One of Nigeria’s largest cement producers, UniCem, has launched a new high-strength cement which has been released into the construction market in Rivers State’s capital, Port Harcourt.
The product, named UniCem 42,5N Limestone Portland cement, will be used in heavy-duty building projects such as bridges, dams, flyovers, silos and high-rise buildings. Development of the material was triggered due to increased demand from customers and construction companies for high-strength cement for precast infrastructure and road construction projects in the country.
UniCem 42,5N Limestone Portland cement is reported to have many advantages, including: high and ultimate compressive strength, workability, reduced bleeding, reduced porosity, low heat of hydration, reduced cracking, improved cohesion and a smooth surface finish. The product is also more environmentally friendly than normal Portland cement as it produces less CO2 emissions.
Dangote Cement’s pan-African expansion continues with the announcement of a US$350 million investment in Niger. Back home in Nigeria, Lafarge is planning to expand capacity to meet expected demand growth.
A recent report by Frost & Sullivan indicates that a lack of infrastructure within Sub-Saharan Africa economies has continued to hamper economic growth and hinder the continent’s drive to be globally competitive and eradicate poverty. However, change is on the way.