According to Booyco Electronics CEO Anton Lourens, demand for PDS/CPS solutions has risen notably over the past six months across both the quarrying and mining sectors, reflecting a broader shift towards proactive risk management. While compliance with safety legislation remains an important driver, operators are increasingly recognising the role of these technologies in preventing incidents and creating safer working environments.

“Safety has become a strategic priority for many operations,” Lourens says. “Beyond meeting legislative requirements, quarry operators are investing in technologies that help  mitigate risk and improve overall operational safety.”

One of the key factors supporting wider adoption is improved interoperability between PDS technologies and mobile equipment. Advances in interface kits, together with growing collaboration between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), independent interface providers and technology suppliers, have simplified the integration of collision prevention systems across mixed equipment fleets.

The adoption of the ISO 21815 standard has further strengthened this process by providing a technology-neutral communication protocol that enables different systems to work together more effectively, streamlining implementation across the industry.

For quarry operators, however, adopting PDS/CPS technology requires solutions that are bespoke to the realities of their operating environments. Lourens says successful implementation depends on tailoring each solution to the site’s unique operating conditions.

“No two operations are the same. Every implementation begins with a detailed assessment of the fleet, traffic patterns and operating practices to ensure the system delivers effective detection without compromising productivity,” he explains.

Cost remains another important consideration for quarry operators, many of whom operate on tighter margins than larger mining companies. Booyco Electronics believes, however, that safety technology should not be determined by the size or financial capacity of an operation.

“We do not believe there should be different levels of safety capability for different operations,” Lourens says. “Our focus is on improving our own development and manufacturing efficiencies so that advanced collision prevention technology remains accessible to both large mines and smaller quarrying businesses.”

Successful deployment also depends on effective change management. Lourens notes that engineering teams typically focus on regulatory compliance, while operational managers prioritise production and equipment availability. Bringing these stakeholders together through clear communication and training, and ensuring adoption, is essential to achieving both safety and operational objectives.

Looking ahead, Lourens expects collision prevention technology to continue evolving through the integration of multiple sensing technologies rather than relying on a single detection solution.

“The future lies in combining technologies such as low-frequency communication, GPS, radar and camera-based systems etc, to deliver more reliable and adaptable collision prevention solutions,” he says. “As these technologies continue to evolve, the industry will be better positioned to deliver sustainable, cost-effective safety solutions that support the goal of zero harm.”

www.booyco-electronics.com

Trotech is building on more than three decades of project experience across South Africa and the broader African continent to help clients develop, expand and maintain the storage infrastructure their operations depend on. As an integrated contractor for tank farm infrastructure, we provide engineering, procurement and construction services to clients in the energy, petrochemical, mining and industrial sectors.

Storage terminals and tank farms remain critical assets within Africa’s supply chains. Whether supporting the import and distribution of liquid fuels, providing operational capacity for mining operations, or enabling future energy developments such as sustainable aviation fuels, biofuels, hydrogen derivatives and green ammonia, these facilities form the backbone of economic growth and energy resilience.

The challenge facing many operators today is not only the development of new facilities but also the upgrading, expansion and life extension of existing infrastructure. Ageing assets, evolving regulatory requirements and increasing expectations around environmental performance require solutions that balance safety, reliability, cost and long-term sustainability.

At Trotech, we believe that successful project delivery begins with a thorough understanding of our client’s operational needs and strategic objectives. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical execution experience, allowing us to identify and manage project risks from concept through commissioning.

This capability has been developed specifically for the demands of tank farm infrastructure projects. It covers above-ground storage tanks, terminal facilities, pipelines, pump stations, loading and offloading systems, fire protection systems, utilities and associated balance-of-plant infrastructure.

By bringing engineering, procurement and construction together, we provide clients with clearer accountability, streamlined communication and greater certainty regarding project outcomes. This coordinated approach supports earlier risk identification, stronger alignment between design and construction, and improved control of schedule, cost and quality.

Safety remains a fundamental pillar of our business. We recognise that tank farm projects are often executed in live operating environments where maintaining operational continuity is essential. Our project teams therefore place significant emphasis on planning, stakeholder engagement, risk management and the implementation of robust safety management systems throughout the project lifecycle.

Looking ahead, we see substantial opportunities across the continent as governments and private sector investors continue to strengthen strategic storage capacity and develop infrastructure to support both traditional and emerging energy markets. Africa’s industrial growth ambitions will require significant investment in logistics, storage and energy infrastructure, creating opportunities for partnerships that combine local understanding with world-class project execution capability.

