Read about Who’s Who in the Industry: GSM is a family managed sheet profiling business with over 8 years of experience. We manufacture and supply IBR, corrugated and widespan roof sheeting in galvanized, prepainted and AluZinc .
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Christine and I arrived at Lanseria with a mix of excitement and nerves, unsure of what to expect from our meeting with Mr. Rampa Rammopo. His reputation preceded him, sharp, strategic, perhaps even formidable. Had we bitten off more than we could chew?
But the warm welcome at reception quickly put us at ease. And as we sat in ear shot of the boardroom, the sound of laughter from within – Mr. Rammopo mid-meeting confirmed what we hoped: this was going to be a conversation worth having.
What followed was more than an interview, it was a deep dive into a vision reborn.
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A Dream on the Rise
Before the world was brought to a halt by an unforeseen pandemic, Lanseria International Airport stood on the brink of a bold transformation. There was an energy in the air, the kind that accompanies dreams backed by meticulous planning, solid capital projects, and an unrelenting belief in growth. LIA had cast its vision far and wide, anchored in a master plan designed to not only meet future demand, but to shape the airport into a regional powerhouse.
One of the key milestones in this ambitious blueprint was the expansion of the airport’s terminal building. This was no minor upgrade. With the expansion of the Pier, Lanseria increased its passenger handling capacity from 3 million to 4.5 million per annum. Simultaneously, the Multistorey Parkade (MSP) project had been completed and operational, the perfect complement to the expected passenger surge. Plans were also underway for a dedicated hotel, an upgraded fuel
farm. It was all happening…until it wasn’t!
Just as concrete was being poured and steel girders hoisted, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, grinding the global aviation industry to a near-total standstill. Dreams were paused, boardrooms fell silent and development projects hit a brick wall. But not all of them.
Some, like the expansion of the Pier, were already too far along to be abandoned. They had to continue, however cautiously. And with that, the tone shifted.Lanseria’s master plan didn’t dissolve. Instead, it evolved…
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Rising from Ruin – A New Blueprint for Resilience
Where many saw devastation, Lanseria International Airport saw recalibration. It wasn’t just about survival anymore. It became about adaptation, engineering a version of the airport that could thrive not just in normal times, but in uncertain ones too. This shift led to a full-scale strategic review of operations, with a central goal: “How can we re-purpose the airport to weather future storms?”
The answer lay in diversification.
One of the clearest opportunities identified was cargo, a market LIA had not tapped into before COVID. Traditionally, cargo operations at Lanseria were limited to the belly space of commercial airliners. But the explosion of e-commerce and the increasing demand for air freight made a
compelling case for a deeper play.Thus, the Lanseria Cargo Precinct is born.
Lanseria International Airport occupying a 90-hectare parcel of currently vacant land – with an additional acquisition of adjacent parcels under consideration, the precinct will be designed as a fully-fledged cargo ecosystem. This project alone is forecasted to claim between 20 to 30 hectares, targeting 5 -10% of Gauteng’s booming 400 000 ton per annum air cargo market. With preliminary designs complete and most regulatory approvals secured, Lanseria is gearing to break ground by Q4 2025. The project, estimated around R2 – R3 billion, is set to be a five – year phased development and a cornerstone of LIA’s post-pandemic legacy.
But the Cargo Precinct is just the beginning.
Tied to the cargo development is another strategic initiative: Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. With SAA Technical’s diminished presence at OR Tambo, a critical gap has emerged in regional maintenance services. Lanseria intends to fill it. Designs are done, funding is partially secured, and tender processes for construction are on the near horizon. This segment will not only serve operational needs but also open up new business avenues for the airport.
Another future-proofing initiative is the new Fuel Farm, which will boost LIA’s fuel storage capacity from 1 million to 4.5 million litres. Final designs have been submitted, and approvals from the City of Johannesburg; delayed but not derailed, are anticipated soon. This project plays a pivotalrole in supporting the increased aircraft activity expected in the years ahead, especially as morecarriers consider Lanseria as a viable base.
