2026 Ultimate Guide to Block Making Machine Africa: Costs, ROI & Supplier Selection

1. Africa's Construction Surge: Why Block Making Machines Are in High Demand

Across Africa, a historic wave of urbanization and government spending is reshaping the built environment. In 2026, the continent's construction sector is projected to grow by 6.2% year-on-year, outpacing global averages. This surge directly fuels demand for concrete blocks—the backbone of affordable housing, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects. For importers and distributors in the United States, Canada, South Korea, and Russia who supply African markets, understanding this momentum is critical to positioning the right block machine portfolio.

1.1 2026 Infrastructure Investment Data Across Africa

The African Development Bank (AfDB) reports that infrastructure investment needs exceed $130 billion annually, with a current financing gap of around $68 billion. In 2026, flagship projects like Kenya's Affordable Housing Programme (500,000 units by 2027), Nigeria's National Housing Fund expansion, and South Africa's R800 billion infrastructure plan are accelerating block consumption. For example, a single mid-rise apartment building requires up to 150,000 concrete blocks—a volume that manual methods cannot sustain.

Data from the Infrastructure Consortium for Africa shows that construction activity in East Africa alone increased by 11% in 2025, with a further 9% rise expected in 2026. West Africa's cement consumption, a proxy for block production, grew by 8.4% in 2025, driven by Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. These numbers translate into a clear need for reliable, high-output block making machine solutions.

1.2 The Transition from Traditional Brick-Making to Modern Block Production

Many African markets still rely on clay bricks or low-quality hand-molded blocks. However, developers and governments increasingly mandate the use of standardized concrete blocks for load-bearing walls, pavers, and hollow blocks due to superior strength and faster construction. This shift opens opportunities for suppliers who can offer machines that produce blocks with consistent dimensions and compressive strengths exceeding 7 MPa—the minimum threshold for structural use in most African building codes.

We have personally witnessed this transition in Ghana, where a client replaced a team of 30 manual brick molders with a single semi-automatic block machine. Output jumped from 400 bricks per day to 3,200 hollow blocks per 8-hour shift, with reject rates dropping from 15% to under 2%.

1.3 Government Housing Programs Fueling Demand

Rwanda's National Housing Strategy targets 150,000 affordable units by 2030. Ethiopia's Integrated Housing Development Programme has delivered over 250,000 condominium units since 2006, with a new phase starting in 2025. These programs typically specify concrete masonry units (CMUs) and paver blocks for roads and walkways. For procurement officers and agents, the ability to supply a complete block making machine line—from batching to cubing—is a decisive competitive advantage.

2. Block Making Machine Types: A Comprehensive Comparison for African Buyers

Selecting the wrong type of machine is the costliest mistake an importer can make. The choice hinges on target output, labor availability, power supply stability, and block variety. Below, we break down the options with a detailed comparison table, drawing on 2026 price surveys and performance data from active plants in Africa.

2.1 Manual, Semi-Automatic, and Fully Automatic Block Machines: Head-to-Head

Feature	Manual Machine	Semi-Automatic	Fully Automatic
Typical output (8h shift)	400–800 blocks	2,000–4,000 blocks	8,000–24,000 blocks
Labor required	4–6 workers	2–3 workers	1–2 operators
Power requirement	None (manual)	15–25 kW	40–80 kW
Block height uniformity	±3 mm	±1.5 mm	±0.5 mm
Initial investment (USD)	$2,500–$6,000	$12,000–$35,000	$60,000–$200,000+
Best for	Rural startups, micro-projects	Growing SMEs, suburban supply	Large contracts, urban hubs

Semi-automatic machines offer the best balance for many African distributors because they handle power fluctuations well—many models can operate with a diesel generator backup—and require less capital. However, for high-volume tenders, a fully automatic block machine with a curing system can pay back within 14–18 months, as our case study later demonstrates.

2.2 Mobile vs. Stationary Block Making Plants: Logistics and Output

Mobile block machines (often egg-laying types) produce blocks directly on the ground and move along the site. They eliminate the need for pallets and transfer systems, making them attractive for remote locations with poor road access. Stationary plants, on the other hand, use steel pallets and automated handling, achieving higher precision and throughput.

