: Lafarge

Hima Cement Boosts Coffee Production to attain Alternative Fuels

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:20:54 GMT

Hima Cement will inject over UGX 2bn in a bid to boost coffee production in Kasese and Kamwenge districts, and improve the incomes of at least 45,000 smallholder farmers. Over 14, 200,000 coffee seedlings will be distributed to coffee farmers through their organized farmer groups.

The project will also receive additional support from Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) who will address some of the technical issues including the coffee value chain, increase production, improvement in quality controls and strengthen the management of farming cooperatives organizations.

As a by product Hima Cement will get more accessible coffee husks, which are currently sourced from distant areas, for use as an alternative energy source for their Kasese factory.

While officiating at the launch of the Coffee Development project at KADIFA in Kasese Municipality, the Minister for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Tress Buchanayandi said that government is ready to work with investors who have a sustainable developmental approach towards agriculture, adding that the sector is now on the right track with the extra funding support from the private sector.

“Our goal as government is to increase agricultural sector funding to at least seven percent by the next financial year, and this has already been agreed upon. However, it is very encouraging when the private sector comes in to further boost our efforts as this is an indicator of the good relationship government enjoys with the private investors”, said Buchanayandi.

“Coffee in Uganda and the world over has a very good market, and with this boost, I believe that farmers in Kasese and Kamwenge must work hard to ensure that they utilize this chance very well to produce good yields because the market is available.”

He commended Hima Cement for the support towards the sector and called upon other private players to emulate Hima’s responsible approach while conducting their businesses.

Hussein Mansi, CEO of Lafarge East Africa said, “Our main motive with this project is to support the government in employment creation through coffee growing. In return the husks support our objective of increasing the use of clean fuels to provide energy to our factory”

“We are fully committed to building a sustainable business that is environmentally friendly and are ready to work alongside the communities, organizations and the government to achieve our purpose,” said Mansi.

Hima Cement first embarked on an ambitious alternative energy project in 2001 while aspiring to achieve environmental sustainability. Today Hima Cement has one of the most successful clean energy projects in the continent achieving an energy substitution rate of upto 40% while significantly reducing our carbon emissions. The communities have also for a long time benefitted from income obtained through the purchase of biomass waste by the Company.

UCDA, mandated to manage coffee production in the country will work alongside the district National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) and local farmers associations to ensure that the seedlings distributed meet the internationally accepted standards. Already, some farmer groups including KADIFA, Bukonzo and Karusandara have been identified from Kasese and the process of identifying organized associations is ongoing in Kamwenge.

Mansi said that Hima has been a very reliable and community sensitive neighbor and has invested billions in various health, education and environmental conservation projects to bring about social and economic development in the country. He noted that where as there have been several challenges with some of the approaches taken by stakeholders, Hima’s commitment and capacity has not been hindered and still stands firm.

He further explained that there have been some media reports on the subject of the expiry of Hima’s mining license and stated that Hima’s capacity and track record is very clear; despite the current production of up to 850,000 tonnes, a notification was not given before the license was issued to another company. Mansi however said that Hima acquired the license of the Dura mines with all due integrity, and all documentation and facts are available. He added that as a responsible investor, Hima has been at the forefront of innovative approaches towards development through technology enhancement in order to produce more using fewer resources, while saving the environnent.

“I don’t think there are any resource constraints that make using alternative energy an unachievable goal because there is sufficient land for us to support coffee growth, and promote agriculture in this region,” he added.

“We shall continue to use the resources that we have to invest in areas that are directly related to community growth and empowerment because we believe that as key development partners; our role does not stop at making profits out of the people, but also creating opportunities where they too can have what to sustain their day to day lives.”

Under the Coffee development project, Hima will distribute quality, disease-resistant coffee seedlings to farmers by …… 2012 in the first phase. The project will also aim at helping coffee farmers to adopt and rejuvenate coffee growing- a once popular practice in the region in order to increase their household incomes and improve livelihoods.

“We foresee a huge potential for the coffee sector with the support Hima Cement is set to provide and we hope this will also restore Kasese’s might as a leading coffee producer in the country,” said UCDA Production Manager, Francis Chesang .

“We pledge to support Hima Cement and all farmers in this region to take on the right approach to address the range of obstacles within coffee production, quality, and yields.”

The Kasese district Chairman, Lt.Col. (Rtd) Dula Mawa Muhindo commended the stakeholders for spearheading such developmental programmes adding that as aleader, he is going to do everything to ensure that the project is a success for the benefit of the district.

«On behalf of the local leadership, i want to thank Hima and UCDA for coming in to help in the restoration of Kasese’s glory », said Muhindo.

« I want to pledge that for the good neigbourhood that has been displayed by Hima, we shall continue to support their activities and work closely for the good of Kasese and the country in general. »

The project will be implemented across a period of five years during the various rainy seasons.

Through partnership with UCDA Hima will distribute Arabica and Robusta coffee depending on landscape and altitude of the farming area.

Bamburi Rugby Super Series officially launched amidst pomp in Nairobi

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:02:40 GMT

Nairobi, Tuesday 24 April 2012

The 10th edition of the Bamburi Rugby Super Series was launched at a ceremony held earlier today at the RFUEA Grounds. The event, which also doubled up as the official kit launch saw the tournament dates, ticket prices and match schedules being released too.

Speaking during the ceremony, Kenya Rugby Union Chairman Mwangi Muthee reiterated the role of this tournament in boosting the growth of the fifteens version of the game in East Africa. He went on to add that the tournament still remains a very integral part of the Kenya fifteens development agenda.

Bamburi Rugby Super Series Organizing Commmittee Chairman Aggrey Chabeda echoed Muthee's sentiments and went on to announce the match schedule and ticket prices for the five week event which begins on Saturday 5th May, running on consecutive weekends until Saturday 2nd June.

The tournament will feature eight franchises, six from Kenya and two from Uganda. The Rhinos are the tournament's defending champions, having defeated the Cheetahs 20-15 in sudden death during last year's final as they won the title for a record fifth time.

