Accra: The Chairman of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COCMAG), Frederic Albrecht, has called for a strategic transformation of Ghana's cement industry, urging stakeholders to reduce reliance on imported clinker and embrace sustainable, locally driven production methods. Speaking on the sidelines of INTERCEM Africa 2026 in Accra, Frederic Albrecht highlighted the structural challenges facing the cement industry, noting that clinker production remains unfeasible in Ghana due to limited limestone reserves.
According to Ghana Web, Albrecht emphasized that clinker production is not possible in Ghana because of unsuitable limestone deposits. Despite clinker being a major input in cement production, importing it has become increasingly expensive due to rising fuel costs, port congestion, and global supply disruptions. These challenges necessitate a rethinking of Ghana's cement production model by reducing clinker usage and increasing the adoption of alternative raw materials.
Albrecht advocated for developing a different type of cement that would enable Ghana to become more self-sufficient. By reducing clinker ratios and utilizing local raw materials, production costs could be lowered, competitiveness improved, and pressure on foreign exchange reduced. He pointed to innovations already underway through CBI and Ghacem, where products such as Eco Cool and Supercem are being produced with lower clinker content.
These products, Albrecht noted, demonstrate that Ghana can position itself as a global leader in sustainable cement production. By leveraging local materials, costs are reduced, and better use is made of Ghana's natural resources. He further noted that global events continue to impact clinker prices, citing recent geopolitical tensions and fuel price fluctuations as key drivers of cost increases.
Albrecht explained that clinker production is highly energy-intensive, requiring temperatures of up to 1,500 degrees Celsius, making it directly tied to volatile fuel prices. Thus, reducing dependence on clinker is both an economic and strategic necessity. On the timeline for change, he stressed the importance of long-term planning and industry-wide collaboration.
The transition to alternative production systems is expected to take about three years and requires foresight, investment, and strong collaboration between industry players and government. Albrecht expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry for supporting this transition.
The INTERCEM Africa 2026 conference, organized in partnership with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), and in collaboration with CBI Ghana and the LC3-Project, brought together over 100 companies from approximately 40 countries. Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, emphasized the importance of innovation in cement manufacturing.
Ofosu-Adjare stated that the cement industry must become more affordable, accessible, and sustainable, and the reduction of clinker imports alongside investment in local raw material production is imperative. The example set by CBI and Ghacem shows that this transformation is achievable. She further noted that Ghana's growing infrastructure and industrialization agenda will continue to drive cement demand, making sustainability a priority.
Also speaking at the event, the CEO of COCMAG, Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, commended stakeholders for their participation and reiterated the importance of knowledge-sharing. He highlighted that the conference provides a valuable platform for innovation and collaboration, aiding Ghana's cement producers in adopting more sustainable practices, including the use of clay and other local materials to reduce clinker dependency.