Another project won!

26/02/2024

On 21 February 2024, Mr. Arsim Fetahu, the CEO of the Regional Water Company Prishtina (RWCP), and Mr. Mathias Lueg, the Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed a KfW-funded consulting contract for four years with a volume of 3 million Euro. Also present at the event were: Mr. Premtim Islami - Senior National Coordinator, KfW Office Kosovo, Mr.

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On 21 February 2024, Mr. Arsim Fetahu, the CEO of the Regional Water Company Prishtina (RWCP), and Mr. Mathias Lueg, the Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed a KfW-funded consulting contract for four years with a volume of 3 million Euro. Also present at the event were: Mr. Premtim Islami - Senior National Coordinator, KfW Office Kosovo, Mr. Getoar Mjeku - Deputy Minister, Ministry of Economy and Mr. Bashkim Pllana - Head of Board of Directors of RWCP (from left to right).

Pristina and its neighboring municipalities are suffering from large technical and administrative water losses. The RWCP team and the consortium composed of GOPA Infra, Emscher Wassertechnik and EWEC Water will apply innovative solutions to reduce these water losses and to strengthen the managerial and technical capacities of RWCP.

Mr. Alexander Pinciu as Project Director and Mr. Jörg Struss as Team Leader Accompanying Measures (ACM) will be the principal officers of GOPA Infra during the implementation of the project.

 

GOPA Infra's new project in Brazil

Sustainable Urban Development (DUS – Desenvolvimento Urbano Sustentável) is a project implemented by GOPA Infra for GIZ to improve the access of Brazilian cities to financing for integrated, inclusive and climate resilient projects.

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Sustainable Urban Development (DUS – Desenvolvimento Urbano Sustentável) is a project implemented by GOPA Infra for GIZ to improve the access of Brazilian cities to financing for integrated, inclusive and climate resilient projects.

Although infrastructure needs have increased in urban areas of Brazil, municipalities lack the capacities to develop eligible projects that meet the standards of international financiers or the requirements of the private sector. The project seeks to bridge this implementation gap and improve the alignment between investment needs in cities and financing options. Additionally, it aims to improve the capacities of Brazilian national government institutions in the development of national frameworks, guidelines, and strategies that will support municipal administrations in the structuring of bankable projects.

DUS works with six selected municipalities that have presented integrated, inclusive, and climate resilient projects to be further developed aiming at their financial and economic viability. The municipalities will receive assistance in the development of investment funds, procurement, articulation with financing institutions and fund management authorities, and identification of innovative approaches such as share economy, circular economy and land-based instruments, among others.

The six selected municipalities are Canaã dos Carajás (Pará State), Fortaleza (Ceará State), Nova Friburgo (Rio de Janeiro State), Palmas (Tocantins State), Santo André (São Paulo State) and Uberaba (Minas Gerais State).

Second phase of “FICOL II” project launched in Tunisia with high-level seminars and workshops

As part of the launch of the second phase of the "FICOL II" local government financing project in Tunisia, which will benefit 177 municipalities in 22 governorates, the GOPA Infra office, in partnership with the CPSCL (Caisse des prêts et de soutien au collectivités locales), has started to organise two national seminars and four regio

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As part of the launch of the second phase of the "FICOL II" local government financing project in Tunisia, which will benefit 177 municipalities in 22 governorates, the GOPA Infra office, in partnership with the CPSCL (Caisse des prêts et de soutien au collectivités locales), has started to organise two national seminars and four regional workshops in the cities of Tunis/Sousse/Sfax/Tabarka to present the FICOL II financing programme (financing of municipal investments in expansion areas "36 million euros") and the accompanying measures in favour of these municipalities "3 million euros".

More than 550 people have attended and will continue to attend these events, including senior regional and municipal officials, public and private operators, CPSCL and KFW as donors, and representatives of the technical assistance office GOPA Infra.

As a reminder, the aim of the project is to improve access to basic municipal infrastructure in the extension zones of the enlarged municipalities in order to strengthen the municipalities' capacity to provide quality municipal infrastructure and improve access to services in the extension zones.

 

Opening address by Jacqueline Groth, Cooperation Officer at the German Federal Embassy

Opening remarks by the General Manager of CPSCL

 

Presentation of the FICOL II programme by our Team Leader, Mr Schumann

Our image campaign with the VBI Foreign Committee

The VBI Foreign Committee was founded more than 60 years ago to better represent the interests of German companies abroad and jointly solve overriding issues. The VBI also represents German companies at EFCA and FIDIC.

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The VBI Foreign Committee was founded more than 60 years ago to better represent the interests of German companies abroad and jointly solve overriding issues. The VBI also represents German companies at EFCA and FIDIC. The Foreign Committee is made up of 44 consulting and advisory engineering firms that work abroad for the GIZ and KfW, amongst others, on projects in the field of: Agriculture and Forestry; Construction; Education and Training; Employment; Advisory Services to Public Administrations; Energy/Renewable Energies; Financial Sector Reform; Promotion of the Private Sector; Health; Trade; Climate Protection; Sustainability and Resource Protection; Transport Infrastructure; Hydraulic Engineering/Water Management/Irrigation; Waste Disposal and Recycling; Digital Transformation; Urban Planning and Mobility.

Together, we advocate for fair competition and clear tax regulations for all companies. Against this background, we also look forward to a lively exchange during the GIZ Consulting day on 18.09.2023. 

More information on Die Ausdenker - Verband Beratender Ingenieure (vbi.de)

 

 

Energy efficiency in Serbia

25/08/2023

Representatives from the Serbian Ministry of Public Investment, KfW and GOPA Infra convened in Belgrade to commence the Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings project.

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Representatives from the Serbian Ministry of Public Investment, KfW and GOPA Infra convened in Belgrade to commence the Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings project.

The 36 million Euro investment is dedicated to the energy-efficient renovation of public buildings, particularly schools, in specified municipalities across Serbia. The project aims to enhance energy efficiency in selected buildings, bolster the ability to execute decentralised public infrastructure projects with an emphasis on energy efficiency, and to stimulate local value chains. This is to contribute to the population and the environment benefitting from a sustainable, efficient and reliable energy supply, laying the groundwork for Serbia's convergence to the EU in accordance with the Energy chapter of the Acquis Communautaire.

GOPA Infra and its joint-venture partner INGOB.ZT will support the Ministry in monitoring, auditing, and supervision.

Minister Svenja Schulze (BMZ) visits a TVET school in Mauritania designed and implemented by GOPA Infra

On 15 August 2023, the German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Ms Svenja Schulze, accompanied by a delegation comprising members of the German Bundestag, representatives of BMZ, the EU, the French Development Agency (AFD), KfW Development Bank and GIZ, visited the Vocational School of Construction (EETFP-BTP) in R

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On 15 August 2023, the German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Ms Svenja Schulze, accompanied by a delegation comprising members of the German Bundestag, representatives of BMZ, the EU, the French Development Agency (AFD), KfW Development Bank and GIZ, visited the Vocational School of Construction (EETFP-BTP) in Ryad, Nouakchott.

