Saint-Gobain Africa, a prominent producer and distributor of sustainable construction materials, has formally opened a new fibre cement manufacturing facility in South Africa’s Ekurhuleni, Gauteng district.
The facility represents an investment of more than R500 million, demonstrating the company’s commitment to local industrial development, job creation, and long-term economic growth in South Africa.
Aymeric d’Ydewalle, CEO of Saint-Gobain Africa, stated during the facility’s January 27 opening that it was a significant investment intended to promote the expansion of the local construction industry, develop supply chains, and boost industrial capacity in the area, Engineeringnews reports.
“This factory enables us to bring the right solutions at the right time for the right market. But beyond the solutions, this factory significantly strengthens our overall offer in South Africa,” he said.
Fibre cement production
A fibre cement production factory manufactures fibre-reinforced cement products, which are widely used in construction.
The technique involves combining cement, cellulose fibers, water, and other chemicals to create sturdy, durable boards, sheets, or panels that are resistant to fire, moisture, and pests.
Raw materials are combined, formed, pressed, and cured to produce final products suitable for roofing, walls, facades, and other structural or decorative elements in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
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Fibre cement is highly prized in modern buildings because of its strength, durability, and design versatility. It helps builders to create dwellings, commercial structures, and public infrastructure that are safe, sustainable, and visually appealing.
According to Saint-Gobain Africa, the new Ekurhuleni factory increases the company’s ability to supply integrated construction solutions for a wide range of projects, including residential dwellings and large-scale infrastructure works.
Beyond production, the facility promotes skills development, local supplier participation, and community empowerment, thereby strengthening regional value chains and encouraging sustainable industrial practices.
The investment is consistent with Saint-Gobain’s global objective of “Making the World a Better Home,” demonstrating a commitment not only to new building materials but also to promoting economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social advancement in Africa.
By combining local manufacturing with a focus on sustainable construction technologies, the Ekurhuleni plant puts Saint-Gobain Africa at the forefront of building solutions that are long-lasting, safe, and environmentally responsible, while also contributing significantly to South Africa’s industrial and community development goals.
