Full Breakdown
Dangote Group's Commitment to Zambia's Economic Growth
11/21/2025, 4:49:51 AM
Overview of the Dangote Group's Investment in Zambia
Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, recently met with Hakainde Hichilema, President of Zambia, to reaffirm the company's commitment to the nation's development agenda. The Dangote Group's investment in Zambia is significant, with Dangote Cement Zambia Limited (DCZL) representing the largest investment in the country's manufacturing sector, exceeding USD 500 million. Since its establishment in 2015, the integrated cement plant in Ndola has produced 1.5 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) and includes a 30 MW captive power plant. This facility has transformed Zambia from a net importer to a leading exporter of cement within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Economic Impact and Employment
Since its commissioning, DCZL has sold over 8 million tonnes of cement, establishing itself as the market leader in quality and reliability. The company directly employs over 1,200 individuals, with an additional 5,000 benefiting indirectly through related sectors such as logistics and engineering. All raw materials are sourced locally, ensuring that economic benefits remain within Zambia. The company's flagship product, Dangote 3X, received recognition as Runner-up Product of the Year 2025 by the Zambian Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), and DCZL has been awarded Exporter of the Year by ZAM and the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) for three consecutive years (2021–2023).
Sustainability Initiatives
In alignment with its sustainability strategy, Dangote Cement has made strides in reducing its carbon footprint by substituting over 30% of fossil fuels with alternative sources, including used tyres and municipal waste. The company is certified by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) for the safe disposal of hazardous waste and has earned multiple awards for its green manufacturing practices.
Future Investments and Energy Solutions
During the meeting, President Hichilema praised the Dangote Group for its contributions to national development and encouraged further collaboration to address Zambia's energy challenges. Dangote expressed interest in investing in solar and thermal energy generation, aiming to leverage the Ndola facility to help mitigate power deficits in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He also highlighted the potential for agricultural expansion through climate-smart and irrigation-based farming, aligning with Zambia's goals for economic resilience and food security.
Official Statements & Responses
President Hichilema welcomed Dangote's commitment, stating that Zambia is prepared to partner with the Dangote Group to unlock new opportunities for industrial growth and regional cooperation. Dangote's investment in a 30 MW captive power plant has enabled the company to achieve self-sufficiency and contribute 8 MW of power back to the national grid through the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC), enhancing Zambia's energy resilience.
Conclusion
The Dangote Group continues to position itself as a strategic partner in Zambia's industrialization and economic transformation journey. Through sustained investment and collaboration, the company aims to support the Government's 8th National Development Plan (2022–2026), focusing on manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.
