2.450 billion. Rwanda is coordinating the project.

The new figure was revealed at a donor round-table on the railway project held March 16-17, 2009. She said World Bank, financers, miners and other stakeholders found the project viable. The meeting was organized by the governments of Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi.

The three governments plan to construct a modern high-speed train, with a minimum speed limit of 120 kilometres per hour.

This means that imports will be delivered in Kigali within a day, eight hours to be precise, contrary to the six days they have been taking from Dar es Salaam.

The development will see most importers and exporters shift from Mombasa port to Dar es Salaam port.

If introduced, this is going to be the fastest train in the East African region with capacity to haul several tonnes of cargo using 2,000 wagons.

With the small gauge rail of 1,000mm in width, the average speed for a train on the Kenya-Uganda Railways can cruise is 40 kilometres per hour while that of the old Tanzania Railways is 20 km per hour.

Pushing for the extension of railway line from the coast to Kigali comes at a time Rwandan importers who mainly depend on road transport are complaining that up to 40 percent of their capital is spent on transport.

The costs have been further pushed up by the strict enforcement of the three-axle load limit, many roadblocks and the bad roads in the region.

Records show that whereas a Rwandan importer spends between 40 and 50 percent of the value of the export on transport and insurance, the average for the world's developed countries is 8.6 percent and 17.2 per cent for the least developed countries.

Bihire assured transporters that when completed; transport costs will drastically decline to less than 20 percent.

When completed, Bihire said, about 4.5 million tonnes of minerals from Burundi and Tanzania will be hauled by the railway.

Experts who carried out the feasibility of the railway project are optimistic that the line will spur development and exploitation of untapped natural resources in Burundi and the Congo which will provide the critical level of tonnage to support the railway.

Bihire said the project will also see the Dar es Salaam ports modernised and the number of berths increased to ease congestion.

Martime records show that the number of containers transiting Tanzania is expected to increase by as much as 1,200 % or about 3 million foot equivalent units (FEUs) in the next 20 years. Last year Dar es Salaam Port handled 350,000 containers over the planned 250,000 containers.

East African Business Week (http://www.busiweek.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1278&Itemid=1)

:banana:

Uganda: Govt Spends Sh1.2 Billion on Airfields Every Year
Nicholas Kajoba

28 March 2009

Kampala — THE Government is spending sh1.2b on maintaining and refurbishing airfields countrywide, state minister for works said.

John Byabagambi said this on Friday in Kanungu during the launch of Eagle Air Mbarara-Kanungu route. Uganda has 13 airfields but so far seven are used for domestic and in-flight services.

"We expect to refurbish and repair all the airfields countrywide in two years' time. We expect more tourism activities in various parts of the country," he said. Byabagambi said that the existing airfields also need to expand their runways in order to accommodate more aircrafts.

He hailed Eagle Air for startingâ-‚regular schedule flights to Mbarara and Kihihi saying that it would increase on the number of tourists who want to visits tourisms centres in western Uganda.

"Thisâ-‚is good news for the people of South Western Uganda who have for long yearned forâ-‚air transport services. The flights are meant to support trade and business, agricultural production, mining and exploration, tourism and other activities in the area," Byabagambi said. Eagle Air managing director, Captain Tony Rubombora said that the cost of operating an aircraft has increased and there is need for the Government to give helping hand. According to the official flight schedule, Entebbe-Mbarara return flight journey would cost $240 and Entebbe-Kihihi Journey costs $240.

He asked the Government to partner with private investors in order to open up more route and airfields countrywide. The company has been operating in Uganda for 18 years.

"We need the Government's partnership in expanding and opening up more routes that would enable people to reach their destinations in time and even develop tourism sector," Rubombora said.

He proposed the creation of airfields per district saying that demarcating a 2-km runway would be manageable.

Security Minister Amama Mbabazi commended the Eagle Air and Garuga (Kihihi airfield) for playing lead roles in putting up big investments in the area.

He said that the Government is committed to support private investors in the country, especially those who decide to put their projects in rural areas.

New Vision (http://allafrica.com/stories/200903301418.html)

Angola: Benguela and Dombe Grande linked by asphalted road by May
Benguela, Angola, 30 March – The Benguela/Dombe Grande road, in Angola’s Benguela province, will be asphalted along its entire 42-kilometre length by the end of May, contractor Nuno Teixeira, told Angolan news agency Angop Friday.

The work is the responsibility of Brazilian construction company Odebrecht, and the road will be seven metres wide, with shoulders of 1.5 metres.

Teixeira said that by the end of May asphalting work would be concluded and signage would then be placed along the road, as well as drainage systems and other finishing tasks.

Around 40 workers, including Angolan and foreign workers, are working on the project which began in August 2007.

This road will make it possible to reduce travel time between Benguela and Dombe Grande from 2 hours to 45 minutes.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7142)

Nigeria: Trans-Saharan Highway Ready in 2012
Chinwe Ochu

31 March 2009

Abuja — Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Bachid Beabunes, said yesterday that the road network, proposed to link Lagos and Algiers, would be ready in three years.

According to him, the completion would strenghten the bi-lateral relationship between both countries.

Beabunes said there were other related on-going projects, notably the Nigeria/Algeria Optic Fiber Network and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline.

Beabunes said this in Abuja, while visiting Minister for Information and Communication, Professor Dora Akunyili.

He said, "the trans- Saharan gas pipeline is a strategic project and although the agreement has not been finalised, negotiations have reached a very positive step. After now, the project will be facilitated and soon, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would be signed when all partners agree on modalities. For the optic fiber network, we are very close to finalising agreement between the three countries involved- Niger Republic, Nigeria and Algeria."

He also endorsed the Federal Government's re-branding campaign, calling it "an important strategy that came at the right moment. This initiative will promote the right image and facilitate development."

Responding, Akunyili said the Federal Government would continue to sustain the bi-lateral relationship, which she said was really strong, as evidenced in the Algerian President's visit 17 times to Nigeria since 1999.

On the proposed projects between Algeria and Nigeria, she said the meeting to finalise the signing of the agreement will be held in June, in Nigeria.

"I hope that the meeting will be formalised so that its execution will start," she concluded.

This Day (http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=139615)

That transshara highway sounds incredible. I would love to be one of the first ones to drive on it when complete.

Southern Africa: SADC Plans to Help Upgrade Trade Route
Mathabo Le Roux

3 April 2009

Johannesburg — Three of Africa's regional economic communities, including the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), will embark on an ambitious project to upgrade trade routes across southern and eastern Africa to aid the competitiveness of traders in the region.

