Lemi, Ethiopia – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has officially inaugurated the Lemi National Cement Factory in the Amhara region, the largest cement factory in Ethiopia. With a production capacity of 150,000 quintals of cement per day, the project represents a significant milestone in the country’s industrialization efforts.
Speaking at the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized the importance of this mega project. “As we inaugurate the Lemi National Cement Factory, with a production capacity of 150,000 quintals per day, this mega project stands as a testament to our government’s commitment to building fast, building big, and building clean. It exemplifies the swift and efficient delivery of crucial infrastructure. Congratulations to all those involved in realizing this important project, which now produces 50% of the cement made by factories across the country.”
The factory, completed in just two years, employs advanced technology, including a non-human touch production system, which maximizes efficiency and minimizes energy use. One of the facility’s key innovations is the world’s longest pre-heating tower, standing at 174 meters.
The Prime Minister also underscored the project’s broader implications for Ethiopia’s economy. “Returning to this site after two years, I am astounded by the progress, which reflects our governance principles. It shows that with hard work, future generations will not inherit poverty but a foundation for growth and prosperity,” he stated. He further urged the private sector to engage in similar large-scale projects, particularly in steel manufacturing and fertilizer production, which could significantly impact job creation and national development.
Pre-Heater Technology
A key feature of the Lemi National Cement Factory is its advanced Pre-Heater system, a critical component contributing to the factory’s high production capacity. The Pre-Heater unit, installed in the main facility, is 160 meters long and plays a pivotal role in the cement production process. It prepares 10,000 tons of clinker per day by pre-heating the raw materials.
The Pre-Heater system is designed to heat the cement raw materials to a temperature of up to 950°C, ensuring they are adequately prepared for further processing. Once heated, these input products are transferred to the Rotary Kiln, the main combustion unit, where they undergo further transformation into clinker, a key ingredient in cement.
The efficiency of this system not only increases production but also reduces energy consumption, a major factor in cement manufacturing. The inclusion of such technology is a reflection of Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its industrial sector with environmentally conscious solutions.
Prime Minister Abiy reiterated that projects like Lemi National Cement Factory could serve as catalysts for broader economic development. “The challenges facing nations like Ethiopia require large-scale solutions. The joint cooperation between the private and public sectors is key to unlocking national opportunities and addressing our most pressing problems. By investing in initiatives like this, we can uplift more people and ensure they live dignified lives.”
The Lemi National Cement Factory is expected to significantly reduce Ethiopia’s reliance on cement imports, providing a major boost to the country’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
