On behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Swisscontact initiated the Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln (VSBK) project with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency in the process of manufacturing clay bricks. The project currently targets the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Gauteng, but will eventually reach all clay brick- producing areas of South Africa.

The VSBK project is a technology transfer project that aims to migrate brick manufacturers from clamp to more environmentally-friendly kilns in the brick manufacture process. The technology, sourced from Nepal and India, will be piloted with 20 South African firms. Local entrepreneurs and workers as well as specialised service providers are targeted for knowledge transfer.

Entrepreneurs such as Namakwa Stene are interested in the kiln technology as a means to reduce energy costs and comply with environmental regulations. The first kilns will be fired up in 2010, after which Swisscontact will be able to report on the economic and environmental impact of this project.

Client spotlight
Namakwa Stene produces about four million bricks a year with about 50 employees. Recognising that the drop-off in manufacturing volumes as a result of the recession is a perfect opportunity to invest in new technology, the company is working with Swisscontact to introduce the kilns to its business.

Contact Mr. John Volsteedt: john.volsteedt@sa-vsbk.org