RockCem Ltd Transitions from Cement Imports to Local Manufacturing in Sierra Leone

RockCem Ltd is establishing a fully integrated cement operation in Sierra Leone, including nationwide logistics and local grinding capabilities. The company entered the market in 2021 with a single imported shipment. Now, it employs over 500 staff and is building a solar-powered grinding mill in Freetown. CEO Bilal Hijazi credits his entrepreneurial instincts to his family's industrial businesses. He recognised cement shortages in Freetown and launched an independent venture.

RockCem plans to shift from importing cement to local production with a German-engineered vertical grinding mill. The mill will have a production capacity of 100 metric tons per hour and a two-megawatt solar installation. This will supply 70% to 80% of the operation's electricity needs. The transition marks a significant step for RockCem, enhancing supply security and contributing to Sierra Leone's industrial growth. Hijazi notes that Sierra Leone is one of the few countries that still imports finished cement.

To tackle logistical challenges in West Africa, RockCem created its own infrastructure. The company operates around 50 trucks to distribute cement across Freetown and beyond. This enables direct deliveries to wholesalers and retailers. RockCem's growth aligns with governmental interventions in cement pricing, including a price ceiling introduced in April 2025. Hijazi describes the government's approach as collaborative.

The firm's growth is also driven by land allocation initiatives by the Ministry of Lands. These initiatives promote residential and commercial development, boosting demand for construction materials. Switching from imports to local production has favourable implications for Sierra Leone's economy, reducing foreign exchange outflows. Hijazi states that the grinding mill will lessen reliance on imported cement once operations commence.

RockCem's expanding logistics and focus on innovation will improve product availability. The company is establishing itself as a crucial player in Sierra Leone's construction sector. Hijazi believes there are significant opportunities for younger African entrepreneurs in underserved industries. He states that there are market gaps for investors ready to analyse and engage in sectors with supply shortages.

RockCem is now poised for further growth, seeking to hire an additional 500 employees. This will increase total employment to over 1,000 as it reinforces a locally integrated cement operation. The operation aims to support long-term industrial development in Sierra Leone. The company's transition from imports to local production is expected to have a positive impact on the economy.

The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its solar-powered grinding mill. This will reduce the company's reliance on fossil fuels and lower its carbon footprint. As RockCem continues to grow, it is likely to play a significant role in Sierra Leone's construction sector. The company's success could also inspire other entrepreneurs to invest in the country's industrial development.

Key points

• RockCem Ltd's transition from cement imports to local manufacturing is expected to enhance supply security and contribute to Sierra Leone's industrial growth.