Leaders in the region, with the facilitation of international agencies, will pull together to address constraints, starting with aid for a pilot trade project to improve infrastructure along the North-South Corridor, which links Zambia's copper belt with the port of Durban and which carries the highest volumes and values of freight in the region.

Estimated to cost $1bn over a period of five to 10 years, the project will aim to reduce travelling times by road between Lusaka and Durban by 10%, reduce transit times at the Chirundu border post between Zimbabwe and Zambia by at least 20% and increase power generation and transmission in the region by exploring hydro-generating potential.

The cost of trading and transport in the region is among the highest in the world. On average transport costs in southern Africa are more than 70% higher than in the European Union and the US, compromising the competitiveness of exporters.

The project will also aim to upgrade infrastructure and simplify customs and regulatory procedures along the main trading routes through eight African countries - SA, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Botswana and Mozambique - and it is estimated that exporters using the corridor could see transport cost savings of $50m a year if the project comes to fruition.

The transport of a single cargo of copper from the Copperbelt to Durban takes about two to three weeks at present, compared with 48 hours in Europe over the same distance. The delays result in losses of income to exporters.

Though much of the required capital is expected to come from grants and concessionary loans, opportunities for private investment are also expected. The Zambian government will host a conference in Lusaka next week to secure the necessary funding for the project and highlight the investment opportunities for the private sector.

President Kgalema Motlanthe will attend the meeting as well as his Kenyan counterpart Mwai Kibaki, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, and high-level trade and development administrators.

Business Day (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904030093.html)

Kenya: World Bank Approves $253 Million for North Corridor Project
3 April 2009, Nairobi -- The World Bank has approved an additional financing of US$253 million for the Kenyan government to complete remaining contracts on the Northern Corridor project which will link Kenya’s capital with neighbouring Uganda and much of central African countries.

The approval adds up to $460 million of the Bank's support for the Northern Corridor Transport Improvement Project (NCTIP). The Bank’s statement said the initial financing of $207 million for the scheme was agreed by the Bank's Executive Board in June 2004.

The World Bank’s Country Director for Kenya, Johannes Zutt, said the extra resources will enable Kenya to rehabilitate key sections of the northern road corridor between Nairobi and the Ugandan border.

“This road is not just important for western Kenya, but is also a vital trade link for neighbouring landlocked countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and Southern Sudan,” he added.

The country’s rapid economic growth in the past five years, has led to high levels of traffic congestion in major cities, including Mombasa and Nairobi, thus the northern road corridor has experienced severe traffic jams causing transit delays for Kenya and other countries.

The World Bank statement said the 2007 post election violence has also resulted to major destruction of parts of the transport system and also exacerbated the problems.

The Kenya government said the additional financing will enable it make critical investments in the roads sector to sustain growth, particularly with the current global economic downturn.

“At long last, we can look forward to a world class road to Kisumu in Western Kenya, including an important by-pass, and also have a permanent solution to the frequent flooding of the road near Nyamasaria,” said Michael Kamau, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Roads.

The whole project which is expected to cost $960 million, will be funded by Kenya's government and the Bank. Other donors including the European Investment Bank, the Nordic Development Fund and the French Development Agency who are also providing co-financing.

The bank has also approved another $80 million to enable Kenya to expand its energy sector and implement electrification programmes to support economic growth and reduce regional disparities.

Currently, only 18 percent of Kenyans have electricity in their homes, with only three percent of families having electricity in the rural areas.

The credit is approved on standard terms of a 40-year maturity with a 10-year grace period provided by the International Development Association the Bank's concessionary lending arm.

Afrol News (http://www.afrol.com/articles/32893)

Nigeria: Lagos Allocates N40.5 Billion for Lekki Free Trade Zone
Ekene Okoro

4 April 2009

Lagos — In line with efforts to attract foreign investment into Lagos State, the government has allocated N40.5 billion for the development of the Lekki Free Trade Zone into a world-class trade centre.

To that effect, a land use and infrastructure master plan for the 16,500 hectares has been approved by the government, which is expected to be equipped with modern facilities, including seaport, light rail, goad road network and telecommunications.

Speaking to journalists on Friday during a ministerial briefing in commemoration of the second year in office of Governor Babatunde Fashola, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Adeniyi Oyemade, said development of the Phase 1 of the zone had already commenced in collaboration with a Chinese Consortium, disclosing that foundation has been laid for construction of two standard workshops and factories for lease.

"With this gesture from the state government, it is expected that our Chinese partners would make their own contribution available within the next couple of weeks to expidite development at the site.

"With the receipt of funds, it is expected that the bush clearing and reclamation of land, construction of drainage channels and other activities for the provision of infrastructure would be aggressively pursue," he said.

Revealing that the Lekki Free Trade Zone project has provided job opportunities for 450 Nigerians, Oyemade said a Community Relations Committee has also been constituted to foster harmonious relationship between the state government and host communities, adding that provision is also being made for communities that may be relocated as a result of development in the zone.

The commissioner also disclosed plans by the state government to relocate auto dealers to the proposed Ultra Modern Market at Mowo Badagry in accordance with the government's effort to sanitise Lagos metropolis of the indiscriminate display and sale of automobiles, particularly on road setbacks that often contribute to environmental degradation and affect the free flow of traffic in the state.

He also revealed that the governor has approved the allocation of 10 hectares of land each at Ijanikin, Paravan Estate, Ikorodu and Lekki\Epe axis for the creation of three enterprise zones in the three senatorial districts of the state.

Daily Independent (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904061035.html)

Uganda: Kampala Transport Plan to Cost U.S.$11 Billion
Jeff Lule and Ruth Nabukenya

5 April 2009

Kampala — The implementation of the transport master plan for the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area is to cost over $11billion. Greater Kampala consists of Kampala district, parts of Mukono and Wakiso districts.

It is the major business and administrative centre of Uganda.

The plan is part of the 15 year National Transport Master Plan, which is expected to address all deficiencies and constraints in the transport system nation wide.

"The transport sector is the basis of development in every country. With our poor transport sector, no development can take place," Prof. Sam Tulya-Muhika said while presenting the draft plan to stakeholders in Kampala.

Tulya-Muhika, the chairman of the International Development Consultants, a firm behind the plan, said the plan covered all transport sectors, including roads, railway, air and inland water transport.

The transformation of the transport system will be carried out in three phases.

The National Transport Master Plan is expected to cost $900b and end in 2050.

