TURNING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS INTO REALITY
TURNING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS INTO REALITY Changing the skyline with landmark projects, De Simone Côte d’Ivoire offers nearly three decades of infrastructure solutions expertise. We speak to Alberto Comazzi, General Manager of Operations, to learn more Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Josh Whiteside
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DE SIMONE CÔTE D’IVOIRE MINING
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DE SIMONE CÔTE D’IVOIRE MINING
of companies actively ready to face these changes with reliability, confidence, and a passion for innovation. One such company leading the charge in this new way forward is De Simone CI. As a contract mining solutions provider, including load and haul, drill and blast, crushing and screening, and equipment rental, the company is a stalwart in mining throughout West Africa. With the ability to offer any client the full project lifecycle for multidisciplinary projects, De Simone CI turns innovative solutions into reality. “Our main services include earthworks, haulage, and various contract mining services covering drilling, loading, and hauling, in
addition to concrete and structural, mechanical, platework, and piping (SMPP) activities. As a growing organisation, we employ a dedicated team of skilled professionals committed to delivering exceptional service,” Comazzi details.
LEADERS IN WEST AFRICA Comazzi began his career at age 23, supervising construction sites, before quickly being assigned the first mining site construction in Ghana. “Today, a couple of decades later, I still have the same enthusiastic approach to the mining industry. Fast-moving, high expectations and difficult locations are all challenges that allow us to prove who we are,” he expands.
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The mining industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation driven by technological advancements, sustainability demands, and evolving market dynamics, with increased investment in higher efficiency and modernisation of equipment and services. The contractors that proactively adapt to these changes and prioritise innovation are well-positioned for growth.” This insight, provided by Albert Comazzi, General Manager of Operations at De Simone Côte d’Ivoire (De Simone CI), highlights the unparalleled shift this crucial sector is currently facing – and, more importantly, the necessity
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DE SIMONE GROUP – AT A GLANCE
“WE STRIVE TO MEET OUR CLIENTS’ NEEDS BY EMPHASISING OUTSTANDING SERVICE AND EXCELLENT WORKMANSHIP”
The group has expanded its
– A L B E R T O C O M A Z Z I , G E N E R A L M A N A G E R O F O P E R AT I O N S , DE SIMONE CÔTE D’IVOIRE
operations in several West African countries, with entities established in Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Nigeria, and more: • De Simone CI • De Simone Limited • Monterosa Construction Limited • De Simone Burkina Faso S.A. • De Simone Liberia • Eastern Quarries Limited • Monolo Plant Limited • De Simone Mining Services
Bringing his ample expertise and passion to De Simone CI every day, Comazzi has helped transform the company into a future-ready, innovation-centred expert in all things mining. Specifically, De Simone CI is a part of the larger De Simone Group, which boasts over 60 years of experience in civil, mining, residential, and commercial construction throughout West Africa. What started as a small Ghanaian construction company established by Giovanni De Simone in 1964 has strategically expanded its presence
throughout the continent, with operations currently in Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Nigeria, and more. Additional operations include registered entities in Zambia and Mauritius, alongside Togo and Guinea, which are currently in progress. The group has built a reputation for delivering high-end construction products for the full construction project lifecycle. It maintains the highest standards of management and workmanship, ensuring projects are staffed with highly experienced and qualified construction professionals. Africa Outlook Issue 121 | 5
SUPPLER OF QUALITY PRODUCTS FOR WORKER PROTECTION
Can you introduce EPCI? Founded in 2014, EPCI is an Ivorian company specialising in Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) solutions for the mining, industrial, oil and gas, energy, construction, as well as public and private sectors. Our portfolio includes Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), workwear, respiratory protection equipment, portable and fixed gas detection systems, fire safety equipment, fire extinguishers, first-aid equipment, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), safety signage, and a wide range of industrial safety solutions. To provide our customers with the best solutions available, we work in partnership with internationally recognised manufacturers such as Dräger, MSA Safety, Honeywell, Portwest, Safety Jogger, Coverguard, UVEX, Dunlop, ANAF, Gloria, and ZOLL. Beyond supplying equipment, EPCI offers a comprehensive range of services, including technical consulting, installation, commissioning, inspection, preventive and corrective maintenance, testing, calibration, training, and aftersales support. We are an authorised distributor and service provider for fire extinguishers, as well as an authorised service centre for Dräger, MSA Safety, and Honeywell, providing maintenance, inspection, and calibration services for both portable and fixed gas detection systems.