Lafarge Bamburi Group reports a 28% growth in Turnover to 35.9 Billion in 2011

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 09:25:41 GMT

Lafarge Bamburi Group reports a 28% growth in Turnover to 35.9 Billion.

The Group investment in new capacity steers up the turnover and sustains profitability in a taxing cost environment.

The Board of Directors of Bamburi Cement Ltd, chaired by Richard Kemoli, met on 23^rd February 2012 to approve the audited results for the year ended 31^st December 2011.

Results Highlights:

§ Growth in turnover driven by volumes growth across the regions a testimony of our strong brands and vibrant customer loyalty program.

§ Notwithstanding the difficult operating environment amplified by surging fuel, transport and power costs; operating profit grew by 9% driven by higher turnover and cost management measures.

§ Pre-tax profit rose 12% to stand at KShs. 8.5 billion driven by benefit from the high interest rate regime on deposits and exchange gains partially eroded by higher loan financing costs for new capacity in Uganda.

§ The Group continues to focus on working capital management to optimise its cash position.

2012 Outlook:

The Group remains cautious on the local and global macroeconomic environment for 2012. While early positive signs are starting to develop in the United States economy, sovereign debt concerns in the Eurozone, political instability in the Middle East, cost inflation in developing markets, and uncertain political environment in Kenya continue to make visibility difficult.

The Group remains committed to contributing to the growth of the East African economy. The new investment in Uganda and recent expansion of its downstream business has reinforced the Group’s position as the regional market leader.

The Group is well positioned to grow its footprint in the region and will focus on key strategic priorities, namely customer service and industrial excellence, strong brand equity, cost leadership, working capital optimization and a committed work force to realize its vision.

Capacity enhancement, innovation and contribution to the East African Economy:

In addition to the new cement capacity in Uganda, we continue to look for opportunities to enhance our product and service offering through investment in value added products from the downstream business.

The new investment in Uganda has enhanced cement availability, created employment and increased taxes to the government, overall supporting Uganda’s growth as the country gears up for the expected burgeoning of the oil industry. We are proud of our contribution to building infrastructure in East Africa notably the Bujagali Hydro-electric Dam in Uganda, the Thika Road Highway project in Kenya and several infrastructure projects across the region as we cement our leadership in providing construction solutions.

The Group continues to be one of the largest tax payers in the region. The Group paid tax amounting to KShs. 2.3 billion in the year.

Safety, Health and Environment:

The group has maintained its priority of delivering a safe work place. During the year, the Group’s focus on safety was evidenced by zero industrial and road fatalities for both employees and contractors. Similarly, Bamburi Cement continues to champion a road safety culture through road patrols, drivers fatigue management courses as well as employee and contractor driven industrial safety.

During the year, Hima Cement was recognised for its maturity in safety culture by being awarded entry in the prestigious ‘Lafarge Health and Safety Excellence Club’. The excellence club recognises businesses which demonstrate an outstanding sustainable safety culture with zero accidents. Bamburi Cement maintained its position in the Club having joined in 2010.

On the Environment front, Lafarge Eco System was awarded “Rookie of the year” award by the Wildlife Habitat Council for an outstanding environmental stewardship and voluntary employee effort towards educational activities in Haller Park.

Dividends

The Board of Directors recommend payment of a final dividend of KShs. 8.00/= per ordinary share (KShs. 7.00/= per ordinary share paid in 2010) subject to approval by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting. The final dividend, when added to the interim dividend already paid, brings the total dividend for the year to KShs. 3,629 Million (KShs. 3,085 Million in 2010).

Following reorganization within the Lafarge Group, John Stull resigns as a director of the Company with immediate effect, to take up a new position within the Lafarge group. We thank him for having served as a director and wish him all the best in his new role.

Bamburi recognized in the Road Safety Awards 2011

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:37:25 GMT

November 8, 2011

Bamburi won 3^rd position in the Motor Commercial (Own Goods) Category Road Safety Awards that is organized by the Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI).

The AKI participates in the road safety campaign that seeks to reduce road carnage. By this, the AKI awards recognize organizations that have made verifiable and significant strides towards reducing road carnage in Kenya.

In line with the general Group Health & Safety Policy, it is the policy of Bamburi;

To adopt a systematic approach to the management of Road Transport safety issues.
To assess the risks associated with our road transport activities and to reduce them to the lowest practical level.
To document our actions for managing Road Transport risks in our HS Management System and in Road Transport Safety Cases to be reviewed periodically by management.
To continuously improve our Road Transport safety performance and conduct our Road Transport operations in accordance with relevant Lafarge, National and legal requirements.

These guidelines help Bamburi to continuously make the effort in ensuring the safety of our nation by making our roads safer.

Bamburi wins 2011 Financial Reporting (FiRe) Award for Industrial Commercial & Services Category

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:53:47 GMT

October 14, 2011

Bamburi has been recognized among other institutions in diverse sectors by winning the Financial Reporting (FiRe) Award for Industrial Commercial & Services category for the 2^nd consecutive year.

The FiRe award for Industrial Commercial & Services Category recognizes Bamburi as still being overall winner. This is promoted by the collaborative efforts of the Institute of Certified public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE).

This means that Bamburi met the key objectives of;

1. Promoting financial reporting excellence

2. Fostering sound corporate governance practices and

3. Enhancing corporate social responsibility and environmental reporting.

"We are proud to receive this award as it exemplifies our continued accomplishment in striving to be the best in our corporate reporting and also congratulate all the 2011 winners for achieving exceptional results within the respective award categories," comments Joshua Oigara- Bamburi's Financial Director.

What is the FiRe Awards?

The FiRe award is for corporate bodies that prepare annual reports and is an initiative which seeks to recognize excellence in such financial reporting. Now in its tenth year, the FiRe awards seek to promote and institutionalize transparency, integrity and accountability in the corporate reporting process.