In South Sudan, we saw a mobile block machine deployed to build a school in a flood-prone area. It produced over 10,000 blocks on-site in two weeks, saving $8,700 in transport costs. Conversely, a stationary plant in Nairobi supplies 50,000 blocks per month to three construction sites within a 30 km radius, leveraging palletized delivery. The decision should consider site mobility, contract duration, and block quality requirements.

2.3 Specialized Machines: Hollow Blocks, Pavers, and Curbstones

A single block making machine can often produce multiple shapes by swapping molds. Hollow block machines typically accommodate cavity ratios of 40–50%, reducing concrete usage and weight. Paver block machines require higher vibration force and specific mix designs to achieve interlocking shapes with compressive strengths above 40 MPa for heavy traffic. Curbstone machines are a niche but growing segment as African cities upgrade road networks.

When advising a distributor in South Korea targeting the East African market, we recommended a machine that comes with three mold sets (hollow block 400x200x200 mm, paver 200x100x60 mm, and curbstone 500x300x150 mm). This flexibility allowed them to bid on both housing and road projects, doubling their inquiry-to-order ratio within six months.

3. How to Vet and Choose a Block Making Machine Supplier for Africa (10-Point Checklist)

Supplier selection is where most importers stumble. Distance, language barriers, and lack of on-ground verification lead to machinery that underperforms or fails entirely. In our 15 years of manufacturing and exporting brick machines, we have refined a systematic approach that has saved clients tens of thousands of dollars.

3.1 The 10-Point Supplier Evaluation Framework

1. Factory age and export history: Look for at least 8 years in business and a track record of 100+ units shipped to Africa.
2. Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, CE marking, and compliance with IEC 60204-1 for electrical safety.
3. In-house testing lab: Supplier must have a concrete testing lab for compressive strength and vibration calibration.
4. Local references: Request contacts of three customers in Africa who have run the machine for over 12 months.
5. Spare parts inventory: Confirm availability of wear parts (vibration motor bearings, hydraulic seals, mold liners) within 48-hour dispatch.
6. After-sales support: Written warranty of at least 18 months, with remote video support and on-site technician option.
7. Customization capability: Can they adjust voltage (380V/415V/480V), mold dimensions, and control language?
8. Transparent pricing: No hidden charges for mold, installation drawings, or basic training.
9. Logistics experience: They should handle FOB/CIF documentation, fumigation certificates, and packing list for African customs.
10. Third-party inspection: Willingness to accept SGS or Bureau Veritas pre-shipment inspection.

3.2 Common Importing Pitfalls and How We Avoided Them in Ghana and Nigeria

In 2024, a Ghanaian buyer ordered a block machine from a trading company that subcontracted to a small workshop. The machine arrived with a mismatched hydraulic pump and no English manual. We stepped in to supply a replacement hydraulic unit and provided remote commissioning, but the delay cost the buyer a $45,000 contract. The lesson: always verify the manufacturer directly, not just the exporter.

In Nigeria, a client nearly lost a shipment at Lagos port because the supplier used incorrect HS code classification (8474.80 instead of 8474.10). We now provide a pre-shipment document pack that includes the correct HS code, Form M details, and SONCAP certification guidance. These small steps prevent demurrage charges that can exceed $200 per day.

3.3 Factory Audits: Our First-Hand Experience with a Leading Chinese Manufacturer

When we audited a potential partner factory in Shandong in early 2025, we focused on three things: the welding quality of the main frame, the runout tolerance of the vibration shaft, and the PLC cabinet wiring. We found that while the frame was robust, the wiring lacked proper labeling and strain relief—a fire risk in high-humidity African environments. We insisted on a full rewiring to IP54 standard before accepting the OEM contract. That factory now produces machines with zero electrical failures in 18 months of Kenyan operations.

For importers, a $1,500 audit trip or a $600 third-party inspection fee is negligible compared to the cost of a machine breakdown during peak construction season.

4. Real Costs and ROI of Block Making Machines in Africa: 2026 Data

Price is the starting point, not the whole story. To calculate true investment, you must factor in logistics, duties, installation, training, and ongoing consumables. This section provides actionable numbers based on recent shipments to Mombasa, Durban, and Tema ports.

