On June 10, 2025, the geological team from the Institute of Cement and Concrete, Mr. Erick Nabea and Ms. Linah Momanyi, visited CBI Ghana, a trailblazer in low-carbon cement production in Africa. Located in the Tema Free Zones Area, CBI Ghana operates the world’s largest Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) plant, a revolutionary facility that uses locally sourced calcined clay and limestone to replace up to 40% of traditional clinker in cement production. This innovation significantly reduces CO₂ emissions by approximately 20%, aligning with Ghana’s climate commitments and advancing sustainable construction.
During the visit, the team toured the entire production plant and got conversant with their processes—from raw material delivery and preparation to calcination and stringent quality control—gaining valuable insights into CBI Ghana’s cutting-edge operations certified by the Ghana Standards Authority. The company’s $100 million investment in LC3 technology addresses Ghana’s heavy reliance on imported clinker, which has been challenged by global supply disruptions and rising costs. By leveraging abundant local resources, CBI Ghana enhances supply chain resilience, reduces environmental impact, and creates over 160 direct jobs, fostering economic growth in Tema and surrounding communities.
CBI Ghana’s leadership, including Quality Assurance and Process Manager Mr. Peter Dickson and Industrial Director Mr. Remi Touvet, warmly welcomed the delegation, emphasizing their commitment to collaboration and innovation. Their vision closely aligns with the mission of LC3 TRC Africa, a regional center promoting low-carbon cement adoption across Sub-Saharan Africa.
LC3 technology offers a cost-effective, scalable solution for the construction industry, requiring minimal modifications to existing plants while delivering performance comparable to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). The integration of calcined clay and limestone not only lowers clinker content but also enhances durability and reduces production costs, making it ideal for addressing Africa’s growing housing demands sustainably.
Ghana’s pioneering adoption of the national LC3 standard in 2024—the first of its kind globally—permits cement products with clinker content as low as 35%, enabling potential CO₂ savings of up to 200 kg per tonne of cement. This milestone has inspired neighboring countries such as Togo, Kenya, and members of the East African Community to explore similar standards, positioning Ghana as a leader in eco-friendly industrial innovation.
CBI Ghana’s LC3 initiative exemplifies how sustainable industrial practices can drive environmental responsibility, economic empowerment, and technological advancement simultaneously. By reducing clinker imports, lowering carbon emissions, and creating local employment opportunities, CBI Ghana is not only producing cement but also shaping the future of sustainable construction across Africa.
This visit by the Institute of Cement and Concrete marks a significant step in strengthening partnerships that foster sustainable development and innovation in the continent’s cement industry, reinforcing the shared vision of a greener, more resilient Africa.