The evaluation process used is in relation to the globally accepted principles of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as well as best practice standards in governance and corporate citizenship. In line with the goal of regional participation, a total of 86 entrants registered with entries from Kenya- 72; Tanzania 3; Uganda 4 and Rwanda 7.

Bamburi launches Customer Service Week

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:21:13 GMT

October 2011

Bamburi will be yet again join in the celebration of Customer Service Week from October 3^rd- 9^th 2011.

This year's theme is Revive, Restore and Reconnect with Customers'.

The Customer Service Week is recognized as an international event devoted to map out the importance of customer service and honoring those who serve and support customers diligently and professionally.

Throughout the month, Bamburi customer service team will be engaging in planned programs and list of activities that strive to reach excellence in line with the company's values. The event will be celebrated at Nairobi Grinding Plant and Mombasa Plant bringing on board drivers, staff members, dealers and both internal & external customers with encouragements of awards at the end of the customer service week.

Let us live our Values to provide customer service excellence and connect with our customers.

Kenya - Protecting biodiversity

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:22:03 GMT

The former quarry of the Bamburi cement Ltd., which has been restored as a nature reserve over the last thirty years, has become a refuge for biodiversity.

Objective

To transform a former quarry into an indigenous coastal forest able to support extensive biodiversity, and at the same time economically self-sustaining.

Context

The former quarry of the Bamburi cement plant near Mombasa was mined for twenty years. In the early 1970s, a rehabilitation program was started to rehabilitate the site as a nature reserve. The beauty of its scenery, the ecological integration, the number of visitors it attracts and its economic benefits (timber, tourism, aquaculture, livestock, and other economic activities) have made the project a success.

Solution

After a phase of soil formation from the leaf litter of the pioneer trees, a large number of tree and other plant species typical of the indigenous coastal forests were introduced. The results were carefully observed in order to select those species suitable for planting on a larger scale to eventually replace the pioneer trees. In addition to trees of potential economic value (Iroko and other indigenous hardwood, timber and carving wood trees), endangered species and those that provide habitat or food for indigenous wildlife have been planted and are closely monitored.

Results

To date, 422 indigenous plant species have been introduced into the newly created ecosystems of forests, wetlands and grasslands in Bamburi's former quarries; 364 of the introduced species have survived, including 30 that are on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

In April 2002, Bamburi signed a partnership agreement with WWF East Africa, and identified Forest Landscape Restoration as one of the priority partnership activities. To establish a biodiversity monitoring system in partnership with WWF in order to define guidelines for ecological quarry rehabilitation.

In 2004, the quarry has been recogniezd by the Kenyan Ministry of the Environment for the excellence of its environmental practices and efforts.

In 2006, employees and volunteers received the international award of the Wildlife Habitat Council.

Cost

Economically self-sustaining.

Location

Bamburi Cement Limited, Mombasa.

Kenya, Uganda- Lafarge Awarded

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:51:44 GMT

Lafarge's two East African companies, Bamburi Cement Ltd. in Kenya and Hima Cement Ltd. in Uganda, have both won environmental awards for their initiatives within their businesses and amongst local communities, thus contributing to setting environment and social standards in the area. They were given during the environmental days celebrated in June 2004.

In Kenya, Bamburi Cement Ltd. and Baobab Farm

In Kenya, Bamburi Cement Ltd. and Baobab Farm, its quarry rehabilitation subsidiary, won national awards for best environmental practices and the role they have played in conservation. "Bamburi had set a benchmark for environmental best practices for other industrial companies", said the Kenyan Minister of Environment, Newton Kulundu.

The company was recognized for exceeding legal requirements in quarry rehabilitation through Baobab Farm, which turned the former quarries in a premier tourist attraction that attracts over 100,000 visitors each year!

Bamburi was also recognized: the partnership formed in 2002 with WWF to restore the forest landscape and preserve the ecosystem, and, in the framework of the partnership, the launching of "Green Schools", a project intended to help trees grow in arid areas of Kenya where trees are scarce and land plentiful.

Finally, Bamburi was acknowledged for the hard work implemented to reduce dust and CO2 emissions.

Uganda, Hima Cement Ltd.

At the same time in Uganda, Hima Cement Ltd. was awarded a plaque "In recognition of the exemplary contribution to environment management". Hima was the only company to be awarded a plaque. The National Environment Authority particularly commended the efforts made towards reducing dust emissions which use to be a serious issue in the country. In addition, efforts at greening the plant and tree planting involving the community were seen as clear testimonies of the company's involvement in the local life.

Such recognitions demonstrate the leading role that the companies play in their countries and their contribution to the development of national standards.

New Arrivals at Haller Park

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 07:10:11 GMT

July 24, 2011

Haller Park welcomed Banded Mongoose (Mungos mungo) and the Piggy Warthog (Phacochoeros aethipicus)- both males- into the Haller Park family of captive animals. This is in line with the new Lafarge Eco Systems strategic plan to introduce more animal species into the ecosystems as attractions into the Park.

The two animal species have since been put on a close monitoring and an adaptation program that will see them restore their natural behaviors away from the hand-reared behavior.

Found abandoned and orphaned in Masaai Mara, Maji Moto Group Ranch on December 2009 by a well wisher, the animals were adopted and reared up until later relocated to Malindi where the well wisher had to relocate because of work. It came to her attention that a more sustainable home was needed for the animals - Haller Park fit as the suitable location and new home for them.

Banded Mongoose- Mungos mungo

At the Haller Park- animal orphanage (called "Kaya"), the little curious mongoose embarked on discovering the new home. He made short errands within the periphery while keeping a very close eye on the partner-Piggy Warthog. The natural behavior of foraging for insects was displayed throughout this period.

The mongoose seemed not very concerned about the curious staff and tourists who found the little highly active animal very amusing. He however appeared very pleased with the new huge home-range that provided a new interaction.

The Mongoose spends his day climbing expertly on the coral walls of the orphanage where they recite and forages across the ecosystems from the Arena round through research site all the way to the game sanctuary. Lately the mongoose has been reported going all the way to areas around the vicinity of the Bus stop gate.

