Nigeria is set to launch two significant lithium processing facilities this year, signaling a major shift from exporting raw materials to developing in-country value chains. According to Mining Minister Dele Alake, this move is designed to stimulate job creation, enhance local manufacturing capabilities, and promote technological growth.

One of the facilities a $600 million project located near the border of Kaduna and Niger states is scheduled for commissioning in the second quarter of 2025. Another refinery, valued at $200 million and situated close to Abuja, is also nearing completion. Additionally, two more processing plants are planned for Nasarawa State, which lies adjacent to the capital, and are expected to be operational before the end of the third quarter.

Economic value
Minister Alake emphasized that the new facilities are part of the government’s commitment to adding value to Nigeria’s natural resources rather than exporting them in raw form. “Our focus is now on creating economic value from our mineral resources through local job creation, manufacturing, and the development of technology,” he said.

Chinese investors have played a leading role in financing these initiatives, contributing over 80% of the total investment. Companies such as Jiuling Lithium Mining Company and Canmax Technologies are among the key financiers, while local firm Three Crown Mines retains minority ownership in the projects.

Hexagon Electrical has expanded its manufacturing and service capabilities to meet growing demand for customised, high-performance specialised electric motors in heavy engineering, hazardous industrial and mining applications.

The company – which is based in Brakpan, Gauteng – specialises in both flameproof and non-flameproof equipment, combining mechanical precision, electrical expertise and design innovation to deliver robust, energy-efficient certified solutions, tailored to exact customer requirements.

“Our broad product portfolio comprises motors and transformers, enclosures and switchgear, ventilation fans, scrubber fans and auxiliary equipment, as well as a full range of flameproof equipment compliant with SANS 60079 standards,” explains David

Dyce, CEO, Hexagon Electrical. “The range of specialised Hexagon motors includes dual kW and dual speed AC motors, slip ring motors and water-cooled flameproof motors. Also in our portfolio are flameproof or standard winch and traction motors, as well as standard or flameproof pad mount motors for heavy-duty mining applications.

Vertex Minerals (ASX: VTX) is revolutionizing gold processing at its Hill End project in New South Wales by integrating TOMRA Mining’s advanced LASER ore sorting technology. This strategic move enhances operational efficiency and aligns with Vertex’s commitment to environmentally sustainable mining practices.

A historic goldfield meets modern innovation

Located approximately 200 km northwest of Sydney, between Bathurst and Mudgee, the Hill End project encompasses a significant portion of the historic Hill End goldfield. This region, part of the Eastern Lachlan Fold Belt, has historically yielded over 1.6 million ounces of gold and is renowned for producing large gold nuggets, including the famous Holtermann Nugget.

The project’s geology features gold mineralization associated with quartz veins within the Chesleigh Formation and Crudine Group. These characteristics make the ore amenable to gravity separation techniques, allowing for high recovery rates without the use of chemicals.

An African mine will be among the first adopters of the innovative Rail-Running Conveyor (RRC) technology, commercialized by full flowsheet provider FLS in collaboration with the University of Newcastle, Australia

“Designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption, improve safety and cut capital and operating expenditure, Rail-Running Conveyors are a gamechanger for mines which must rely on extended conveying distances to move material,” says Martin Lurie, FLS Global Product Line Manager for Rail-Running Conveyors (RRC). Any mine that carries substantial tonnages over more than 500 to 1,000 m can achieve far higher efficiencies using this technology.

“The first full-scale operational system will be commissioned in southern Africa in mid-2025,” he says. “It is designed to carry 5,000mtph of copper ore over a 3,25 km run, and is expected to save approximately $1 million each year in power costs when compared to a conventional trough conveyor.”

Safety upgrades
A second system, destined for the same mining customer at a mine in the Americas, has also been under construction and will carry around 13,000 mtph, also delivering significant power savings and safety improvements. Lurie describes the customer as visionary in looking ahead to the technologies that will empower the future of mining, and also as an indispensable partner in bringing the RRC to full-scale maturity.

Johannesburg-based dewatering pump specialist IPR (Integrated Pump Rental) has again extended its reach into Africa, supplying equipment to a global customer in the oil and gas sector who is operating off the Southern African coastline.

According to Steve du Toit, IPR’s Sales Manager, the company has supplied two Atlas Copco R150DP dry prime pumps – to be located on the deck of an ocean-going vessel.

“This is certainly quite an unusual application but is one that is critical for the safe operation of the vessel, and for which our Atlas Copco dry prime pumps are ideally suited,” says Du Toit. “The pumps will be used to maintain the ballast on the vessel, by pumping water efficiently into or out of the vessel as conditions require.”

