Economy
Dangote Cement Opens $160m Factory in Côte d’Ivoire
Africa’s largest cement producer, Dangote Cement Plc, has officially launched operations in Côte d’Ivoire, marking another milestone in its pan-African expansion strategy.
A statement released by the Dangote Group on Sunday revealed that the new plant, located in Attingué, spans 50 hectares and has a production capacity of 3 million tonnes per year, making it one of the company’s largest facilities outside Nigeria.
With an investment estimated at 100 billion CFA francs (approximately $160 million), Côte d’Ivoire becomes the 11th African country to host a Dangote Cement production unit.
“The group, which has a total capacity of 55 million tonnes per year across Africa, intends to contribute to the development of Ivorian infrastructure and meet the growing demand for construction materials driven by urbanisation and major projects,” the company stated.
According to forecasts, the new Attingué plant is expected to generate over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, providing opportunities for local youths and small businesses in logistics, construction, and supply chains.
“This represents a significant boost for young people in Côte d’Ivoire, but also for the ecosystem of local SMEs, transporters, tradespeople, retailers, suppliers, and subcontractors,” Dangote Cement noted.
Speaking during the launch ceremony, Dr. Gbotta, Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Cement Côte d’Ivoire, reaffirmed the company’s long-term vision for sustainable growth and empowerment.
“Our ambition is clear: to offer Ivorians internationally-standard cement, produced locally, at a competitive price. The Attingué plant is not just an industrial unit; it is a symbol of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s future and our commitment to sustainable development alongside local communities,” he said.
Gbotta added that the Dangote Academy will introduce training programmes for young Ivorian engineers and technicians, strengthening local expertise in industrial management and operations.
On his part, Stéphane Tchimou, Commercial Director of Dangote Cement Côte d’Ivoire, emphasised the positive impact the plant will have on the construction sector.
“We know that Ivorian masons, craftsmen, and contractors need reliable, high-performance cement that is available without interruption. That’s why we chose to establish one of our largest units here,” Tchimou stated.
He also disclosed that the company plans to roll out credit facilities and commercial support for small retailers to stimulate the construction value chain.
Beyond industrial operations, Dangote Cement announced a series of community development projects around the Attingué plant, including the construction of access roads, water supply systems, and health facility support.
“The risks in Africa are often exaggerated. In reality, this continent is full of opportunities. Our role is to tell a new story that of an Africa that produces, innovates, and builds for its children,” said Aliko Dangote, Founder and Chairman of Dangote Group.
With its premium cement grades CPJ 32.5R for masonry, CPJ 42.5N for buildings, and CPA 52.5 for large structures Dangote Cement aims to establish itself as a trusted partner for Côte d’Ivoire’s booming construction industry.
The company added that the plant’s state-of-the-art technology will help the country reduce cement imports and eventually become a regional hub for production and export across West Africa.
