Africa is building—and the opportunities for suppliers of construction materials and hardware have never been greater.

A combination of rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, housing demand, and government investment is driving record growth in construction activity. From residential estates and office complexes to shopping malls, hotels, and industrial facilities, developers are looking for high‑quality, cost‑effective, and durable building materials.

Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Côte d’Ivoire are leading the charge, with bustling cities such as Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, and Abidjan emerging as construction powerhouses.

Market Size in Figures

• Africa’s construction industry is valued at over USD 180 billion in 2024, with construction materials and hardware alone accounting for USD 85–90 billion annually.
• Nigeria represents over USD 20 billion in construction activity, fueled by housing and infrastructure projects.
• South Africa’s mature market is valued at USD 25 billion, with strong demand for both standard and high‑end materials.
• Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania combined generate USD 12 billion, driven by urban housing schemes and road networks.
• Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire are among the fastest‑growing markets, recording double‑digit growth in material imports and local production.

Opportunities

• Core Building Materials: Boards, bricks, tiles, concrete, flat glass, and sheet metal are in constant demand for residential and commercial construction.
• Roofing & Ceilings: Ceilings, laminated vinyl, insulation, and fireproof materials are sought after for modern building standards.
• Doors & Windows: High‑quality door and window systems, fasteners, and sealing products are needed for energy efficiency and security.
• Finishing Products: Flooring, construction paint, wallpaper, and timber add value and style to new developments.
• Plumbing & Water Systems: Pipes, plastic PVC, polycarbonate sheets, hot water systems, and water tanks are integral to new builds.
• Structural & Metallic Items: Rivets, screws, nuts, bolts, washers, wrought iron, fencing, railing, and shelving are essential hardware.
• Specialty Equipment: Scaffolding, drill bits, tools, and portable structures support on‑site efficiency.
• Luxury & Niche Segments: Sauna installations, stone marble, and timber houses are finding growing interest in upscale developments.
• Safety & Modernization: Fireproof products, fiberglass, and elevators are in increasing demand as building codes tighten.

Challenges

• Logistics & Supply Chain: Heavy materials require efficient shipping, storage, and reliable last‑mile delivery.
• Standards & Certification: Meeting local quality standards and obtaining certifications is essential for market entry.
• Currency Volatility: Import costs can fluctuate, impacting margins.
• Competition: Low‑quality alternatives flood some markets, so quality assurance and education are key.

How SCA‑Partner Can Help

At SCA‑Partner, we connect European manufacturers of construction materials and hardware with trusted African distributors, contractors, and developers.

We work across Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Côte d’Ivoire to help you:

• Conduct market research and competitor analysis
• Identify and appoint exclusive distributors or sales agents
• Navigate regulatory and standards requirements
• Manage logistics, customs, and warehousing
• Provide on‑ground representation to grow your market presence

Are you ready to supply Africa’s growing construction boom with world‑class materials and hardware?

👉 Partner with SCA‑Partner today and unlock profitable opportunities in Africa’s construction materials and hardware sector.

Contact us now to explore distribution and investment opportunities in Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Côte d’Ivoire!