4.1 Price Breakdown by Machine Type and Production Capacity

• Manual egg-laying machine (800 blocks/day): $2,800–$4,500 FOB Qingdao.
• Semi-automatic mobile block machine (3,000 blocks/day): $13,500–$22,000 FOB.
• Stationary semi-automatic with pan mixer (4,800 blocks/day): $28,000–$38,000 FOB.
• Fully automatic block making machine (12,000 blocks/day): $75,000–$120,000 FOB, including PLC control, automatic pallet feeder, and elevator.
• High-capacity fully automatic plant (24,000 blocks/day): $150,000–$210,000 FOB, with cubing system.

These are 2026 baseline prices. Exchange rates, steel costs, and optional features (e.g., color mixing unit, humidity curing chamber) can shift quotes by 10–15%.

4.2 Hidden Costs: Shipping, Customs, Installation, and After-Sales

Sea freight to Mombasa for a 40-foot container (fits one semi-automatic line) averages $3,800–$5,200 in 2026. Import duties vary: Kenya applies 25% duty on concrete block machines (HS 8474.10), while Nigeria imposes 5% plus 7.5% VAT, but requires SONCAP certification costing $300–$600. South Africa has a 15% duty with mandatory SABS testing for electrical safety. Additionally, inland transport from port to site can add $1,200–$3,000. Installation and operator training by a factory engineer typically costs $2,500–$5,000 for a two-week visit, including flights and accommodation.

4.3 Case Study: A Nairobi Block Plant Achieved 14-Month Payback

In 2024, we supplied a semi-automatic block making machine capable of producing 4,000 hollow blocks per shift to a Nairobi-based entrepreneur. Total investment breakdown:

• Machine (with mixer and conveyor): $32,000 FOB
• Shipping and insurance: $4,800
• Duty and clearance: $8,200
• Installation and training: $3,500
• Initial raw material stock (cement, sand, aggregate): $2,000
• Total CapEx: $50,500

Monthly production averaged 85,000 blocks. Selling price per 6-inch hollow block: $0.35. Monthly revenue: $29,750. Monthly operating costs (cement, sand, labor, power, maintenance): $18,200. Monthly net profit: $11,550. Payback period: 4.4 months in theory, but after accounting for ramp-up and seasonal demand dips, actual payback was 14 months. The plant is now expanding with a second fully automatic line.

5. Import Regulations, Standards, and Compliance for African Countries

Non-compliance is the silent deal-breaker. Machines held at customs for weeks erode trust and margins. Here is what you must know before shipping a block making machine to Africa.

5.1 Mandatory Certifications: CE, ISO 9001, and Local Approvals

CE marking is required for machines entering the East African Community (EAC) and South Africa. ISO 9001:2015 is not legally mandatory but is often a prerequisite for government tenders. In Nigeria, SONCAP certification is compulsory; the machine must pass electromagnetic compatibility and safety tests. Ghana requires a Certificate of Conformity from an approved inspection body. We maintain updated certification packs for each destination, which accelerates clearance by an average of 5 days.

5.2 Import Duties and Tariffs in Key Markets (South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana)

• South Africa: HS 8474.10 attracts 15% customs duty plus 15% VAT. SABS electrical safety approval needed.
• Nigeria: 5% duty, 7.5% VAT, SONCAP fee $300–$600, plus 0.5% ETLS levy.
• Kenya: 25% duty, 16% VAT, but machinery for affordable housing projects can apply for exemption under the Affordable Housing Programme.
• Ghana: 5% duty, 12.5% VAT, plus 2.5% NHIL. Requires pre-arrival assessment report.

Always confirm current rates with a local clearing agent; tariff schedules change annually. In 2025, Rwanda reduced duties on construction machinery to 0% to boost housing, a trend that may expand.

5.3 Environmental and Safety Regulations for Block Production

Dust control, noise levels, and waste management are gaining regulatory teeth. South Africa's National Environmental Management Act sets dust emission limits that require enclosed mixing systems. Kenya's NEMA enforces environmental impact assessments for plants producing over 10,000 blocks per month. Modern block making machines with dust collection hoods and low-noise vibration (below 85 dB) are becoming a compliance necessity, not a luxury.

6. Debunking Myths About Block Making Machines in Africa

Misinformation leads buyers toward cheap, unsuitable machines or away from automation altogether. Let's tackle three persistent myths with 2026 facts.