New Vision (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904060043.html)

Southern Africa: Donors Pledge U.S. $1.2 Billion for Trade Corridor
7 April 2009

Lusaka -- Donors yesterday committed US$1.2 billion in pledges for North-South Corridor across east and southern Africa for infrastructure and trade facilitation programme.

The United Kingdom government pledged £100 million while the World Bank committed $500 million to projects along the North-South Corridor.

According to a statement released by the communications unit of the North-South Corrridor, the African Development Bank (ADB) committed $380 million for projects on the North-South Corridor.

The ADB provided an additional $160 million that would be invested in sections of another corridor in the region, the Ncala Corridor, which is complementary to the North-South Corridor and provides an alternative route to the sea.

The European Commission pledged $150 million.

The funds are meant to assist in implementing an extensive Aid for Trade programme encompassing transport, power and trade facilitation projects along the North-South Corridor traversing eight countries in east and southern Africa.

The Aid for Trade pilot programme represents a new and innovative approach to supporting and developing regional infrastructure projects.

For the first time at a regional level, investments in infrastructure are being made alongside measures to address trade facilitation and regulation.

The three regional economic communities have pledged to work together towards the creation of a free trade area across their 26 member states and the Corridor is the first major project under the newly-formed Tripartite Task Force.

The high-level conference, hosted by President Rupiah Banda, was attended by three other presidents, more than 1,000 officials, donors, business people, ministers, diplomats and others from Africa and other continents.

SADC director forinfrastructure and services, Remmy Makumbe said there was need for the international community to work with countries to upgrade the railway infrastructure.

Mr Makumbe said this in his presentation during the North-South Corridor conference dubbed 'Challenges, strategies and financing relating to transport and trade facilitation on the North-South Corridor' at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka yesterday.

He was speaking on behalf of SADC, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africaand the East African Community.

Mr Makumbe said the total cost for studies and consultations on railways would be $7.25 million and $800 million in capital costs.

On port facilities, Mr Makumbe said the international community was requested to provide financing of $3.55 million for studies and consultation and $425 million to construct a new container terminal and dredging of the main access channel at Dar es Salaam.

Times of Zambia (http://www.times.co.zm/news/viewnews.cgi?category=4&id=1239081653)

Uganda: Plans for U.S. $1.2 Billion Dam to Generate Power
7 April 2009

Kampala — UGANDA will construct a $1.2 billion dam from its own resources to boost power generation, President Yoweri Museveni told a southern and central Africa conference in the Zambian capital Lusaka.

Museveni said Uganda had completed drawing up plans for the dam, but did not indicate when actual construction would start.

"We are now in the process of spending $1.2 billion (to construct a dam) and we are going to fund it all by ourselves," Museveni told delegates at the conference.

He said the region's economic growth was hampered by power shortages due to lack of investment in the sector for decades.

New Vision (http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/10/10/677284)

Lesotho: New Phase for Water Project
Luphert Chilwane

7 April 2009

Johannesburg — THE South African government has approved R7,4bn for the second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, and made R60m available towards the Lesotho Lowlands Water Supply project.

This was announced on Friday at the launch of the SA-Lesotho Joint Bilateral Commission of Co- operation's (JBCC's) economic projects in Mokhotlong, Lesotho.

In an agreement signed in 2001, SA undertook to assist Lesotho to graduate from its least developed country status to that of a developing country within five years.

Continue reading here (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904070041.html)

North Africa: Proposed 50 Billion Pounds Solar Project to Power Europe
16 March 2009

Cape Town -- Solar farms in the Sahara could provide the whole of Europe's energy needs, according to scientists at the European Commission's Institute for Energy.

In what could be a 50 billion pounds multiple government investment over the next ten years, these solar farms could produce electricity either through photovoltaic cells or by turning water to steam by focusing the sun's rays with mirrors.

The investment would also make the Sahara attractive for private investors in coming years.

With a solar farm the size of Ireland, Europe could receive 20% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. The Institute's scientists envision that 100GW could be generated by 2050, which is more than the combined electricity output from all sources in the UK.

Trials of concentrated solar power for sources of European electricity will be planned for Egypt, Morocco, Algeria and Dubai, with alternatives in Libya and Tunisia.

Solar farms in North Africa would make fossils fuels less relevant, as well as make Europe less dependent on Russia and the Middle East for energy.

TradeInvest Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904090791.html)

Algeria: U.S. $63 Billion of Energy Projects Planned Through 2013
Cape Town -- Algeria is planning $63.5 billion in investment to boost gas exports and maintain oil output capacity.

Energy minister Chakib Khelil said the current low oil prices would not affect the planned investments through 2013, since the country was expecting a longer-term price of around $70-$80 a barrel.

Producer countries worldwide have stated that lower prices will hamper investment in expanding capacity.

The investment will allow Algeria, the third largest supplier of natural gas to the European Union, to boost total gas exports by over 60% by 2015.

Khelil said gas exports should rise to 100 billion cubic metres per year by then, from around 62 billion now.

Investment in developing new oilfields will compensate decline in older fields and keep capacity steady at around 1.4 million barrels per day.

Algeria discovered four new gas fields in the past two months and is working on verifying another three discoveries.

TradeInvest Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904090790.html)

Angola: Government Approves 4,000 Houses Accord
4/22/09 8:32 PM

Luanda – Angolan Government Wednesday in Luanda approved the contract signed between the National Housing Institute and the Spanish firm “Aretech Urbanismo Sostenible” for the construction of 4,400 economic houses in the provinces of Luanda, Cunene and Zaire.

The houses are to be built in 24 months time, meant for medium and low income families, with priority to the victims of floods, displaced people, youths and ex-combatants.

Meanwhile, speaking to journalists at the end of Wednesday’s meeting of the Cabinet Council, the minister of Urbanisation and Housing, José Ferreira, said of the total T2 and T3 model houses, 2000 will be built in the district of Viana ( Luanda), whereas Zaire and Cunene provinces will get the remainder.

The project is part of the National Housing Programme designed for the construction of one million houses.

“We are concluding our action plan that will define the goals to be attained until the end of 2012. This is the kick-off, but as the process goes, we will have other programmes that will be implemented in partnership with the private sector”, he said.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/noticias/economia/Government-approves-000-houses-accord,35024e21-c2c0-45d8-b697-8d3325a722b8.html)

Angola: Government Adopts Program to Support Rural Trade
4/23/09 12:38 PM

Luanda – The Angolan Commerce minister, Idalina Valente, said Wednesday in Luanda, that the Rural Trade Promotion Programme for the 2009-2012 period, approved by the Government, aims at the gradual rehabilitation of all shops in rural areas, to encourage agricultural production and trade.

