Africa’s richest man cements his regional footprint with a 3-million-tonne mega plant in Côte d’Ivoire, promising jobs, lower prices, and a new era of industrial self-reliance.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has officially commissioned his largest cement facility outside Nigeria, a $250 million investment that cements his status as the continent’s leading industrialist.
Located in the Attingué industrial zone, just outside Abidjan, the new plant boasts an annual capacity of 3 million tonnes. This milestone project is expected to generate between 2,000 and 3,000 direct jobs for Ivorians while reducing the nation’s dependence on imported cement, a key step toward economic self-sufficiency.
A Strategic Move for West Africa
Dangote Cement’s expansion into Côte d’Ivoire aligns with the region’s surging demand for construction materials. Abidjan’s skyline is changing fast, driven by infrastructure projects, housing developments, and commercial investments. By producing locally, Dangote aims to stabilise prices, cut import costs, and secure a reliable supply for the Ivorian market and neighbouring countries.
Industry analysts say the plant could have a transformational impact if distribution logistics are optimised and market competition encourages price adjustments.
From Liberia to Abidjan, A Journey Marked by Persistence
Dangote’s West African ambitions aren’t new. In 2012, he sought to invest $20 million in a cement factory at the Freeport of Monrovia, Liberia, hoping to create jobs and support post-war reconstruction. But entrenched corruption and bureaucratic hurdles derailed the plan.
Fast-forward to August 2025: Dangote Cement has secured legislative approval and a $41 million Investment Incentive Agreement to finally establish a plant in Liberia. If successful, it could lower cement prices there, currently between $7.50 and $9.00 per bag, closer to Nigerian levels of $5.00 to $6.50, depending on grade.
Economic & Social Impact
Beyond job creation, the Attingué plant will foster an ecosystem of ancillary services, from transport and warehousing to maintenance and raw material supply. The ripple effects could stimulate small business growth in surrounding communities and create a sustainable industrial hub.
Dangote’s Regional Cement Footprint
- Total Capacity: Over 51 million tonnes per annum across Africa
- Countries with Dangote Plants: Nigeria, Ethiopia, Senegal, Tanzania, South Africa, Zambia, Cameroon, Congo, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire (new), and Liberia (pending)
- Côte d’Ivoire Plant: 3M tonnes/year, $250 million investment, 2,000–3,000 direct jobs
“We are not just building factories; we are building the foundation for Africa’s economic independence.”
— Aliko Dangote
The Attingué project is more than a cement plant, it’s a statement. A statement that West Africa can produce for itself, reduce reliance on costly imports, and build the infrastructure that will carry it into the future. Whether in Abidjan, Monrovia, or beyond, Dangote’s industrial vision continues to reshape the continent’s economic destiny.
