Mahama commissions $110m calcined clay cement plant in Tema
President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned a $110 million *World’s Largest Calcined Clay Plant* at the Free Zones Enclave, in Tema describing the project as a major milestone in Ghana’s industrial and sustainable manufacturing drive.
The facility, which is described as the world’s largest calcined clay cement plant, is expected to produce 1.5 million tonnes of environmentally friendly cement annually, boosting local manufacturing capacity and strengthening Ghana’s industrial competitiveness.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Mahama said the investment demonstrates Ghana’s readiness to attract large-scale industrial capital when the policy environment is stable and business-friendly.
“This investment sends a strong signal to the international business community that Ghana is open to serious industrial investment. When the policy environment is transparent, stable and supportive of enterprise, the private sector will respond with confidence,” he said.
Sustainable Cement Production
The new plant introduces limestone calcined clay cement technology, which significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional cement production methods.
President Mahama noted that traditional cement manufacturing is responsible for about 8 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, making the sector one of the most environmentally sensitive industrial industries.
“By introducing limestone calcined clay cement technology, this facility significantly reduces carbon emissions while maintaining the strength and quality required for modern construction,” he stated.
The project also prioritises local content by using Ghanaian clay as a primary raw material, helping reduce the country’s dependence on imported clinker.
Government estimates suggest that this could reduce Ghana’s clinker import reliance by more than 10 percent, helping retain hundreds of millions of cedis within the domestic economy.
Price Stability in Cement Market
President Mahama also highlighted improvements in the cement market following macroeconomic stabilisation policies and stakeholder engagement with industry players.
He recalled that cement prices had risen sharply in 2024, reaching about GH¢120 per bag for 42.5 grade cement and GH¢113 per bag for 32.5 grade cement.
However, by July 2025, prices had fallen by about 20 percent, bringing relief to construction companies, builders and housing developers.
He also disclosed that construction inflation declined to 3.9 percent year-on-year in January 2026, attributing the development to prudent economic management and currency stability.
Job Creation and Industrial Growth
The project has created 109 direct jobs, including engineers, technicians and plant operators, while generating over 1,000 indirect jobs across supply chains, transportation and support services.
President Mahama encouraged workers at the facility to take pride in their role in national development.
“You are not just employees of a factory; you are architects of Ghana’s industrial future,” he told workers.
AfCFTA Export Potential
President Mahama said the cement produced at the plant meets African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) rules of origin standards, allowing Ghana to expand exports across African markets.
“Ghana is not only producing for domestic consumption. We are building industries capable of serving the entire African market,” he said.
Support for Infrastructure Expansion
The President linked the project to government’s Big Push infrastructure programme, under which more than GH¢60 billion is being invested in roads, drainage systems, and public infrastructure.
He noted that many construction projects across Ghana are now being built using locally produced cement.
Tema Industrial Zone Rehabilitation
Government also announced plans to rehabilitate the Tema Industrial Zone through public-private partnerships.
The rehabilitation will include road reconstruction, improved drainage systems, and modern waste treatment facilities to support industrial productivity.
Confidence in Ghana’s Industrial Future
President Mahama commended CBI Ghana and its investors for choosing Ghana for the landmark investment.
“This facility marks the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana’s industrial history — one where Ghana leads, Africa follows and the world takes notice,” he said.
He added that the project demonstrates that environmental sustainability and economic growth can coexist in modern industrial development.