Events such as the African Petrochemicals Roadshow provide an important platform for industry stakeholders to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends and identify opportunities for collaboration. As Trotech expands its integrated tank farm capability, we are eager to engage with asset owners, operators, technology providers and strategic partners who share our commitment to delivering safe, sustainable and commercially successful infrastructure projects.

Our aim is straightforward: to be a trusted African partner for tank farm infrastructure by combining practical engineering, disciplined project delivery and a clear understanding of the operating environments in which our clients work.

Connect with Trotech at the African Petrochemicals Roadshow in Sasolburg to discuss new tank farm developments, terminal upgrades, asset life extension and opportunities for collaboration across Africa.

More info, please visit: https://trotech.co.za/

Integrated Air Solutions’ solutions‑based approach in KwaZulu‑Natal focusses first on understanding how compressed air is applied within each customer’s operation, then supplying the optimum air solution that will deliver enhanced reliability, efficiency and overall system performance. Whether reviewing compressor capacity, assessing air‑treatment requirements or optimising distribution systems, the team is centered on unlocking improvements that translate directly into stronger, more resilient industrial operations.

“With compressed air playing a critical role in all manufacturing and production processes, customers require far more than a basic compressor supplier,” emphasises Branch Manager, Jaco Fourie. “A high‑quality machine is only one part of the equation; service and support carry equal weight. Customers need a dependable partner capable of sustaining their entire compressed‑air system throughout the complete lifecycle – from equipment selection, installation and commissioning, through to servicing, maintenance, rapid emergency response as well as rental offerings. This full‑service approach adds further value by giving customers a single point of contact for all their compressed‑air requirements, simplifying equipment management while cultivating long‑term partnerships.”

Located in Pinetown’s Westmead industrial hub, the KwaZulu‑Natal branch provides convenient access for customers across the greater Durban area. It offers a broad range of thoughtfully tailored solutions, from high‑quality diesel and electric air compressors to flexible short‑ and long‑term rental options that bridge breakdowns, shutdowns, production increases and temporary capacity requirements. Advanced air dryers and treatment equipment complement the compressor offering to further improve air quality, safeguarding downstream systems and production processes.

The KwaZulu‑Natal branch’s highly experienced technicians undertake complete new compressed‑air installations, encompassing full air‑line installation and modification services to integrate seamlessly with customers’ existing plant systems. The team also implements professional system upgrades and expansions of existing production facilities, delivering tailored solutions for customers seeking to increase capacity, enhance reliability or modernise their compressed‑air systems.

“One of the greatest advantages of the new KwaZulu‑Natal branch is our dedicated local presence,” asserts Jaco. “A compressor failure can interrupt production, disrupt delivery schedules and place immense pressure on operations. By harnessing local customer support, technical expertise, rapid response and rental solutions, we can deliver a faster, more flexible intervention when urgent assistance or additional capacity is required, significantly bolstering uptime for our valued customers. Our service portfolio also extends to preventative maintenance programmes and planned service schedules designed to amplify reliability, extend compressor life and mitigate the risk of unexpected breakdowns and resultant costly production stoppages. We further support customers with breakdown and technical interventions aimed at restoring production as quickly as possible when problems occur.”

The opening of the KwaZulu‑Natal branch underscores a long‑term commitment to the region’s industries and the people who drive them and opens a new pathway along Integrated Air Solutions’ full customer support journey. As the branch grows, the emphasis will remain firmly on the supply of quality equipment, and after-market service solutions, positioning Integrated Air Solutions as a trusted partner in supplying quality air, keeping production lines moving.                                                                                                                            

More info: www.air-solutions.co.za

Major wins at the 2026 SAICE National Awards, held at the NH Hotel in Sandton on 3 September, have continued Zutari’s strong run of industry recognition. The consulting engineering firm was recognised across four categories, including three wins and a highly commended project recognition, highlighting the breadth of its technical expertise, project capability and investment in the next generation of engineering professionals.

The Senqu Bridge – Polihali project was named winner of the Technical Excellence International Project of the Year Award, while the Jwaneng Underground Mine Flood Risk Assessment won the Technical Excellence Investigative Project of the Year Award. Zutari’s Sachin Ravjee, Associate Bridge Engineer, was named Young Engineer of the Year.

The N2/R61 Emergency Slope Repairs project, undertaken for SANRAL by Zutari / Rumdel / Wild Coast, was Highly Commended in the Technical Excellence Maintenance or Rehabilitation Project of the Year category.

