President John Dramani Mahama has officially commissioned the world’s largest calcined clay cement plant within the Tema Free Zones Enclave, marking a pivotal moment for Ghana’s industrial sector and its commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
The $110 million facility, developed by CBI Ghana Ltd, represents a significant leap in construction technology and environmental stewardship for the West African sub-region.
The plant boasts an impressive annual production capacity of 1.5 million tonnes. It utilizes cutting-edge Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) technology, which significantly lowers carbon emissions during the production process while maintaining the high structural strength required for modern infrastructure.
By integrating locally sourced clay, the facility reduces the industry’s reliance on imported clinker, a move expected to save the country millions in foreign exchange annually.
During the commissioning ceremony, President Mahama described the landmark project as a tangible step toward establishing Ghana as a premier industrial hub in Africa. He emphasized that the facility is not merely an addition to the skyline but a cornerstone of a “Green Industrial Revolution” that balances economic expansion with ecological responsibility.
The President utilized the occasion to announce an ambitious government target: increasing manufacturing’s contribution to the national GDP to at least 15% by 2030. He cited this goal as a central pillar of his administration’s economic transformation agenda, which seeks to move Ghana from a consumer-based economy to a high-production, export-led economy.
In his address, the President commended the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, alongside the Ghana Free Zones Authority, for their proactive roles in facilitating this high-value investment. He also praised the management of CBI Ghana for their foresight in leading the transition toward low-carbon construction materials, positioning the company as a global leader in sustainable building solutions.
Strategically designed to operate continuously under the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy, the plant is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the value chain, from mining and logistics to high-tech manufacturing.
Furthermore, the facility is poised to bolster Ghana’s export competitiveness, providing high-quality, eco-friendly cement to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and strengthening the nation’s trade balance.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