According to Idalina Valente, who was speaking to the press at the end of the meeting of the Cabinet Council, the programme aims at the creation of synergies to resolve problems of rural trade and make them available to the agriculture food industry.

The programme will be run by phases include initially the provinces of Uíge, Malanje, Kwanza Sul, Huambo, Benguela Bié, Huíla and Cunene.

According to her, the criterion for choosing the provinces was based on each potential.

The executors and partners of the programme are the wholesale importers, retailers and banks and there will be a guarantee fund to support loans and lines of credit for the programme, it was said.

The minister assured that the State will guide the implementation of the policy, adding that there will be a multi-sectoral commission to set the rules, procedures and structures in the provinces.

At its Wednesday's meeting, the Cabinet Council approved the creation of the Institute for Public Business, as a legal entity with a public personality, legal capacity and administrative and financial autonomy, to deal with the issues related to public business and the processes of privatisation and re-privatisation.

On the other hand, the Angolan Institute of State Participation and the Business Restructuring Office, were dismantled.

The government authorised “Ferrangol EP” to establish a public-private partnership with the firms Antex-Angola, Calfisa-SA, and Kilate Ralo SA-SA, for the prospecting, exploration and reconnaissance of gold from the M'Popo region, under the Kassinga mining concession, in southern Huíla province, for further exploration and trade.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/noticias/economia/Government-adopts-programme-support-rural-trade,964859da-477f-4580-a760-1eb99143a9df.html)

Zambia: State Identifies Power Growth Centres
24 April 2009

Lusaka - THE Government has identified 1,270 electricity growth centres in different parts of the country, which will be connected to stand-alone power grids to speed up the electrification of rural areas, Energy and Water Development Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba has said.

Mr Mumba said in Ndola that the newly-identified centres would be supplied with electricity using alternative energy sources apart from hydro electricity and diesel generated electricity.

The development would be under the new Rural Electrification Master Plan.

Mr Mumba, who addressed journalists during a tour of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) funded pilot biomass electricity power sub-station, said the new electricity growth centres, which were expected to cover large areas would not be connected to the national power grid.

"We hope to see the use of alternative electricity generation initiatives such as the use of biomass during the implementation of the rural electrification master plan which is expected to be officially launched soon. Government is ready to adopt the new ways of power generation as long as they are reliable and efficient," he said.

Mr Mumba said once the Ndola biomass power station which has a capacity to produce 25 kilowatts of electricity everyday proved to be sustainable and efficient, the funds to have the project replicated in different parts of Zambia on a much larger scale would be made available. These funds had already been sourced.

Shiwang'andu, Samfya, Mpika and Kaputa are among the areas which had been identified to be used as new areas to have their electricity generated through the use of alternative electricity sources.

Biomass generated power is produced using the burning of sawmill, forestry and farm plants residues in producing gas which powers an engine and powers electricity generating turbines.

Zambia is the first country in Africa to use the technology and is regarded as one of the most environmental-friendly technologies in electricity generation.

UNIDO director of energy, Pradeep Monga said his organisation had financed the establishment of biomass power stations in Zambia at a cost of US$ 10 million.

Mr Monga said the public use of biomass-generated electricity in Zambia was expected to start by June next year in order to facilitate for capacity building and technology transfer.

He appealed to the private sector in Zambia to partner with Zesco and invest in the biomass electricity production sector.'

Mr Monga said once the Ndola biomass pilot project, which is housed at the Zesco Northern Division Training Centre in Ndola proved successful, new biomass power stations would be established in Mpika, Samfya and Kaputa areas.

Times of Zambia (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904240528.html)

Angola: Over 400 Kilometres of Road Rebuilt in Cabinda
Luanda, Angola, 21 April – The repair of 450 kilometres of primary road network in the Angolan province of Cabinda, started in 2008, is due to be concluded by the end of this year, Angolan news agency Angop reported.

According to the local director of Angola’s Roads Institute (INEA), Adelino Jacinto, most of the roads are currently receiving their final layer of asphalt.

Construction companies Encica, the Mota/Engil consortium and Aerovia are carrying out the repair work on the roads.

For two days, the deputy ministers for Public Works and Youth and Sport, José Joanes André and Jaba Alberto, respectively, visited the region in order to observe the progress of construction of the football stadium where some games of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2010) are due to take place as well as progress on some roads.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7264)

Mozambique: Sena Railroad to Start Operating in January 2010
Maputo, Mozambique, 22 April – Mozambique’s Sena railway line, the reconstruction of which was partially funded by the World Bank, is due to start operating in January 2010, a World Bank official told the Reuters news agency Tuesday.

The World Bank provided just over half of the US$200 million needed to rebuild the 665 kilometres of railroad, which links the coals mines of Moatize to the port of Beira, from which coal is exported.

José Chembeze, a World Bank transport specialist, told the agency that the basic construction would be finished by the end of September and that the line would be opened up to general traffic in January 2010, after final work and testing was carried out.

The World Bank provided funding of US$104.5 million, and a further US$45 million is being considered. The difference was funded by the CCFB consortium, which brings together state company Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique, with 49 percent and India’s Rites and Ircon, with 51 percent.

Chembeze said that another intervention on the Sena line is being considered in order to boost its transport capacity from 6 million to 12 million tones of coal per year, a process that would imply investment of a further US$250 to US$280 million.

Brazilian mining company Vale is one of several companies with a concession to mine coal at Moatize, and plans to export 11 million tones of coal per year.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7268)

Angola: Construction of Lubango International Airport Concludes in May 2010
Lubango, Angola, 23 April – Construction of the Lubango International Airport, in Angola’s Huíla province, begun in February of this year, is 75 percent away from completion, the director of the project, Nívio Novagraf said Tuesday.

The project, which is the responsibility of Brazilian company Andrade Gutierrez and its Portuguese subsidiary Zagope Construções e Engenharia, is expected to cost 62 million euros and includes construction of a new airport apron, a terminal with four lifts, four escalators, construction of car parks and green spaces.

During a visit by the provincial governor of Huíla, Isaac Maria dos Anjos, Novagraf said that reconstruction and widening of the airport’s runway was being concluded and construction of a new aircraft parking area, and the pillars for the passenger terminal and control tower are already up.