Piggy Warthog- Phacochoeros aethipicus

When he arrived at the Haller Park, he loved attention and affection; however extra caution needed to be taken cause of the sharp tusks. He is very powerful and strong and if frightened or provoked, could be dangerous. He also enjoys a mud bath.

Interesting Fact:
*The Banded Mongoose have been seen removing ticks from Warthogs in Kenya and Uganda. This symbiotic relationship benefits both species - the mongoose feed while the warthogs are cleaned.*

Lafarge Bamburi Group 2011 Half Year Results

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:46:53 GMT

Lafarge Bamburi Group reports a 26% growth in Turnover to 16.4 billion.

The Group investments in new capacity and other strategic actions deliver top line growth and enhance profitability.

The Board of Directors of Bamburi Cement Ltd, chaired by Richard Kemoli, met on August 24, 2011 to approve the unaudited results for the 6 months ended June 30, 2011.

Half Year key figures vs. prior year:

Turnover: KShs. 16.4 billion

Operating profit: KShs. 3.9 billion

Cash & Cash equivalents: KShs. 7.8 billion

Earnings Per Share: KShs. 7.65

Results Highlights:

-Growth in turnover driven by growth in volumes across both Uganda and Kenya.

-Investment in additional production line in Uganda helps drive growth in regional market share in spite of strong competition in Kenya due to new capacities.

-Despite the difficult operating environment amplified by surging fuel, transport and power costs; operating profit grew by 20% driven by increased volumes and cost management measures.

-Pre-tax profit rose 22% to stand at KShs. 4.3 billion due to exchange gains on deposits partially eroded by higher loan financing costs.

-The Group continues to focus on working capital management to optimise its cash position.

2011 Outlook:

The Board of Directors continue to identify and implement sustainable strategies to steer the Group's growth and profitability in an increasingly competitive environment. The new production line at Kasese Plant, Uganda has and will go a long way in enhancing the Group's efficiency levels and improve operating results.

The Group will focus on replicating our unparalleled offer to the market through product innovation and stellar customer service augmented by a dedicated investment in brand building. Further, The Group will increase its efficiency through rationalisation of cost and capital expenditure while improving industrial productivity to meet customer expectations and sustain the cash generation initiatives.

Capacity enhancement and innovation:

In addition to the new cement capacity in Uganda, we continue to look for opportunities to enhance our product and service offering through investment in value added products such as the introduction of ReadyMix Concrete and augmenting the Precast Blocks capacity.

Safety, Health and Environment:

The group has maintained its priority of delivering a safe work place. During the six months, the Group's focus on safety was evidenced by zero industrial and road fatalities for both employees and contractors. Similarly, Bamburi Cement continues to champion a road safety culture through road patrols, drivers fatigue management courses as well as employee and contractor driven industrial safety.

Contribution to the Economy:

The Group continues to be one of the largest tax payers in the region. The Group paid tax amounting to KShs. 1.3 billion to both Kenya and Uganda governments.

Dividends:

The Board of Directors resolved to declare an interim dividend of 40% per ordinary share (KShs. 2.00/= per ordinary share) totalling KShs. 726 million compared to 30% per ordinary share (KShs. 1.50/= per ordinary share) paid in 2010.

Notes to editors

Lafarge Bamburi Group is the leading cement producing and marketing Group in the Eastern Africa region. Its subsidiaries include Hima Cement Ltd (Uganda), Bamburi Special Products Ltd and Lafarge Ecosystems Ltd. Bamburi Cement is a subsidiary of Lafarge.

Lafarge is the world leader in building materials, with top-ranking positions in all of its businesses: Cement, Aggregates & Concrete and Gypsum. With 76,000 employees in 78 countries, Lafarge posted sales of Euros 16.2 billion in 2010.

Lafarge was ranked 6th in the "Carbon Disclosure Project" and entered the global "Dow Jones Sustainability Index" in 2010 in recognition of its sustainable development actions. With the world's leading building materials research facility, Lafarge places innovation at the heart of its priorities, working for sustainable construction and architectural creativity.

Additional information is available on the web sites at www.lafarge.com and www.bamburicement.com

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER:

Emily Waita: +254 -20 2893300

Emily.Waita@bamburi.lafarge.com

GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR:

Joshua Oigara: +254 -20 2893300

Joshua.Oigara@bamburi.lafarge.com

Lafarge and World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) - Celebrating 10 years of partnership

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 07:05:33 GMT

In 2000, Lafarge signed a partnership with World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) with the aim of improving its environmental performance and contributing to raising standards within the construction industry. Within this partnership, Lafarge set target areas in:

Reducing CO² Emissions,
Biodiversity restoration at quarry sites,
Water management,
Reduction of persistent pollutant emissions and
Development of sustainable building materials and systems.

In Kenya, Bamburi Cement Limited and World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) have been working together with the local communities to develop a forest landscape restoration project in the Shimba Hills area located in Mombasa and the cultivation of renewable biofuels.

The objective of these local partnerships is to improve the management and conservation of biodiversity and natural resources at a local level, in order to meet the needs of people and support sustainable development.

World Environment Day- 4th June 2011

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:14:48 GMT

World Environment Day is a worldwide event and is celebrated annually.

Bamburi Cement Ltd/Lafarge Eco Systems do have it in its annual calendar of events and celebrate it in June 5^th. This year's theme was ``Forests: Nature at your Service`` Bamburi Cement Ltd/ Lafarge Eco Systems found it necessary to hold it at Forest Trails, in order to show case existing forest plantations and rehabilitate the Great Lake venue which has been the Garden of Eden for newlyweds and party maniacs. Haller Park was open to the public.

This year, we partnered with NEMA and Provincial Environmental Committee in commemorating the World Environment Day. We had about 15 exhibitors e.g. Kenya Forest Service, Wildlife Clubs of Kenya, Kenya Sea Turtle conservation, Kenya Wildlife Conservation etc , who show cased their items and shared the knowledge with many people both adults and children. The exhibition was of high quality and the knowledge acquired should be implemented for the better future.