The EETFP-BTP is part of the TVET Support Programme (PAFTP) financed by German Financial Cooperation through KfW Development Bank and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, in which GOPA Infra is acting as Management Consultant, Design Architect and Construction Supervisor for the rehabilitation and construction of 4-5 TVET schools in Mauritania.

Designed by GOPA Infra’s Architects Daniel Schumann and Oumar Sy, the school will be inaugurated in November 2023 and will have a capacity of 1,200 students and trainees, which could be doubled with future extensions.

Delegates who visited the school praised the Client, DGFTP, and the GOPA Infra team for the remarkable quality of the design and the realisation of an energy-efficient infrastructure that provides a comfortable indoor environment while ensuring good natural lighting.


 

Towards less ocean plastic in Manado, Indonesia!

02/08/2023

We are delighted to announce an important milestone achieved through our programme “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine Environment and Coral Reefs (3RproMar)” in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

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We are delighted to announce an important milestone achieved through our programme “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine Environment and Coral Reefs (3RproMar)” in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The comprehensive baseline assessment conducted by GOPA Infra has provided us with key information that will significantly contribute to the design of pilot projects aimed at effectively reducing plastic leakages from the environment, specifically from waterways. To tackle this issue, our approach will encompass a combination of technological interventions, behavior change initiatives, economic and financial incentives, as well as legal instruments. By employing these diverse strategies, we aim to achieve substantial reductions in plastic waste leakages. Through our collaboration with the city of Manado, GIZ, and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors we are committed to creating a sustainable and plastic-free environment for Manado and its residents.

Further information on GIZ Indonesia & ASEAN on LinkedIn: 𓇼 🌊 🐚 Towards less ocean plastic in Manado! 🐚🌊🌀 Our project…

 

High-level meeting in Baghdad

During a mission to Iraq, Mr Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, met with the President of ReFAATO (Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terrorist Operations), Dr Mohammed Al A'ani, to discuss the progress of the KfW-funded German Credit Facility to Support the Return of IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) in Iraq (GCFI).

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During a mission to Iraq, Mr Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, met with the President of ReFAATO (Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terrorist Operations), Dr Mohammed Al A'ani, to discuss the progress of the KfW-funded German Credit Facility to Support the Return of IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) in Iraq (GCFI). Both sides expressed their appreciation for the successful cooperation since 2017, and agreed on the desirability of continuing the Management and Monitoring Consulting (MMC) services provided by GOPA Infra. Also present at the meeting were Eng. Layth D. Mahmood, Head of the Grants and International Donations Section of ReFAATO and Dr Fouad Al Momen, the GOPA Infra Team Leader.

After the meeting with the ReFAATO President, Mr Lueg and Dr Fouad travelled on to Mosul in Nineveh Governorate to attend a public information event at which returning IDP women presented their small businesses. The women had received support from the GCFI-programme to develop their business skills and improve the marketing of their products.

And here's more information in our GCFI video from Mosul: 

٢٣ آذار، ٢٠٢٣ - YouTube

 

 

Reduce, reuse, recycle to protect marine environment and coral reefs

Together with the 3RproMar team of GIZ-Philippines, GOPA Infra conducted a kick-off meeting at the Provincial Solid Waste Management Board Meeting of Guimaras.

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Together with the 3RproMar team of GIZ-Philippines, GOPA Infra conducted a kick-off meeting at the Provincial Solid Waste Management Board Meeting of Guimaras.

The project 3RproMar (implementation of pilot projects along the value chain) aims to support the ASEAN Member States in the improvement of implementation capacities for reducing land-based waste leakage to protect the marine environment. The interventions address four focal countries with a geographical focus as the main source of marine litter along the Mekong river system (incl. Vietnam and Cambodia) and the island states of the Philippines and Indonesia.

GOPA Infra is contracted by GIZ to implement pilot projects in the field of circular economy, ranging from the development of extended producer responsibility (EPR) and sustainable consumption to improved plastic collection and recycling in the Philippines and Indonesia.

 

Cross-border study tours and meetings for the GIZ ConNex project

As part of the GIZ-funded ConNex project “Provision of Basic Services for Vulnerable Population”, which we are implementing with consortium partner GOPA Middle East, a delegation of 14 staff from project stakeholders in Duhok and Erbil, Iraq, and Saleem Diyar from GIZ Erbil attended at the end of November several meetings with GIZ Jo

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As part of the GIZ-funded ConNex project “Provision of Basic Services for Vulnerable Population”, which we are implementing with consortium partner GOPA Middle East, a delegation of 14 staff from project stakeholders in Duhok and Erbil, Iraq, and Saleem Diyar from GIZ Erbil attended at the end of November several meetings with GIZ Jordan and water utility staff to review ongoing and completed water and sanitation projects in Jordan and Erbil.  We were very pleased to have the presence of the GOPA Middle East office in Jordan to support these exchanges.

The main objective of the event was to share knowledge and provide practical insights and advice on best practices, procedures and approaches related to the use of SCADA systems in water facilities, WLR/NRW and O&M, and wastewater management to be used in the development of the water and wastewater sector in the Kurdistan Region of Northern Iraq. Undoubtedly, this was just the beginning of a network platform for information exchange by creating a mutually beneficial network for sharing best practices for improved service delivery in the water and wastewater sector. Many thanks to TL Dr. Andreas Luck for the inspiring contributions during the study tour.

The project aimed to improve public (basic) service delivery to vulnerable populations within the water management boundaries of Duhok Governorate - geographically both in Duhok city and its outskirts/peri-urban extensions and settlements, as well as in selected refugee and IDP camps.

Learn more about GIZ's ConNex project:

ConNex - Provision of basic public services for vulnerable people | GOPA Infra (gopa-infra.de)

We would like to thank our team of experts in the field as well as Ms. Hala Abu Eisheh and Mr. Hashim Abu Salah in Jordan for their remote monitoring during the project implementation.

          

 

GOPA Infra Middle East & Al Hussein Technical University sign Memorandum of Understanding to provide high-quality and market-oriented technical education for Jordanian youth

Amman, 3 September 2022. Al Hussein Technical University (HTU) and GOPA Infra Middle East signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly work towards the shared objective of contributing to the development of supporting Jordanian youth in their pursuit of quality and market-driven technical education through a mutual academic-industrial co

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Amman, 3 September 2022. Al Hussein Technical University (HTU) and GOPA Infra Middle East signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly work towards the shared objective of contributing to the development of supporting Jordanian youth in their pursuit of quality and market-driven technical education through a mutual academic-industrial collaboration system.

This memorandum commits GOPA Infra Middle East to providing apprenticeships for HTU students at their facilities as often as possible, with the goal of providing apprentices with workplace experience that improves their employability and skills, as well as creating opportunities for students to find jobs at GOPA Infra Middle East

The memorandum was signed by Prof. Dr. Ismail Al-Hinti on behalf of Al-Hussein Technical University, while Mr. Philipp Baltus signed on behalf of GOPA Infra Middle East.