The results follow Zutari’s strong performance at the 2026 CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards on 20 August, where its projects and people were recognised across technical excellence, infrastructure impact, industry leadership and talent development.

They also provide further affirmation of Zutari’s growing international standing. The firm recently climbed 31 places in the ENR Top 225 International Design Firms ranking, moving from #99 in 2025 to #68 in 2026, driven primarily by growth in international design-service revenue.

“Recognition across both the CESA Aon and SAICE awards demonstrates the consistency and depth of engineering excellence within Zutari,” comments TC Ralebitso, Africa Chief Executive Officer of Zutari. “Importantly, it also reflects the impact of our work across different sectors, geographies and generations, from complex infrastructure and climate resilience to the development of young engineers who will shape the profession in years to come.”

Engineering for resilience and connectivity

The Senqu Bridge forms part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and is being delivered in the remote, high-altitude environment of the Lesotho Highlands. At 825 m, the bridge is the longest and highest bridge in Lesotho and the first extradosed bridge in both Lesotho and South Africa.

Once the Polihali Dam is impounded, sections of the existing A1 national road and river crossings will be submerged. The new bridge will therefore preserve vital connections for communities in and around Mokhotlong and Mapholaneng, including access to schools, healthcare, employment, trade and Maseru.

The project combines engineering innovation with a clear social and economic purpose, providing a reliable crossing in an environment characterised by steep terrain, snow, ice, strong winds and extreme temperatures.

The N2/R61 Emergency Slope Repairs similarly demonstrate the role of engineering in strengthening infrastructure resilience. The project responded to catastrophic flood damage in the OR Tambo District Municipality in March 2023, when extensive slope failures, erosion, roadway collapse and drainage failures affected a critical transport corridor between Mthatha and Port St Johns. Zutari developed emergency repair solutions focused on protecting human life and restoring the route as quickly as possible.

The resulting works incorporated advanced slope stabilisation measures, including soil nailing, reinforced shotcrete systems, mechanically stabilised earth walls, groundwater management and large-scale erosion protection. The project also required the team to adapt designs and construction methodologies as unforeseen geological and groundwater conditions emerged, while maintaining traffic access and public safety.

Tackling complex challenges through engineering

At Botswana’s Jwaneng Mine, Zutari’s award-winning flood risk assessment addressed a very different but equally complex challenge. Jwaneng, a cornerstone of Botswana’s economy, faces flood risks associated with the Naledi River catchment, which covers more than 450 km², as well as rainfall falling directly on the mine site.

With the open pit expected to deplete currently accessible resources by 2034 and Debswana evaluating a transition to underground mining, understanding present and future flood risk has become increasingly important.

Zutari was appointed to undertake a site-wide Surface Flood Risk Assessment and Surface Stormwater Management Masterplan for both the existing mine layout and future development. The project required a system-level approach because the mine’s relatively flat terrain, depression storages, pit and waste rock dump could not be adequately represented using conventional peak-flow and flow-path methodologies.

Investing in the profession

The recognition of Ravjee as SAICE Young Engineer of the Year adds an important people dimension to Zutari’s awards success. Ravjee has progressed from Graduate Engineer to Associate Bridge Engineer and Professional Engineer within eight years, contributing to major bridge and transport infrastructure projects across Southern Africa, Australia and the Middle East. His contribution to the Senqu Bridge has been complemented by a strong commitment to professional development and mentorship.

Since 2019, Ravjee has regularly served as an external examiner for final-year civil engineering projects at the University of Pretoria, while he currently leads Zutari’s Bridge Team ECSA Focus Group, supporting approximately 20 candidate engineers. Since 2025, he has also served as Vice-Chairperson of the IABSE Structural Health Monitoring Task Group.

For Ralebitso, the recognition of both projects and people is central to what the awards represent. “Engineering excellence is never achieved in isolation. It comes from talented people working collaboratively with clients and partners to solve difficult problems, and from creating an environment where knowledge is shared and the next generation is given the opportunity to grow,” he concludes.

Web: https://www.zutari.com

For petrochemical, energy and other process-intensive industries, the value of these technologies extends far beyond simply automating a plant. The real opportunity lies in connecting control systems, instrumentation, operational data and advanced digital technologies to create an intelligent operational environment that drives informed decision-making, increased reliability, optimised risk management, and improved production yields.

While digitalisation is an umbrella term, understanding the value that it adds to plant operations, safety, and environmental compliance, is where real transformation begins. It extends beyond simply converting manual processes into digital ones or installing new technologies. It transforms disparate operational data into accurate, contextualised and actionable information that that clarifies what is happening across the plant and why.

