Local cement manufacturers in Kenya are advocating for the adoption of low-carbon cement to enhance sustainable building practices. This call to action was made during the Kenya Industrialisation Summit 2026, which was inaugurated by President William Ruto.
Eng Jane Wangari, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Director at Bamburi Cement Plc, highlighted the company’s development of low-carbon cement products aimed at promoting green manufacturing. She emphasized that public tender specifications favoring lower-carbon-emission cements could drive the adoption of these products. Additionally, incorporating low-carbon cement into the Central Bank of Kenya Green Finance Taxonomy is expected to further encourage its use.
Kenya’s Push for Low-Carbon Cement Adoption
At the summit organized by the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, Eng Wangari revealed that Bamburi Cement has launched Bamburi DuraCem Cement, a 42.5 grade cement designed for large or marine construction projects. This eco-friendly product is resistant to sulphate and chloride, making it suitable for challenging environments.
The manufacturing process of DuraCem utilizes alternative fuels, such as rice husks and waste tyres, resulting in a product that emits 64% less Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) compared to ordinary Portland cement. Each 50-kg bag of DuraCem saves approximately 25 kg of carbon dioxide, equivalent to the emissions from burning 10 litres of petrol.
Kenya: Key figures on Cement Production
- US0 million Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for a clinkerisation factory
- 1.6 million tonnes-a-year production capacity for the new clinkerisation plant
- Production capacity increase from 1 million Tons to 2.6 million Tons for Clinker
Future Developments in Cement Manufacturing
Bamburi Cement is committed to enhancing its production capabilities and supporting national infrastructure projects. The company aims to secure long-term clinker self-sufficiency and expand its production capacity significantly.
As part of its strategy, Bamburi Cement is exploring opportunities to supply low-carbon DuraCem Cement for the Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemical SEZ project in Lamu County.
Upcoming Projects and Initiatives
- Completion of the clinkerisation factory in Matuga, Kwale County
- Increased production capacity for quality cement and concrete products
- Continued supply of cement for major national development projects
Kenya’s cement industry is moving towards sustainable practices with low-carbon products.
