Dangote advocates manufacturing over raw materials export

Dangote advocates manufacturing over raw materials export

Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), urged African nations to leverage their internal strengths and global opportunities to drive industrialisation and manufacturing as a solution to global economic instability. Speaking at the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair in Algiers, he emphasized the need for a shift in mindset among African manufacturers to develop robust regional value chains, deepen intra-African trade, and reduce reliance on raw commodity exports.

Dangote highlighted that geopolitical tensions and trade wars are prompting major economies to diversify supply chains, presenting opportunities for African exporters to competitively supply needed products. He stressed the importance of regional self-reliance and industrial growth in creating jobs, promoting sustainable development, and reducing vulnerability to external shocks.

Citing Dangote Group’s achievements, he noted the continent’s progress in cement production, fertiliser self-sufficiency through a 3MMtpa urea plant, and Africa’s largest oil refinery with a capacity of 650kbpd, which reduces dependency on imports. He concluded that Africa’s vast potential can only be realized if nations improve their business environments, implement reforms, invest in infrastructure, and provide incentives to attract private capital.