Next in line is the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facility, currently in conceptual design stages. It’s a natural progression for Lanseria, which has long attracted business and private aviation. With market studies underway, the FBO project could soon become another defining pillar in Lanseria’s transformation, catering to elite travellers and specialized aviation services.
Add to this the Taxiway Alpha Upgrades, an estimated R200 million infrastructure investment aimed at enhancing the operational robustness of the airport’s air-side environment. With feasibility studies complete and consultants being appointed soon, construction is expected to be rolled out over 18 months to minimize disruption, ensuring the runway ecosystem matches thescale of LIA’s broader aspirations.
What unites these five capital projects: The Cargo Precinct, MRO, Fuel Farm, FBO facilities, and Taxiway upgrades, is not just ambition, but a sense of readiness. Readiness for growth. Readiness for disruption. Readiness for the future.
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A Legacy in the Making
Together, these developments don’t just mark a recovery from the COVID-19 shock, they represent a powerful leap into a new era. For CEO Rampa Rammopo, these are not mere infrastructure upgrades; they are Legacy Projects: A visionary master-stroke shaped under pressure, re-imagined
during crisis, and executed with precision.
Over the next five years, Lanseria International Airport will transform into an active construction site, one parcel at a time, laying the foundation for the airport of tomorrow. An airport that’s resilient, diversified, and future-ready.
So whether you’re boarding FlySafair “For the Love of Flying,” or flying with any future operators who will inevitably be drawn to this revitalized hub – rest assured, Lanseria International Airport will be ready.
From the ashes of a global crisis, a bold new skyline is rising – and it’s taking off from Lanseria.
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Leads 2 Business | Written by Minnie Zondi
I am an insanely optimistic ambivert that does everything from the heart instead of the mind. Deeply interested in people and matters that pertain to mankind.
Read about who’s who in the Industry: At NPH Engineers, we are committed to delivering high-quality engineering services that transform communities and industries. With a focus on professionalism, efficiency, and client satisfaction, we offer comprehensive civil and structural engineering solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each project.
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I started my journey with Leads 2 Business in 2013 as an Account Co-Ordinator. I transitioned into an External Sales position as an Account Executive in 2015. I help professionals within the building & construction industry keep up to date with the latest project and tender information as well as source new business opportunities throughout Africa.
Read about Who’s Who in the Industry : We do electrical services. We supply electrical equipment, testing and issuing of COC, electrical installations residential commercial and industrial.
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INFOCUS – FEATURING CONSTRUCTION
| Webinar – 30th May 11:00 – 12:00Focused on a different industry topic each month – On Friday 30 May 2025 join us for our InFocus Construction Webinar – presented by our construction industry specialists, Nyasha Nyatsine and Nikayle Govender, along with Warrick Harvey, their topic: From Chaos to Clarity: Managing Construction Projects Digitally with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
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Leads 2 Business Advertising Co-ordinator and Digital Designer
In wrapping up the year, I could have easily written a blog filled with nostalgia about the past year, reflecting on what we’ve accomplished and what we’ve learned. But as I sat with it, I realized that would not be true to who I am. What I truly want to achieve with this blog is not just to reflect, but to set the stage for what’s next. As we wrap this year up, I want to talk about how do we enter the new year with better vision, fresh mindset whilst embracing smarter and riskier decisions based on our ever-shifting landscape.
As a person who believes in preparing for tomorrow while also honouring the past and fully embracing the present. I’ve learned, over time, to hold both the past and the future in a delicate balance. This is a mindset I’ve had to cultivate intentionally, with a great deal of care, over the years. And I want to invite you, wherever you are on your journey: whether you’re a current client, a future one, or someone just – reading this now, to embrace this mindset, too.
Here’s a truth I’ve come to understand: “People perish for lack of vision.” Yes, it’s a biblical insight, but it applies just as much to our work in leadership or business. Vision is everything. It’s what keeps us grounded in our “why”, the deeper purpose behind what we do and helps us navigate the ever-changing landscape around us. Our ability to adapt, to hold our vision while making room for change is what enables both individuals and organizations to not just survive, but to thrive and step into the opportunities that await us.