The event of the day commenced with planting of trees at our quarried land, all visitors (2392 people) both school children and individual joined in planting more than 2,500 casuarinas trees which are our pioneer trees species. Casuarinas are well known for their good qualities/functions i.e. rainmaking, help in soil formation etc.

Our guest of honour was the deputy PC who was accompanied by Provincial and District Heads of department, Raphael Thyaka, John Maingi and Sabine Baer represented BCL. We had a Ceremonial tree planting where by the deputy PC together with BCL/LES staffs and other guests planted 15 different tree species around the Great Lake and this marked the launching of the Coast Province tree planting season.

The event was successful with an attendance of 2392 people at Forest Trails and 2607 at Haller Park. It was really a fun day with rains as an added blessing.

Launch of June Health & Safety Month 2011- Road Transport

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:18:27 GMT

June 3, 2011

The Lafarge Group launched the June Health & Safety month, this years theme is Road Transport. This will cover anything linked to the inspection and movement of vehicles on the roads, equipment checks and the safety measures of on-site and off-site pedestrians.This month long event is an excellent opportunity to respond to the many serious events on our roads by highlighting and clearly demonstrating the causes with the aim of reaching the zero incidents target.

June Health and Safety month is also an opportunity to engage everyone- customers, contractors and local stakeholders of every function, towards making a step change improvement in awareness, behavior and performance. Some of the participative Transport and Road Safety activities planned this month include Boda Boda Training, Road Patrols, Vehicle Inspections, Team Based Safety Programs etc that will parade a dedication towards the annihilate of this number 1 cause of deaths.

During the launch at the Bamburi Cement Ltd. offices, Tariq Iqbal- Bamburi's Supply Chain Director challenged employees with the following words,

"When you are on the road, always believe all others are blind and that you are the only one who is seeing."

And with that we encourage you to Be Smart and Care for your Health & Safety!

The UAP Rhinos rewrite history with third straight BRSS Title

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 09:49:45 GMT

Edwin Makori's try in sudden death saw the UAP Rhinos retain the Bamburi Rugby Super Series title with a 20-15 win over a battling SDV Transami Cheetahs in a scintilating final played at the RFUEA Grounds on Saturday 4th June 2011.

Vincent Mose kicked the Cheetahs into an early 6-0 lead with two penalties before the Rhinos finally found their rhythm, pitching camp in their opponents 25. Naftali Bondo was played in by Isaac Adimo only to be stopped agonizingly short of the try line. Their pressure finally bore fruit when Allan Omuka,celebrating his birthday, went over for the first of his two tries. Adimo missed this conversion with the match finely poised, 6-5 to the Cheetahs. Another Mose penalty saw the Cheetahs, winners in 2004 and 2006, take a 9-5 lead into the interval.

The second half would remain a carbon copy of the first, a close encounter, neither side really getting a foothold on the day's proceedings. Mose's fourth penalty saw the Cheetahs extend their lead to 12-5 and this seemed to set the tone for a frenetic end to the match, both sides realizing what was at stake.

The Rhinos managed to retain their composure and discipline in the rucks and maul while the Cheetahs kept knocking at their opponents door, seeking to make the game safe. Such was the intensity of the match that Nick Lang'o had to stretchered off after colliding with the Cheetahs John Ahenda. An unconverted try from Omuka reduced the deficit to 12-10 before scrum half Edwin Achayo gave the Rhinos the lead for the first time in this match, Adimo missing the conversion with the scores at 15-12.

Nato Simiyu's forty yard break with two minutes of regulation play left saw the Cheetahs attack and win a penalty off a Rhino's infringement that saw Wilson Kopondo sent to the sin bin.. Mose stepped up to send his kick between the sticks, tying the game at 15-15 with the buzzer going off, signalling the end of regulation time.

The tension in the air was palpable heading into extra. It was going to take something special to clinch this tie and Makori served it up, grounding the ball to hand Rhinos a third successive BRSS title, which raises their tally of titles to five.

This was a historic final for a number of reasons, the first final to be decided in sudden death extra, the lowest scoring final in BRSS history and the final that saw a team win three straight titles. All in all, it was a good indictment for Kenyan rugby.

Vincent Mose, whose fifteen points in the final saw him finish one point behind Adimo in the points scorers chart was voted man of the match while Nick Lang'o claimed the man of the series award.

Rwenzori finish third

Uganda's Rwenzori finished third, beating the Nguvu Sharks 26-19 in an equally entertaining play off match. Converted tries from Justine Kimono and Paul Kabazi saw the Ugandans lead 14-7 at half time.
Two more tries from Hector Gutaka and Andrew Olweny saw them rally after trailing 14-19 to run off with the 26-19 result.

Sharks try scorers were Bryan Okwomi, Edwin Salamba and Hastings Nyariki. Felix Wanjala and Kenny Andola managed one conversion each.

It was double joy for the Ugandans as Justine Kimono emerged the top try scorer after landing five tries, fending off the Cheetahs Ian Indimuli and the Rhinos duo of Allan Omuka and Isaac Adimo who finished on four tries.

BRSS Final Day

Final
UAP Rhinos 20 SDV Transami Cheetahs 15

3rd Place Playoff
Rwenzori 26 Nguvu Sharks 19

Man of the Series
Nick Lang'o UAP Rhinos

Top Points Scorer
Isaac Adimo UAP Rhinos 43 points

Top Try Scorer
Justine Kimono Rwenzori 5 tries

The 2011 Bamburi Rugby Super Series CSR Weekend

Fri, 27 May 2011 09:45:00 GMT

After 4 match days that consisted of 3 rounds of preliminary matches and 2 semi finals, the 2011 Bamburi Rugby Super Series takes a break this weekend, resuming on Saturday 4th June 2011 with the title match between the UAP Rhinos and the SDV Transami Cheetahs.

