The new plant which is the world’s largest LC3 plant in Tema, provides a homegrown solution to the clinker problem by tapping into Ghana’s abun­dant raw material resources as a substitute for imported clinker.

Speaking in an interview Mr. Kobby Adams, Commercial Di­rector, Supacem said a significant step in enabling this innovation had been the Ghana Standards Authority’s adoption of the latest LC3 standard in 2024.

“This landmark achievement followed two years of collabora­tion between Ghanaian institu­tions like KNUST, the University of Ghana, and Ghana’s BRRI, alongside various international universities and laboratories. This new standard, GS PAS 5:2024, paves the way for the widespread use of this more sustainable and locally-sourced cement,” he said.

Ghana’s cement industry re­lies heavily on imported clinker, leaving it vulnerable to foreign supply problems and volatile global markets.

Cement retailers in the coun­try face growing difficulties, with widespread shortages of cement brands limiting builders’ access to essential materials. Behind this disruption lies a severe shortage of clinker, a crucial raw material imported for cement production.

He explained that the current clinker scarcity and its escalating prices stem from a 5.6percent currency depreciation between December and February and evolving global market uncertain­ties including an increase in the export prices from the Mediterra­nean rim, a major clinker source.

On the benefits of the new plant to Ghanaian consumers, he said, by producing a significant portion of their own cementi­tious material, Supacem reduces the impact of clinker shortages, leading to a more reliable cement supply for Ghanaian retailers and builders.

The project, Mr. Adams said had created over 160 direct jobs through local sourcing and infra­structure development in Tema and Torgome and empowering local women through training programmes.

“While recent price adjust­ments have been influenced by various operational factors, a more cost-effective raw mate­rial supply chain could provide greater price stability and cement affordability. The production of LC3 significantly lowers CO? emissions compared to traditional cement production. This supports Ghana’s climate action commit­ments and contributes to a greener future,” he said.

Supacem’s investment in a world-class cement laboratory is developing Ghanaian talent in advanced LC3 technology. This positions Ghana at the forefront of sustainable cement production in Africa.

He said by reducing reliance on imports and adding value to local raw materials, Supacem’s project strengthens Ghana’s economy and reduces its vulnerability to external economic factors.

“Supacem has taken the lead in transforming Ghana’s cement in­dustry. The company has extended its supply of locally produced LC3 raw materials to Ghacem, Ghana’s largest manufacturer,” he said.

This move, Mr. Adams said, further reduced clinker imports and highlighted Supacem’s commitment to industry-wide sustainability and building a more resilient and self-sufficient cement sector in Ghana.

Mr. Emmanuel Cherry, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Con­struction Industry, has called for the exploration of local alterna­tives for clinker.

Supacem’s investment, sup­ported by the GSA’s adoption of the LC3 standard answers this call, showing the potential of Gha­naian ingenuity and resources to address critical industry needs.

Supacem’s investment, sup­ported by the GSA’s adoption of the LC3 standard, answers this call, showing the potential of Ghanaian ingenuity and resources to address critical industry needs.

Supacem’s bold initiative offers a tangible solution to the current cement shortage and builds a foundation for a more sustain­able, self-reliant, and environmen­tally responsible cement industry in Ghana.