Mahama Commissions World’s Largest Calcined Clay Cement Plant in Tema

John Dramani Mahama has commissioned what is being described as the world’s largest calcined clay cement plant at the Tema Free Zones Enclave, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s drive toward industrial growth and sustainable manufacturing.

The $110 million facility, developed by CBI Ghana Ltd, has an annual production capacity of 1.5 million tonnes of environmentally friendly cement. The plant utilizes limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) technology, an innovative process that significantly reduces carbon emissions while maintaining the strength and durability required for modern construction.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Mahama described the project as a transformative investment that goes beyond the establishment of a manufacturing plant. “This is not just the opening of a factory; it represents a bold step toward repositioning Ghana as a leading industrial hub in Africa,” he stated.

According to the President, the initiative aligns with the government’s broader economic transformation agenda aimed at revitalizing the country’s industrial sector. He announced that the government is targeting an increase in the manufacturing sector’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to at least 15 percent by 2030.

President Mahama said achieving this target would require deliberate investments in local production, industrial innovation, and policies that support sustainable job creation. He commended the efforts of the Ghana Free Zones Authority and the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry for facilitating the investment and creating an enabling environment for the project.

The President also praised the management of CBI Ghana Ltd for spearheading a project that positions Ghana at the forefront of the global transition toward low-carbon construction materials. The plant is designed to operate continuously under the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy, an initiative aimed at boosting productivity and maximizing industrial output.

Officials say the facility is expected to create employment opportunities across the value chain, reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported clinker, and strengthen the country’s capacity to produce competitively for both domestic consumption and export under the African Continental Free Trade Area. Industry analysts believe the project will play a critical role in supporting Ghana’s infrastructure development while promoting environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.