In this application, he says, there is a need for high flow to ensure rapid filling and emptying of ballast as well as high suction lifts to move water from the ocean level into the vessel. The Atlas Copco R150DP unit is capable of easily achieving a suction lift of up to 10 metres at sea level.

Zambia Airways (2014) Limited, the national airline of the Republic of Zambia, has announced the completion of preparations to commence scheduled flight services to Harare, Zimbabwe. This new route will enhance connectivity between the two countries and is set to operate three times a week, starting on June 17, 2025. Flights will be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, making it convenient for both business and leisure travellers.

Outbound Flight from Lusaka to Harare:

– Flight Number: ZN 303

– Departure: Lusaka at 06:00

– Arrival: Harare at 07:10

Return Flight from Harare to Lusaka:

– Flight Number: ZN 302

– Departure: Harare at 07:55

– Arrival: Lusaka at 09:05

Travellers can now book their flights on this newly established route, as well as access the entire Zambia Airways route network, either via www.zambia-airways.com or by contacting their preferred travel agents.

Commenting on the inauguration of this vital service to Harare, Mr. Thomas Gebreyohannes Woldesenbet, Chief Executive Officer of Zambia Airways, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to add Harare to our expanding regional network. This new route is more than just a means of transport; it represents a bridge that connects two vibrant cities, fostering a sense of unity among our people, cultures, and economies. Enhancing air connectivity between Lusaka and Harare is crucial for promoting regional cooperation and fostering bilateral trade.”

Mr. Woldesenbet further highlighted the strategic significance of this new route, stating: “This service not only opens a multitude of new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs in both Zambia and Zimbabwe but also accommodates the demanding schedules of travelers with its early morning departures. Operating three times a week facilitates the swift movement of goods and services, making it easier for tourists eager to explore the abundant cultural and natural attractions both Zambia and Zimbabwe have to offer. We envision this initiative as a meaningful contribution to the broader aspirations of regional integration and economic growth through the enhancement of trade, commerce, and tourism between our nations

On Thursday, 8 May, leading figures in the automotive industry met at the Centurion Country Club for another Automechanika CEO breakfast event – “The African Connection” -, hosted by Messe Frankfurt South Africa.

“As we navigate shifting trade agreements, tariffs, and international relations, South African automotive businesses are actively seeking new partnerships and market opportunities,” said Michael Dehn, Managing Director at Messe Frankfurt. “The discussions taking place at these events reflect the current trends in the industry. Companies are adapting to rapid change and repositioning themselves within evolving trade frameworks, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and among Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) countries,” added Dehn.

Key Components

Recent US tariff impositions have had a significant impact on the automotive sector, with 25% tariffs now applied to vehicles and vehicle components (implemented in March and May 2025, respectively), alongside a 10% baseline tariff on all imports.

Prior to the implementation of the new regulations, 99% of vehicles and automotive components from South Africa entered the US under the auspices of the AGOA, benefiting from duty-free treatment.

The sector is a key component of South Africa’s export economy, with vehicles and parts accounting for 15% of the country’s total exports to the United States, South Africa’s second largest export market.

Unreciprocal

During her presentation, Dr. Paulina Mamogobo, Chief Economist at NAAMSA (the Automotive Business Council), explained that the EU is still the major export destination from South Africa, accounting for over 76% of automotive exports. The looming US tariffs already had a rather preemptive impact on Q1-2025 numbers as exports to the US reduced from 6% in 2024 to 2% in Q1-2025. However, this reduction was compensated by other export destinations. Further details will be announced by NAAMSA during their launch of the Automotive Trade Manual on May 15th.

Mamogobo stated that the AfCFTA is a strategic response to these challenges, creating a $3.4 trillion market across 44 African countries by eliminating tariffs and boosting intra-regional trade. However, she noted that infrastructure gaps remain a significant challenge to fully realising this potential.

Ronel Oberholzer, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa Economics at S&P Global Market Intelligence, explained that the global automotive landscape is further complicated by China’s oversupply of vehicles (especially EVs) potentially getting into African markets, creating direct competition for South African manufacturing, while India’s low-cost advantage intensifies competitive pressures. In her view, the BRICS countries are not necessarily new markets for South African finished goods, but rather source of further investments into Africa.

Jenny Tala, Director Southern Africa: Germany Trade & Invest stated that the tariffs imposed by the US effectively nullify the benefits of the AGOA, and that this poses a threat to South Africa’s automotive manufacturing competitiveness. Tala recommended to diversify export markets by expanding regional and international trade relations.

