Amson Group invests $380M in Bamburi Cement to expand production and dominate East Africa’s cement market through intra-African growth.
Amson Pumps $380M into Bamburi Cement, Eyes East Africa Dominance
Nairobi, Kenya – June 2025
Tanzanian industrial giant Amson Group is injecting $380 million into the expansion of Bamburi Cement—just months after completing a $182 million acquisition of the Kenyan firm. The investment marks the largest cross-border private sector deal by a Tanzanian company since the collapse of the original East African Community (EAC) in 1977.
The move strengthens Amson’s footprint across East Africa and signals a new era of intra-African industrial investment, aligned with trade initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Anchored in Nairobi: A Strategic Commitment
The announcement followed a State House Nairobi meeting on April 17, 2025, between Amson CEO Edha Nahdi and Kenyan President William Ruto.
“This investment represents more than capital—it’s a commitment to transform East Africa’s industrial future,” said Nahdi.
President Ruto praised the deal:
“Amson’s investment shows Kenya is open for business and is a preferred destination for regional capital.”
A Landmark Deal from Tanzania
Amson’s acquisition of Bamburi Cement now eclipses the $130 million Taifa Gas Kenya deal by Tanzanian tycoon Rostam Aziz, establishing 37-year-old Edha Nahdi as a rising force in African industry.
With Bamburi listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), the $380 million capital infusion will:
- Expand cement production capacity
- Modernize factory lines with energy-efficient tech
- Strengthen exports to markets like Uganda, South Sudan, and the DRC
“This isn’t just a cement play—it’s a blueprint for regional manufacturing leadership,” said Nairobi-based economist Paul Kamau.
Re-Entering Uganda: Hima Cement’s Exit, New Plans Ahead
The expansion follows Bamburi’s $84 million divestiture of its 70% stake in Hima Cement (Uganda) to Sarrai Group and Rwimi Holdings. But Amson says Uganda remains a key target.
“We’re reviewing opportunities in Uganda. It’s central to our East Africa strategy,” an Amson executive told The East African.
Amson is weighing both acquisitions and greenfield projects for its re-entry, complementing its existing operations in Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Burundi, and the DRC.
East Africa’s Cement Boom: A Perfect Market Moment
Demand for cement across East Africa is surging. According to Africa Cement Insights (2024), consumption is expected to rise by 6.2% annually through 2028, driven by:
- Urban population growth
- Affordable housing projects
- Major infrastructure plans
Kenya and Uganda are at the center of this boom, with regional integration under the EAC Customs Union enabling smoother trade.
Boosting President Ruto’s Industrial Vision
Amson’s investment directly supports Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA)—a blueprint focused on:
- Manufacturing
- Export-led growth
- Youth employment
- Private capital mobilization
“This investment is proof our strategy is working,” said a Ministry of Trade spokesperson.
Amson’s Philosophy: Profit with Purpose
The Nahdi family, owners of Amson Group, are renowned for their sustainable and socially conscious business approach. The company aims to:
- Pioneer low-carbon cement production
- Create jobs for Kenyan youth
- Build community infrastructure in host areas
“We build people and communities—not just factories,” CEO Nahdi added.
The Outlook: More Deals on the Horizon?
As regional trade integration deepens, analysts expect more African-led M&A activity, particularly in cement, infrastructure, and energy.
“With this move, Amson is setting the pace—and it won’t be the last big deal we see,” noted energy and infrastructure consultant Wanja Mwangi.
✅ Summary Points:
- 💰 $182M Bamburi acquisition, followed by a $380M expansion plan
- 🌍 Amson now active in 7 African countries
- 🚧 Bamburi upgrade to boost cement output and export capacity
- 📈 East Africa’s cement demand growing 6.2% per year
- 🏗️ Ruto’s industrialization agenda receives regional backing