During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Ismail expressed his delight with the prior experience of collaboration with GOPA, as well as the significant benefit that the students gained. He also noted that, while employment is the primary goal of the university, it cannot be done without the support of other partners such as GOPA and other active businesses in breaking away from traditional education and allowing students to live the challenge every day in active practical life.

Mr. Baltus, for his part, spoke about the outstanding abilities of Al-Hussein Technical University students that he witnessed throughout their training in GOPA. He also stated that This partnership is only the start of a long and fruitful engagement with Al Hussein Technical University, where we will continue to explore improving youth's access to different skills and jobs.

This agreement will jointly provide many services to both parties to develop their capabilities by joint teaching, research, or cultural activity also by sharing or creation of educational materials and resources as well as mobility of faculty, scholars, between the two institutions.

worth mentioning that Al Hussein Technical University is a private non-profit University located at King Hussein Business Park, with a mission to support talented Jordanian youth in the pursuit of quality and relevant technical and vocational education.

While GOPA Infra Middle East is an independent international consultancy rendering engineering and consulting services for infrastructure development worldwide on behalf of partners and multilateral financing agencies and organizations as well as private clients. It focuses on the provision and operation of sustainable infrastructure in the core areas of architecture & urban development, transport & mobility, waste management as well as water & sanitation.

 

 

 

 

Reduction of energy consumption through cost-effective EE-measures

On 9 May 2022, the President of the Egyptian Supreme Council of Universities (SCU), Prof. Dr. Mohammed Lotayef, and the Managing Director of GOPA Infra, Mr.

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On 9 May 2022, the President of the Egyptian Supreme Council of Universities (SCU), Prof. Dr. Mohammed Lotayef, and the Managing Director of GOPA Infra, Mr. Mathias Lueg, signed a contract for the provision of technical and managerial assistance in the context of the KfW/EU-financed project “Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings (Universities)”.

The project will identify, plan and implement investments of 21 million Euro in energy efficiency measures at 17 Egyptian universities. The selected projects will showcase innovative and sustainable solutions and serve educational purposes as well as increase public awareness.

 

Advancement of vocational education in Egypt

On 20 March 2022, the Egyptian Minister for Education and Technical Education, Dr. Tariq Shawky, and Mr. Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed a contract for the provision of consultancy services in the framework of the projects “Promotion of Technical and Vocational Education in Egypt” and “Promotion

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On 20 March 2022, the Egyptian Minister for Education and Technical Education, Dr. Tariq Shawky, and Mr. Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed a contract for the provision of consultancy services in the framework of the projects “Promotion of Technical and Vocational Education in Egypt” and “Promotion of Sustainable Energy in TVET”. The projects are funded by the KfW Development Bank and the European Union respectively and aim at the advancement of vocational education in Egypt, focusing on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The total investment of approx.  EUR 48m. will cover construction, rehabilitation and equipment of vocational training centres as well as development of curricula and cooperation with the private sector.

Representatives of the European Union, the German Embassy, the KfW Development Bank, GIZ as well as of several national and international partner organisations also attended the signing ceremony.

The consultancy services will be provided by a consortium comprising GOPA Infra, GOPA Worldwide Consultants and ECG (Engineering Consultants Group).

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thrice as nice (again)!

As quality management, environmental protection and occupational health & safety have become essential components of all our projects, GOPA Infra, which has been certified by SGS-TÜV Saar for Quality Management (ISO 9001:2015), Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2015) and Occupational Health & Safety Management (ISO 45001:2018) since Ja

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As quality management, environmental protection and occupational health & safety have become essential components of all our projects, GOPA Infra, which has been certified by SGS-TÜV Saar for Quality Management (ISO 9001:2015), Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2015) and Occupational Health & Safety Management (ISO 45001:2018) since January 2019, got re-certified for all three standards.

With this integrated Quality, Occupational Safety/Health and Environmental (QSHE) System certification, GOPA Infra will continue to improve its operations and control processes to maintain its high level of quality while ensuring environmental sustainability and respect for occupational health and safety.

Thanks to the strong team effort, we were able to achieve this accreditation again. Many thanks to all!

 

Sod-cutting ceremony for IT Training Centre in Ghana

30/09/2021

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially commenced work on its new building for an IT Training Centre. The building is financed by a KfW loan, and the implementation consultants are GOPA Infra (Germany) and Orthner, Orthner & Associates (Ghana).

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The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially commenced work on its new building for an IT Training Centre. The building is financed by a KfW loan, and the implementation consultants are GOPA Infra (Germany) and Orthner, Orthner & Associates (Ghana). The building has been carefully designed to serve its purpose, while taking into consideration Ghana’s climate and environmental issues.

The sod-cutting ceremony was held on 28 September 2021 and attended by the German Ambassador, Mr Daniel Krull.

For more information, please click here.

 

 

 

 

Contract signing: Higher Education Project (Phase I), Ukraine

In the presence of the Ukrainian Minister of Education and Science, Mr Serhiy Shkarlet, as well as Representatives from the European Investment Bank and the EU Delegation, GOPA Infra signed contracts for comprehensive thermal refurbishment with the following six universities on 26 July 2021:

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In the presence of the Ukrainian Minister of Education and Science, Mr Serhiy Shkarlet, as well as Representatives from the European Investment Bank and the EU Delegation, GOPA Infra signed contracts for comprehensive thermal refurbishment with the following six universities on 26 July 2021:

  • Chernihiv Polytechnic National University,
  • Lviv Polytechnic National University,
  • Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute,
  • Yuri Kondratiuk Poltava Polytechnic,
  • Sumy State University, and
  • Vinnytsia National Technical University.

The EUR 59m. investment is financed by the EIB and the Eastern Europe Energy Efficiency and Environment Partnership (ESP) and will help to ensure comfortable conditions for students and academic staff. It is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 19,200 tons or 48%, decrease energy consumption by 44% and save more than EUR 3.5m. annually.

GOPA Infra and its partners will be responsible for the design and supervision of the measures as well as for the related procurement activities.

 

GOPA Infra initiated official programme kick-off

On 6 May 2021, as Technical Assistance to ANICT (Agence National d’Investissements des Collectivités Territoriales/National Agency for Investments of Territorial Communities), GOPA Infra initiated the official kick-off session of two new phases of the decentralisation programme 

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On 6 May 2021, as Technical Assistance to ANICT (Agence National d’Investissements des Collectivités Territoriales/National Agency for Investments of Territorial Communities), GOPA Infra initiated the official kick-off session of two new phases of the decentralisation programme PACT (Programme d’Appui aux Collectivités Territoriales/Territorial Communities Support Programme). The kick-off was attended by the line ministries and representatives from KfW, GIZ and various other stakeholders, as well as regional governors and representatives of local communities.

