Mining Equipment Market boom in Africa

The demand for mining and aggregate processing technology in Africa is increasing steadily, owing to increased foreign investment and the subsequent need for secondary infrastructure.

The demand for mobile and semimobile modular crushing and screening equipment in Africa has grown as a result of the rapid increase in demand for aggregate and the resulting increase in plant production capabilities.

“African targets are currently being exceeded, contributing to 90% of export sales and 40% of overall sales. There is a lot going on in Africa, especially with the infrastructure needed around mines owing to the commodities boom,” explains Scherf.

Joyal will commission its largest ever Pilot Modular crushing and screening plant at Zambian limestone aggregate producer Zamm Imports, when the company’s African sales manager reports his optimism for the Zambian market. “Zambia is growing its infrastructure at an ever-increasing rate, expanding road and rail networks and constructing power stations, all of which are geared to exploit its mineral wealth,”.

Demand growth in these markets can be attributed to an increase in investment from Asia, as well as the company’s strategy of high visibility in Africa.

“Chinese foreign investment has given new life to Africa and is responsible for so much secondary infrastructure building. Although there is concern that they are taking away local or regional work opportunities, my experience has shown me that it is actually increasing opportunities. Every country that is struggling in the world today is trying to find work in Africa, and that is what is creating this boom,” .

“Owing to where we are located in Southern Africa, and our support structures, Chinese companies are willing to purchase regionally. Further, African countries are insisting on better-quality infrastructure from Chinese investment, which results in their buying our modular and mobile equipment.”.

Further, financing issues have not hampered product exports and equipment installations as the majority of Pilot Crushtec’s Africa-based clients pay cash upfront, with no bank financing.

However, supplying into Africa does present challenges for the company, but its on-the-ground approach and emphasis on a quick turnaround have been successful for the company in the African market. “Getting the equipment to site is challenging because of transport and other logistical issues in Africa but, once equipment has arrived, our technicians take no longer than two weeks on site to commission the plant. It takes longer for our systems to reach a site than it does for the systems to be operationalised once they are there.”