The 13th Africa Cementrade Summit, held at the Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 8-9, 2024, was a landmark event for the cement industry in Africa. Organized by the Centre for Technology Management in support of the Institute of Cement and Technology at Meru University of Science and Technology, the summit attracted leading experts to discuss pressing issues and innovations in the sector.
One of the key topics was decarbonization strategies. Experts emphasized the urgent need for the cement industry to reduce its carbon footprint. With cement production being a major source of CO2 emissions, transitioning to green cement technologies is critical for sustainable development.
A significant focus was on Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3), a research project being conducted at the Institute of Cement and Concrete, which aims to support the uptake of LC3 cement in the Sub-Saharan Africa. This innovative cement combines clinker, calcined clay, and limestone, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional cement. LC3 can significantly lower production costs and environmental impact, making it especially beneficial in Africa, where importing clinker is costly.
The summit also addressed financing opportunities for cement projects. Experts discussed how to access funding, particularly green funds aimed at sustainable initiatives. Understanding economic conditions is essential for securing investments in this rapidly evolving market. Dr. Joseph Mwiti Marangu, who heads the LC3 TRC Africa, had a pleasure to present on how this initiative supports decarbonization efforts in Sub-Saharan Africa. LC3 TRC Africa offers vital guidance on clay identification and production assistance.
It was a privilege for the Institute of Cement and Concrete to be a key stakeholder in organizing the 13th Africa Cementrade Summit which served as a key platform for discussing advancements in the cement sector in Africa. The emphasis on sustainable practices and innovative technologies like LC3 promises to transform the industry while addressing environmental challenges, therefore giving the way for a greener future in construction industry across Africa.