PACT VI-I (Programme d’Appui aux Collectivités Territoriales/Territorial Communities Support Programme) and PACT IV (Projet de Développement Communal et de Décentralisation – Villes Moyennes/PDCD-VM2.0 Communal Development and Decentralisation Project)

In line with the preceding phases of the Programme, the above two programmes contribute to the decentralisation process and good governance in Mali by means of financing public infrastructures on demand of the Territorial Communities. While PACT VI-I contributes to the decentralisation process via the financing of the “national funds to support the territorial communities” (FNACT) and support to the capacity reinforcement of the Executing Agency ANICT, the PACT IV programme works on an innovative financing approach for secondary towns. This approach envisages the auto-reinforcement of cities through a call for project proposals on a needs basis for the development of those secondary towns. Selected towns will be assisted by ANICT and GOPA Infra/AMBRERO (Technical Assistance) in their capacities as contracting authorities and project-executing agencies respectively.

Together with its partner AMBERO, GOPA Infra will assist ANICT over the next 36 months in the technical and financial management of both programmes.

 

   

GOPA Infra launches trial phase of remote monitoring technologies

Aspiring to improve its remote monitoring and management capabilities, GOPA Infra has initiated a work group that coordinates the introduction of various specialized technologies for construction, financial, as well as impact monitoring. In this context, GOPA Infra initiated a trial of a 360°video documentation tool

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Aspiring to improve its remote monitoring and management capabilities, GOPA Infra has initiated a work group that coordinates the introduction of various specialized technologies for construction, financial, as well as impact monitoring. In this context, GOPA Infra initiated a trial of a 360°video documentation tool

This tool, an AI-based software, allows the creation of virtual, high-resolution 360° representations of project construction sites, as well as other indoor and outdoor spaces, similar to Google Street View (actual footage in the photo below).  Generated videos and photographs are mapped to 2D-drawings and/or models designed using BIM (see photo). The operation is simple: a standard 360°camera, attached on top of a hardhat, automatically documents the surrounding site during regular site inspections. Combined with frequent visits, it is possible to capture project development over the lifespan of associated activities. In other words, it enables the (re-)appraisal of construction sites virtually at any recorded point in time, resulting in full project documentation.

GOPA Infra is looking forward to testing this highly promising technology in three pilot projects, starting in February 2021. It is envisioned to be a useful tool to effectively present and illustrate project advancements to clients, technicians and other stakeholders.

We are confident that the remote construction site supervision will ensure progress of ongoing projects as planned, despite country-specific security issues as well as the current Covid19-related travel restrictions.

For more information, feel free to contact Alexander Pinciu (alexander.pinciu [at] gopa-infra.de (subject: alexander.pinciu%40gopa-infra.de) ) and Richard Mutius (richard.vonmutius [at] gopa-infra.de).

 

COVID-19 outbreak: Restrictions and impediments for GOPA Infra

12/03/2020

Dear Clients and Partners,

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) has characterized the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic.

The rapid spread of the disease and the efforts to contain it are seriously affecting the global economy as well as international travel.

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Dear Clients and Partners,

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) has characterized the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic.

The rapid spread of the disease and the efforts to contain it are seriously affecting the global economy as well as international travel.

At GOPA Infra we are strictly following existing regulations and guidance from the relevant authorities but since the situation is constantly changing, we are unable to predict future developments.

Against this background, it is our contractual obligation to inform you that delays and/or restrictions in the implementation of projects executed by GOPA Infra are to be expected. Those hindrances might affect the scope of our services and lead to extension of time and/or additional costs.

As the impact of the pandemic varies between regions and countries, we are currently assessing implications on a case by case basis in order to formulate responses, which will minimize negative effects as much as possible. One element of such response strategies will certainly be an increase of remote management and home office assignments.

We are confident that we can count on your cooperation in this context as it is our ambition to ensure the success of our services to the highest extent possible.

With best regards

GOPA Infra GmbH

Mathias Lueg & Winfried Zarges
Managing Directors GOPA Infra GmbH

 

COVID-19 outbreak_en

GOPA Infra is now present in Costa Rica

08/07/2019

​At the beginning of June, GOPA Infra signed a USD 16.7m. contract in Costa Rica to reduce NRW in the country. The project has a duration of 5 years and is funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) and the KfW.

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​At the beginning of June, GOPA Infra signed a USD 16.7m. contract in Costa Rica to reduce NRW in the country. The project has a duration of 5 years and is funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) and the KfW.

Together with our consortium partner TYPSA, we are working towards an ecologically sustainable and economically efficient management of water resources through:

  1. the reduction and continuous control of unbilled water, made up of authorised unbilled consumption and 'real' (physical) and 'apparent' (commercial) water losses, reported in past years to be as high as 50%; and
  2. the optimisation of energy efficiency mainly within the water distribution networks, operated by the Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AyA – the Executing Agency of the project).

We can rely on very competent and highly experienced international and national team members to undertake this assignment.

For further information, you may contact Mariamelia.AbellanPerez [at] gopa-infra.de  

Code of Ethics takes effect

11/03/2019

As a member of GOPA Consulting Group, GOPA Infra shares the ethical values of integrity and compliance, stipulated in the Group’s Code of Ethics.

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As a member of GOPA Consulting Group, GOPA Infra shares the ethical values of integrity and compliance, stipulated in the Group’s Code of Ethics. If ever a staff member, business/project partner or other individual considers that the principles of this Code are not being upheld, they have the ability to raise this with the independent Compliance Officer, specifically designated for reviewing compliance with this Code. Any information provided will be handled with strict confidentiality.

The principles underlying GOPA Infra’s collaboration with business partners are integrity, fairness, transparency and partnership. Business partners are non-GOPA Group companies and individuals who enter into a contractual relationship with GOPA Infra, in order to provide goods or services.

GOPA Infra stands for reputable and honest business dealings in the course of everyday business that comply with all relevant rules and regulations. GOPA Group’s values and principles are based on the principles of the United Nations Global Compact, the International Chamber of Commerce’s Business Charter for Sustainable Development and the relevant conventions of the International Labour Organisation. As a member of the GOPA Group, GOPA Infra expects its business partners to implement and comply with the principles and values set out in this Code of Conduct across their organisations worldwide.

World Water Day 2019

22/03/2019

This year's World Water Day focuses on the central promiseof the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: as sustainabledevelopment progresses, everyone must benefit.

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This year's World Water Day focuses on the central promiseof the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: as sustainabledevelopment progresses, everyone must benefit.

Globally, 2.1 billion people live without safe water at home. 80% of the people who have to use unsafe and unprotected water sources live in rural areas. Women and girls are responsible for water co­llection in eight out of ten households with water off their premises and around 159 million people collect their drinking water from surface water, such as ponds and streams. These facts demonstrate how essential engagement in the water sector is and how far-reaching the impact of international work can be.

Marginalised groups – women, children, refugees, indigenous communities, disabled people and many others – are often overlooked and sometimes face dis­crimination as they try to access and manage the safe water they need. To “leave no one behind”, we must focus our efforts on including people who have been ignored. Water services must meet the needs of marginalised groups and their voices must be heard in decision-making processes.

Not only GOPA Group companies, but also our donors, focus on integrating locals in the project cycle. The involvement of citizens in the project planning and implementation processes helps to raise awareness and sustainably realise projects. Within the next few years the challenges in the water sector will not become less significant. The threat of climate change is so ubiquitous that the topic “leaving no one behind” is as important as ever. Let´s keep this topic in mind while working on our world´s challenges!