Saturday May 28th sees players, franchise officials and organizing committee members embark on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities with rehabilitated street children at the Immanuel Afrika Rescue Center in Dagoretti, located on the outskirts of Nairobi City.

About Immanuel Afrika

Immanuel Afrika is a grassroots organization which provides holistic care for boys who had been left to fend for themselves on Nairobi's harsh and unforgiving streets. The center is a registered Kenyan charity and works in close collaboration with the Kenyan Childrens' Office, the Kenya Police Force and numerous other child rescue centers.

It was founded in 2008 to elevate the standards of our street kids. The center carries out rescue missions on the streets of Nairobi bi- weekly and currently has a total of 50 young boys between the ages of 4 and 18 years. These young men get a second shot of life. They are provided with shelter, food, detoxification and the support of people who they can call family. The center also ensures the boys get a decent education or learn a trade.

Why Immanuel Afrika

Kenya hosts approximately 125,000 street children with 60,000 in Nairobi alone. These children are among the world's most vulnerable children, often orphaned, living in the dirty and violent streets trying to survive. They are hungry, cold, abused and alone. Most become addicted to drugs and many are conscripted into violent gangs who use them in criminal activities.

Often these young boys and men are misunderstood for criminals yet this is all the life they have known from an early age. Immanuel Afrika gives these boys a home and a chance for a promising future.

The CSR activity is aimed at getting the rugby fraternity iinvolved in caring, giving back and touching on the lives of others who are less fortunate. The Bamburi Rugby Super Series views this as an opportune time to partner and interact with our esteemed sponsors through a well organized CSR activity. This is just but one way of showing that we care for the less privileged.

Immanuel Afrika

1.Building Appeal
Immanuel Afrika will be evicted from their current premises this year as the landlord wishes to sell. They plan to purchase land between Kikuyu and Gikambura to build a permanent home for the centre. The estimated cost of purchasing the land and building the centre is approximately 12 million Kenya Shillings, which they hope to raise over the next 6-12 months.

2. School fees
Currently, some of the children attend both primary and secondary school. Donations to sponsor a child will be welcome.

3. Food stuff
The home houses 50 young growing boys and the number increases every week.

4. Employment opportunities
The young rehabilitated men need a source of livelihood after graduating from the center.

5. Positive Role Models
The boys need positive role models who will influence them to be better people.

UAP Rhinos, SDV Transami Cheetahs set up final clash

Mon, 23 May 2011 07:38:50 GMT

SDV Cheetah 22 vs Nguvu Sharks 7

The SDV Transami Cheetahs beat the Nguvu Sharks 22-7 on Saturday 21st May 2011 to set up a repeat final against defending champions UAP Rhinos.

Man of the match Duncan Ekasi put the 2004 and 2006 winners ahead with a try after just three minutes of play. Vincent Mose missed the conversion. The intervening period saw the Sharks take the game to their opponents, failing to utilize their chances as the Cheetahs, who would lose the inspirational Innocent Simiyu to injury, seemed content to soak up the pressure. Lawi Buyachi put them 10-0 ahead with another unconverted try.

Half time : SDV Transami Cheetahs 10 Nguvu Sharks 0

Felix Ayange's converted try in the 58th minute threw the game wide open, a three pointer, a potential cliff hanger. The Cheetahs left it late, dominating proceedings and coming close after Anthony Nyandigisi who had replaced the injured Simiyu chipped the ball over his opponents with Kelvin Omiyo missing the bounce in the Sharks dead ball area. Another substitute, Paul Oimbo, who has graced every Super Series tournament since its inception in 2003, scored a 77th minute try with Mose converting before Omiyo finally got his try, touching down on 79 minutes to give the Cheetahs a 22-7 win.

UAP Rhinos 38 Rwenzori 7

Leading 14-7 at half time, the UAP Rhinos eased to a 38-7 over Rwenzori, booking a slot in the 2011 Bamburi Rugby Super Series final. Isaac Adimo opened the scoring with a fifth minute try that he converted to give the defending champions 7-0 lead.

Rwenzori would not capitulate easily, making inroads into Rhinos territory without registering any points. The game would remain evenly contested until Victor Sudi, voted man of the match, grounded the ball after Rwenzori had conceded a penalty deep in their half. Adimo's conversion taking the score to 14-0 with three minutes of first half action left. Timothy Buloti pulled one back for the Ugandans on the stroke of half time with Anthony Kinene converting for a 14-7 half time score.

Half time: UAP Rhinos 14 Rwenzori 7

Second half action began with tentative play before Edwin Achayo from a Rhinos scrum down, played in Naftali Bondo who raced 30 yards, offloading to Victor Sudi who was stopped with the try line in sight. Sudi would soon add a second giving the Rhinos a 19-7 lead. Allan Omuka added to the Ugandan's misery, touching down with Adimo converting for a 26-7 lead before Achayo finally put his name on the score board, grounding for a 31-7. Sudi would complete his hat trick, Adimo converting for a 38-7 final score.

Bamburi Rugby Super Series Match Day Three: Defending champions through to Semi-finals

Mon, 16 May 2011 07:33:19 GMT

Defending chamPions UAP Rhinos marched into the Bamburi Rugby Super Series semi finals with a 24-19 Pool A win over the Lions in an entertaining fixture Played at Nakuru's Afraha Stadium on Saturday 14th May 2011.

Nick Lang'o Put the Rhinos 5-0 ahead, scoring the easiest of tries from a scrum down after two minutes of Play. Isaac Adimo's conversion saw them take a 7-0 lead after two minutes of Play. This stung the Lions into a response, gradually clawing their way back into the game. Retaining majority of Possession, they were let down by handling errors from Brian Omondi, Maurice Mbai and Tito Oduk but finally Put Points on the board when Fabian Olando drilled home a Penalty to cut the deficit to 7-3. Another massive kick from the twenty year old saw the big cats trail 7-6 going into the breather.