Duane Newman, Partner: EY South Africa demonstrated the potential benefits for South Africa of global trade tensions between major automotive markets, particularly in the context of the Trump administration’s protectionist policies. The country is poised to experience heightened investment, as multinational manufacturers seek to diversify their production away from Mexico and China. Newman also stated that the newly reduced focus of the US administration on NEV’s could benefit South African manufacturers, who are still majorly producing ICE vehicles.

However, Donald MacKay, CEO: XA Global Trade Advisors cautioned that Africa’s automotive industry is faced with the challenge of navigating infrastructure limitations, including underdeveloped road and rail networks that result in significant transportation costs. Rail transport, though five times more expensive than water transport, remains half the cost of road freight, highlighting the need for infrastructure investment to support automotive trade across the continent.

On-trend

“While it is impossible to predict exactly what will happen next in this volatile landscape, I am confident that our exhibitions will continue to be the place where these critical business connections are made,” continued Dehn.

“In the current climate of global economic turbulence, exhibitions such as Automechanika Johannesburg are instrumental in shaping the emerging global trade landscape,” he concluded.

For more information about exhibiting or attending Automechanika Johannesburg 2025, please visit www.automechanikasa.co.za or contact Tracy Gounden at tracy.gounden@za.messefrankfurt.com

Namibia has fallen short of its ambitious target to become a regional logistics hub by 2025, as set out in the fourth National Development Plan (NDP4). In response to this setback, a comprehensive master plan is currently under review, following significant delays in critical areas including rail, aviation, and regulatory infrastructure.

The original phased strategy had aimed for initial expansion by 2020, but as Gilbert Boois, project manager for the Walvis Bay Corridor Group, notes, “We are now in 2025, and I can assure you we are not there yet. Therefore, we are in the process of revising the master plan, because several essential developments are still pending.” Specifically, Boois highlights deficiencies in the country’s railway infrastructure and emphasises that substantial improvements are necessary in the aviation sector to meet logistics hub standards.

To successfully position Namibia as a logistics hub, it is vital to establish a number of interconnected components. “First and foremost, you need to have an efficient port,” Boois states. He explains that this must be complemented by a robust intermodal setup, which includes road and rail networks, border infrastructure, and a supportive regulatory, policy, and legislative environment.

Namibia’s logistics corridor network is designed with four primary routes: three that funnel through Walvis Bay and one through Lüderitz. These corridors connect Namibia to vital regional markets, enabling the transport of key commodities such as copper, fertilisers, and various consumer goods. Boois notes, “Logistics is fundamentally a volume game. It’s really about how you drive volumes to achieve the desired economies of scale.”

The governance structure overseeing the development of this logistics hub includes the Cabinet, steering committees, and mixed-sector working groups, ensuring comprehensive oversight and strategic coordination. Boois reflects on the inception of the initiative: “In 2015, we launched the logistics hub project on behalf of the Namibian government. It’s not our project; it’s a Namibian government project that we are implementing.”

The initial phase of this project, referred to as the ‘Transport Corridor,’ aimed to eliminate bottlenecks in the logistics chain and significantly increase Namibia’s share in the international transport market. This phase included a target to scale transport capacity by 2.5 times by the year 2020.

The subsequent phase, known as the ‘Economic Corridor,’ was designed to transform Namibia into a regional supply and distribution depot, ultimately supporting the broader Vision 2030 initiative for economic industrialisation. Although progress has been made in improving port infrastructure, key components such as rail networks and border facilities, as well as the aviation sector, still face substantial developmental challenges. Currently, private concessions that operate in these areas are functioning under a landlord model, which may limit the flexibility and responsiveness needed for further growth. As such, the need for coordinated investments and strategic planning remains pressing to fulfil Namibia’s logistics hub aspirations.

The Government of Mozambique has announced an ambitious plan to invest approximately €193.3 million (14 billion meticais) by 2030 to modernize and expand the country’s railway infrastructure. The investment aims to enhance the capacity of the southern and central railway systems, particularly focusing on increasing both passenger and cargo transport capabilities. The announcement was made by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, during the inauguration of three new locomotives in Maputo.

A major part of the investment will be directed towards the completion of the duplication of the remaining 25 kilometers of the Ressano Garcia railway line in Maputo. This strategic railway links Mozambique with neighboring South Africa and is crucial for both regional connectivity and economic integration. The government also intends to acquire more than 30 new passenger carriages, along with at least 250 wagons and 15 locomotives, to cater to the growing demand for both commuter and mineral transportation. These developments are seen as essential steps toward reinforcing the country’s transport infrastructure and ensuring long-term economic growth.