For more than 10 years, we have been supporting our customers with solutions that comply with international standards, combining technical expertise with a strong commitment to protecting people, assets, and facilities.
What differentiates EPCI from its competitors? Our competitive advantage lies in the combination of our technical expertise, strong partnerships with leading international manufacturers, and ability to provide complete safety solutions. Beyond equipment distribution, we support our customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their safety systems by offering installation, maintenance, inspection, calibration, and after-sales services. Our manufacturer authorisations, expertise in advanced safety technologies, and close customer relationships have established EPCI as a trusted partner for companies operating in demanding environments, particularly in the mining, industrial, and energy sectors.
Can you tell us about your partnership with De Simone CI? Our partnership with De Simone CI reflects a shared commitment to promoting the highest standards of health and safety within the mining industry. EPCI supports De Simone CI by supplying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), respiratory protection solutions, portable and fixed gas detection systems, fire safety equipment, and technical support provided by our experienced teams. By combining De Simone CI’s operational expertise with EPCI’s technical knowhow in safety solutions, we help enhance workforce protection, prevent operational risks, and meet the highest safety requirements of the mining sector.
These investments enable us to provide our customers with increasingly efficient services that fully comply with international standards.
What are EPCI’s key priorities for the coming years? Our ambition is to strengthen EPCI’s position as one of West Africa’s leading providers of health and safety solutions. We will continue to invest in innovation, technical expertise, strategic partnerships with world-leading brands, and the continuous improvement of our services. Our priority remains to support our customers with reliable, innovative, and internationally compliant solutions that contribute to protecting people, assets, and operations in the most demanding working environments.
Are there any recent projects or investments you would like to highlight? EPCI continues to expand its business by strengthening partnerships with leading international manufacturers and investing in the continuous development of its technical capabilities. We are also enhancing our authorised maintenance, calibration, and after-sales services while expanding our portfolio of solutions in fire safety, gas detection, personal protective equipment, and emergency response.
07 77 77 26 77 | epci@epci-ci.com | www.epci-ci.com
DE SIMONE CÔTE D’IVOIRE MINING
Equally, it contracts with only prequalified and reliable subcontractors that have previous track records in the industry. Such market knowledge means the group’s clients all receive efficient performance, exceeding expectations with every project delivered. “What sets us apart from the competition is our commitment to safety, quality, and client satisfaction. We leverage our extensive experience in the region and focus on maintaining strong relationships with our clients through transparency and reliable service delivery,” Comazzi prides.
INVESTING IN NEW TECHNOLOGY
DE SIMONE GROUP’S NINE DEPARTMENTS • PROJECTS • FINANCE • HAULAGE AND MINE SERVICES • PROCUREMENT AND STORES • MECHANICAL WORKSHOP • CARPENTRY WORKSHOP • EASTERN QUARRIES LIMITED • MONOLO PLANT LIMITED • DE SIMONE BURKINA FASO S.A.
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As one of West Africa’s leading mining construction companies, De Simone CI strives to maintain and improve its performance by demonstrating
outstanding service to its diverse clientele, which includes corporate entities, governments, and private citizens. “We strive to meet our clients’ needs by emphasising outstanding service and excellent workmanship,” explains Comazzi. “Our project management teams ensure every project adheres to the highest standards, and we continually seek feedback to refine our processes and services.” The company provides client infrastructure solutions in the mining, earthworks, and transport industries with paid solutions from an in-country fleet comprising mobile cranes ranging from 75 tonnes (t) to 450 t, and a further diverse range of earthmoving plant equipment, complete with operators and maintenance support.
