THE Dangote Group has disclosed plans to complete five cement plans across five African countries before the end this year.
The plants, which are at various stages of construction, according to the Group President and Chief Executive, Aliko Dangote, would add about 13.5 million metric tonnes (mmt) of cement yearly to the existing capacity, when completed.
The ongoing projects are in Zambia, 1.5mmtpa; Tanzania, 1.5mmtpa; South-Africa 3mmtpa; Republic of Congo, 1.5mmtpa; and Gabon 1.5mmtpa.
Back home, Dangote Cement is already working on additional third and fourth production lines to the existing six mmtpa in Ibese, Ogun state to bring the total capacity to 12mmtpa and another 3mmtpa line currently being added to the Obajana cement plant in Kogi state.
Addressing a group of African businessmen in his office at the weekend, Dangote said the Group’s core business focus was to provide local, value-added products and services that meet the basic needs of the populace through construction and operation of large scale manufacturing facilities across Africa.
According to him, the group is focused on building local manufacturing to generate employment, prevent capital flight and provide locally produced goods for the people.
He disclosed that presently, Obajana is the largest cement plant in sub-saharan Africa with a current capacity of 10.25mmtpa and an additional 3mmpa planned before the end of this year.
Dangote stated that the group would continue to lead other investors to ensure Nigeria becomes an industrial giant nation that is self-sufficient in production rather than being a leader in importations.
Source: Guardian
