New regional strategy for FLS builds capacity in Africa

Mining customers are to benefit from the stronger regional capability being developed by FLS, which is making the company even more responsive to customer needs

This is one of the key outcomes of the company’s strategic evolution underway, according to newly appointed FLS president sales and service for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Bernard Kaninda. As a leading full flow sheet technology company, FLS occupies a distinctive place in the market, said Kaninda, giving it a special relationship with customers.

“Being a partner through all their mineral processing requirements, FLS walks with customers throughout the lifecycle of a comprehensive range of equipment and solutions,” he added. “This engagement gives us greater impact in helping the mining industry achieve its sustainability goals.”

FLS aligns itself with industry imperatives by committing to energy and water reduction targets, and committing to reach zero emissions by 2030. To achieve these goals, he said, it was imperative to further grow the region’s capability – shifting from the previous regional definition which comprised sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East and southern Asia to a more cohesive EMEA region.

“We believe the move to an EMEA region will better create the capabilities we are looking for, combining the strengths of Africa and Europe, and our learnings in the Middle East,” Kaninda explained. “We expect to be able to respond more quickly with services, spares and equipment, and are building local resources to achieve these improvements.”

Responding to mining demand

The focus on communication and partnership is being fostered through clusters within the region, which are empowered with adequate resources for quick response times and effective support for end-users.

“As a partner that tailor-makes solutions for our customers, we go further by guaranteeing the performance of that equipment,” he commented. “This means being able to respond effectively as and when the situation demands, so we need to be in close proximity to the customers’ sites – and very familiar with the conditions they experience.”

The clusters in Africa ensure a strong presence in southern African countries – including South Africa, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo – as well as West Africa and North Africa. These are areas where FLS already has a significant footprint of equipment in operation.

“The mining sector is dynamic, however, so we are constantly expanding our equipment footprint and will be establishing a presence wherever we have a significant installed base,” he surmised. “It has always been a matter of pride for us that FLS customers will receive the same close attention irrespective of where they are around the globe.”

This article was written by FLS. For more information visit: www.flsmidth.com