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COMMITTED TO THE FUTURE Of crucial significance to De Simone CI are the health and safety measures it takes to ensure a safe working environment for all. The company values the lives of all employees and visitors on site and works closely with clients, consultants, and subcontractors to guarantee everyone returns home safely each workday. Additionally, De Simone CI readily acknowledges the significance of its workers to its continued success. “We recognise that our employees are our greatest asset. We focus on empowering them through training and development programmes, fostering a culture of recognition where contributions are celebrated. Engaged and motivated staff are
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In recent years, De Simone CI has completed over 10 tailings storage facility (TSF) construction projects across six different clients in Côte d’Ivoire. Its new investments are directed towards building up capacity to undertake contract mining activities alongside construction activities. “In addition, we have invested in new machinery to enhance our operational efficiencies and expand our capabilities. This investment not only improves productivity but also reinforces our commitment to employing advanced technologies in our operations,” insights Comazzi. Alongside these projects, of equal importance to the company are its supply chain operations and the relationships it maintains with its partners. “Our supply chain operations are crucial to our success; we prioritise building strong relationships with partners and suppliers to ensure reliability and quality in our service delivery. This collaborative approach allows us to navigate challenges effectively and maintain operational continuity,” Comazzi affirms.
“WE BELIEVE IN RESPONSIBLE MINING PRACTICES THAT BENEFIT BOTH OUR CLIENTS AND THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE” – A L B E R T O C O M A Z Z I , G E N E R A L M A N A G E R O F O P E R AT I O N S , DE SIMONE CÔTE D’IVOIRE
essential for achieving our business objectives,” details Comazzi. In parallel, De Simone CI emphasises its commitment to its neighbouring communities and environments. “We believe in responsible mining practices that benefit both our clients and the communities in which we operate,” Comazzi highlights. It is through these commitments and passion for creating a safe, collaborative environment that De Simone CI is able to assert itself as an unparalleled leader within the industry and maintain its reputation for excellent workmanship and on-time delivery dates – elements which are too often overlooked in today’s mining and construction businesses. As the company continues to look towards the future of the
rapidly changing mining industry, it is prioritising the stabilisation of its core mission objectives whilst highlighting the need for innovation and technological progress. “Looking ahead, our key priorities include expanding our operations and pursuing diversification opportunities within the mining sector. We have specific targets aimed at enhancing our market position and increasing our capacity to take on larger projects,” confidently concludes Comazzi.
Tel: +22 527 2135 9973 info@desimoneltd.com
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Importer / Distributor Tyres & Accessories Car Batteries - Motor Oils 1. COMPANY COMPANYHISTORY HISTORY The company KABALANE & CIE was founded in 1968 by Mr. Joseph Kabalane, initially focusing solely on the distribution of spare parts. While it started with a total headcount of eight (8) employees during its early years, its payroll now stands at ninety-seven (97) operators. Unlike other private enterprises, it secured the majority of its contracts with the State. This strategic partnership with the public sector catalyzed rapid corporate growth. However, given the State’s highly diversified requirements—ranging from facilities management to the maintenance of administrative fleets—the company’s automotive workshop was established in the 1980s to address this specific demand. This robust performance prompted executive management to approve a capital increase in 1983. The equity capital expanded by forty million CFA francs, representing an approximate sixty percent increase of the initial share capital. The capital underwent a second restructuring in 1993, rising to one hundred and fifty million CFA francs. 2. CORE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES The corporate strategy of KABALANE & CIE centers on diversifying its business scope to capture maximum market share. Consequently, the company plays a pivotal role in the supply chain and remains continuously aligned with customer specifications. In pursuit of this growth roadmap, the company secured an official dealership agreement in 1993 with a global leader in tyre manufacturing: the premium American brand Goodyear. Over the subsequent decades, it demonstrated its scaling capabilities by importing a comprehensive portfolio of tyres. Furthermore, this sustained operational growth generated new partnerships through the import rights of additional tyre brands such as Alliance, Galaxy, Primex, alongside Doublestar, Aeolus and Petlas. Today, the company’s portfolio also includes battery wholesale, importing the Dongah brand, and lubricants through the import of the Gemaoil brand. The company also operates a specialized tyre service center dedicated to tyre condition assessments, pressure checks, mounting, demounting, wheel alignment, balancing, headlight calibration, and rim refurbishing. The mechanical workshop delivers high performance driven by decades of field experience, state-of-the-art tooling, and cutting-edge infrastructure. Service capabilities encompass
general mechanics, automotive electronics, electrical diagnostics, bodywork, painting, upholstery, HVAC servicing, and oil changes. It also manages vehicle pre-inspection and handling for mandatory roadworthiness tests 3. THE TYRE SECTOR Tyre distribution covers all application segments:
�� KABALANE & CIE : Performance Partner for
Mining Operations In the mining industry, every minute of asset downtime triggers massive operational losses. Confronted with highly abrasive underfoot conditions and extreme payloads, KABALANE & CIE safeguards your site productivity. We distribute a rigorous selection of world-renowned OTR (Off-The-Road) brands for rigid haul trucks, wheel loaders, and excavators, featuring advanced, high-performance tread designs. Our commitment to dynamic fleet management (inflation pressure monitoring, TKPH/TKH calculations, tyre rotation optimization) aims to transform site constraints into a sustainable competitive advantage across all operations we support.
