New target markets for East African Portland Cement Co

Following its KES500m (US$4m) plant upgrade, The East African Portland Cement (EAPC) is planning to expand within the East African Community member countries and is targeting cement sales in Rwanda and DR Congo. 

The Athi River-based cement processor has replaced  part of its kiln shell at its Athi River plant and is now producing its own clinker. In 2021 EAPC it announced a five year business modernisation and expansion plan to return to profitability.

The firm’s CEO, Oliver Kirubai, said: “Our ambitious new business strategy is anchored on major investments in our factory to give us a platform to produce and outgrow cement demand in East Africa. Despite the high costs of energy and an old clinker line, we have already seen steady results in the last six months from the ongoing business reorganisation.”

He said the company’s structuring will enable it to settle debts and be able to inject more capital as it eyes the broader east African market. 

"We expect to outgrow the regional cement market. We are looking at going beyond Kenya into Rwanda and DR Congo as well,” he said, adding that the company is also targeting growth in its volumes and brand portfolio.

EAPC expects cement production in the country to be driven by the key government agenda on housing and infrastructure projects, which is expected to represent an investment of KES3trn (US$24.1bn) in the next five years through funded and own projects.