According to Novagraf, the work is going well and it first phase, which includes widening the two runways, the passenger terminal, aircraft parking areas and external arrangements, is expected to be handed over at the end of December and its total conclusion is scheduled for May 2010.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7280)

Rwanda: Kicukiro-Kirundo Road Project to Increase Intra-Regional Trade
Gertrude Majyambere

30 April 2009

Kigali — The construction of the 97 km paved road connecting Rwanda and Burundi will open up the two countries, reduce travel time and general transport costs.

The direct beneficiaries of the project are the inhabitants of Kicukiro and Bugesera districts in Rwanda and Kirundo Province in Burundi, which have an estimated total population of over 1 million.

The project will increase intra-regional trade and benefit both Rwanda and Burundi, and the East African region in general through the movement of goods and persons.

The official inauguration of the road took place on Friday at the border post at Nemba / Gisenyi in the presence of Diko Mukete the Resident Representative African Development Bank, Minister of Infrastructure, Linda Bihire and Burundi's Minister of Public Works and Equipment of Burundi.

Kicukiro-Kirundo road project involves 60 km on the Rwandan side and 37 km on the Burundi side and the development of 115 km of feeder roads were connected to the road with 69 km in Rwanda completed and 46 km ongoing in Burundi.

The road project cost about $158 million and the AfDB approved a grant of about $45 million (28.5 percent) of the total project cost.

The other donors who co-financed the projects include ADEBA/BADEA, OPEC, and Saudi Development Fund.

Mukete urged the two governments to step up action to improve the institutional framework for the management of this facility, as well as carry out necessary reforms aimed at putting in place a robust institutional framework for road sector management in the two countries.

In his speech, Mukete said, "The project will improve access to basic services, increase opportunities for commercial activities and facilitate the marketing of the region's agricultural products."

Agricultural production in the Bugesera region is expected to increase substantially on completion of the ongoing Regional Integrated Rural Development (RIRD) project between Rwanda and Burundi.

The New Times (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904300344.html)

Nigeria: FG Votes N376 Billion for Road Repairs
Chesa Chesa

30 April 2009

Abuja — A total N376.4 billion has been approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for 30 road contracts nationwide to fulfill in part President Umaru Yar'Adua's pledge to provide infrastructure.

The projects include the expansion of the Airport Road in Abuja into 12 lanes, and the Murtala Muhammed Road, popularly called Kubwa Expressway.

Both Information Minister, Dora Akunyili, and Works Minister, Hassan Lawal, told reporters after the FEC meeting on Wednesday that Lot One of the Airport Road project will cost N59.22 billion, and Lot Two N49.2 billion.

The two will be handled by Julius Berger and will span 23 months each.

Lot One of Kubwa Road was awarded to Dantata Construction for N66.83 billion, to be completed in 30 months; Lot Two went to CGC for N81.91 billion, to be completed in 22 months.

All the contractors are expected to provide 60 per cent funding while the balance 40 per cent will be paid to them when the projects are completed.

The remaining 26 road projects approved across the six zone are worth N116.57 billion.

They include Oturkpo-9th Mile; Mararaba-Saminaka; Ilorin-Jebba-Mokwa; Gombe-Numan-Yola; Maiduguri-Bama; Numan-Gombe; Maiduguri-Banki; and Wukari-Jalingo-Numan.

Katsina-KauraNamoda; KauraNamoda-Gusau; Kazaure-Kano; Kano-Katsina-K/Namoda-Niger Border; 9th Mile-Port Harcourt; Onitsha-Enugu; Abakiliki-Afikpo; Aba-Owerri; Orba-Nnewi-Okigwe.

Calabar-Ugep-Katsina/Ala; Calabar-Ugep-Ogoja; Kabba-Ado Ekiti; Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomosho; Sagamu-Ore; and Ore-Benin (Section II).

Daily Independent (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904300435.html)

Uganda: Works Ministry to Get Sh1,000 Billion For Roads
Catherine Bekunda

29 April 2009

Kampala — The transport and works ministry has been allocated another sh1,000b next financial year to improve the country's transport infrastructure.

Works state minister John Byabagambi said the funds would be used to "reduce road infrastructure constraints, increase access to markets by connecting rural roads to the national road grid, re-opening and reconstructing of railway lines and standardisation of gauges."

He was appearing before Parliament's committee on physical infrastructure yesterday. Byabagambi said the body was yet to take over 9,300km of roads from the districts. The takeover is estimated to cost sh80b per year.

Asked how the ministry spent the sh1,000b it received this financial year, Byabagambi explained that it was used to work on projects that lacked funding such as Kampala-Masaka (sh110b), Matugga-Semuto-Kapeeka (sh37b), Busega-Mityana (sh94b), Jinja-Bugiri (19b), Kawempe-Kafu (sh10b), while sh60b was spent on studies.

"We spent sh35b to clear CHOGM debts arising from State House, road maintenance and other projects," the minister said.

The ministry also plans to re-open the Kampala-Kasese railway, the Tororo-Gulu link and extend it to Nimule, and the Gulu-Pakwach line to Southern Sudan. Plans are underway to construct new, wide-standard railway gauges for the Kampala-Malaba line.

"We are in the process of procuring a new multipurpose ship to replace MVs Kabalega, Pamba and Kawa to re-open the southern route to Dar-es-salaam," noted Byabagambi. He said the Bukungu-Kagwara ferry would be operational by November next year.

However, MPs expressed dissatisfaction with the way the ministry handled road projects.

"Roads fail hardly three years after construction and yet contractors are given more jobs," said Patrick Amuriat (Kumi). He said designs are made 10 years before road works start and are implemented when the traffic volumes have already increased.

Byabagambi blamed long procurement procedures imposed by donors for the slow progress in the ministry's work, saying it takes one to two years to complete procurement.

Margaret Baba Diri (Koboko) pointed out that roads filled with marram were not durable.

Elijah Okupa (Kasilo) asked the minister to remove the dangerous billboards along the roads, calling them death traps.

The New Vision (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904300145.html)

Nigeria: FG Approves N373 Billion for Massive Road Projects
Juliana Taiwo

30 April 2009

Abuja — The Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua yesterday approved the award of contracts worth N373,746,054,381.29 for the construction, rehabilitation and expansion of various roads across the six geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

A breakdown shows that for the 26 highway projects under the Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs), it approved N116,576,716,396.29 with various completion periods.

The FCT got a chunk of the sum totalling N247.1 billion covering the Airport Expressway Lot I and Lot II costing N59,223,254,545.70 and N49,200,892,508.15 awarded to Julius Berger (Nig) Plc with 23 months as completion period respectively.

