By Ayomide Otitoju
Dangote Cement, a subsidiary of the Dangote Group founded by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote, has officially commenced operations at its new cement plant in Attingué, Côte d’Ivoire, located about 30 kilometers from Abidjan.
The announcement was made by the Managing Director of Dangote Cement Côte d’Ivoire, Serge Gbotta, during a press conference at Novotel Abidjan-Marcory.
Built on a 50-hectare site, the state-of-the-art facility has an annual production capacity of 3 million metric tonnes, making it one of Dangote’s largest cement plants outside Nigeria. The project represents an investment of 100 billion CFA francs, reinforcing the company’s commitment to regional industrialization and self-sufficiency.
“This plant is more than an industrial facility—it is a symbol of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s future,” Gbotta said. “Our goal is to provide world-class cement produced locally at competitive prices.”
Côte d’Ivoire now becomes the 11th African country to host a Dangote Cement production unit, bringing the group’s total capacity across the continent to 55 million tonnes annually. The new plant is expected to create over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting youth employment and supporting local SMEs in logistics, retail, and construction.
The company also announced plans to train young engineers and technicians through the Dangote Academy, aimed at developing local expertise in industrial operations.
Speaking at the event, Commercial Director Stéphane Tchimou said the facility would provide reliable, high-performance cement essential to masons and contractors, adding that the company’s wide distribution network will ensure product availability nationwide.
Tchimou also disclosed that credit and commercial support schemes would be introduced to assist small retailers and strengthen the supply chain.
Beyond industrial growth, Dangote Cement reaffirmed its commitment to community development, pledging support for road construction, clean water projects, and local health centers in Attingué through partnerships with government and NGOs.
Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote said the project symbolizes Africa’s industrial awakening: “Africa is full of opportunities. Our mission is to tell a new story—one of innovation, production, and progress for future generations.”
The plant will produce three premium cement grades—CPJ 32.5R for masonry, CPJ 42.5N for general construction, and CPA 52.5 for large structures—positioning Dangote Cement as a key player in Côte d’Ivoire’s construction sector.
Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the facility is expected to reduce cement imports and establish Côte d’Ivoire as a regional hub for cement production and exports in West Africa.