This is where robust automation and control infrastructure becomes critical.

Effective control systems continuously monitor and regulate critical processes and equipment, providing the stability and reliability required for safe production. Supported by asset monitoring, predictive maintenance, energy management and optimisation, organisations can move from reacting to problems towards addressing them before they affect production.

Moore’s real-world execution capabilities are proven by high-profile turnkey projects executed under rigorous international safety and engineering standards. Within petrochemical refining, Moore has upgraded compressor controls and implemented anti-surge strategies, improving compressor protection, plant efficiency and operational productivity. The implementation of Siemens PCS7 and TIA Portal automation platforms modernised ageing control infrastructure and enhanced the visibility of processes, reliability of assets and the overall control of the plant. Moore has furthermore improved the performance and reliability of critical rotating equipment by replacing steam turbine speed control and compressor control systems, while DCS migrations of the boiler and compressor modernised the essential energy infrastructure without unnecessary replacements. In offshore oil and gas environments, Moore has delivered Integrated Control and Safety Systems (ICSS) solutions, compliant with IEC 61511 requirements, that supported uninterrupted, safe and reliable operation of high-risk and complex facilities. Together, these solutions demonstrate the safe and reliable integration, modernisation, and optimisation of critical infrastructure while delivering measurable operational value and long-term capital returns.

How do we do this?

• Building robust automation foundations: Our industrial automation expertise focuses on providing a foundation for safe, sustainable production that encompasses detailed system design and architecture, third-party integration, DCS and PLC implementation, control system upgrades, safety systems and lifecycle management.
• Modernising without unnecessary disruption: Many industrial facilities operate with legacy control systems that remain fundamental to production but are increasingly difficult to maintain, support or integrate with modern technologies. Moore specialises in migrating and integrating legacy systems with current platforms while reusing existing engineering and control strategies where appropriate.
• Connecting the plant: By integrating operational systems and creating a connected data environment, organisations gain greater visibility across their operations and can turn real-time operational information into actionable insight.
• Optimising performance: With a robust automation and data foundation in place, advanced solutions can be applied to identify and realise opportunities for improved performance.

The result is not simply a more modern control system, but a more connected, informed and resilient operation. For industries facing ageing infrastructure, increasing energy costs, tighter safety requirements and growing pressure to improve productivity, digital transformation does not necessarily mean starting again. With the right architecture, expertise and lifecycle strategy, existing infrastructure can become the foundation for future performance. Moore’s approach connects reliable automation with operational data and advanced technologies to move organisations from control to intelligence, and from intelligence to optimisation. This is where technology becomes operational value.

It was a standout evening for Zutari at the 2026 CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards on 20 August, with its people and projects recognised for technical excellence, innovation, leadership and investment in the next generation of engineers.

This recognition follows Zutari’s impressive performance in the ENR Top 225 International Design Firms, where it climbed from #99 in 2025 to #68 in 2026, making a 31-place improvement driven primarily by international design-service revenue. This upward trend underscores the firm’s growing multinational presence and increasing appeal to major global clients.

Held at Vodacom World in Midrand, the awards brought together South Africa’s consulting engineering industry to celebrate excellence in the sector. For Zutari, the evening resulted in two major project wins, two individual awards, a project commendation and recognition for its Job Shadow Day programme.

“These awards are a reflection of what can happen when talented people, trusted clients, and committed partners come together around challenges that matter,” comments TC Ralebitso, Africa Chief Executive Officer of Zutari.

“We are immensely proud of our teams, not simply for the recognition they have received, but for the expertise, perseverance and sense of purpose behind these achievements. From enabling renewable energy and preserving vital community connections to modernising existing infrastructure and inspiring the next generation, these projects demonstrate the meaningful impact engineering can have,” comments Ralebitso.

Engineering that enables a changing energy landscape

The Koruson Main Transmission Substation represents the scale and complexity of the infrastructure required to support South Africa’s energy transition. The project transformed a basic 400/132 kV substation into a major renewable-energy integration hub, facilitating the connection of around 1 000 MVA of renewable power to the national grid, with potential for a further 500 MVA expansion.

Zutari led the detailed design of the substation and associated grid connections, including a 132 kV overhead line network connecting six renewable energy facilities to the transmission hub. The project is also notable as South Africa’s first privately delivered 400 kV main transmission substation.

The project required a system-wide engineering approach, bringing together multiple disciplines while navigating challenging terrain, environmental sensitivities, regulatory requirements and the technical demands of integrating several generation facilities into a single transmission network.