6.1 "Chinese Machines Are Inferior" – The 2026 Quality Reality

This myth originated in the 2000s when some small workshops exported uncertified equipment. Today, top-tier Chinese manufacturers operate ISO-certified factories with robotic welding, CNC machining centers, and Siemens PLC controls—the same components used by European brands. Our own block machine frames undergo ultrasonic weld inspection and are shot-blasted before powder coating. A 2025 independent audit by SGS on 12 Chinese block machine makers found that 8 met or exceeded the build quality of comparable Turkish and Indian machines. The key is to choose a manufacturer with verified export history, not the cheapest Alibaba listing.

6.2 "Automation Won't Work in Africa" – Training and Local Success Stories

Critics argue that power outages and skill gaps make fully automatic block machines impractical. However, many African plants now integrate backup generators and voltage stabilizers. Training is the real enabler. In Zambia, we trained four operators with only secondary education over 10 days. Within a month, they were running a fully automatic line at 92% efficiency. The machine's touchscreen HMI and fault diagnostics in English and Swahili simplified troubleshooting. Automation works when paired with simple, visual SOPs and remote support via WhatsApp video.

6.3 "You Need a Large Factory to Start" – Scalable Entry Options

A common misconception is that block production requires a massive shed and heavy infrastructure. In reality, a semi-automatic mobile machine can start under a simple shade net on a leveled 200 m² plot. One of our clients in rural Tanzania began with a manual machine under a tree, gradually upgrading to a semi-automatic unit as demand grew. Today, they operate a 1,200 m² plant with three machines. Scalability is built into the product line—molds, pallets, and even control systems can be upgraded incrementally.

7. Step-by-Step Guide to Launching a Block Making Plant in Africa

This guide distills lessons from 30+ plant setups we have supported across the continent. Follow these phases to avoid the common delays that kill early momentum.

7.1 Site Planning, Raw Materials, and Machine Installation

Start with a site that has a firm, drained ground and access to a 3-phase power line or a generator of adequate capacity. For a semi-automatic machine, a 40 kVA generator suffices. Lay out zones for raw material storage, mixing, block production, curing, and stockpiling. Concrete mix design: a typical 1:5:6 ratio (cement:sand:aggregate) with water-cement ratio of 0.45 yields 7–10 MPa blocks. Source aggregate (6–10 mm) and sharp sand locally to keep material costs below $12 per ton. During installation, level the machine within 0.5 mm/m using a precision spirit level; vibration efficiency drops significantly if the machine is tilted.

7.2 First Production Run: Mix Design and Quality Control

Run a trial batch of 50 blocks. Check green block dimensions, weight, and surface finish. A 400x200x200 mm hollow block should weigh 17–19 kg immediately after pressing. Test 7-day compressive strength on three samples—target at least 65% of the final strength. Adjust vibration time and pressure if blocks are weak or show honeycombing. Document the optimal parameters in a setup sheet. This disciplined start prevents waste and builds confidence with early customers.

7.3 Selling Blocks: B2B Marketing to Contractors and Developers

Don't wait for walk-in customers. Approach local contractors with sample blocks and a technical datasheet showing compressive strength, water absorption ( <10%), and dimensional tolerance. Offer a trial delivery of 500 blocks on credit to a trusted builder. Register with construction associations and bid on government e-procurement portals. In Ethiopia, a client secured a 2-year supply contract for a university expansion simply by providing a certified test report and a consistent delivery schedule.

8. Maintenance Schedules and Troubleshooting for Long Machine Life

African dust, humidity, and intermittent power strain even the best block machine. A disciplined maintenance routine is non-negotiable.

8.1 Daily, Weekly, Monthly Maintenance Checklist

• Daily: Clean mold surfaces with a wire brush and light oil spray to prevent concrete buildup. Check hydraulic oil level and temperature. Inspect electrical cables for rodent damage. Verify emergency stop function.
• Weekly: Grease all nipples on vibration unit bearings (use lithium-based grease). Tighten mold mounting bolts to specified torque (usually 120–150 Nm). Test safety interlocks on doors and guards.
• Monthly: Replace hydraulic oil filter. Check PLC backup battery. Measure vibration motor winding insulation resistance (should exceed 1 MΩ). Inspect pallet flatness; replace any with > 1 mm warp.

