Douala, Bafoussam, Yaounde: Construction experts test, salute quality of Dangote cement’s BlocMaster.

The construction experts tested BlocMaster 42.5R under real work conditions, saluting its resistance and quality.

Block manufacturers in Douala have tested the new product under real working conditions and shared encouraging feedback on its performance. The testing exercise comes six weeks after the product was released to the market. The first of three field demonstration exercises took place on Thursday 29 and Friday, July 31, at 'Briqueterie Ekango' in the Santa Barbara neighbourhood of Bonamoussadi, Douala. There were demonstrations at Briqueterie Sahel, Briqueterie FTZ.

In Yaounde, Dangote Cement officials and stakeholders organised demonstrations in: Briquiterie Carrefour Nomayos, Briquiterie Tsinga village, Briquiterie Pettit Marche Fougerole, Ets Wamba at Odza, Chefferie Minkan and its Mfou at Entrée Lycee.  The Yaoude lap of the campaign spanned August 5 to 11.

Meanwhile, in Bafoussam, the Dangote Cement team engaged with block molders and other stakeholders on August 5 and 6. 

The demonstrations in the West Regional capital took place at Fabrique Tamkam, Bafoussam Force de Dieu, ETS Tedefeu and Bafoussam Camp Sable. 

Block molders used the outreach teams used the campaigns to familiarise with the technical characteristics and practical advantages of the Dangote Cement's latest innovation.

Besides molders, masons, distributors and Dangote technical experts, used the occasion to explain the product's features. 

Innovation born from industry needs

According to the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of Dangote Cement Cameroon, His Majesty Bertrand Mbouck, the product was conceived after extensive consultations with construction professionals.

Mbouck said they had repeatedly requested a cement capable of delivering faster setting time, improved productivity and stronger blocks at an early age.

He said BlocMaster is designed to enable manufacturers to demould, transport and store freshly moulded blocks much earlier than with conventional products. This, he noted, improves production efficiency and profitability.

From theory to practice

The Technical Sales Manager, Christelle Kemeni, said Dangote Cement  deliberately chose to meet professionals in their actual work environment given that the product was designed around their daily realities.

Dangote's technical and research teams, Kemeni said, spent several months visiting block-making sites, gathering feedback from users and identifying the operational challenges they face. 

According to her, one concern repeatedly raised by professionals was the need for cement that develops strength more rapidly while maintaining high durability.

"Our teams visited production sites, listened to your concerns and went back to the laboratory to develop a product that responds directly to those needs," she said.

Kemeni added that the objective was not only to introduce another cement brand but to provide a practical solution capable of improving productivity. This, she said, was done while taking into consideration, durability.

The Technical Sales Manager noted that BlocMaster can also be used for foundations, masonry works, plastering and other structural applications. 

Kemeni noted that, the product offers improved workability and reduces the risks of cracks during construction.