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Africa’s budding infrastructure development - opportunity for growth in local manufacturing

Jul 08, 2025 Liz Hart, Manufacturing Indaba, 2025 Manufacturing Indaba, African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)


Africa’s budding infrastructure development - opportunity for growth in local manufacturing

 

Africa’s infrastructure boom is unlocking a new wave of opportunities for the continent’s manufacturing sector, positioning local producers to drive industrialisation, create jobs, and foster economic resilience. According to the African Development Bank, Africa requires US$130-170 billion annually for infrastructure investment, with a financing gap of US$68-108 billion. As governments, investors, and development finance institutions commit to bridging this gap, projects in energy, transport, water, and digital infrastructure are accelerating across the continent.

 

This infrastructure momentum provides an unparalleled opportunity for local manufacturing growth. From cement and steel production for construction projects to the fabrication of transmission towers, pipes, and electrical components for energy and water initiatives, African manufacturers are strategically positioned to supply critical inputs while localising value chains.

 

“By aligning manufacturing capacity with infrastructure development, Africa can reduce import dependency, retain value within local economies, and foster job creation across industrial sectors,” notes Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Indaba. 

The manufacturing sector already accounts for over US$500 billion annually in Africa’s GDP, with the potential to double by 2030 as industrialisation gains traction. Infrastructure projects not only drive demand for locally produced materials but also enhance the logistics, energy reliability, and connectivity required for manufacturers to scale competitively.

 

Events like the 2025 Manufacturing Indaba will play a critical role in aligning Africa’s manufacturing leaders with emerging infrastructure projects, supporting the continent’s drive toward sustainable industrialisation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As Africa continues to build its roads, bridges, energy systems, and water networks, local manufacturers have a unique opportunity to become the backbone of the continent’s transformation, advancing Africa’s “Made in Africa” agenda while unlocking significant economic growth.
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