 

 

GOPA Infra continues to improve the Ugandan water sector

14/02/2019

After having received a KfW addendum, the project “Kampala Water - Lake Victoria WATSAN, Package 5b - Accompanying measures for the promotion of improved private hygiene, sanitation and corresponding services in the informal settlements of Kampala (AMC)” is on the right track.

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After having received a KfW addendum, the project “Kampala Water - Lake Victoria WATSAN, Package 5b - Accompanying measures for the promotion of improved private hygiene, sanitation and corresponding services in the informal settlements of Kampala (AMC)” is on the right track. Our project team is currently working on the design of public sanitation facilities for the Kampala suburbs. As the Ugandan National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) decided not to claim user fees, one of the ideas is to construct and build facilities with commercial space on top in order to generate income for the operator. We are looking forward to the finalisation of the architectural drawings and the construction of the facilities!

In the second project in Uganda, the “Integrated Programme to Improve the Living Conditions in Gulu and Small Towns en Route in the Victoria Nile Catchment (IPILC) – Engineering and Institutional Development Consultancy (EIDC)”, GOPA Infra is implementing the institutional component. In the current project phase, our team, together with our local partners, is building a sanitation facility showroom to evaluate the best solutions for the users in the project area. We hope to finalise this phase in time to start building the facilities in the field as soon as possible!

Both projects profit from our dedicated staff. We are glad to contribute to the Ugandan water sector!

 

GOPA Infra is off to a flying start in 2019 by winning another project

21/12/2018

Building upon two successfully implemented phases, GOPA Infra has won the third phase of the KfW-financed ”Fund for Peace Consolidation (FCP III)” in DR Congo, together with its consortium partners GOPA Consultants, SUM Consult and AFC Agriculture & Finance Consultants.

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Building upon two successfully implemented phases, GOPA Infra has won the third phase of the KfW-financed ”Fund for Peace Consolidation (FCP III)” in DR Congo, together with its consortium partners GOPA Consultants, SUM Consult and AFC Agriculture & Finance Consultants.

Mr Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed the 4 year contract (with an optional 4 year extension) at KfW’s HQ in Frankfurt on 12 December 2018.

In its 3rd phase, the FCP III is aiming to stabilise and promote peace in the east of the country through targeted, inclusive and conflict-resolution-related investments, economic and social infrastructure activities and poverty reduction schemes. In addition, the FCP III consists of a new component, the "Prevention of Juvenile Violence (PVJ)" programme. Though independent initiatives, this special component will focus on violence prevention in Kinshasa's urban areas. Total investment volume of this contract is EUR 80 million (EUR 70 million FCP III/ EUR 10 million PVJ).

GOPA Infra will be represented on site by one long-term expert filling the position of social expert; she will be based in Goma/DR Congo during the entire project lifetime.

Second GOPA Infra project starting in India

28/11/2018

Population growth and urbanisation are two of the world’s biggest challenges that will centre on cities in the future. In India, half the population will be living in cities by 2030. Providing the urban population with adequate living space and basic services, such as water, sewage and solid waste, is of main importance.

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Population growth and urbanisation are two of the world’s biggest challenges that will centre on cities in the future. In India, half the population will be living in cities by 2030. Providing the urban population with adequate living space and basic services, such as water, sewage and solid waste, is of main importance. The lack of integrated, strategically oriented and participatory planning approaches for sustainable urban development constitutes a core challenge in the context of rapid urbanisation. This includes, amongst others, leaving sectoral “silos” behind and working inter-departmentally.

The Indian Government is willing to promote sustainable urban development approaches and strengthen the role of states and municipalities in planning and implementing interventions in basic service provision and housing development. For this reason, the Government is establishing various public funding missions. While the initial funding strategies were mostly sector specific, the Smart Cities Program offers, for the first time, integrated approaches. It also strengthens the implementation role of the states and cities.

GOPA Infra is working on concepts for sustainable urban development concerning provision of urban basic services and housing in selected “smart cities”. Our team started work with an internal kick-off meeting in Delhi this week.

Project implementation will focus initially on the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Odisha, and the Smart Cities Kochi, Coimbatore and Bhubaneswar. The project supports approaches for sustainable urban development in the area of integrated planning, provision of pro-poor housing and basic services, with particular focus on water, wastewater and solid waste management.

We are looking forward to fruitful collaboration with all our partners over the next two years!

First ELA training certification in Jordan

05/11/2018

The Logismed Soft Initiative was launched by the EIB, with the financial support of the European Union, and implemented by GOPA Infra as the consultant to help develop the competitiveness of the logistics sector in the Mediterranean region. Logismed in Jordan has successfully attained the following achievements:

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The Logismed Soft Initiative was launched by the EIB, with the financial support of the European Union, and implemented by GOPA Infra as the consultant to help develop the competitiveness of the logistics sector in the Mediterranean region. Logismed in Jordan has successfully attained the following achievements:

Two workshop seminars were held at the Ministry of Transport in July and October for governmental employees and private companies’ managers.

Sixty-one participants coming from the private and public sector have successfully completed their ELA (European Logistics Association) training courses. Three groups have been organised, each one following four modules for 14 days: business principles, transportation, warehousing and supply chain. The training took place at the German Jordan University in Amman, with both local and international instructors.

All participants who are successful in their exams and interview will be awarded the EJLog certificate. Certified participants are going to be the first ELA Certified professionals in Jordan.

Twenty-five participants from the private and public sector have successfully completed the ToT (training of trainers) training course conducted by local instructors over 13 days at the German Jordan University. ToT participants were awarded a participation certificate approved by this university.

Forty-six participants have successfully completed the warehousing management course, covering warehouse organisation, layout, and safety and security, for which two groups were organised. The training sessions took place in Aqaba Logistics Village in Aqaba.

Participants were handed attendance certificates by the Logismed project, approved by GOPA Consultants.

 

      

 

 

 

 

Support to Ganga Rejuvenation Project in India

05/11/2018

A team from GOPA Infra joined the workshop on the outcomes of Indo-German Cooperation through the “Support to Ganga Rejuvenation Project” on 30 October in Dehradun, India.

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A team from GOPA Infra joined the workshop on the outcomes of Indo-German Cooperation through the “Support to Ganga Rejuvenation Project” on 30 October in Dehradun, India. Key findings from capacity development support, quality monitoring of the River Ganges, efficiency improvement measures and opportunities were discussed. The team started the extension phase in a separate internal meeting.

Our cooperation is fruitful, and the team is looking forward to making more improvements with the initiative of Clean Ganga in the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

 

 

Recycling and disposal of e-waste

06/07/2018

For more than two decades, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or e-waste has been dumped at the Agbogbloshie site in Accra/Ghana, and handled by the informal sector in terms of recycling and disposal.

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For more than two decades, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or e-waste has been dumped at the Agbogbloshie site in Accra/Ghana, and handled by the informal sector in terms of recycling and disposal. Agbogbloshie has degraded into a paradigm of the environmental and human health burdens emanating from rapid global increases in electronics use and global trade imbalances. The site was formerly known as Old Fadama and has since been dubbed “Sodom and Gomorrha” by the local residents and international press.