Also, FEC approved the award of contracts for the rehabilitation and expansion of Outer Northern expressway otherwise known as Kubwa road (Murtala Muhammed expressway - North) to Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company (Nig) Ltd. for N66,830,910,368.75.

Addressing State House correspondents at the end of the over six hours meeting, the Minister of Information and Communication, Professor Dora Akunyili, in company with her Minister of State, Alhaji Inkra Bilbis; Minister of Works, Dr Hassan Lawal; Minister of FCT, Alhaji Adamu Aliero; and the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, said the Airport road contract would be funded through Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) with the Federal Government footing 40 per cent of the sum; while Julius Berger would bear the balance of 60 per cent.

Aliero said government would ensure the payment of the 40 per cent within the 23 months lifespan of the contract, while the balance of the 60 per cent to be sourced by Julius Berger would be refunded them on completion of the job.

Lawal listed the 26 roads as follows:

North-central zone: Rehabilitation of 9th Mile-Oturkpo-Makurdi road (Otukpa-Oturkpo section) in Benue State. Contract in favour of Bulltine Construction Ltd, in the sum of N4,206,805,680.00 with completion period of 18 months; Rehabilitation of Mararaba Pambeguwa Saminaka-Jos Road Section I in Kaduna State in favour of Arab Contractors Ltd, in the sum of N5,286,922,048.49, with completion period of 20 months; rehabilitation of Mararaba Pambeguwa Saminaka-Jos Road Section II in Kaduna/Plateau State in favour of PW Nigeria Ltd, in the sum of N3,627,414,510.72 with a completion period of 18 month; rehabilitation of Ilorin-Jebba-Mokwa Road (Ilorin-Jebba Section Phase I) in Kwara State in favour of Messrs Bulletine Construction Company Ltd in the sum of N1,508,852,307.50 with a completion period of 12 months.

For the North-east Zone: Rehabilitation of Gombe-Numan-Yola Section II in Adamawa/ Gombe States in favour of Triacta Nig. Ltd in the sum of N8,515,306,800 with a completion period of 30 months; rehabilation of Maiduguri-Bama-Gwoza-Hong Road Section II in Borno State in favour of CGC Nig. Ltd in the sum of N5,019,848,813.60 with a completion period of 18 months; rehabilitation of Maiduguri-Bama-Gwoza-Hong Road Section I; Maiduguri-Bama-Banko in Borno State in favour of Standard Construction Ltd in the sum of N5,720,242,869.50 with a completion period of 18 months; rehabilitation of Wukari-Mutumbiyu-Jalingo-Numan Road Section I: in Taraba State in favour of Moulds Nig. Ltd in the sum of N4,708,622,784.89 with a completion period of 15 months.

For North-west Zone: Rehabilitation of Kano-Katsina-Kaura Namoda-Jiba Road Section III in Zamfara/Katsina States in favour of Dantata & Sowoe Nig Lt. tn the sum of N3,985,825,501.35 with a completion period of 18 months; rehabilitation of Kano-Katsina-Kaura Namoda-Jiba Road Section IV in Zamfara State in favour of Mothercat Ltd in the sum of N3,001,043,365.80 with completion period of 18 months; rehabilitation of Kano-Kazaure-Daura-Mai Adua Road in Katsina State in favour of Triacta Nig Ltd in the sum of N2,319,910,477.50 with a completion period of 24 months; rehabilitation of Kano-Katsina-Kaura Namoda-Jibia Road Section I: Katsina State border in favour of Broni Prono and Company Nig Ltd in the sum of N1,920,243,309,66 with a completion period of 12 months.

South-east zone: Rehabilitation of 9th mile-Enugu-Port Harcourt dual carriage way in Enugu/Abia states in favour of Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) in the sum of N8,964,995,597.25, with a completion period of 24 months; rehabilitation of Onitsha-Enugu dual carriageway-section II; Anambra State border-Enugu road in favour of Niger Construction Ltd, in the sum of N7,251,451,515.00, with a completion period of 30 months; rehabilitation of Oba-Nnewi sectionI in Anambra State in favour of Messrs CCC in the sum of N3,794,656,914.00 with a completion period of 24 months; rehabilitation of Abakaliki-Afikpo road section I Abakaliki-Onueke-Abomega road in Ebonyi State in favour of Bulletine Construction Ltd, in the sum of N2,987,774,166.30, with a completion period of 18 months; rehabilitation of Abakaliki-Afikpo road in Enugu State in favour of CCECC Nig. Ltd in the sum of N3.5 billion with a completion period of 14 months; rehabilitation of Aba-Owerri road in Abia State in fvaour of Niger Construction Ltd in the sum of N2,668,318,112.69 with a completion period of 14 months; rehabilitation of Oba-Nnewi-Okigwe road route section II: Anambra/Imo State in favour of Bulletine Construction Company Ltd. in the sum of N2,572,473,142.28, with completion period of 18 months.

South-south Zone: Rehabilaition of Calabar-Ugep-Ogoja-Katsina Ala Road Section I in Cross River State in favour of Piccolo Brunelli Engineering Ltd in the sum of N4,613,197,050.00 with a completion period of 24 months; rehabilitation of Calabar-Ugep-Ogoja-Katsina Ala Road Section II in Benue/Cross River States in favour of CCECC Nig Ltd in the sum of N5,208,582,235 with a completion period of 24 months and construction of Yenagoa-Okaki-Kolo in Bayelsa State in favour of Enerco Ltd in the sum of N9,988,340,780 with a completion period of 24 months.

South-west Zone: Rehabili-tation of Kabba-Omuo-Ifaki-Ado Ekiti-Aramoko-Itawure-Efon Alaye-Erinmo-Osigbo Road Section I in Ekiti State in favour of Kopek Construction Ltd in the sum of N1,210,423,982.46 with a completion period of 10 months; Rehabilitation of Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomosho Road Section I: Oyo-Ogbomosho in Oyo State, in favour of Kokek Construction Ltd, in the sum of N1,741,126,983.75 with a completion period of 11 months; rehabilitation of Shagamu- Ajebandele-Ore-Benin Road Section I in Ondo State in favour of Reynolds Construction Company Nig Ltd in the sum of N9,745,402,329.89 with a completion period of 30 months; rehabilitation of Shagamu-Ajebandele-Ore-Benin Road Section II in Ogun State in favour of Borini Prano and Company Nig Ltd in the sum of N2,498,934,091.50 with a completion period of 18 months.