�� Our Brand Portfolio & Specialized Tread Profiles in Stock
1 GOODYEAR: The Global Premium Tyre Reference • Segment: High-performance premium OTR. Flagship Tread Designs: E4 (e.g., RL-4H/GP-4D): Ultra-deep tread pattern for rigid dump trucks. Engineered to maximize tyre life on abrasive haul roads. L5 (e.g., RT-5D): Ultra-deep rock profile for heavy wheel loaders operating at the pit face. • Key Available Dimensions: 29.00R25, 27.00R49, 35/65R33… • Customer Value Proposition: Maximum hourly service life and the lowest cost-per-hour (CPH) on the market over the asset lifecycle.
Boulevard Félix Houphouët Boigny (ancien VGE) Treichville zo Tél.: (+225) 27 21 75 93 50 - Cél: (+225)
2. AEOLUS: Robustness & Optimized Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) • Segment: Tier-2 / Superior quality. • Flagship Tread Designs: E4/L4 (e.g., AE47): Dual-purpose OTR profiles with high load capacity, ideal for articulated dump trucks (ADTs) and loaders. Superior thermal dissipation. • Key Available Dimensions: 23.5R25, 26.5R25, 29.5R25… • Customer Value Proposition: Heavy-duty endurance paired with an optimized initial capital expenditure (CapEx). 3. ALLIANCE & GALAXY : Off-Road Application Specialists • Segment: Specialized OTR (Off-The-Road) Severe duty. • Flagship Tread Designs: E4/L4: Massive block configurations designed for ancillary equipment and earthmoving excavators. • Key Available Dimensions: 17.5R25, 20.5R25, 23.5R25, 29.5R25… • Customer Value Proposition: Optimum tractive grip and high lateral stability in soft underfoot or severe rock conditions
value from your tyre assets, KABALANE & CIE deploys field engineers directly to your mining concessions: Inflation Pressure Optimization: Eliminates thermal build-up (the primary driver of ply and belt separation) to preserve casing integrity for retreading... Performance Metrics & TKPH Tracking: Granular analysis of cost-per-kilometer and cost-per-hour to optimize your global TCO. Tyre Rotation Programs: Planned asset rotations (e.g., front-to-rear axle matching) to ensure uniform tread wear across the fleet.
�� Other Product Lines
SOME ACTIVITIES
tyre installation
In addition to specialized mining and earthmover tyres, KABALANE & CIE supplies tyre fitments across all commercial segments: passenger cars (PCR), 4x4/SUVs, light commercial vehicles (LCV), heavy commercial trucks (TBR), material handling, agricultural, and forestry equipment...
tyre pressure
�� Beyond the Product: Dynamic Tyre
Fleet Management Supplying the correct tread compound and profile is only the first step. To extract maximum diagnostic car scan mechanic
car bodywork and painting
one 1 - 05 BPM 1248 Abidjan 05 - Email: info@kabalane.com 07 07 09 57 56 - (+225) 07 07 07 83 61
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