GOPA Infra is leading a consortium comprising of Ramboll Environment & Health GmbH (Munich/Germany), EAP (Accra/Ghana,) and the NGO Technology without Borders (Germany/Ghana). We signed a €2m. contract with Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) for the KFW-financed project, “Recycling and Disposal of Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment in an Environmentally Sound Way”.

The project addresses the sound disposal and recycling of WEEE and aims to reduce damage to the environment and human health caused by unsound recycling of e-waste, and at the same time to ensure livelihoods while channeling the most heavily polluting e-waste processing from the informal sector into sound recycling.

The purpose of the project is to support to Ghanaian partners to set up an incentive mechanism for sound recycling of e-waste, as well as the construction and operation of a so-called ‘Handover-Centre’ (HOC) serving as the logistical basis for reception and storage of the purchased e-wastes. This innovative project seeks to test how an incentive system for sound collection and recycling of e-waste could function and pursue the objective of contributing towards the development of a sustainable national recycling system for e-waste in Ghana.

GOPA Infra implements new consulting services in Myanmar

06/07/2018

The Rural Development Programme (RDP) is a German, grant-funded development programme, aiming to improve the condition and effectiveness of rural infrastructure in the Southern Shan State of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

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The Rural Development Programme (RDP) is a German, grant-funded development programme, aiming to improve the condition and effectiveness of rural infrastructure in the Southern Shan State of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Funds have been earmarked for this project by the German bilateral financial cooperation, provided through the KfW Development Bank.

Leading the project are an international team leader and a national deputy team leader who manage a mixed team of international and national rural-roads-survey/design and construction-supervision specialists. The project’s implementation period is 40 months.

For phases IV and V, the planned output is 131 km of rehabilitated or upgraded roads and other off-road infrastructure. The programme objective is: improved access for the rural population in the project region from villages to town centres and to schools, health centres, markets, places of employment and public administration through sustainable utilisation of RDP roads throughout the year; as well as improved maintenance of rural roads.

Project implementation commenced shortly before the actual contract signing. Topographical, geotechnical and environmental surveys are currently being carried out to have a first set of detailed design studies completed by August/September 2018.

The picture shows the consulting contract being signed between the Ministry of Construction’s Department for Rural Road Development in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, and the Managing Director of GOPA Infra’s partner company, Orion Consulting Associates (OCA).

 

Decentralisation process and good governance to be improved

21/06/2018

As Technical Assistance to the Agence National d’Investissements des Collectivités Territoriales (ANICT), GOPA Infra initiated the official kick-off session of the two decentralisation programmes, PACT IV and V-I.

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As Technical Assistance to the Agence National d’Investissements des Collectivités Territoriales (ANICT), GOPA Infra initiated the official kick-off session of the two decentralisation programmes, PACT IV and V-I.  The kick-off was attended by the line ministries and representatives of the German embassy, the KfW Development Bank and different other stakeholders.

In line with the preceding phases of the programme, these two programmes contribute to the decentralisation process and good governance in Mali, through the financing of investments by the territorial communities. PACT IV (volume: €8m.) is designated to provide direct support to four secondary towns and ten local communities, taking a capacity-reinforcement approach. This will enable the beneficiary communities to undertake their role as contracting authority during implementation of the investments financed. While PACT IV works with this hands-on approach, PACT V-I contributes to the decentralisation process through financing by the “national funds to support the territorial communities” (FNACT), and support to the capacity reinforcement of the executing agency ANICT.

Together with its partner AMBERO, GOPA Infra will assist ANICT over the next 36 months in the technical and financial management of both programmes. It is possible that the PACT V-I approach will then be extended by a further 36 months.

GOPA Infra shows presence at IFAT 2018

29/05/2018

This year, GOPA Infra was represented at IFAT 2018. Our booth was part of the German Water Partnership section. Project activities focusing on the water, wastewater and solid waste sectors were presented. We were also able to welcome country delegations, including one from Brazil.

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This year, GOPA Infra was represented at IFAT 2018. Our booth was part of the German Water Partnership section. Project activities focusing on the water, wastewater and solid waste sectors were presented. We were also able to welcome country delegations, including one from Brazil.

IFAT, the leading international trade fair for environmental technologies in Munich, is one of the most prominent opportunities for networking and business development activities. GOPA Infra’s presence there attracted experts interested in professional opportunities, gave potential business partners the chance to develop project leads, and provided a forum for meeting clients and project teams alike.

 

 

 

 

Pre-inception mission to UNESCO world heritage site

24/05/2018

 

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Mr Claus Hager (GOPA Consultants, department Rural Development and Environment), Mr Rainer Riha (GOPA Infra) and Mr Mathias Lueg (GOPA Infra) (from left to right) undertook a pre-inception mission to the Selous Game Reserve. Despite challenging weather and road conditions, they managed to reach the SGR headquarters at Matambwe where they met representatives of the park management and Frankfurt Zoological Society. Discussions on the implementation of the project funded by the KfW Development Bank were also held at the headquarters of the Tanzania Wildlife Authority in Morogoro (see picture below).

The project aims to improve the infrastructure of Selous by rehabilitating roads, bridges and airstrips, as well as constructing workshops and accommodation for rangers. The provision of equipment is an additional element.

In the sensitive environment of a UNESCO world heritage site that is larger than Switzerland, the interventions require careful planning and execution.

 

 

 

 

 

Contract signature in Tunisia

16/02/2018

GOPA Infra has signed a EUR 2.2m., EU/EIB financed TA contract for the implementation of the “Integrated Programme for Protection of the Lake Bizerte against Pollution”.

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GOPA Infra has signed a EUR 2.2m., EU/EIB financed TA contract for the implementation of the “Integrated Programme for Protection of the Lake Bizerte against Pollution”. During the contract-signing ceremony in Bizerte (one hour north of Tunis), GOPA Infra presented key figures and its TA mission for the coming five years to high-ranking political and financial stakeholders.

The programme comprises four investment components, namely: reduction of industrial pollution, mainly in three public companies; extension and improvement of urban and rural wastewater collection and treatment; solid waste; and coastal zone management through the rehabilitation of the landfills, lakeshores and fishing harbours. The total investment amounts to EUR 90m..

              

 

 

Inauguration of the industrial training centre at Sinde in Myanmar

16/02/2018

The inauguration of the industrial training center was celebrated in the presence of the German Ambassador, dignitaries from Bago State, the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Education, as well as representatives from KfW Development Bank and GIZ.

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The inauguration of the industrial training center was celebrated in the presence of the German Ambassador, dignitaries from Bago State, the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Education, as well as representatives from KfW Development Bank and GIZ.

Mr. Mathias Lueg and Ms. Tara Sann represented the GOPA Infra/Planco consortium which has provided the consultancy services for construction, rehabilitation, and the provision of advanced equipment and training.

 

 

Second project won in Iraq!

05/02/2018

Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, and Jürgen Paulussen, Senior Consultant, led a mission to Baghdad to kick-off the management support to the Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terroristic Operations (ReFAATO).