This brings me to the heart of today’s message: embracing smarter, riskier decisions in 2025.
I want you to imagine that it’s already 2025, and you’re not just getting by, you’re thriving. What once seemed like a season of uncertainty now feels like fertile ground for growth and transformation. The key to this future? The decisions you make today. I’m talking about embracing smarter, sometimes riskier, decisions in the here and now. Decisions that may seem daunting but will set you up for a stronger tomorrow.
Let’s bring this home, particularly if you’re in the construction industry like us. The current landscape is certainly challenging. The South African Reserve Bank has made interest rate cuts, which offer some relief. Even though the growth forecasts remain modest, there’s real momentum building in some sectors. Yes, there’s uncertainty but isn’t that often where opportunity lives? Instead of relying on guesses or vague predictions, it’s time to start making informed, strategic decisions. Take these potential risks and turn them into stepping stones for growth.
One shift that can make all the difference? Investing in a project lead generation service.This isn’t just about finding more projects. It’s about creating a steady, reliable pipeline for your business. Imagine your business pipeline being as solid and dependable as thestructures being built. A healthy, full pipeline means fewer surprises, more opportunities, and a clearer path forward. When your pipeline is steady and reliable you aren’t just reacting to the market, you’re in alignment. That’s when you begin to feel a sense of control and confidence.
Now, I know that we’ve faced some tough challenges this year, especially within the public sector of construction. But here’s what I want you to remember: every cloud has its silver lining. While some areas struggle are struggling, others like KwaZulu-Natal are stepping up with major investments. And the recent crime-fighting agreements? They are adding a layer of optimism to what felt like an overwhelming situation. This tells us two things: First, there’s always a market somewhere for those who are willing to adapt. And second, flexibility is key. If we want to thrive, we must adjust our sails, seek the winds of opportunity, and navigate in the direction where growth is happening. In 2025, we must shift toward a more proactive mindset. This isn’t just about identifying risks; it’s about proactively planning for them and finding ways to mitigate them. The uncertainties we face should not paralyze us, they should drive us to make smarter decisions, take calculated risks and move forward with intention.
So, what’s the key takeaway? The future of the construction industry is indeed bright, but it will only unfold if we approach it with a mindset that is forward-thinking and full of vision. By investing in smarter decision-making today, you can weather tomorrow’s storms and seize the opportunities waiting for you.
To all of our dear clients: As we come to the close of another year, I encourage you to take time to rest and recharge. You’ve worked hard, and this is the time to honour your body, your mind, and your spirit. We look forward to walking this journey with you again next year.
Happy Holidays!
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I am an insanely optimistic ambivert that does everything from the heart instead of the mind. Deeply interested in people and matters that pertain to mankind.
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I started working at Leads 2 Business in February 2014. I'm a Senior L2Q Account Executive for the Cape Town Region.
If you are interested in becoming one of our subscribers, please visit Leads 2 Business.
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I joined Leads 2 Business as an Account Executive in July 2011 and was part of the dynamic sales team in JHB for 2 years. I relocated to the beautiful city of Durban in 2013 and absolutely love KZN. I am very proud to be part of the L2B family and Legacy!
Due to severe lack of adequate housing for the burgeoning populations in the various countries in Africa, more and more private developers are looking at building, not just housing estates, but whole new cities with the “Live, Work, Play” concept. Some of these new cities or mixed-use developments are still in the planning stages, but some are already underway :
Some of these developments are :
Pearl Marina – Uganda – is a development located on a 300 acre prime property located on the Garuga Peninsula in Uganda. The property is to be developed as a premium integrated water front destination, resort town and a premier Uganda tourism asset. The development will provide premium tourism and residential facilities, including hotels, conference facilities, luxury apartments, villas, a golf course, marinas, hospital, international school, modern office park and a retail centre. This is already under construction.
