Earlier this year, it was widely reported that Zambia had passed a statutory ruling which instructed firms (affecting mostly Mining), to transport at least 30% of their heavy and bulk freight volumes by rail. To place this into perspective, it is estimated that only 5% of the total freight moved in Zambia occurs via rail, the remaining 95% is transported by road. The announcement came as a shock to many, with much criticism on the practical execution. The Zambian Chamber of Mines was among the most vocal critics, re-affirmed by the concerns of many other bulk traders, calling the move “retrogressive” and “unworkable”. Given that Zambia is largely a commodity driven economy, the “penalty” on bulk commodities is considered contrarian to growth. Furthermore, the Chamber’s negative assertions about the bill were based on notions that Zambia’s rail infrastructure is sub-par, inaccessible, unreliable, unscheduled and, therefore, is unfit to absorb greater market share of the freight transportation volumes. With innovation and growth, many industries have moved away from traditional “old-school” ways of work. Rail is definitely one of the oldest modes around, and many do not view it in a good light. We need convenience, instant “on-demand” offerings with quick turnarounds. These “needs” have fueled (excuse the pun) the growth of road freight to the detriment of rail over the years, with a self-fulfilling prophecy. As more freight opted for road, systematically rail freight reduced. With this conversion, lower utilization of rail networks led to lower income and rail operators (mostly government owned and operated) were unable to reinvest, rehabilitate or enhance networks in many instances (amongst other excuses). As budgets got tighter operators also increased rail tariffs (against economic competitive logic), which of course, further threatened freight away from rail. This conundrum added with poor service delivery, has marred the African rail industry with a …
Avani Maseru Hotel Opens After R25 Million Redevelopment Project
AVANI Maseru Hotel in Lesotho has opened its doors after an extensive R25 million rejuvenation that included a refurbishment of all 105 hotel rooms, the hotel’s water supply and reticulation, public areas and restaurant. Completed in just six months, the project has revitalized one of Maseru’s most popular destinations for city residents, business travelers and tourists. Each of the hotel’s rooms and suites were upgraded, including a complete redesign of the bathrooms, including showers, toilets and vanities, and each room has new sliding doors, opening out onto spectacular views. LED lighting throughout the rooms is environment-friendly as well as imbuing each space with crisp and clear light. New flooring in the rooms offers a luxurious link for its soft furnishings, while new 42-inch wall-mounted flat-panel TVs make sure that digital entertainment is within easy reach. Digital telephones complete the rooms’ technology upgrade. The hotel has expanded its WiFi offering too, which will make working at the hotel seamless for business travelers. The restaurant, Mohokhare, offers a buffet feast of African delights and international favourites, as well as a wide range of vegetarian options. Guests can relax into the fresh new furnishings and relish the views of the verdant Caledon Valley while they tuck into the sumptuous array of flavorsome dishes. The hotel’s conferencing venue benefited from new carpets and ceilings, refreshing this popular space to welcome delegates from near and far, and providing the perfect modern backdrop for weddings and other special celebrations. Team members at AVANI Maseru Hotel have undergone a series of training programmes, improving the hotel’s service offering in synchrony with its refurbishment, equipping the 99 local team members with lifelong skills to grow their careers in hospitality. “Guests expect comfortable accommodation, good, honest food with local flavours, and places and spaces to do business well. …