It was all Lions at the start of the second half. Anthony Ochino stole the ball off a Rhinos set Piece, setting off a counter attack that concluded with Maurice Mbai landing in the corner to see the 2008 chamPions lead 11-7. Olando's third successful Penalty attemPt extend the lead to 14-7 before the Rhinos regrouPed.

Substitute Allan Omuka,dangerous since his introduction, touched down with Adimo's conversion leveling the scores at 14-14. Kenya international Patrice Agunda retook the lead for Rhinos, grounding the ball for a 19-14 score line before Lang'o comPleted his double, burying the Lions with a try that brought the scores to 24-14. A late try from Ochino was not enough to salvage the Lions as they went down 24-19.

The Nguvu Sharks also secured semi final qualification from this Pool, beating the Coastal Bulls 22-0 in Mombasa after leading 17-0 at half time. Edwin Ombogo, Anthony Ngera, Mike Wanjala and Edwin Salamba each scored one try with Peter Ocholla managing one conversion.

The SDV Transami Cheetahs finished toP of Pool B with a 70-7 win over the visiting Mumias Sugar Buffaloes in a match Played at Nairobi's RFUEA Grounds while Rwenzori returned to the semis with an 11-8 win over Victoria in the Ugandan derby Played at the KamPala RUFC grounds.

Match Day Three Collated Results

UAP Rhinos	24	vs	Lions	19
Coastal Bulls	0	vs	Nguvu Sharks	22
SDV Transami Cheetahs	70	vs	Mumias Sugar Buffaloes	7
Rwenzori	11	vs	Victoria	8

Finals Group Standings

Pool A

	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Points For	Points Against	Goal Difference	Bonus	Points
UAP Rhinos	3	3	0	0	90	39	50	3	15
Nguvu Sharks	3	2	0	1	71	61	10	2	10
Lions	3	1	0	2	80	64	16	4	8
Coastal Bulls	3	0	0	3	11	88	-17	0	0

Pool B

	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Points For	Points Against	Goal Difference	Bonus	Points
SDV Transami Cheetahs	3	3	0	0	137	21	116	2	14
Rwenzori	3	2	0	1	39	74	-35	0	8
Victoria	3	1	0	2	38	34	4	2	6
Mumias Sugar Buffaloes	3	0	0	3	29	114	-85	0	0

SEMI FINALS Pairings Match Fixtures- 21st May 2011

UAP Rhinos vs Rwenzori

SDV Transami Cheetahs vs Nguvu Sharks

The Bamburi Rugby Super Series Match Day Two Round Up

Mon, 09 May 2011 07:28:25 GMT

Defending champions UAP Rhinos and the SDV Transami Cheetahs all but secured semi final berths after registering their second successive victories on match day two in the Bamburi Rugby Super Series. The Rhinos romped to a 30-3 win over home side Coastal Bulls at the Mombasa Sports Club while Ian Indimuli's two tries led the Cheetahs to a narrow 18-14 win over Victoria in Kampala, Uganda. The two sides are perched atop Pools A and B respectively.

Nguvu Sharks rekindle semi final hopes

The Nguvu Sharks rekindle their semi final hopes with a dramatic 32-25 win over 2008 champions Lions in the only fixture played in Nairobi. The two sides were tied 15-15 at half time and the Sharks found themselves trailing 15-25 with twenty seven minutes to go before turning the tide, scoring seventeen unanswered points to claim the result. Despite the win,the Sharks remained third as the Lions claimed two bonus for scoring four tries and losing by seven or less points. This result however set up a tense finish to Pool A action as any of three sides (Rhinos, Lions and Sharks) are all in with a chance at making the semis.

Rwenzori end Buffaloes hopes

Despite Bramwel Shikanda scoring two tries for the Buffaloes,a man of the match performance from Justin Kimono who scored three tries enabled visiting Rwenzori ended the Mumias Sugar Buffaloes interest in the competition with a 28-17 victory in Mumias, setting up a mouth watering clash against fellow Ugandans Victoria in Kampala to determine who joins the Cheetahs in the semis.

MATCH DAY TWO RESULTS

POOL A

Coastal Bulls 3 UAP Rhinos 30

Nguvu Sharks 32 Lions 25

POOL B

Victoria 14 SDV Transami Cheetahs 18

Mumias Sugar Buffaloes 17 Rwenzori 28

Standings as at 7th May 2011

POOL A

	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Points for	Points Against	Goal Differece	BONUS	Points
RHINOS	2	2	0	0	66	20	46	2	10
LIONS	2	1	0	1	61	40	21	3	7
SHARKS	2	1	0	1	49	61	-12	1	5
BULLS	2	0	0	2	11	66	-55	0	0

POOLB

	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	Points For	Points Against	Goal Differece	BONUS	Points
CHEETAHS	2	2	0	0	67	14	53	1	9
VICTORIA	2	1	0	1	30	23	7	1	5
RUWENZORI	2	1	0	1	28	66	-38	0	4
BUFFALOES	2	0	0	2	22	44	-22	0	0

Bamburi Rugby Super Series Match Day One Round Up

Mon, 02 May 2011 07:22:06 GMT

SDV Transami Cheetahs v Rwenzori - RFUEA Grounds 2.00pm
UAP Rhinos v Nguvu Sharks - RFUEA Grounds 4.00pm
Live on Supersport 9 and K24

Coastal Bulls v Lions - Mombasa Sports Club 4.30pm
Victoria v Mumias Sugar Buffaloes - Kyadondo RC, 5.00pm

The 2011 Bamburi Rugby Super Series kicked off with 4 matches at three venues in Kenya and Uganda.

The early kick off in Nairobi saw the SDV Transami Cheetahs register a 49-0 win over visiting Rwenzori from Uganda while the UAP Rhinos were 36-17 winners over the Nguvu Sharks.

The Lions ruined the Coastal Bulls debut, registering a 36-8 win at the Mombasa Sports Club while Uganda's Victoria beat the Mumias Sugar Buffaloes 16-5 at the Kyadondo Rugby Club in Kampala.

