Dangote Cement Plc has unveiled plans to commission its highly anticipated 3 million metric tonnes per annum (Mta) grinding plant in Côte d’Ivoire by the third quarter of 2025. The announcement marks a strategic milestone for the company as it continues to expand its footprint across the African continent and strengthen its position as the region’s top cement producer.

Arvind Pathak, Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Cement, disclosed the development in a formal statement to the Nigerian Exchange Group. He highlighted the company’s robust export growth and its unwavering commitment to regional trade integration and economic self-sufficiency.

Robust Export Growth Strengthens Pan-African Strategy

According to Pathak, export volumes from Nigeria have seen a notable increase of 18.2%, driven by successful clinker shipments to neighboring Ghana and Cameroon. “This demonstrates the growing importance of our pan-African footprint and our ongoing commitment to regional trade and self-sufficiency,” Pathak stated.

The company’s ability to tap into regional markets aligns with its strategic objective to position itself as a key player in intra-African trade, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. By leveraging its integrated operations and export-oriented infrastructure, Dangote Cement aims to meet the growing demand for high-quality building materials across the continent.

Strengthening Logistics Through Cleaner, Cost-Efficient Fleet

As part of its long-term cost optimization strategy, Dangote Cement has commenced the phased deployment of 1,600 additional compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks. This move is expected to significantly reduce logistics expenses while enhancing environmental sustainability.

“During the period, we began the phased delivery of 1,600 additional CNG-powered trucks, which will significantly reduce our logistics costs and enhance environmental efficiency,” said Pathak.

This investment in cleaner transportation underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability, in line with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) trends, and positions it favorably for future green finance opportunities.

Strong Financial Performance Amid Economic Recovery

Commenting on the company’s financial results for the second quarter, Pathak described the period as a testament to Dangote Cement’s resilience and adaptability, especially as macroeconomic indicators in key markets began to show signs of improvement.

The company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose sharply by 41.8% to ₦944.9 billion. Even more striking was the group’s profit, which surged by 174.1%, reflecting gains from operational efficiency and disciplined cost control.

“This remarkable performance is a testament to our disciplined execution, strong cost leadership, and the strategic investments we have made over the years,” said Pathak, emphasizing the company’s long-term focus on value creation and sustainability.

Dominant Market Presence Across Africa

Dangote Cement continues to maintain its lead as the continent’s largest cement manufacturer, with a total installed capacity of 52.0Mta spread across several African countries. In Nigeria alone, the company commands a production capacity of 35.25Mta, supported by a network of strategically located plants.

Its flagship facility in Obajana, Kogi State, remains Africa’s largest cement plant, boasting a capacity of 16.25Mta across five production lines. The Ibese plant in Ogun State adds another 12Mta through four production lines, while the Gboko plant in Benue State and the Okpella plant in Edo State contribute 4Mta and 3Mta, respectively.

Through these massive investments, Dangote Cement has not only eliminated Nigeria’s reliance on imported cement but has also transformed the country into a significant exporter of cement and clinker to West African markets.

Expanding Footprint in Regional Markets

Beyond Nigeria, Dangote Cement has made substantial inroads into other African markets through both grinding and integrated production facilities. Its current portfolio includes:

• Cameroon: 1.5Mta clinker grinding plant

• Congo: 1.5Mta integrated cement production

• Ghana: 2.0Mta clinker grinding and import terminal

• Ethiopia: 2.5Mta cement plant

• Senegal: 1.5Mta integrated plant

• Sierra Leone: 0.5Mta import terminal

• South Africa: 2.8Mta production capacity

• Tanzania: 3.0Mta facility

• Zambia: 1.5Mta integrated plant

The upcoming Côte d’Ivoire grinding plant, once commissioned, will significantly boost the company’s presence in Francophone West Africa. It is expected to improve the regional distribution network and enable better supply chain integration.

Outlook: Continued Expansion and Regional Integration

Looking ahead, Dangote Cement appears well-positioned to benefit from continued infrastructure development across Africa. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and government-driven housing and construction projects are fueling cement demand in several countries, offering opportunities for long-term revenue growth.

The company’s strategic emphasis on regional integration, export expansion, logistics innovation, and energy-efficient operations positions it to thrive in a dynamic and increasingly competitive African market.

With the Côte d’Ivoire plant set to come online by Q3 and further investments in logistics and capacity underway, Dangote Cement continues to solidify its leadership role in Africa’s construction and industrial sectors.