Connecting communities through the Senqu Bridge

Part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, the Senqu Bridge was named Best International Project. At 825 m, it is the longest and highest bridge in Lesotho and the first extradosed bridge in both Lesotho and South Africa. Its construction required innovative thinking in response to the challenging conditions of the Lesotho Highlands, including steep terrain, snow, ice, strong winds and extreme temperatures.

When the future Polihali Dam is filled, sections of the existing A1 road and river crossings will be submerged. The Senqu Bridge preserves vital access for communities in and around Mokhotlong and Mapholaneng, maintaining connections to schools, healthcare, employment, trade, family networks and the capital, Maseru.

The project was completed ahead of schedule and within budget. Its innovative construction methodology, including launching deck segments from both ends of the bridge, helped reduce the construction programme from 48 to 36 months. The result is infrastructure that combines engineering ingenuity with a very practical human purpose of maintaining safe and reliable connections for communities for generations to come.

Recognising people who advance the profession

The awards also highlighted the depth of expertise and leadership within Zutari. Sachin Ravjee, an Associate Bridge Engineer with eight years’ experience, was named CESA Young Engineer of the Year. His career has progressed from graduate to Associate and Professional Engineer, with experience spanning complex bridge projects in South Africa, Lesotho, Nigeria and Australia.

Sachin combines advanced structural modelling, computational engineering and structural health monitoring with research, knowledge sharing and mentorship. His work on the Senqu Bridge includes using monitoring data to verify structural performance during critical construction stages. He is also pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of Pretoria, focusing on structural health monitoring of extradosed bridges.

The Lifetime Industry Achievement Award went to Zutari’s Louis Joubert in recognition of a career spanning almost five decades. A Professional Engineer registered with ECSA since 1983, Louis has contributed to major infrastructure projects across Southern and Sub-Saharan Africa. He has helped develop generations of engineers, technologists and construction professionals, many of whom have gone on to senior leadership positions within the industry.

Modernising existing infrastructure for the future

The Bethlehem Hydro Modernisation Project, which received a commendation in the Projects Less than R50 million category, demonstrates finding new value in existing infrastructure. Rather than approaching the Merino and Sol Plaatje hydropower plants simply as ageing assets requiring replacement, Zutari treated them as operating systems that needed to be optimised for changing future conditions.

The project used engineering-grade reality capture, including laser scanning and drone photogrammetry, to develop an accurate digital representation of the existing facilities. This provided a common basis for engineering analysis and decision-making in a complex brownfield environment.

About 70 upgrade options were assessed through four modernisation scenarios, considering hydraulic and power performance alongside constructability, operability, maintainability, safety, outage constraints and environmental considerations. The resulting interventions are designed to improve hydraulic performance, extend asset life and reduce operational risk, while preparing the plants for increased future flows associated with Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

Investing in the engineers of tomorrow

Perhaps the most forward-looking recognition of the evening was Zutari’s win in the Job Shadow Day Poster Competition. The programme forms part of Zutari’s broader Emerging Talent Ecosystem. Learners participated in activities involving water engineering, problem-solving, innovation and digital transformation before visiting the new Netcare Akeso Polokwane project and undertaking job shadowing with Zutari professionals. The programme culminated in a collaborative poster-design workshop in which learners reflected on their experiences.

For Zutari, the value of Job Shadow Day lies in helping young people see themselves as future participants in the engineering profession. Partnerships with organisations including PROTEC, Go for Gold, SAICE and Primestars, together with school engagements, bursaries, vacation work, mentorship and graduate opportunities, form part of a pathway from initial inspiration to professional opportunity. That journey is exemplified by Zutari Managing Director for Water, Mpho Ramphao, who joined the company as a learner, received a bursary and progressed into leadership.

Ralebitso says the recognition at the 2026 CESA Aon Engineering Excellence Awards also reinforces Zutari’s responsibility to continue developing its people and contributing to the future of the profession. “Engineering excellence is never an individual achievement. It is built through collaboration, knowledge sharing and a commitment to learning and developing others. We are grateful to our clients, partners and communities who make this work possible, and we remain focused on using our expertise to create infrastructure and opportunities that deliver lasting value,” he concludes.

Connected by design. We connect differently; across disciplines, geographies, and perspectives, to unlock better outcomes. Our collaborative model breaks silos, integrates global expertise, and brings creativity and digital innovation into every stage of the project lifecycle. It’s how we deliver real impact, together.

We are Zutari. We are engineering impact.

