Ethiopia's cement industry is poised for growth with the upcoming launch of the Lemi National Cement Factory. Expected to begin production in two months, the factory is projected to fill a major gap in the country's cement supply. At full capacity, Lemi will produce 6.4 million tons of cement annually, nearly doubling Ethiopia's current production.

Lemi cement project is located in Amhara Regional State, North Shewa Zone, Ensaro Woreda, 130 km north of Addis Ababa. The project is viewed as a vital contributor to local economic reforms and engages in other industrial sectors. Upon full operation, it is expected to create employment opportunities for around 10,000 citizens. The factory, a joint investment by Ethiopian and Chinese investors, is anticipated to become the largest cement factory in Africa upon operation.

The Berenta Cement Project is another bright spot, with the potential to produce over 23,000 tons of cement daily upon completion. These projects come alongside efforts to revitalize existing factories, like Mesbo Cement Factory, which recently resumed operations.

Overall cement production in the last nine months has increased by 22% compared to the same period last year. Additionally, local industries are successfully replacing imported coal with domestically sourced alternatives, further strengthening the sector's self-sufficiency.

Source: Addis Zemen and 2Merkato Archives