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Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, and Jürgen Paulussen, Senior Consultant, led a mission to Baghdad to kick-off the management support to the Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terroristic Operations (ReFAATO). Under tight security arrangements several meetings with ReFAATO, line ministries and implementation partners were held.

 

 

GOPA Infra abroad

20/12/2017

In addition to Afghanistan and Turkey, GOPA Infra has successfully opened a registered branch office in Uganda. The office is located in Kololo, close to the city centre of Kampala and houses project staff as well as our country representative, Ms Sabine Böltken.

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In addition to Afghanistan and Turkey, GOPA Infra has successfully opened a registered branch office in Uganda. The office is located in Kololo, close to the city centre of Kampala and houses project staff as well as our country representative, Ms Sabine Böltken.

GOPA Infra is currently implementing three projects, for KfW Development Bank and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, and is well prepared for upcoming challenges in its service areas.

Project won in Brazil

15/12/2017

Our consortium has won the opportunity of implementing the contract “Climate friendly technologies and capacity development for the implementation of the Brazilian national waste policy” financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI)“ and steered by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

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Our consortium has won the opportunity of implementing the contract “Climate friendly technologies and capacity development for the implementation of the Brazilian national waste policy” financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI)“ and steered by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

This Brasília-based IKI-project aims to contribute to the improvement of the conditions for the exploitation of the mitigation potential related to the effects of climate change in the waste sector. GOPA Infra is responsible for the development of decision-making tools to support municipalities, and for the capacity building of public officials and stakeholders. The goal of our assignment is to strengthen institutional and human capacities “of municipal actors for a climate-friendly and resource-efficient circular economy”.

The GOPA Infra/Adelphi team is steadily represented on site by two long-term experts, Mr Jan Janssen and Mr Guilherme Gonçalves, to be based in Brasília during the entire project lifetime. They will work directly with both the Ministry of Cities and Ministry of Environment, building the foundations for a solid contribution for the management of urban solid waste in Brazil.

The photo shows our experts during a visit to one of the world’s largest landfills – Sao Joao Landfill in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Project won!

06/12/2017

A consortium comprising GOPA Infra, Sweco, INTEC, GOPA Middle East and Dar al-Omran was awarded the consulting contract to support the Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terroristic Operations (ReFAATO) in the management and monitoring of GCFI activities.

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A consortium comprising GOPA Infra, Sweco, INTEC, GOPA Middle East and Dar al-Omran was awarded the consulting contract to support the Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terroristic Operations (ReFAATO) in the management and monitoring of GCFI activities. ReFAATO is the primary Iraqi entity responsible for coordinating reconstruction operations in liberated territories of Iraq.

Administered by KfW Development Bank, the GCFI is to contribute towards permanently returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their home locations in Iraq. It will support investments in the restoration of local economic and social infrastructure, through rehabilitation, construction or supply of equipment.

The main objective of the assignment is to provide smooth and efficient management and monitoring support to ReFAATO in its role as Project Executing Agency, in all aspects relating to the implementation of the GCFI Programme.

HE Dr Mustafa Mohamed Amin Al-Hiti, President of ReFAATO, and Mr Mathias Lueg, Managing Director of GOPA Infra, signed the consulting contract at KfW headquarters in Frankfurt on 1 December 2017.

 

Substantial additional funds to our water supply infrastructure project in Burkina Faso

19/09/2017

After a successful start, and only 5 months of implementation of our KfW-financed project in Burkina Faso (Prestations de Consultant dans le cadre du Programme d’Approvisionnement en Eau Potable et Assainissement dans les petites et moyennes villes dans les Régions de la Boucle du Mouhon, Cascades, Hauts-Bassin et Sud-Ouest), a de

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After a successful start, and only 5 months of implementation of our KfW-financed project in Burkina Faso (Prestations de Consultant dans le cadre du Programme d’Approvisionnement en Eau Potable et Assainissement dans les petites et moyennes villes dans les Régions de la Boucle du Mouhon, Cascades, Hauts-Bassin et Sud-Ouest), a delegation of representatives from KfW and ONEA met GOPA Infra’s team on site in mid-September. Several visits were made and meetings held in different project towns, in order to allow the KfW delegation, in particular, to better understand the project’s needs and constraints, as well as our primary findings.

During GOPA Infra’s summarising presentation at the final meeting in our project office in Bobo-Dioulasso, KfW announced that substantial additional funds have been recently granted to our project by the BMZ, increasing the already remarkable budget of the water-supply infrastructure works by roughly 45%.

GOPA Infra is glad that technical assistance and engineering tasks are also planned to be increased – and, even more importantly, that the project will be much more coherent with the additional budget. This will help enhance, in a sustainable way, water-supply systems in the 16 middle-sized towns spread over the four regions in the south-western part of Burkina Faso, and consequently achieve the rather ambitious project indicators.

Official kick-off meeting held in Bobo-Dioulasso for our new project

27/06/2017

GOPA Infra recently organised and moderated the “atelier de démarrage”, the official kick-off for our EUR 3.4 million project "Programme for water supply and sanitation in small and medium towns in the regions of Boucle du Mouhoun, Cascades, Hauts-Bassins and Sud-Ouest".

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GOPA Infra recently organised and moderated the “atelier de démarrage”, the official kick-off for our EUR 3.4 million project "Programme for water supply and sanitation in small and medium towns in the regions of Boucle du Mouhoun, Cascades, Hauts-Bassins and Sud-Ouest". Representatives of the national water and wastewater utility ONEA, KfW as main donor, and various NGOs and IFIs participated at the one-day event in Bobo-Dioulasso. Altogether, almost 60 people attended this meeting, including all the mayors of the 16 beneficiary towns.

Aiming to extend infrastructure, particularly in the water supply sector, this project is the biggest German financial contribution to ONEA in the last decades. GOPA Infra is pleased to contribute to the long-standing engagement of the GOPA Consulting Group in Burkina Faso.

For more information, please contact Markus Daechert (markus.daechert [at] gopa-infra.de).

GOPA Infra supports pollution reduction from industrial treatment plants in India

23/06/2017

The GIDC Industrial Estate at Vapi in the State of Gujarat in the western part of India is one of the three project sites of our GIZ-financed project “Sustainable & Environment-Friendly Industrial Production” (SEIP).

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The GIDC Industrial Estate at Vapi in the State of Gujarat in the western part of India is one of the three project sites of our GIZ-financed project “Sustainable & Environment-Friendly Industrial Production” (SEIP). This site is a critically polluted industrial area, causing severe pollution to the surroundings, including the adjoining river Damanganga. GOPA Infra is providing technically and financially viable solutions to reduce the environmental impact in cooperation with the industries.

Dr Ulrich Schmitz from GOPA Infra, Germany, visited GIDC Industrial Estate Vapi for the second time, together with the local GIZ SEIP cell. This formed part of the activities to suggest improvements for wastewater treatment processes in Effluent Treatment Plants (ETP) in selected industries.