This Day (http://allafrica.com/stories/200904300078.html)

Preparations advancing for $7m Malawi-Zambia rail link


By: Marcel Chimwala
8th May 2009

Malawi’s Central East African Railways (Cear) has reached an advanced stage in preparing to extend the country’s railway network into Zambia as part of the Nacala Development Corridor Programme.

Malawi’s rail network currently stretches to Mchinji, near the border with Zambia, and Cear’s director of marketing and commercial services, Wilfred Ali, says company plans to construct a rail link between Mchinji and the town of Chipata, in Zambia.

He says construction of the rail link, at an estimated cost of $7-million, will provide the cheapest mode of transport between the two countries.

“Our aim is to enhance trade between Malawi and Zambia. We have thought of extending the railway line because we realise that there are a number of people in both countries who are involved in cross-boarder trade between the two countries.”

Meanwhile, Cear, a consortium of US investors, says it is also planning a major project to rehabilitate Malawi’s rail system.

Ali says the project will involve replacement of the parts of the network.

“The aim of the project is to have Malawi’s rail system in shape. This is vital for economic development because railway offers a cheaper mode of transport compared to road, which is the transport mode mostly used in Malawi.”

The Malawi government awarded Cear a 25-year concession to manage Malawi’s rail sector. The concession is reviewed every five years.

The Nacala Development Corridor is a spatial development initiative involving areas in Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique that seeks to achieve easy access to low-cost transport opportunities offered by Mozambique’s Indian Ocean Port of Nacala and a network of roads and railways.

The governments of the three countries, with the assistance of the private sector, are, pursuing projects to develop transport networks, most of which were unusable or destroyed during the Mozambican civil war, which ended in 1992.


Source: www.enegineeringnews.co.za

Nice stuff. I hope a more poly-centric rail model (ie. not only from inland to sea) is pursued by these countries in the form of new rail connecting all of their cities. Rail really needs to be used more in Africa, it has so much more potential than roads.

Angola: Rural development program to build over 50,000 houses
Luanda – A total of 55,000 houses will be built this year, as part of the executive program of the State Department for Rural Development.

According with the program presented by the secretary of State for Rural Development at the sector’s national conference on Tuesday, of the 55,730 houses, 13,500 will be built in rural villages.

The program, which aims to improve rural population’s living, includes the construction of 127 schools to secure the integration of children in the national education system.

Under the said executive program for 2009, with a public/private partnership, 127,000 medical centers, 71 rural markets and 130 convenience shops will be built.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/noticias/economia/Rural-development-programme-build-over-000-houses,cbb190d1-9879-46fd-869e-870b052a7a00.html)

Mozambique: South Africa’s Eskom invests in wind power
Maputo, Mozambique, 8 May – South African electricity company Eskom is due within the next few days to finish construction of a wind power system using turbines in Mozambique’s Inhambane province, the first of its kind in the East African country, Mozambican newspaper Notícias reported.

The paper added that the turbines had a capacity to produce 300 kilowatts of power and cited Óscar Conforme, head of the Power department of the provincial Directorate for Energy in Inhambane, as saying that teh power produced at the facility would significantly exceed consumption in the region, and threfore the system would be linked to the national power grid.

Conforme also said that a branch cable would be built to increase lighting at the beaches of Tofo and Tofinho, in order to benefit customers on the outskirts of those tourist areas of the city of Inhambane.

Notícias reported that Eskom was investing around US$1.5 million in the project.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7360)

Mozambique: Railroad via Zambia may link Mozambique to Angola
Maputo, Mozambique, 8 May -- Mozambique may be linked to Angola by railroad via Zambia, a source from the Ministry of Transport and Communications told Macauhub in Maputo.

The rail link depends on the conclusion, over a distance of 2 kilometres, of the railways line between Malawi and Zambia.

“The work on that link is underway and the information that we have is that there are just 2 kilometres left to complete the link between Malawi and Zambia, specifically in the areas of Mchinji Chipata, in the north of Malawi,” the source said adding that “once that section is concluded we can link to Angola and the Congos from Nacala, in Nampula province.”

Mozambique is linked to Malawi by rail via the Nacala Development Corridor (CDN), in Nampula province in northern Mozambique.

The ministry source noted that the link with several countries, particularly those with no sea border, “will make the port of Nacala viable,” in that there would be more opportunities for use of the port of Nacala by economic agents from those countries.


The port of Nacala is managed by CDN, a company that is majority Mozambican-owned, specifically by rail company Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM) with 49 percent and Sociedade de Desenvolvimento do Corredor de Nacala (SDCN) with the remaining 51 percent.

The shareholders have a master plan for construction of a mining resources terminal, an area for construction of a dry dock as well as a refinery, a project that is expected to cost US$5 million.

Silso are currently under construction in partnership with one of the port’s biggest users, a project that is valued at US$12 million.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7356)

Nigeria: New Aba Power Plant Set to Increase Manufacturing Activity
11 May 2009

Cape Town -- The US$400 million Aba power plant, expected to commence operation in 2010, will provide reliable electricity, boost economic activity and create employment in Abia State and Nigeria in general, Business Day reports.

The plant is scheduled for completion by December 2009 and will supply 188 megawatts of power.

The project is being executed by Geometric Power Ltd, an independent power producer and licensed by Nigeria's federal government to complement the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) in the supply of electricity.

Barth Nnaji, Chairman/CEO of Geometric Power says the plant will make use of about 500 staff, sourced both locally and internationally, and will provide numerous 'secondary' jobs.

More reliable power is also set to benefit local manufacturers, especially the leather industry.

TradeInvest Africa (http://allafrica.com/stories/200905120094.html)

Angola: German company sets up factory to process agricultural products
Waku Kungo, Angola, 12 May – German company MDC-Cossaid is due in June to start setting up a factory to process agricultural products, in the province of Kwanza Sul, as part of the re-launch of the industrial sector in the province.

The information was issued in a statement following the Forum on Agricultural Production, which ended Sunday in Waku Kungo, promoted by the provincial government and German company MDC-Cossaid Sociedade Industrial Lda, according to Angolan news agency Angop.

According to the statement, the factory will provide 200 jobs and have the capacity to process 1,000 kilograms of pineapple, carrot, banana, oranges and lemons into juices and jams every day.

The forum discussed issues such as the quality of productive land, communication of agricultural projects, industrialisation and agricultural production priorities.

The province of Kwanza Sul currently has limestone, mineral water, alcoholic beverages and milk product factories.

