Established in 2015, IDRO Group combines companies with over forty years of experience in their sectors which operate with the latest technologies and with full respect for the environment.
The companies making up IDRO Group began operating independently in Italy, and experienced constant growth also thanks to the acquisition of renowned companies in the environmental sector, which carried them into international territory. These companies have developed a close and productive collaboration with facilitates financial, commercial, logistical and organizational synergies based on a common strategy focused on quality, specialization, product innovation and strong customer focus.
Construction Review Africa conducted an interview with Giovanni Curci, International Sales Director Idro Group regarding the future of wastewater treatment in Africa
How does your company see the African wastewater treatment market?
IDRO Group provides efficient and innovative solutions for the treatment of: Water, Air, Energy and Waste. In Africa some our products that can be accessed include Compact and mobile water plants units which are suitable for waste water and reuse for gardening or flush water and potable water as well. We see the African wastewater treatment market as a huge market though with some funding issues.
Which are the most popular wastewater treatment methods being applied in Africa currently?
All the latest water treatment technologies are currently applied in Africa. Some of the major ones include Chemical treatment which involves using some chemical reaction to improve the water quality. Probably, chlorination is the most commonly used chemical process. Also, physical methods are used and they involve techniques where no gross chemical or biological changes are used and physical phenomena are strictly used to treat the wastewater.
These techniques may include: coarse screening to get rid of larger en trained objects and sedimentation. Biological Treatment Methods are used in the biochemical decomposition of wastewater to stable end products. More micro-organisms are formed and a portion of the waste is converted to carbon dioxide, water and other end products. Usually, biological wastewater treatment methods can be divided into aerobic and anaerobic methods, based on availability of dissolved oxygen.
What are the challenges in the African market in terms of installation, application and maintenance?
Currently in Africa, there is a challenge of having small and mid size companies which need to find the right local partners so that they can be able to work together and help the market grow and facilitate in the application and maintenance of the waste water treatment plants.
What do you think can be done to overcome these challenges?
To curb most of these challenges, I think it will be advisable if the international companies can try and create Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) with local companies where the roles of each party are clearly laid out. This will also create a win-win situation between both parties.
How is the future of wastewater treatment in Africa looking?
Africa is responding well to different kinds of solutions on waste water, most of our clients are appreciative of the importance of water treatment and its benefits on the environment as well as people’s welfare. This is equally highlighted in schools and cultural events. The future of waste water treatment also looks challenging if the rules on environmental matters will be brought up.
