Two Ethiopian ceramic factories switch to local gas
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Fanamc
The ceramic factories in Debre Berhan and Modjo, Ethiopia, are now using locally produced natural gas instead of imported fuels, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced. Their production capacity is expected to exceed national demand, and the move aims to reduce construction material costs, according to the prime minister.
The ceramic factories in Debre Berhan and Modjo, Ethiopia, have replaced imported conventional fuels with natural gas produced in the country. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the conversion on Friday 30 October, saying their production capacity could exceed national demand, FMC reports.
The use of local gas is expected to reduce manufacturing costs and make ceramic products cheaper. Abiy Ahmed linked the expected reduction to the cost of construction materials, which also depends on transport to construction sites.
The Ethiopian government has ordered nearly 100 gas-powered lorries to strengthen distribution and reduce the cost of transporting materials and other goods. The prime minister also cited fertiliser and electricity production among the sectors likely to use more locally produced natural gas, according to FMC.
The conversion of the two factories is part of the expansion of natural gas use in Ethiopian transport. The country has commissioned 26 gas-powered buses and begun the conversion of its taxis to natural gas on 30 October.