MacauHub (http://www.macauhub.com.mo/en/news.php?ID=7379)

Angola: Angola LNG launches pipeline building project
5/12/09 4:17 PM

Soyo

Soyo -- The Angola’s Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) launched Monday the programme for construction of a pipeline to carry associated gas from the sea to the coast, as part of building a liquefied gas project.

According to the director of public relations and government of Angola LNG, Laurentino Silva, the 25 km-extension project, will last 18 months and is entrusted to two building firms, namely "Acergy" in charge of offshore and the "SPIE" for on-shore works.

In his turn, the senior technician of the oil firm Chevron, Greg Greenleaf said that the pipeline will have three lines of 22,20 and 18 inches, including an accessory in fibre optics for electronic control of pressure, temperature and detection of failures.

The pipeline will convey the associated and non-associated gas from production facilities in the maritime area (offshore) of the blocks 0, 1, 2, 14, 15, 17 and 18 for the plant of processing of LNG and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and condensate.

The Angola LNG project, under implementation since 2006, in the ambit of the Angolan government policy will be concluded in 2011.

The project is a joint-venture with the participation of BP Exploration 13.6%, Chevron 36.4%, ExonMobil 13.6%, Sonangol 22.8% and Total 13.6%.

AngolaPress (http://www.portalangop.co.ao/motix/en_us/noticias/economia/Angola-LNG-launches-pipeline-building-project,87bf1d9c-fd34-4864-82f3-bef8d33ab2b6.html)

Angola is really doing some big things. Good luck to them.

Southern Africa: Botswana-Walvis Bay Rail Line to Start Soon
Monkagedi Gaotlhobogwe

5 June 2009

Walvis Bay -- Botswana and Namibia yesterday signed an agreement to start a railway line that will connect Botswana to the sea coast of Walvis Bay.

Both countries represented by their Permanent Secretaries in the Ministry of Transport agreed to kick-start a feasibility study that will determine how the railway line would be aligned as well as the cost implications of the exercise, the officials said today.

Namibia's Permanent Secretary for Transport, George Simataa, described the agreement as a significant progress. "We have even made the appointment of a consultant to start work possibly in July this year, and both countries are committed to financing the project," Simataa said today after the agreement was completed.

The PS added:"Rail is an economical mode of transport as it is much cheaper than roads, it is durable, and it takes a lot of heavy loads and that is why we are urgently carrying out the feasibility study which is expected to inform us on its viability."

Botswana's Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, Carter Morupisi said the envisaged railway is targeting the transportation of mining products such as coal from Mmamabula and Morupule coalfields, soda ash and salt from Sua Pan, as well as mining machinery.

"It is cheaper importing and exporting through Walvis Bay than it is through Durban, South Africa," the official said.

The feasibility study, which according to Morupisi will take 12 months is, sponsored by the World Bank to the tune of US$ 44,000 while both countries have agreed to pump an extra US$ 82,000 each. Simataa explained that the tender for the study, which will commence next month, has been awarded to a Canadian company but he was not willing to divulge the name of the company, as yet.

Explaining about the route that the rail line will follow, Morupisi said: "The railway line which will facilitate trade for Walvis bound goods, will pass through the Kalahari desert, a difficult, environmentally sensitive terrain and a migratory route."

He added that the Namibian terrain is equally challenging, as it is hilly and sloppy. "The study will also investigate the financial implications of the project. However, Morupusi said that both governments will not be involved in the development and are looking into engaging a private developer.

MmegiOnline (http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=1&aid=8&dir=2009/June/Friday5)

Ghana: Port of Takoradi set to undergo $700 million upgrade
Wednesday, 29 July

Accra -- Ghana is planning to spend $700 million to upgrade infrastructure at Takoradi port next year, according to a senior port official.

Nester Galley, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) announced Thursday that the project would comprise the development of oil services facility to support offshore oil production.

Other rehabilitation works include building an office accommodation, oil storage tanks for bunkering, storage facilities for oil production materials and cargo handling equipment.

The development of offshore oil production support services and oil tanks for bunkering would help to meet demand for bunkering along the West African coast, which is one of the world's largest offshore bunker markets.

The market services primarily fishing vessels, tankers, bulkers and container ships. Bunker demand also comes from the offshore oil industry, servicing rigs, floating production storage and offloading units.

Takoradi port would also have a wharf length of about 500 metres and water hydrants for the supply of fresh water to ships.

As part of a general infrastructure upgrade, the port would be provided with paved roads and railroad facilities, according to Galley.

He added that the aim of the renovations was to make Takoradi port the main port on the west coast of Africa.

The project, currently in the design stage, would be tendered before the end of this year. A total completion of the project is scheduled in 2028.

Galley said GPHA would strive to achieve its vision of becoming the Most Preferred Port in the West African Sub-Region.

Ghana Review International (http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/newsrunner.php#166079)

Zimbabwe: Government Identifies Investors to Dualise Major Roads
30 July 2009

Harare — Government has identified a number of investors to kick-start the dualisation of the Harare-Beitbridge and Harare-Chirundu roads notorious for horrific and fatal accidents Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai has said.

PM Tsvangirai said work on the dualisation of the highways would commence once the deal with unnamed investors is finalised. He, however, could not give details on the time-frames involved.

Addressing members of the business community in Masvingo on Tuesday, PM Tsvangirai said the project would be undertaken on a build, operate and transfer basis. He said the investors would each work on 200-kilometre stretches of road.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that five investors will be involved in the project, meaning that 1 000km of road will be dualised. "The dualisation of the Beitbridge-Chirundu highway is set to commence anytime soon as Government has already identified the investors who will roll-out the project so that at least we can be able to cope with the increased traffic volumes and also reduce carnage on the highway.

"The companies that have been identified will each work on a distance of 200km each covering the highway from Beitbridge to Chirundu, through Masvingo and Harare so that the process is done expeditiously," he said.

He said Government needed to find ways of courting private investors to develop infrastructure that had become run-down over the past few years. The Prime Minister said that Government needed to partner the private sector because it did not have the resources to cater for all the infrastructural challenges afflicting the country.

"Government does not have the money to carry out all these projects but we can play a facilitatory role for those who want to invest," he said. Government would proceed with the setting up of tollgates along the country's main highways to raise funds for their maintenance and upgrading.

Funds would also be set aside for the rehabilitation of feeder roads that service rural areas.

The Government, a few years ago started the dualisation of the highway from Harare to Masvingo but work was progressing slowly due to shortage of funds linked to the illegal economic embargo imposed on Zimbabwe by some western countries.

The Herald (http://allafrica.com/stories/200907300532.html)