Almar upbeat about Africa growth

Mitigating risk is key to success when operating in Africa. For Warren Jacobs of Almar, a company that has successfully branched out into several African countries, it is all about doing one’s homework and knowing what one is taking on. “Many investors have become increasingly wary of placing money into projects in South Africa due to policy uncertainty and labour issues,” he said. “Understanding the challenges is therefore key before one enters a market – be it South Africa or any other country in Africa.” With offices opened in Kenya and Angola in 2011, Tanzania in 2012 and this year in Mozambique, Almar is mindful of the issues in Africa. “We have been extending our global footprint – but more so in Africa where we have opened four offices in two years, significantly growing our presence. It is our strategy to increase our operations in Africa.” He said with a positive outlook for the continent on all fronts it made sense to grow as opportunities were plentiful. “With the number of large projects under way and many in the planning stage throughout Africa, there is work to be done here and companies can benefit. They must however be able to mitigate the risk and overcome the challenges the continent poses.” This includes the lack of road and rail infrastructure. “We have started seeing a difference as investment into rail, road and port infrastructure is happening. Throughout Africa foreign investment is being channelled into infrastructure development projects.” Jacobs said as this continued to happen and as infrastructure improved, many African countries would see far greater economic activity. “We are positive about the prospects in Africa. As a company we are looking to grow and expand our presence in Africa. Many of the services and products we offer is what are needed by the growing projects sector.” CAPTION With many large projects under way, Almar has opened four offices in Africa in two years.