UAP Rhinos 36 vs Nguvu Sharks 17

The late kick saw defending UAP Rhinos beat the Nguvu Sharks 36-17 in an entertaining clash at the RFUEA Grounds.

This match began on a cagey note, the Sharks' Kenny Andola missing two straight forward penalty attempts in the opening quarter of an hour. The Rhinos would settle in the match, mauling from a line out deep in Sharks territory and grounding the ball. Daniel Kiptoo was awarded the try after match referee Andrew Karani consulted the TMO. Isaac Adimo's conversion was charged down by Collins Injera as the Rhinos led 5-0.

Andola's third attempt at goal was successful; enabling the Sharks cut the deficit to two points with the scores at 5-3 on twenty minutes.

David Mogere reacted quickest from a scrumdown in the Sharks five yard, grounding the ball to give the Rhinos a 10-3 lead. Adimo's conversion extending the Rhinos lead to 12-3 after twenty six minutes of play.

Rhinos would grow in stature, dominating this period of play. Adimo's pass to Naftali Bondo saw the former Kenya Sevens player beat the gain line, touching down in the corner for a 17-3 score line with eleven minutes to half time.

A Sharks counter attack saw them threaten the Rhinos but Mike Wanjala dropped the ball with the try line agonizingly close.

Mogere would double his tally, touching down on thirty nine minutes as Adimo's conversion saw the Rhinos take a 24-3 lead into the breather.
The Sharks would emerge from the half time break a hungrier side, and their pressure soon bore fruit when Kenya Sevens player Horace Otieno touched down on forty three minutes with Andola converting for a 24-10 score line.

The students would dominate play but handling errors and indecision cost them dear, as they were unable to put points on the board. Their dominance eventually bore fruit with a Joel Omer try on fifty six minutes, a try that materialized following Willy Ambaka's initial probing run. Andola's conversion brought the scores to 24-17.

At this point it was a one try match, both sides wary of this fact. Rhinos would re-emerge from their brief lull, probably courtesy of the impact of their substitutes. They slowly inched forward into Sharks territory, keeping the ball tight and were rewarded with a Victor Oduor try on sixty two minutes.

The Sharks were not going down without a fight, again taking the game to the Rhinos, gaining good ground, only to be let down by a Willy Ambaka knock on.

The four time champions made the game safe when Adimo, receiving the ball from a lineout in midfield, sliced through the Sharks defence, beating the gain line and offloading to Nick Barasa who played in Lyle Asiligwa who touched down with Adimo converting for a 36-17 final score,

SDV Transami Cheetahs 49 vs Rwenzori 0

What was billed to be a closely contested duel ended up being a one sided affair, the Cheetahs running up seven tries.

Vincent Mose opened the scoring with a second minute penalty before Dan Weku's try on six minutes took the scores to 8-0. Mike Aung scored a captain's try on twenty minutes for a 13-0 lead. Nato Simiyu brace and a Mose conversion saw them lead 25-0 at half time.

It was one way traffic for thirty nine of the fourty minutes allocated to the second half. The Cheetahs completely pounding the Ugandans into submission. The game ending 49-0.

Match Stats:

3-0 2 minutes	Vincent Mose	Penalty
8-0 6 minutes	Dan Weku	Try
13-0 20 minutes	Mike Aung	Try
18-0 31 minutes	Nato Simiyu	Try
23-0 36 minutes	Nato Simiyu	Try
25-0 37minutes	Vincent Mose	Try
30-0 45 minutes	Vincent Mose	Try
32-0 46 minutes	Vincent Mose	Try
37-0 53 minutes	Kelvin Omiyo	Try
42-0 65 minutes	Vincent Mosie	Try
44-0 66 minutes	Steve Sakwa	Conversion
49-0 78 minutes	Leslie Ochieng	Try

Collated BRSS Match Day One Results

SDV Transami Cheetahs 49 Rwenzori 0

Nguvu Sharks 17 UAP Rhinos 36

Coastal Bulls 8 Lions 36

Victoria 16 Mumias Sugar Buffaloes 5

Bamburi Cement signs landmark deal with Kenya Tourism Development Center (KTDC) to promote conference tourism

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 07:59:57 GMT

Nairobi, April 28, 2011, Kenya's largest cement maker Lafarge Bamburi Cement has today signed a partnership with the Kenya Tourist Development Corporation (KTDC) to promote conference tourism at the coast.

The partnership will see Bamburi Lafarge Cement lease land to KTDC to facilitate the development of an ultra-modern Convention Centre that will host international conferences and events.

Tourism minister Hon. Najib Balala who was the chief guest at the signing ceremony at the Serena Hotel, hailed the partnership saying it would a go a long way in boosting conference tourism in Kenya.

The minister added that time has come for the tourism industry to explore new opportunities and diversify its revenue streams. "We need to look at such as conference tourism as opposed to relying entirely on the traditional beach and safari products," said the minister.

Kenya has huge potential for business and conference tourism owing to its location and positioning as the regional hub.

"This demand has created the need to develop a world class Convention Centre. The selection of Mombasa, and in particular the Bamburi Cement quarries is a testimony to Kenya's commitment in promoting environmental conservation," said KTDC Managing Director, Mrs. Marianne Jordan.

Bamburi quarries, located along the Mombasa- Malindi Road are ideal since they blend well with the proposed theme of building an environmentally friendly conventional centre. The firm started to rehabilitate the quarries in 1971. The conservation project is among the most successful in the country and boasts 200,000 visitors each year.

Bamburi Cement Managing Director Hussein Mansi said the partnership demonstrated Bamburi's commitment to the growth of the Kenyan economy. "This new partnership with KTDC represents another significant milestone for us. We are also proud to be contributing to the realization of the Vision 2030 economic blueprint," said the MD.

The development of conference tourism at the coast is expected to have significant multiplier effect including creating thousands of jobs and development of infrastructure.