Cement Prices in Some Sub-Saharan Countries in Africa

The cement industry can be considered as the backbone for growth in any environment. The industry supports the creation and development of the construction sector, making it possible to build infrastructure at affordable prices both for professionals and individuals alike. Development of highways, urban and leisure spaces are facilitated through cement. 

However, the problem faced in Africa’s construction industry today is the spike in cement prices, which has had adverse effects on its economic growth. According to data from Statista, there has been a 20% decline in the construction sector from 497 billion U.S. dollars in 2019 to 399 billion U.S. dollars in 2020.  

Burundi, Congo (DRC), And Cameroon Have the Highest Prices 

Burundi, Congo (DRC), and Cameroon are some countries in Africa with the most expensive price of cement per 50kg bag. Burundi has the highest price of cement in Africa at a rate of $11.88 per 50kg bag. Burundi owes high prices to limited supply to demand ratio as its has only one cement manufacturing company (Burundi Cement Company (BUCECO), and up until 2011, imported most of its cement from neighboring East African countries. 

Congo (DRC), has the second highest price of cement on this list. A shortage of cement has been driving up prices in the country since late 2019. In today’s market a bag of 50kg cement goes for $11.02, which is significantly better than the $23 to $33 in some provinces early last.  

Cameroon is third on the list with a bag of 50kg cement going for $10.88. This price is likely to reduce before the year runs out, as cement prices continue to fall following the increased production in the country.  

Other prices on the list includes: 

Nigeria with $9.25/50kg bag 

Ghana with $7.30/50kg bag 

Zambia with $6.45/50kg bag 

Ethiopia with $6.37/50kg bag 

Madagascar with $6.35/50 kg bag 

Mozambique with $5.64/50kg bag 

Kenya with $5.25/50kg bag