Dangote sugar refinery launches in Ghana, promising economic transformation | Nsemkeka
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest entrepreneur, has recently unveiled plans for a major sugar refinery in Ghana, a project poised to dramatically expand the nation’s irrigated farmland through a single transformative initiative.
In a LinkedIn post announcing the development, Dangote confirmed that the new facility, the Dangote Sugar Refinery, will be situated in Kwame-Danso within the Bono Region and is expected to play a pivotal role in Ghana’s industrial advancement.
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of a major agro-industrial project in Kwame-Danso, Bono Region: Dangote Sugar Refinery.
Dangote stated, framing the venture as “a new chapter” in Ghana’s economic evolution.
As part of Ghana’s One District, One Factory (1D1F) program, the refinery is projected to substantially cut the country’s annual sugar import expenditure, which currently stands at approximately $162 million.
Key aspects of the Dangote Sugar Refinery include:
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A daily sugarcane processing capacity of 12,000 tonnes
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Irrigation infrastructure covering 25,000 hectares of farmland
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Integrated production lines for sugar, molasses, and ethanol
Dangote confirmed that all necessary approvals have been secured and land acquisition finalised, paving the way for full-scale development.
With land secured and necessary permits obtained, we’re moving forward with the support of Ghana’s ‘One District, One Factory’ initiative.
This project tackles Ghana’s US$162 million sugar import bill while fostering a sustainable, homegrown solution.
Beyond its economic benefits, Dangote highlighted the project’s potential to drive broader continental progress.
At Dangote, we envision more than just a factory. We see a catalyst for economic independence, job creation, and transformative impact across Africa. Join us in shaping the continent’s future
This initiative underscores Dangote Group’s expanding presence in West Africa and aligns with regional objectives to strengthen food security, industrial capacity, and employment opportunities.
The refinery is anticipated to create thousands of jobs across Ghana’s agricultural, logistics, and manufacturing sectors.
Komenda sugar factory: Persistent operational challenges
In contrast, the Komenda Sugar Factory in the Central Region remains non-operational. Despite a $35 million investment from the Indian government in 2016 to revive the facility, it has struggled due to:
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A shortage of raw materials, particularly sugarcane.
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Management and technical issues.
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Lack of consistent government support and oversight.
The government has expressed intentions to revitalize the factory, aiming to create approximately 7,500 jobs.