During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Matlombe emphasized that the three new locomotives are part of a larger order of 15, intended to significantly boost the southern and central rail systems. Valued at 422.4 million meticais (€5.8 million), the locomotives are already expected to improve rail transport in the Greater Maputo area. He further highlighted the positive community impact the expanded rail service will bring, especially by easing daily commutes and facilitating the movement of goods, which in turn supports local economic development.

The state-owned company Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM), which manages these railway systems, has shown substantial financial improvement. According to CFM’s chairman, Agostinho Langa, the company’s operating results increased by 55% in 2024, reaching 2.52 billion meticais (€34.7 million), up from 1.63 billion meticais (€22.5 million) in 2023. This performance, although provisional, is considered highly encouraging, particularly given the challenges faced during the year, including months of social unrest following post-election tensions.

CFM currently operates several key railway corridors, including the Ressano Garcia, Limpopo, and Goba lines, as well as the Beira Railway System, which includes the Sena, Machipanda, and Marromeu lines. It also manages key logistics infrastructure such as the Maputo manoeuvring area, general workshops, and major terminals for aluminium, fuel, cereal, and coal across various ports including Maputo, Quelimane, Nacala, and Pemba.

The government’s railway investment plan is part of a broader national strategy to modernize infrastructure and stimulate economic growth through improved logistics and transport services. As Mozambique continues to position itself as a vital regional trade corridor in southern Africa, these enhancements in rail infrastructure are expected to play a pivotal role in boosting cross-border trade, supporting the mining sector, and improving the everyday lives of Mozambicans through better transportation services.

In a significant step toward transforming port operations and enhancing regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Tanzania has launched Fixed Berthing Windows (FBW) at Terminal 2 of the Dar es Salaam Port. This reform, introduced by the Tanzania East Africa Gateway Terminal Limited (TEAGTL)—the private operator of Terminal 2—marks a major milestone in modernizing Tanzania’s maritime logistics sector and advancing its role as a regional trade hub. The FBW system replaces the traditional first-come-first-served berthing arrangement with a structured schedule of pre-assigned time slots, significantly reducing vessel waiting times and improving overall port efficiency. This shift is widely regarded as a global best practice in port management and is expected to benefit exporters, importers, and manufacturers by enhancing supply chain reliability and reducing logistical costs.

Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Director General Plasduce Mbossa hailed the implementation of FBW as a critical achievement in enhancing port efficiency and service delivery. He emphasized the strategic partnership between TPA and TEAGTL in building a world-class port ecosystem that supports Tanzania’s national development goals. TEAGTL Director Shahzad Athar highlighted that the successful adoption of FBW was not merely a terminal-level upgrade but a systemic change aimed at positioning Tanzania as a reliable node in global trade. By increasing scheduling confidence for shipping lines, the new system enables greater volume handling, supports the Tanzanian manufacturing sector, and boosts the competitiveness of local exports such as agricultural products.

The urgency of adopting FBW was also underlined by the nature of global transport networks, where delays at one port can have ripple effects along the entire supply chain. The lack of predictability has historically discouraged global carriers from including Dar es Salaam in their schedules. With the implementation of FBW, however, Tanzania is now providing superior service to both international carriers and the national import/export community. In just three months, 32% of the 65 vessels serviced at Terminal 2 were handled under the new FBW system, a figure that rose to 48% by March. TEAGTL now aims to reach 75% FBW usage by the end of May, demonstrating strong adoption by major shipping lines and growing confidence in the Tanzanian port system.

Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) Director General Mohamed Salum described FBW as a major step forward in promoting efficiency, transparency, and predictability. He noted that the system aligns perfectly with TASAC’s mandate to ensure safe, secure, and environmentally sound shipping practices, enhancing Tanzania’s reputation in global trade. TEAGTL CEO Capt. Jeyaraj Thamburaj also pointed out that, in addition to reducing vessel waiting times, the terminal is expanding its reefer plug capacity to support cold-chain logistics—a critical requirement for high-value agricultural exports such as avocados. Together, FBW and enhanced refrigeration capabilities are expected to unlock new opportunities for Tanzanian exporters by ensuring product freshness and consistency.

Beyond its local benefits, the FBW reform at Dar es Salaam Port has broader implications for regional integration. The improved efficiency is set to benefit landlocked neighboring countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo by providing them with a more reliable and cost-effective trade corridor. These developments underscore Tanzania’s growing role as a strategic logistics hub in East and Southern Africa.