Industry & Investment: “Dangote Cement” Officially Launches Operations in Côte d’Ivoire

A breath of fresh air for Côte d’Ivoire’s construction sector and local employment. The Nigerian giant Dangote Cement, a subsidiary of the group founded by billionaire Aliko Dangote, has officially launched its operations in Attingué, about thirty kilometers from Abidjan. The announcement was made on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, by Serge Gbotta, Managing Director of Dangote Cement Côte d’Ivoire, during a press conference held at Novotel Abidjan-Marcory.

Covering an area of 50 hectares, the plant boasts an annual production capacity of 3 million tons of cement, making it one of the group’s largest facilities outside Nigeria.

A Major Industrial Project

With this new plant, Côte d’Ivoire becomes the 11th African country to host a Dangote Cement production unit. The group, with a total production capacity of 55 million tons per year across the continent, aims to contribute to the development of Ivorian infrastructure and meet the growing demand for construction materials, driven by rapid urbanization and major national projects.

Valued at 100 billion CFA francs, this strategic investment reflects Aliko Dangote’s vision of building a self-sufficient Africa—less dependent on imports and capable of transforming its own resources into world-class finished products.

According to projections, the Attingué plant is expected to generate over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, offering new opportunities for Ivorian youth and boosting the local SME ecosystem, including transporters, building craftsmen, distributors, suppliers, and subcontractors.

“A Symbol of Confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s Future”

During the launch ceremony, Managing Director Serge Gbotta emphasized the company’s philosophy:

“Our ambition is clear: to offer Ivorians internationally certified cement, produced locally, at a competitive price. The Attingué plant is not just an industrial facility—it is a symbol of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s future and a commitment to build sustainably alongside local communities.”

He also highlighted the company’s plans to create training programs for young Ivorian engineers and technicians through the Dangote Academy, aiming to strengthen local expertise in industrial management.

A Game-Changer for the Construction Sector

Stéphane Tchimou, Commercial Director of Dangote Cement Côte d’Ivoire, underlined the direct impact of this investment on construction professionals:

“We know that masons, artisans, and entrepreneurs across Côte d’Ivoire need reliable, high-performance cement that’s always available. That’s why we chose to establish one of our largest plants here. Our distribution network will ensure proximity and availability across all regions.”

He added that the company plans to set up support mechanisms, including credit facilities and commercial assistance, to empower small retailers and strengthen the value chain.

A Source of National and Continental Pride

Beyond its industrial dimension, Dangote Cement also promises community-focused initiatives around the Attingué plant—such as road construction, potable water projects, and support for local health centers. The company has committed to a sustainable and inclusive development model, in collaboration with local authorities and NGOs.

“The risks of Africa are often exaggerated. In reality, this continent is full of opportunities. Our mission is to tell a new story—one of an Africa that produces, innovates, and builds for its children,” said Aliko Dangote, founder of the group.

With its premium cement available in multiple grades (CPJ 32.5R for masonry, CPJ 42.5N for buildings, and CPA 52.5 for major projects), Dangote Cement aims to become a trusted partner for Côte d’Ivoire’s construction industry.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the Attingué plant is expected to significantly reduce cement imports and help Côte d’Ivoire become a regional production and export hub in the coming years.

The arrival of Dangote Cement in Côte d’Ivoire goes beyond the opening of a factory—it represents a promise of shared growth, job creation, and knowledge transfer. Combining industrial ambition, economic opportunity, and social responsibility, the Nigerian giant is set to help write a new chapter in Côte d’Ivoire’s construction story.