Web: https://www.zutari.com

While pumps are often viewed as standalone pieces of equipment, successful dewatering requires a detailed understanding of site conditions, water characteristics, duty requirements and long-term operational objectives. Incorrectly specified equipment can lead to excessive energy consumption, reduced pump life, frequent breakdowns, production interruptions and significantly higher operating costs.

According to Jordan Marsh, Managing Director of Integrated Pump Technology, many dewatering challenges experienced by mining operations can be traced back to pumps being selected based solely on flow rate requirements without sufficient consideration of the broader application.

“Effective dewatering is about much more than moving water from one point to another,” Marsh explains. “Every application has unique characteristics and unless these are properly assessed, the selected pump may not deliver the required performance or reliability.”

He explains that factors such as pumping distance, total dynamic head, solids content, water chemistry, seasonal fluctuations, power availability and installation conditions all need to be evaluated during the specification process.

“Two applications may require the same flow rate, but the actual pump solution could be completely different depending on the site conditions,” he says. “This is why a detailed assessment is critical before any equipment is selected.”

Marsh notes that as mining operations move deeper underground and surface mines become larger, dewatering systems are often required to operate over longer distances and against higher heads. These conditions place additional demands on pumping equipment and require careful consideration of pump design, motor sizing and overall system configuration.

The increasing focus on sustainability is also influencing pump selection decisions. Mines are under pressure to reduce energy consumption while maintaining production targets, making efficiency an important consideration during the specification phase.

“A correctly specified pump will not only deliver reliable performance but can also significantly reduce energy costs and maintenance requirements over its operational life,” Marsh says.

Integrated Pump Technology works closely with mining customers to evaluate individual site requirements before recommending suitable dewatering solutions. The company supplies a range of Grindex electric submersible pumps and Godwin diesel-driven pumps designed for demanding mining applications across Africa.

Integrated Pump Technology’s dewatering portfolio includes Grindex electric submersible pumps ranging from approximately 1 kW to more than 90 kW, covering drainage, sludge and slurry applications. Its Godwin diesel-driven pump range incorporates both automatic self-priming and high-head pump technologies with capacities capable of delivering flow rates from a few litres per second to several thousand cubic metres per hour, depending on the application. This breadth of offering allows the company to match equipment precisely to site conditions, pumping distances, head requirements and water characteristics.

Marsh says the most successful dewatering projects are those where the pump supplier is involved early in the planning process.

“When pump selection is approached as part of the overall mine water management strategy rather than simply an equipment purchase, operations generally achieve better reliability, lower lifecycle costs and more effective water control,” he concludes.

As mining operations continue to contend with groundwater ingress, seasonal rainfall and increasingly demanding production environments, ensuring that pumps are correctly specified from the outset remains a key factor in achieving safe, reliable and cost effective dewatering performance.

Traditionally, automation partnerships centred on clear deliverables, identifying requirements, supplying the right equipment, and ensuring reliable support. Today, it is changing into a more advisory-led model that complements the new era of industrial automation driven by software-defined automation and AI.

With this exciting change, the automation partner’s role has evolved to truly grasp its customer’s operational priorities, existing infrastructure, and long-term ambitions, all before recommending the requisite technology.

For one, the ability to integrate systems, manage data, apply analytics and continuously optimise operations will be a major differentiator. This can deliver far greater value than the initial equipment investment alone.

The shift is therefore not simply from hardware to software, but from selling equipment to delivering measurable business outcomes. For customers, the value lies in improving efficiency, productivity, uptime and energy performance, with data increasingly becoming a strategic asset that can inform optimisation and AI-driven decision-making.

With organisations modernising existing facilities rather than going the forklift route, an automation partner’s role can become truly invaluable. A future-fit automation strategy must therefore enable businesses to build on what they already have, introducing new capabilities in a phased and commercially sustainable way.

The rise of software-defined automation

One of the most important developments in the channel’s progression is the shift toward a modernised posture built on software-defined automation.

Traditional automation architectures can make control applications closely dependent on specific hardware. As technologies evolve, this can make upgrades complex and potentially disruptive, particularly for organisations with significant installed infrastructure.

But, by decoupling software and control applications from the underlying physical devices, organisations can modernise progressively while protecting existing investments and creating greater flexibility for future technology choices.

This is where EcoStruxure Automation Expert (EAE), Schneider Electric’s universal automation system based on the IEC 61499 standard for distributed, event-driven automation, has an important role to play.

EAE is designed around a software-defined automation approach that decouples control applications from specific hardware. This, in turn, enables organisations to modernise at their own pace, integrate third-party equipment and establish a common software layer across their automation environment.

