Ghana's Trade Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has called on cement manufacturers to increase their use of locally sourced raw materials. This initiative aims to foster sustainable and cost-effective cement production across the nation.
The Minister delivered her address at INTERCEM Africa 2026 in Accra, a conference that gathered participants from nearly 40 countries. She emphasized that reducing reliance on imported clinker is vital for Ghana’s cement industry. Innovation will make cement manufacturing more affordable and accessible while promoting local raw material production.
This push aligns with Ghana’s broader industrialization agenda, which predicts a continuous rise in cement demand. Shifting to local materials will strengthen the economy by reducing foreign exchange outflows. It also supports environmentally friendly production methods, minimizing the industry’s environmental footprint.
Frederic Albrecht, Chairman of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) and CEO of CBI Ghana, highlighted the industry's structural challenges. Ghana lacks suitable limestone deposits for clinker production. This scarcity forces a heavy reliance on imports, which have become increasingly expensive due to rising fuel prices, port congestion, and global supply chain disruptions.
Mr. Albrecht explained that clinker production is energy-intensive, requiring temperatures up to 1,500 degrees Celsius. This process makes it highly vulnerable to global fuel price volatility. He noted that moving away from clinker dependency requires significant long-term investment, with new production plants taking about three years to establish.
The industry is already exploring alternatives like Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) to reduce clinker usage. Companies like CBI Ghana and Ghacem are leading innovation in this area. Products such as Ecocool and Supercem showcase how lower clinker ratios can improve efficiency and better use Ghana’s resources.
Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, CEO of COCMAG, commended the collaboration among industry stakeholders. He stated that the conference's goal is to promote a sustainable global cement industry. This includes producing environmentally friendly products that support economic growth.
The emphasis on local raw materials will likely lead to greater investment in mining and processing facilities for clay and other suitable minerals. Reduced import bills could positively impact Ghana’s balance of payments, strengthening the Ghana cedi. Decision-makers and markets will closely monitor how quickly manufacturers adopt these new strategies and expand local sourcing.
The government's continued support through policies and incentives will be crucial for the industry's transition. This shift could create new jobs in local raw material supply chains. It also promises a more resilient and sustainable construction sector for Ghana.