In Kenya, the National Bureau of Statistics has reported an increase in cement consumption over the first five months of this year of more than 400 000 t, bringing total consumption to 2 million t.
Cement production rose from 461 000 t in April to 477 000 t in May, while consumption went from 427 000 t to 450 000 t over the same period.
A buoyant real estate sector is pushing cement consumption, which is up by more than 100 000 tonnes per month, according to the KNBS. Existing players are expanding capacity to meet this new demand, while new players, such as the Cemtech Sanghi Group and Nigeria’s Dangote Cement, are entering the market in a significant way. In addition to housing, infrastructure projects such as highways and rail lines, as well as private construction projects, are driving demand.
ARM Cement has published its new Cement Industry Report, which provides information on the East African economy and the region’s cement and construction sectors.
East Africa Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) is planning to set up a KES800 million power generation plant in Kenya. The unit will run on waste gases generated by its Athi River cement facility.
Lafarge has denied holding a ‘dominant position’ after antitrust authorities begin an investigation into the company’s involvement in the Kenyan cement industry.
Tanzania Portland Cement Company is to review its marketing strategy in light of increased competition, while East African Portland Cement Company has overcome its shareholder difficulties and will now focus on regaining market share.