Open and interoperable architectures are equally important. By enabling automation environments to connect with multi-vendor equipment, enterprise systems, cloud environments and digital applications, organisations can avoid being constrained by proprietary architectures.

For channel partners, this creates an opportunity to become the integrator of a broader technology ecosystem rather than simply the supplier of a particular automation platform.

Instead of asking which controller or device needs to be replaced, organisations can ask:

• Which capabilities need to be introduced?
• What processes do they aim to improve?
• How should their automation architecture evolve over time?

From system installer to strategic advisor

As automation becomes more software-centric, successful automation partners will require expertise that spans operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), including software integration, data management, analytics and lifecycle services.

Increasingly, this also means helping customers turn operational data into a strategic asset, using analytics, AI and real-time insights to identify opportunities for optimisation and make better-informed decisions.

This does not mean that traditional automation expertise becomes less important. Quite the opposite. Deep knowledge of industrial processes and OT environments provides the foundation for understanding where digital technologies can deliver meaningful value.

The differentiator will be the ability to connect that knowledge with broader digital capabilities. Partners will also need to operate comfortably across open, interoperable ecosystems, connecting OT and IT environments and integrating technologies from multiple vendors.

Relationship that continues beyond implementation

As software, analytics and connected services become integral to industrial operations, there is an opportunity for partners to support customers throughout the entire technology lifecycle. This can include assessment and architecture, implementation, optimisation and ongoing improvement.

The most successful automation partners will therefore be those that combine the roles of digital transformation consultant, software integrator, AI advisor and lifecycle services provider.

Their competitive advantage will not come from simply having the right products available but understanding how those products, platforms and services can work together to solve a customer’s business challenges.

Ultimately, this represents a fundamental change in how value is created in industrial automation. Rather than static, one-time product transactions, the opportunity is to build open, software-driven and continuously evolving solutions that help customers turn technology into measurable business outcomes.

Zutari has strengthened its position among the world’s leading international design firms, featuring in the Top 100 of Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) 2026 Top 225 International Design Firms ranking and securing a place in the Top 10 in Africa.

The recognition reflects Zutari’s growing multinational footprint and the strength of its engineering capability, with the firm’s work spanning complex infrastructure, energy, buildings, water, transport and other critical sectors across multiple markets.

Zutari’s improved standing follows a significant year-on-year advance in the ENR ranking. The company moved from 99th in 2025 to 68th in 2026, a significant 31-place improvement based on international design-services revenue. In addition, Zutari’s multinational standing has been strengthened by its recognition as one of the world’s leading design firms, debuting at 7th in the Top 10 by Region for Africa.

A multinational reach

The ENR ranking provides an important external measure of the scale of Zutari’s multinational business. The 2026 listing includes Zutari Group Holdings alongside some of the world’s largest and most established engineering and design consultancies. ENR identifies Zutari as operating across a wide geographical footprint, including South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal and the Middle East.

For Denver Dreyer, Chief Executive Officer: Middle East and North Africa at Zutari, the recognition also reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of major infrastructure projects. “Clients want partners who can understand the broader ecosystem that enables data centres, not just the facility itself,” says Dreyer. “Success depends on integrating energy, water, buildings, digital and project delivery expertise to support resilient, efficient and scalable infrastructure.”

The comment appeared in ENR’s analysis of the growing complexity of infrastructure development, particularly the requirements associated with data centres and other major developments. It reinforces the importance of multidisciplinary engineering capability as infrastructure becomes increasingly interconnected.

Complex projects demonstrate engineering capability

Zutari’s inclusion in ENR’s analysis is supported by projects that demonstrate the breadth and complexity of its work. Among those highlighted in the 2026 ENR material is the 825 m Senqu Bridge in Lesotho, on which Zutari is the designer. The bridge rises approximately 90 m above the Senqu Valley and is part of the region’s major infrastructure network. The project is one example of the technically demanding infrastructure that forms part of Zutari’s international portfolio.

Another project submitted as part of the ENR survey was Zutari’s Liberty HVAC Net Zero Upgrade at Sandton City, which demonstrates a different aspect of the firm’s capability: applying systems thinking and engineering innovation to decarbonise existing infrastructure.

The project involved extensive upfront modelling of HVAC technologies, plant configurations, energy performance, carbon impact, lifecycle costs, operational resilience and return on investment. The resulting solution included the phased replacement of legacy water-cooled chillers with high-efficiency air-cooled chillers, upgrades to air-handling units and significant electrical infrastructure improvements.

