Ghana's Trade Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has called on cement manufacturers to prioritise local raw materials. This initiative seeks to cut production costs and lessen dependence on imported clinker, a key cement ingredient.
The Minister delivered her address at INTERCEM Africa 2026 in Accra, a conference attracting participants from 40 countries. She highlighted that heavy reliance on imported clinker makes cement production expensive and vulnerable to global market volatility. Promoting local alternatives will support Ghana's industrialisation agenda and help stabilise prices for consumers.
Ghana's cement industry faces structural challenges, including limited suitable limestone deposits for clinker production. This scarcity forces local manufacturers to import significant quantities of clinker. Global supply chain disruptions, port congestion, and rising fuel prices have driven up these import costs. The push for local sourcing aligns with broader government efforts to reduce import dependency across various sectors.
Minister Ofosu-Adjare stressed the need for innovation in the cement industry. She pointed to advancements in Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) technology as a promising solution. She specifically mentioned collaborative efforts by CBI Ghana and Ghacem as models for reducing clinker usage. These companies are exploring alternative local materials to make cement manufacturing more affordable and accessible.
Frederic Albrecht, Chairman of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) and CEO of CBI Ghana, confirmed the industry's challenges. He noted that clinker production is not feasible in Ghana due to unsuitable limestone. Mr. Albrecht explained that clinker production is energy-intensive, requiring temperatures up to 1,500 degrees Celsius. This process makes it highly sensitive to global fuel price fluctuations.
Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, CEO of COCMAG, affirmed that Ghana is gradually reducing its clinker reliance. He said this shift uses innovative approaches, including clay and other local materials. These efforts mark a significant move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective cement production model. Establishing plants for alternative production methods requires long-term investment, often taking around three years.
The Minister emphasised that Ghana's development demands more cement, making eco-friendly production methods crucial. Reducing clinker imports through local substitution is essential for strengthening the economy. The conference aimed to foster practical solutions to lower production costs, improve housing delivery, and bolster the industrial sector. Discussions at INTERCEM Africa 2026 covered topics like LC3 solutions, global market trends, and supply chain challenges.
This strategic shift intends to protect Ghana's economy from external shocks and create jobs within the country. Increased use of local raw materials will also support environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with imported goods. The Ghanaian government expects continuous collaboration with industry players to achieve these goals effectively.