His one-week trip included meetings, field visits and discussions on the results of samples collected and findings during his first visit in February. These came from ten ETPs where the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) identified problems in keeping one or more pollution-control parameters within limit. Questionnaires, design documents, data records and visual inspection enabled the expert to assess the condition and performance of each plant. He personally met the staff of each industrial branch, and made suggestions for improving their ETPs: for example, optimising the aeration tank; applying the correct chemical dosage to improve the settling of sludge; and new, tertiary treatment technology to reduce colour and total dissolved solids.

A workshop was arranged with GPCB at Vapi. The thirty-five participants gained ideas on improvements that industries can bring about in their ETPs.

On the basis of inputs by the German expert, the GIZ will come up with suggestions for improvement measures, and also for future technologies which can be implemented in similar industries.

Albanian ADF trainees on study tour in Germany

31/05/2017

GOPA Infra is currently finalising the water component of the KfW-financed Social Investment Fund (IV) Programme, “Consulting Services for the Implementation of Training Activities for ADF (Albanian Development Fund) Key Training Staff in Albania”.

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GOPA Infra is currently finalising the water component of the KfW-financed Social Investment Fund (IV) Programme, “Consulting Services for the Implementation of Training Activities for ADF (Albanian Development Fund) Key Training Staff in Albania”.

As one of the final capacity-building measures, a study tour took place from 21 to 24 May 2017, visiting three German water utilities in and around Pforzheim (Stadtwerke Pforzheim, Kommunalen Wasserversorgung Knittlingen and Kommunale Wasserversorgung Niefern-Öschelbronn). It was organised and implemented by EWEC Water GmbH. Fourteen Albanian ADF trainees, one water expert from GOPA Infra Albania, and one representative from GOPA Infra Germany attended the tour.

It was a great success; the Albanian ADF delegation and the German water utilities’ staff members enjoyed the international exchange highlighted by vivid discussions on economic and technical strategies from both sides.

A strong team! – GOPA Infra

10/05/2017

Strategic meetings, successful discussions and team-building events took place during our workshop to further improve GOPA Infra’s efficiency.

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Strategic meetings, successful discussions and team-building events took place during our workshop to further improve GOPA Infra’s efficiency.

New water supply project won in Burkina Faso

30/03/2017

GOPA Infra has recently won the jointly financed KfW Development Bank and Burkinabe water supply project called « Prestations de consultant dans le cadre du programme d’approvisionnement en eau potable et assainissement dans les petites et moyennes villes dans les régions de la Boucle du Mouhon, Cascades, Hauts-Bassin et Sud-Oue

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GOPA Infra has recently won the jointly financed KfW Development Bank and Burkinabe water supply project called « Prestations de consultant dans le cadre du programme d’approvisionnement en eau potable et assainissement dans les petites et moyennes villes dans les régions de la Boucle du Mouhon, Cascades, Hauts-Bassin et Sud-Ouest». The project is part of a huge programme which aims primarily to establish, or to enhance in a sustainable way, the water supply systems in 16 middle-sized towns spread over four regions in the south-western part of Burkina Faso.

The project’s total budget is EUR 14.25m, and it is to be implemented within 55 months (including the 12-months defects notification period). The services to be rendered by GOPA Infra from its base in Bobo-Dioulasso will cover general technical assistance and engineering tasks (from preliminary studies to construction supervision), as well as accompanying measures to help making the substantial investments sustainable.

Together with its international and local joint-venture partners, GOPA Infra is looking forward to successfully implementing the project on behalf of ONEA, the beneficiary, and KfW Development Bank, the main international financing institution.

Consultancy support to the C40 Cities Finance Facility

21/03/2017

GOPA Infra was awarded the contract for consultancy support to the C40 Cities Finance Facility (CFF). C40 is a network of the world’s mega-cities, committed to addressing climate change.

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GOPA Infra was awarded the contract for consultancy support to the C40 Cities Finance Facility (CFF). C40 is a network of the world’s mega-cities, committed to addressing climate change. C40 therefore provides support to cities for collaborating effectively, sharing knowledge and driving meaningful, measurable and sustainable action on climate change. In 2015, the C40 Cities Finance Facility was presented jointly by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40), and the Inter-American Development Bank. The aim of the CFF is to assist C40 cities in developing and emerging countries, in the design and implementation of projects that will help tackle climate-change issues.

The cities of Bogota and Mexico City are being given support by the CFF as part of a pilot phase. GOPA Infra is acting as the consultant for technical assistance, to enable sustainable financing of urban climate-change investments in the two pilot projects. In Mexico City, for example, the CFF will foster the implementation of a 22-km-long bus lane which includes 80 new electric buses to serve an average of 430,000 passengers per day.

€2m. project in Egypt successfully completed

02/02/2017

GOPA Infra held its final conference for the TA programme “Establishing Leadership Development Programmes for the HCWW & Developing its Financial Strategy” in Cairo thus bringing the two million Euro project funded by the European Union to a successful completion.

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GOPA Infra held its final conference for the TA programme “Establishing Leadership Development Programmes for the HCWW & Developing its Financial Strategy” in Cairo thus bringing the two million Euro project funded by the European Union to a successful completion. The conference was attended by over 100 participants including the Chairman and Vice Chairmen of the Holding Company for Water and Wastewater (HCWW), HCWW and Affiliated Companies’ (ACs) staff as well as representatives of the European Union,  European Investment Bank, KfW Development Bank and Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

It is the first integrated Leadership Development Programme building capacity in HCWW and the ACs in order to develop the next generation of utility managers. The programme has demonstrably strengthened institutional capacity by developing operation, maintenance and project management skills thus supporting HCWW plans to identify and promote future leaders. The programme has also developed a financial model and financial sustainability ‘roadmaps’ to enable decision-makers at HCWW and the ACs to determine the best possible options for achieving financial stability. Donor representatives asked for upscaling by replication and building on the momentum already generated.

Project success in Uganda

01/12/2016

The newly founded GOPA Infra is supporting Uganda’s National Water and Sewerage Corporation in implementing the Kampala Water - Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project.

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The newly founded GOPA Infra is supporting Uganda’s National Water and Sewerage Corporation in implementing the Kampala Water - Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project. With financial support from the KfW Development Bank, European Union - Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund, European Investment Bank, Agence Française de Développement and the Government of Uganda, the urban poor population’s access to affordable and sustainable water supply and sanitation services in Kampala shall be improved.

It is expected that at least 400,000 people will receive access to safe drinking water through the project by 2020. The direct beneficiaries for sanitation improvements are expected to be at least 250,000 people at household (domestic) level, additionally 10,000 pupils at schools and 3,200 potential users of public toilets.

Starting its activities in January 2017, the consortium led by GOPA Infra focuses on acompanying measures – next to introducing affordable sanitation technologies and implementing sensitisation and hygiene promotion campaigns, a main task is setting up a sanitation levy fund in order to cross-subsidise sustainable sanitation measures for the urban poor population.

Providing long-term solutions to Kampala’s water supply challenges, the project is to be considered as peer project for developing sustainable mechanisms for improving the water supply and sanitation situation in informal settlements. If successfully implemented, the project bears potential for upscaling.