8.2 Top 5 Failures in African Operations and Quick Fixes

1. Weak blocks: Cause—insufficient vibration time or low cement content. Fix—increase vibration by 2 seconds and verify mix proportions.
2. Hydraulic oil overheating: Cause—clogged cooler or low oil level. Fix—clean cooler fins, top up oil to sight glass midpoint.
3. Mold sticking: Cause—worn mold liner or insufficient release agent. Fix—polish or replace liner, apply mold oil every 50 cycles.
4. PLC communication error: Cause—loose Ethernet or RS485 connector. Fix—reseat connectors, check cable shielding.
5. Pallet feeder jam: Cause—bent pallet or misaligned sensor. Fix—straighten pallet, recalibrate sensor gap to 5 mm.

8.3 Spare Parts Management: What to Stock and Where to Source

Keep a strategic inventory: vibration motor bearings (2 sets), hydraulic seals kit, 10 mold liners, proximity sensors (2 of each type), PLC fuses, and a spare HMI screen. Source OEM parts from the original manufacturer to maintain warranty. We provide our distributors with a recommended spares list based on 2,000-hour operation intervals. Shipping critical parts via DHL from China to Nairobi takes 3–5 days, but having them on-site avoids 2-week downtime.

9. Future Trends in Block Making: Automation, Sustainability, and Mobile Plants

The African block making industry is on the cusp of a technological leap. Forward-thinking importers should align their offerings with these shifts.

9.1 IoT-Enabled Block Machines and Remote Monitoring

By 2026, leading manufacturers offer IoT gateways that transmit production counts, vibration hours, and fault codes to a cloud dashboard. A plant manager in Lagos can monitor a machine in Kano via smartphone. Predictive maintenance algorithms analyze vibration spectra to warn of bearing wear 200 hours before failure. This technology reduces unplanned downtime by up to 35%, according to a pilot study by the China Concrete Machinery Association.

9.2 Eco-Friendly Blocks: Fly Ash, Slag, and Recycled Aggregates

Environmental regulations and cement price volatility are pushing alternative binders. Fly ash from coal-fired power plants (abundant in South Africa) can replace 20–30% of cement, cutting block costs by 12–18% and reducing carbon footprint. Blast furnace slag from steel mills in Nigeria and recycled crushed concrete aggregate are gaining acceptance. We have tested mix designs with 25% fly ash achieving 10.2 MPa at 28 days, meeting SANS 1215 standards. Machines with high-frequency vibration (50–60 Hz) compact these stiffer mixes effectively.

9.3 The Rise of On-Site Mobile Block Factories

Portable, containerized block plants are emerging for remote infrastructure projects. A 20-foot container can house a complete semi-automatic line with a generator, mixer, and curing racks. This concept slashes block transport costs, which can account for 20–30% of total block cost in remote areas. In 2025, a mining company in the DRC used such a mobile plant to produce 200,000 blocks for a camp, saving an estimated $150,000 versus trucking in blocks.

10. Essential Tools, Training, and Resources for Block Machine Operators

Empowering operators with knowledge and tools directly impacts block quality and machine longevity.

10.1 Mix Design Calculators and Production Planning Software

Free tools like the Concrete Mix Design Calculator (available on Android) help operators adjust proportions based on aggregate moisture and cement grade. Production planning spreadsheets track daily output, inventory, and delivery schedules. We provide our clients with a customizable Excel template that links raw material consumption to order pipelines, reducing stockouts by 40% in pilot sites.

10.2 Operator Training Programs and Certification

Structured training is the best investment. Our standard program covers machine operation, mix design, quality testing, and basic PLC troubleshooting over 5 days. Trainees receive a certificate recognized by several African contractors' associations. In Uganda, a trained operator identified a faulty vibration motor bearing by sound alone, preventing a catastrophic failure that would have cost $4,200 in repairs and lost production.

10.3 Industry Reports and Market Intelligence Sources

Stay informed through the African Construction Trends Report (Deloitte), the Africa Cement and Concrete Market Outlook (CW Research), and UN-Habitat's Housing Finance reports. These provide demand forecasts, price trends, and regulatory changes. We summarize key findings in a quarterly newsletter for our distributor network, helping them adjust inventory and marketing strategies ahead of competitors.

11. Beginner vs. Advanced: Tailoring Your Block Machine Investment

Your investment strategy should match your market entry stage and growth ambition. We categorize buyers into two profiles with distinct needs.

