Africa’s Cement Industry Set to Hit $11.71bn by 2029 Amid Infrastructure Boom

Africa’s cement manufacturing industry is on track for significant expansion, with its total market value projected to rise from about $8.7 billion today to $11.71 billion by 2029, according to a new industry report. The forecast reflects a steady growth rate of 7.6%, signaling strong momentum in one of the continent’s most critical industrial sectors.

The report highlights that this growth is being driven by rapid urbanisation, population increase, large-scale infrastructure projects, and sustained government spending. It also points to a gradual shift toward more sustainable and efficient production systems, as African economies continue to modernize their construction and manufacturing base.

Despite the positive outlook, the sector remains highly concentrated and capital intensive. Structural challenges such as energy shortages, poor logistics networks, currency instability, and uneven regional production continue to weigh on efficiency and pricing across many African markets.

A key driver of demand remains Africa’s expanding urban population. With over 60% of Africans expected to live in cities by 2050, and a housing deficit projected to rise from 51 million units to 130 million by 2030, cement demand is expected to surge sharply. The report also notes growing private sector construction activity and increasing regional trade under the AfCFTA framework, which is reshaping cross-border cement movement and competition.

Looking ahead, the report warns that Africa’s cement future will depend heavily on resolving deep structural issues. These include improving energy reliability, upgrading transport infrastructure, stabilizing economic conditions, and reducing import dependence. It concludes that if these challenges are addressed, Africa’s cement industry could evolve into a globally competitive, export-driven industrial powerhouse over the next two decades.

source: newtelegraph