Kenya producers forecasts strong 2010 demand
Cement demand in Kenya is expected to remain strong throughout this year as a result of infrastructure projects and home building currently underway in the country, industry players say.
Athi River Mining’s deputy managing director Surendra Bhatia said the cement market in this quarter continues to be strong and has maintained its growth trend. “In terms of ARM cement business – as compared with the same period last year – the trend has been positive. The cement market continues to grow and is operating to capacity in this business segment,” he said.
Bamburi, East African Portland Cement and Athi River Mining have all been raising capacity. Cemtech Ltd, Devki and the Mehta Group, are also reportedly making investments, as well as Mombasa Cement.
According to the Central Bank’s Monthly Economic Review for February 2010, cement production rose by 18.1 per cent in January 2010, compared with January 2009, to reach 292,769t. “Growth in cement production has been gradual but steady through the years, reflecting increased economic activity,” the review says.
Consumption increased 4.8 per cent from 200,840t in January 2009 to 210,486t in January 2010, reflecting increased economic activity in the industry, the bank’s estimates show. With the anticipated new entries and new capacity, Mr Bhatia said the cement market is growing and so is competition.
Source: All Africa
Published under Cement News
