(NAIROBI) – The Embassy of South Sudan in Kenya has initiated discussions with East African Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) to strengthen economic ties and support South Sudan’s reconstruction through a possible cement supply agreement.
Ambassador Anthony Louis Kon, Head of Mission, met with EAPCC Managing Director CPA Mohamed Osman Adan at the company’s headquarters in Athi River, Kenya, on 21 July 2025. The meeting focused on how South Sudan can access affordable cement for its infrastructure projects, trial export options and long term investment possibilities including a cement storage facility or factory in Juba.
Kon highlighted the country’s urgent need for reasonably priced and high quality construction materials. He noted that rebuilding efforts across the country have led to growing demand for cement. However, high prices, unreliable supply chains and transport challenges remain major obstacles.
“South Sudan is rebuilding from the ground up,” said the Ambassador. “We are looking for reliable partners who can help us meet the growing demand for construction materials. Cement is essential for building homes, schools, roads and hospitals. It is the foundation of peace and development.”
The ambassador informed the company that security had improved in many areas of South Sudan, with increased business activity. He added that the government is working to reduce customs delays, transport costs, and improve container logistics to support the importation of building materials.
EAPCC’s Managing Director, CPA Adan, outlined the company’s history and production capabilities. Founded in 1933, the firm is one of the region’s oldest cement manufacturers and is partly owned by the Kenyan government. The company produces around 60,000 metric tonnes of cement every month and markets its Blue Triangle brand widely across Kenya and Uganda.
Although its current market focus is mainly in Nairobi and Central Kenya, CPA Adan said the company is ready to explore opportunities in South Sudan. He welcomed the idea of conducting a trial shipment to Juba and expressed interest in long term investments such as building a local distribution hub.
“South Sudan is a promising market with real demand,” he said. “We are prepared to assess the logistics and identify the best way to serve that market.”
He added that EAPCC offers flexible supply options, with cement available under ex-factory, FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) arrangements.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to move forward with practical steps. EAPCC will organise pilot exports to South Sudan, while the embassy will help coordinate logistics and introduce the company to key South Sudanese ministries such as Finance, Trade and Investment.
These engagements will help support the company’s entry into the market and assist in evaluating the possibility of establishing a cement plant or storage site in the country.
Ambassador Kon pledged the embassy’s full support in guiding EAPCC through regulatory processes, assessing the market and facilitating links with local distribution networks.
The embassy described the partnership as strategic and timely, given South Sudan’s drive to rebuild its economy. Access to competitively priced, quality cement is expected to lower construction costs, support job creation and improve infrastructure across the country.
“We are open to working with investors who support our development priorities,” said Ambassador Kon. “South Sudan welcomes serious partners ready to contribute to our journey toward lasting peace and progress.”
