The Benin Nocibe works, a project led by Groupe Layousse of Ciments du Sahel and contracted to Sinoma International (Tianjin), has produced its first batch of qualified cement from mill No 1.

Installation of steel structure was started in April, followed by mechanical equipment in June and electrical equipment in August. The project was commissioned in October. In less than half a year, the project team overcame all difficulties and completed installation and commissioning works smoothly in preparation for the first batch of cement on 23 November 2013.

Following performance tests of cement mill No 1, the commissioning of mill No 2 will commence. On-site work will also focus on the installation of a clinker production line.

Benin president, Boni Yayi visited the plant in Onigbolo at the start of this month, stating that the Nocibe plant will play an active role in Benin's cement market and economic development.