Page 5 - EngineerIT June July 2025

EVENT OF THE MONTH

Africa's budding infrastructure

provides exceptional manufacturing

growth opportunities

frica’s infrastructure boom The manufacturing sector already accounts for over US$500 billion annually
is unlocking a new wave in Africa’s GDP, with the potential to double by 2030 as industrialisation gains
Aof opportunities for the traction. Infrastructure projects not only drive demand for locally produced
continent’s manufacturing sector, materials but also enhance the logistics, energy reliability, and connectivity
positioning local producers to drive required for manufacturers to scale competitively.
industrialisation, create jobs, and
foster economic resilience. Events like the 2025 Manufacturing Indaba will play a critical role in aligning
Africa’s manufacturing leaders with emerging infrastructure projects, supporting
According to the African Development the continent’s drive toward sustainable industrialisation under the African
Bank, Africa requires an annual Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
investment of US$130-170 billion in
infrastructure, with a financing gap As Africa continues to build its roads, bridges, energy systems, and water
of US$68-108 billion. As governments, networks, local manufacturers have a unique opportunity to become the
investors, and development finance backbone of the continent’s transformation, advancing Africa’s “Made in Africa”
institutions commit to bridging this agenda while unlocking significant economic growth.
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.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
“By aligning manufacturing capacity
Qondakuhle Dwangu on 011 463-9184 / 064 118 1232
with infrastructure development, Africa
Email: q@manufacturingindaba.co.za
can reduce import dependency, retain
Website: https://manufacturingindaba.co.za
value within local economies, and
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/manufacturingindaba
foster job creation across industrial
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manufacturing-indaba
sectors,” notes Liz Hart, Managing
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IndabaManufact
Director of the Manufacturing Indaba.

5 | EngineerIT June/July 2025