Africa expansion driven by mining clients

11th July 2014

By: Donna Slater

Features Deputy Editor and Chief Photographer

  

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Compressor, generator and tool hire company Rand-Air reports that it has recently expanded its range of products and services to mining clients in other African countries.

Taking advantage of new discoveries of oil and gas in East Africa, Rand-Air – operating in the region under the auspices of its parent company capital equipment supplier Atlas Copco Rental – has increased its capacity owing to increasing business activities and interest.

Atlas Copco Rental East Africa business development manager Hillary Kiongo says that expansion into the East African region is important for the company.

“There are also significant deposits viable for commercial production to be found in Uganda and Kenya. Commercial gas deposits have, in addition, been found in Tanzania and Madagascar, with much midstream and downstream activity expected soon,” says Kiongo.

These developments have reinforced the establishment of a dedicated team responsible for rental business within the region, active across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Madagascar and the entire East African region.

Further, a number of turnkey projects are currently under way, including the Lamu Port Southern Sudan-Ethiopia transport corridor, the Kenya/Uganda/Rwanda railway and the Kenyan oil pipeline from Mombasa to Nairobi, and further to Uganda and Rwanda – the construction, installation, operation and maintenance phases of these and other projects all have potential compressed air and power hire requirements.

“We also offer compressed air and power requirements for the manufacturing sector. All these sectors can benefit from our equipment and services, as they do not have to invest in standby compressors or generators, but can explore our short-term or longer-term industrial plant rental options. In this way, companies can reduce capital expenditure and other associated direct ownership costs.”

“In addition, and in line with our parent company’s approach, we adhere strictly to the in-country financial, operational and logistical regulations. This ensures that our regional customers enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience,” Kiongo enthuses.

“Initially, we will be focusing on the oil and gas, construction, mining, water, exploration drilling, power generation and manufacturing industries. We will also be focusing on the pan-African telecommunications industry, which has enormous potential for expansion. We are currently establishing our customer base within these market segments, and are aspiring to build strong relationships which will help us to successfully penetrate these sectors,” he explains.

Customers will have their pick of a wide range of equipment, including Atlas Copco compressors and generators. Atlas Copco Rental currently has several units in its fleet and some are currently in the process of being imported.

Kiongo points out that Atlas Copco Rental intends to take one step at a time, expanding the fleet as business develops and grows. “We will offer compressor boosters, steam boilers, nitrogen generators, dryers, lighting plants and any other Atlas Copco equipment – depending on demand.

“Benefits to customers include, but are not limited to, local support and back-up, availability of spares, highly-trained and experienced staff and good workshop facilities,” says Kiongo.

For the company to grow in East Africa, it required a dedicated team capable of overcoming challenges and making a success in the region. “We will hire dedicated service technicians for every country in which we will be operating, in line with customer demand. Currently, we are leveraging the expertise of the existing Atlas Copco Construction Technique service team, which is highly trained and experienced,” he says.

There are a large number of multinational companies making their presence felt here, and these companies are looking for reliable equipment and services to meet their requirements, Kiongo states.

“Atlas Copco Rental East Africa is well-positioned to be their first choice in compressed air, power and other industrial equipment,” he concludes.

Edited by Megan van Wyngaardt
Creamer Media Contributing Editor Online

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