Supacem moves to cure shortages, reliance on imported clinker for cement …invests US$100m in new plant
CBI Ghana Ltd., producers of Supacem Cement have invested US$100 million into LC3 technology a key step towards using local raw materials for the production of cement in Ghana.
The new plant which is the world’s largest LC3 plant in Tema, provides a homegrown solution to the clinker problem by tapping into Ghana’s abundant raw material resources as a substitute for imported clinker.
Speaking in an interview Mr. Kobby Adams, Commercial Director, Supacem said a significant step in enabling this innovation had been the Ghana Standards Authority’s adoption of the latest LC3 standard in 2024.
“This landmark achievement followed two years of collaboration between Ghanaian institutions like KNUST, the University of Ghana, and Ghana’s BRRI, alongside various international universities and laboratories. This new standard, GS PAS 5:2024, paves the way for the widespread use of this more sustainable and locally-sourced cement,” he said.
Ghana’s cement industry relies heavily on imported clinker, leaving it vulnerable to foreign supply problems and volatile global markets.
Cement retailers in the country face growing difficulties, with widespread shortages of cement brands limiting builders’ access to essential materials. Behind this disruption lies a severe shortage of clinker, a crucial raw material imported for cement production.
He explained that the current clinker scarcity and its escalating prices stem from a 5.6percent currency depreciation between December and February and evolving global market uncertainties including an increase in the export prices from the Mediterranean rim, a major clinker source.
On the benefits of the new plant to Ghanaian consumers, he said, by producing a significant portion of their own cementitious material, Supacem reduces the impact of clinker shortages, leading to a more reliable cement supply for Ghanaian retailers and builders.
The project, Mr. Adams said had created over 160 direct jobs through local sourcing and infrastructure development in Tema and Torgome and empowering local women through training programmes.
“While recent price adjustments have been influenced by various operational factors, a more cost-effective raw material supply chain could provide greater price stability and cement affordability. The production of LC3 significantly lowers CO₂ emissions compared to traditional cement production. This supports Ghana’s climate action commitments and contributes to a greener future,” he said.
Supacem’s investment in a world-class cement laboratory is developing Ghanaian talent in advanced LC3 technology. This positions Ghana at the forefront of sustainable cement production in Africa.
He said by reducing reliance on imports and adding value to local raw materials, Supacem’s project strengthens Ghana’s economy and reduces its vulnerability to external economic factors.
“Supacem has taken the lead in transforming Ghana’s cement industry. The company has extended its supply of locally produced LC3 raw materials to Ghacem, Ghana’s largest manufacturer,” he said.
This move, Mr. Adams said, further reduced clinker imports and highlighted Supacem’s commitment to industry-wide sustainability and building a more resilient and self-sufficient cement sector in Ghana.
Mr. Emmanuel Cherry, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, has called for the exploration of local alternatives for clinker.
Supacem’s investment, supported by the GSA’s adoption of the LC3 standard answers this call, showing the potential of Ghanaian ingenuity and resources to address critical industry needs.
Supacem’s investment, supported by the GSA’s adoption of the LC3 standard, answers this call, showing the potential of Ghanaian ingenuity and resources to address critical industry needs.
Supacem’s bold initiative offers a tangible solution to the current cement shortage and builds a foundation for a more sustainable, self-reliant, and environmentally responsible cement industry in Ghana.
STORIES: KINGSLEY ASARE