Tatu City – Kenya – is the development of a new, world class mixed use and mixed income city centre for Nairobi, approximately 15km north of the current Nairobi City Centre in Kenya, East Africa. It covers an area of approximately 1 000 hectares and when developed, it will provide a comprehensive mix of land uses, including residential, retail, commercial, tourism, social facilities and recreation and will be privately managed. The developer, Tatu City Ltd, will undertake the servicing of the land parcels for onward sale to developers. The infrastructure includes roads, electricity, water, waste water and solid waste infrastructure as well as public landscaping and (possibly) some simple municipal building. Construction on the residential component is underway.
Vision City – Rwanda – The proposed development is set on a prime 158 hectare tract of land in Gaculiro, Kinyinya Sector of Gasabo district, this high end estate is adjacent to RSSB constructed Vision 2020 Estate and approximately 3 km from the proposed Central Business District (CBD) at Muhima and 6 km from Kigali International Airport. It will consist of over 4 500 units in different configurations ranging from luxury villas to apartments to be built in 4 phases over 8 years. Phase 1 is already underway.
Eco Medical Village – Ghana – This is a proposed medical village project development which is located in Accra, on a 30 acre site acquired adjacent to Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration in Ghana. The construction of a medical village in Ghana that will consist of: a 380 ward hospital, 120 ward women and children hospital, underground parking space for 1 000 vehicles, 120 ward housing for the elderly, 17 storey doctors’ offices, a medical shopping mall; all things health; 40 x unit studio apartments for medical trainees; a medical research center in collaboration with world renowned hospitals; a 4 star medical hotel, a 2 star medical hotel, air ambulance and paramedic services and a housing facility for medical staff. The sod-turning ceremony is scheduled for October this year.
Sharm El Sheikh – Egypt – The development is to consist of villas, townhouses, apartments, offices, hotels and shopping malls. The property is located on the edge of the Red Sea, the development spans a massive 437 000m² and features residential components including villas, townhouses and apartments with all properties created to maximise sea view. A seaside, 5-star hotel with 118 executive rooms, 30 suites, 10 Spa Suites, a Presidential Suite Villa and a Royal Suite Villa further complements a thriving community. The entire development is surrounded by a lushly landscaped, one-of-a-kind greenbelt orienting the hotel and the residential properties. Construction has commenced on the hotel.
Even in North Africa, there are new cities being considered :
Tunisia Economic City – Tunisia – This new city is located in Enfidha District in Tunisia (North Africa) in close proximity to the Enfidha Al-hammamat International airport which can help initially to speed up the building of the city. The 90 square kilometer project with an 18 kilometer beach front modern sustainable and Eco-friendly metropolis will be the home of 500 000 inhabitants and will provide 250 000 jobs once completed within 15 years from now. Construction has not yet commenced on this.
There is also a whole new capital city planned in Egypt, just outside Cairo :
New City – Egypt – is the construction of a whole new city, outside Cairo. This new city will become the country’s new capital. The new city is meant for the low and middle income earners and will include an airport, shopping mall, hotels and amenities such as schools and hospitals as well as providing homes to low and middle-income buyers. The new city is still to be named and will be built near the Suez Canal. A Chinese construction company have been awarded the contract to build the city and the infrastructure & civil works have started.
There is a very exciting project currently underway in Nigeria :
Eko Atlantic Development – Nigeria – This development is to be built on about nine million square metres of reclaimed land, 2.4 kilometres south of Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos in Nigeria. Once completed it will be one and a half times the size of the current Victoria Island. It is estimated that it will accommodate 250 000 residents and 150 000 commuters. The city will cover seven districts : Ocean Front, Harbour Lights, Business District, Eko Drive, Marina, Avenues and Downtown. The Business District will also house a convention centre, auditorium and hotels. Construction is well underway.
This is just the tip of the iceberg of new mixed-use developments up and coming in Africa.
If your company is looking for Leads on Construction Projects in Africa, you would need to subscribe to Private Projects to get information on these and many more up-and-coming projects in Africa. Please email me on MarlaineA@L2B.co.za so that I can assist you further.
Leads 2 Business Advertising Co-ordinator and Digital Designer