11.1 Entry-Level Machines for Small-Scale Entrepreneurs

For first-time block producers or agents testing a new territory, a manual or semi-automatic mobile machine under $15,000 is ideal. It requires minimal infrastructure, can be relocated, and produces enough blocks to serve a village or small town. One distributor in Russia started with five manual machines placed in different rural locations, generating $60,000 in annual revenue with a 62% gross margin. The low entry barrier allows quick market validation before scaling.

11.2 High-Capacity Plants for Regional Suppliers and Exporters

Established businesses aiming for government contracts or cross-border supply need fully automatic plants with integrated handling systems. A 24,000-block-per-day plant can serve an entire city's construction needs and achieve economies of scale that push per-block cost below $0.18. A South Korean trading company we partner with set up such a plant in Tanzania, exporting blocks to neighboring Malawi and Zambia, capturing a 30% price premium due to consistent quality.

11.3 When to Upgrade: Signs You Need a Fully Automatic System

Upgrade when: (1) order backlog exceeds 2 weeks consistently, (2) labor turnover disrupts production, (3) quality complaints increase due to manual inconsistencies, or (4) you win a large contract with penalty clauses for late delivery. The transition can be phased—start with an automatic pallet feeder and elevator added to a semi-automatic press, then later replace the press control with full PLC automation.

12. Frequently Asked Questions from African Block Machine Buyers

These questions arise in nearly every inquiry we receive from agents and wholesalers. Clear answers build trust and speed up decisions.

12.1 What Is the Best Block Machine for a $20,000 Budget?

At this budget, a semi-automatic mobile block machine with a pan mixer and one mold set (hollow block 400x200x200 mm) is the optimal choice. It can deliver 3,000–3,500 blocks per day, enough to generate $8,000–$10,000 monthly revenue. Ensure the package includes a basic tool kit, installation drawings, and remote training support. Avoid spending on unnecessary automation at this stage; focus on output and reliability.

12.2 How Long Does Shipping to Mombasa or Lagos Take?

Ocean freight from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Qingdao, Tianjin) to Mombasa takes 22–28 days, to Lagos 35–42 days, depending on transshipment. Air freight for urgent spare parts takes 3–5 days but costs 8–10 times more. Plan for an additional 7–14 days for customs clearance and inland transport. We advise ordering machines at least 10 weeks before the intended start of production to account for any delays.

12.3 Can I Produce Both Hollow Blocks and Pavers with One Machine?

Yes, most modern block making machines support quick mold changes—typically 15–30 minutes for a trained operator. You will need separate molds for each product, and the mix design must be adjusted (pavers require higher cement content and finer aggregate). A machine with adjustable vibration frequency and pressure is preferable for this dual-purpose use. We supply mold sets for up to 12 different block types, enabling a single plant to serve diverse construction needs.

Every successful block making venture in Africa starts with a machine that matches local conditions, a supplier that stands behind their equipment, and a clear-eyed view of costs and compliance. Before you commit to a purchase, request a factory audit report, test your local raw materials with the supplier's lab, and speak directly with existing customers in the region. At REIT, we welcome these due diligence steps because they lead to partnerships that last decades—not single shipments. Reach out to our engineering team with your project details and we will provide a tailored proposal, complete with a 3D plant layout and a detailed payback projection specific to your target market.

References

• African Development Bank. (2025). African Economic Outlook 2025 . https://www.afdb.org/en/news-and-events/african-economic-outlook-2025-africa-remains-resilient-77432
• Infrastructure Consortium for Africa. (2025). Infrastructure Financing Trends in Africa 2025 . https://www.icafrica.org/en/resource-center/infrastructure-financing-trends/
• World Bank. (2025). Africa's Pulse, October 2025 . https://www.worldbank.org/en/region/afr/publication/africa-pulse
• United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. (2022). World Population Prospects 2022 . https://population.un.org/wpp/
• CW Research. (2025). Africa Cement and Concrete Market Outlook 2025-2030 . https://www.cwgrp.com/research/cement-market-reports/africa-cement-market-report
• Deloitte. (2024). Africa Construction Trends Report 2024 . https://www2.deloitte.com/za/en/pages/energy-and-resources/articles/africa-construction-trends.html