Dangote Cement Boosts African Footprint, Reports Strong Q2 Growth
By Patience Ikpeme
Dangote Cement Plc is preparing to commission its new 3 million tonnes per annum (Mta) grinding plant in Côte d’Ivoire by the third quarter of this year, a move expected to fortify its market position across Africa and substantially increase its export volumes.
Arvind Pathak, Chief Executive of Dangote Cement, conveyed to the Nigerian Stock Exchange that the company is experiencing positive momentum in its export operations.
He stated, “Export volumes from Nigeria increased by 18.2%, with 18 successful clinker shipments made to Ghana and Cameroon. This demonstrates the growing importance of our pan-African footprint and our ongoing commitment to regional trade and self-sufficiency.”
Mr. Pathak also disclosed that the company’s strategic goals remain fixed on generating long-term value. He noted Dangote Cement’s considerable progress in refining its cost structure. He added, “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.”
Commenting on the second-quarter financial results, which he attributed to the company’s strength, resilience, and adaptability amidst improvements in key macroeconomic indicators, Mr. Pathak observed that the company’s dedication to operational efficiency and cost control is yielding tangible benefits.
According to him, “Group EBITDA rose by an impressive 41.8% to ₦944.9 billion, while Group profit surged by 174.1%. This remarkable performance is a testament to our disciplined execution, strong cost leadership, and the strategic investments we have made over the years.”
Dangote Cement is Africa’s leading cement producer, with a substantial 52.0 Mta capacity across the continent. As a fully integrated quarry-to-customer producer, its Nigerian operations contribute 35.25 Mta of this capacity.
The Obajana plant in Kogi State is Africa’s largest, with 16.25 Mta across five lines. The Ibese plant in Ogun State features four cement lines totaling 12 Mta, while the Gboko plant in Benue State has 4 Mta, and the Okpella plant in Edo State contributes 3 Mta.
Through its recent investments, Dangote Cement has transformed Nigeria from a cement importer to an exporter of cement and clinker, serving neighboring countries.
The company’s operational presence extends to Cameroon (1.5 Mta clinker grinding), Congo (1.5 Mta), Ghana (2.0 Mta clinker grinding and import), Ethiopia (2.5 Mta), Senegal (1.5 Mta), Sierra Leone (0.5 Mta import), South Africa (2.8 Mta), Tanzania (3.0 Mta), and Zambia (1.5 Mta).