The first phase introduced 6.42 MW of new air-cooled chiller capacity while allowing the retail precinct to remain operational throughout delivery. The project demonstrates how engineering can translate net-zero ambitions into practical interventions that improve energy and water performance while maintaining operational continuity.

The ENR survey also included the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) among the challenging and unique projects considered for Zutari’s submission, alongside the Senqu Bridge and Liberty project.

Recognition of a changing engineering landscape

Zutari’s rise in the ENR rankings comes as the international design sector responds to increasingly complex infrastructure requirements. ENR’s analysis notes growing demand for multidisciplinary expertise as projects such as data centres, smart cities, mixed-use developments, sports venues and major urban infrastructure require closer integration of digital, energy, water and built-environment systems.

For Zutari, this aligns closely with its approach to engineering: bringing together different disciplines and regional expertise to solve complex problems. The result is recognition not simply of the scale of Zutari’s international business, but of the engineering capability being delivered from Africa into increasingly global markets.

“Being recognised among the leading international design firms is an important reflection of the capability and commitment of our people,” concludes Dreyer. “It demonstrates that engineering expertise developed in Africa can compete and create value on an international stage.”

Web: https://www.zutari.com

“There are ample opportunities to improve water-related processes at a mine, but facing high costs from complex operations and dwindling site lifespans, what are the best investments?”

South African mines operate under constrained conditions. With a notable slowdown in new discoveries since the 1990s, they have become experts at working with dispersed and mixed-grade deposits. They continue to invest smartly through technology and extract more from tougher conditions. However, those investments have to be very targeted and produce real value.

It’s essential that water technology providers know how to back mines in finding and developing high-value water systems, says Chetan Mistry, Xylem’s Strategy and Marketing Manager – WSS (Africa, Middle East, Turkey, India).

“South Africa is a water-stressed country. Even though mining water usage is comparatively small to other sectors and has remained largely stable, mines face several challenges. 

Water availability is becoming more challenging in many regions due to factors such as population growth, climate variability, and increasing demand. Most mining happens in arid regions, so they are leveraging technology to improve their efficiency and control over water. There are many options on the table, but which is best for a particular scenario? This is where the water technology sector can help organisations evaluate options and identify solutions aligned with their operational priorities.”

Helping mines pinpoint water investments

Water is present across the mining lifecycle. It starts at the sourcing stage for functions like cooling, dust suppression, and dewatering. Processing is the most water-intensive area, especially where milling and crushing turn rocks into slurry. The third stage, storage and discharge, manages considerable amounts of water.

Each stage has different water management opportunities. For example, at the sourcing stage, dewatering pump systems are crucial for continued uptime and improving safety; treatment solutions provide efficiency and reuse opportunities during processing; and storage/discharge areas use water testing to meet compliance standards.

A solution in one area can apply elsewhere. Heavy-duty slurry pumps are present across the journey, and treatment can serve “good enough” water for dust suppression and cleaning. Some solutions, such as digital monitoring, can support decision-making across multiple stages of the mining lifecycle

This spread reveals mining’s water conundrum. There are ample opportunities to improve water-related processes at a mine, but facing high costs from complex operations and dwindling site lifespans, what are the best investments?

“Mines know what they want or what they don’t have. Their challenge often lies in prioritising opportunities and selecting solutions that align with operational requirements, investment priorities, and business objectives,” says Mistry.

Expect more from water partners

Mines may share many of the same issues, but each faces a unique collection of priorities and circumstances. They need water technology partners that can understand their goals and find the right mix of products and services to reach those goals.

“Many mines value partners that can support projects from initial assessment through implementation and ongoing optimisation. It isn’t about selling a pump or a sensor. Success depends on understanding the challenge, evaluating the value of potential improvements, and designing solutions that align with compliance requirements, operational needs, and budget constraints,” says Mistry. 

A solution can range from rapidly sourcing and installing equipment parts to deploying emergency dewatering systems to developing a water treatment service in stages. It may require a proof of concept, retrofit, or a rental service that sidesteps capital expenditure. The choices on hand start with a water technology partner that listens, understands, and focuses on the mine’s priorities.

South African mines are operating under constrained and difficult conditions, and they need water improvements where it matters most. Find out how Xylem meets those expectations by visiting its stand (Hall 5, Stand H18) at Electra Mining Expo 2026, 7-11 September at Nasrec in Johannesburg, and chatting to its experts. From collecting water intelligence to exploiting energy efficiency and water recycling, Xylem helps mines develop water systems that make sense.

Join us at www.xylem.com and let’s solve water.