African governments, industry leaders, and development partners have called for faster action to promote low-carbon cement and sustainable industrial development as the continent enters a period of rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.
The Africa Dialogue on Cement for Green Industrialization, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, brought together more than 110 participants from 39 countries, including 23 African nations. Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and international partners, the three-day event focused on practical solutions to reduce emissions from cement production while supporting Africa’s economic growth.
With around 80% of Africa’s expected 2050 building stock still yet to be constructed, participants emphasized that decisions made today will have long-term impacts on carbon emissions, infrastructure quality, and industrial competitiveness. They highlighted the need to expand low-carbon construction methods while avoiding future dependence on high-emission technologies.
The dialogue explored several solutions that can already be implemented, including reducing clinker content in cement, increasing the use of alternative materials, improving construction efficiency, adopting alternative fuels, and strengthening systems for measuring and reporting emissions. Participants also discussed the importance of developing standards, building codes, and green public procurement policies to create stronger markets for sustainable construction materials.
The event also examined financial and policy challenges affecting the transition to low-carbon cement. Stakeholders discussed blended finance, investment support, technology transfer, and partnerships needed to help countries move from climate commitments to large-scale implementation.
UNIDO and partners emphasized that Africa’s green industrial transition must be based on local resources, regional value chains, research capacity, and workforce development. Strengthening domestic capabilities will be essential to creating competitive industries while generating new economic opportunities.
The Africa Dialogue concluded with a commitment to accelerate collaboration among governments, businesses, financial institutions, researchers, and international organizations to support sustainable cement production. By adopting low-carbon solutions early, Africa can advance industrial growth while reducing future emissions and building climate-resilient infrastructure.
