Africa & The Middle East

The value of cement imports into Algeria increased by 31% y/y to US$373.5 million in the first eight months of the year.

The Federal High Court has prevented the Standards Organisation of Nigeria from closing the facilities of Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc over failure to meet new directives pending a hearing.

Following the announcement in August that Donaldson planned to purchase the UAE’s Northern Technical L.L.C, the company has now confirmed that the acquisition has been completed.

Ghana Cement Company says that the appreciation of the local currency would help bring down cement prices, though power shortages are still an issue.

According to reports, Lafarge has temporarily halted operations at its cement plant in Syria in light of security concerns for its staff.

Local media is reporting that Benue State, Nigeria, is selling 30 million shares in Dangote Cement and plans to sell its total shareholding of 90 million shares.

The board of directors has approved the acquisition of a 100% stake in BMM Cements Limited.

Local reports suggest that the Federal High Court of Nigeria has urged the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to stay action pending a hearing.

Nigeria’s SON has launched three different cement bags for the 32.5, 42.5 and 52.5 grades as part of its new cement standardisation policy.

Following Gordhan’s resignation, PPC has thanked the outgoing CEO and Executive Director for his contribution to the company and appointed Bheki Sibiya as interim Executive Chairman.

The South African cement maker will see non-executive chairman Bheki Sibiya become executive chairman until a new CEO is found.

Weak demand and high inventory levels will force Saudi Cement Company to keep two kilns at its Hofuf plant closed following refurbishment work.

The cement company has reported its financial results for the first half of this year, which reflect the challenging economic conditions presently being felt in Zimbabwe.

A new power plant is to be integrated with Lafarge’s existing 90 MW dual-fuel power plant in Ogun State, adding 220 MW capacity.

Tororo Cement Limited (TCL) has become the latest company to join the Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum (UCMP).