AfriSam is playing a pivotal role in the construction of one of Gauteng’s largest and most technically complex water towers, supplying specially designed readymix concrete to meet both structural and seismic performance requirements. Located near Main Reef Road south of Johannesburg, the 43 metre high water tower will store 3,2 mega litres of water to support the new Goudrand mega city development.

With construction led by M&D Construction and engineering design by SCIP Engineering Group, the project has demanded highly customised concrete solutions from AfriSam. The structure is located in a seismically active zone and required additional reinforcement in the lower section of the shaft to withstand ground acceleration above 0,1g. This called for increased steel density and a concrete mix that could deliver strength, flowability and controlled heat of hydration.

AfriSam’s Product Technical Team Leader, Mduduzi Ndlovu, explains that the concrete mix was developed with a high proportion of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce the heat generated during curing. “The base mix comprised 70% ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBS) and 30% AfriSam High Strength Cement, reducing the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content to just 20%,” says Ndlovu. “Despite the low OPC content, the mix exceeded expectations – achieving the target strength of 51 MPa was achieved in only 28 days in relation to the designed 56 day requirement. ”

The construction process placed high demands on the readymix in terms of both slump control and delivery precision. With over 210 kg of rebar per cubic metre in some sections, AfriSam developed a high slump pump mix for vertical pours, while limiting slump to 130 mm for slanted sections to avoid concrete sliding off shuttering.

Sheldon Temlett, Contracts Manager at M&D Construction, highlights the importance of this mix performance. “With such dense steel and complex geometry, AfriSam’s mix gave us the workability we needed without compromising quality. Their team worked closely with us to adjust slump levels and plan deliveries around our 12 m³/hour pour rate.”

AfriSam Territory Manager Toni Williams adds that logistics were carefully aligned with construction progress to avoid delays or idle time on site. “Coordination was key to supporting M&D’s controlled rise rate of 1 metre per hour, especially as the concrete had to partially set before each formwork lift could proceed.”

Construction of the Main Reef water tower began in September 2024 and is scheduled for completion in April 2026. Once commissioned, it will provide essential water infrastructure to approximately 20,000 homes in the Goudrand housing development – a major project spearheaded by the Gauteng Department of Housing, the City of Johannesburg and Blue Print Housing.

In a construction landscape where cost pressures are rising, AfriSam’s Amit Dawneerangen is raising a red flag cautioning contractors that cutting corners on material quality may appear cost effective in the short term, but it compromises the long term performance and value of infrastructure. 

As Executive: Sales & Product Technical at AfriSam, Dawneerangen sees worrying signs of a growing trend – across both public and private sector projects – where the drive to reduce costs is resulting in widespread ‘buying down’ on material quality.

Dawneerangen argues that the foundation of any durable and cost effective infrastructure project lies in the quality of materials used. Cement, aggregates and readymix concrete must meet rigorous standards if structures are to withstand time and usage. “Quality is the basis for longevity in construction projects,” he says. “And yet, there is an increasing appetite for lower quality alternatives that may meet the immediate budget but not the design intent or long term performance requirements.”

Infrastructure investment remains one of the most powerful tools for economic growth, with a proven multiplier effect. But the benefits only materialise if the projects built are sustainable – both structurally and financially. 

Dawneerangen points to AfriSam’s own commitment to quality assurance, noting that all its cement products are produced in ISO 9001-certified facilities and conform to SANS 50197 requirements. 

On road projects especially, material testing is critical. AfriSam applies globally recognised methodologies such as Los Angeles Abrasion, Polished Stone Value and California Bearing Ratio tests. Its quarries produce a range of products from G1 to G7 for layerworks in line with COTO and other relevant specifications and most also supply stone and crushed sand for asphalt production.

Yet despite the availability of tested compliant materials, Dawneerangen is seeing a shift in specifications that opens the door to lesser products. From an aggregate perspective, the traditional ‘blue’ rock – competent material mined from deeper layers – has always been preferred for its high compressive strength. Increasingly, however, this is being blended with overburden or ‘brown’ material, resulting in downgraded specifications. These blends are being embraced as a cheaper alternative even though they may compromise structural integrity.

The practice has also led to a rise in illegal mining operations where unregulated borrow pits offer free-dig material with minimal processing costs. “There is no drilling or blasting required. It is a quick fix for contractors chasing margins,” says Dawneerangen. “But it undermines legal operators who invest in compliance and quality.”

The same trend is evident in the readymix sector. AfriSam, traditionally known for supplying premium strength concrete upwards of 35 MPa, has seen demand shift below the 30 MPa mark. “The drop in average strength tells its own story. Affordability is driving decisions but at what long term cost?”

Dawneerangen emphasises that using subpar materials often results in hidden costs. Inconsistent properties can lead to rework, premature failure and costly delays. “The right material used in accordance with design specifications eliminates the need for unscheduled corrective work,” he says. “So-called cheap materials can end up being very expensive.”

Working with a reputable supplier, he believes, is non-negotiable. AfriSam’s vertically integrated offering – from quarry to cement plant to readymix site – ensures that quality is consistently monitored throughout the value chain. The company’s SANAS 17025-accredited Centre of Product Excellence collaborates closely with customers to tailor solutions to specific applications, backed by in-house labs and quarterly testing.

Dawneerangen also notes the importance of sourcing aggregate from legally registered quarries recognised by industry bodies like ASPASA, which helps regulate surface mining practices. ASPASA conducts audits and drives continuous improvement through its technical committees, providing vital industry oversight. 

Unfortunately, no such structure exists in the readymix industry which, he says, has become highly deregulated. This has created space for opportunistic suppliers who under-yield or engage in questionable practices, often undercutting responsible operators on price while delivering poor product quality.

Ultimately, Dawneerangen’s message is clear. South Africa cannot afford to sacrifice infrastructure integrity for short term savings. “Adherence to quality control guarantees successful execution of projects on time and within budget. With the role that infrastructure plays in our country’s future, we must stop seeing quality as optional. It is the smartest investment we can make.”

In a country building towards a better future, what we put into our infrastructure today determines its value tomorrow. From homes and schools to highways and water systems, South Africa’s development depends on strong lasting foundations and that means choosing quality construction materials from the start. AfriSam’s Sales and Marketing Executive, Richard Tomes, says that quality cement is one of the most unappreciated yet critical components in our built environment. 

“It is central to the way we create our modern world and facilitate development, providing a cost effective path to a better future,” Tomes says. This cement, often hidden from sight beneath roads or inside walls, is the glue that binds the country’s progress together.

What sets AfriSam apart is not just the volume of cement it produces but the quality behind every bag. Each product is designed for longevity because early repairs or rebuilds are simply not an option for developing countries. Good cement choices made decades ago are still saving money today by reducing the need for maintenance and freeing up resources for other priorities.

AfriSam’s All Purpose Cement is a standout in its class – engineered to remove confusion in the market and deliver consistent high performance results across structural and residential applications. For the manufacturing sector, AfriSam’s Rapid Hard Cement gives precast and paving producers the speed they need to stay productive, offering high early strength and faster turnaround times. On South Africa’s roads, the company’s RoadStab Cement, a specially formulated cement for stabilising the layers beneath the surface, helping prevent the scourge of potholes.

Large infrastructure demands even more specialised solutions. On projects like the Lesotho Highlands Water scheme and the construction of wind turbine bases, AfriSam’s low-heat cement helped mitigate cracking by carefully managing the heat of hydration during curing. “It is not just about performance – it is about precision,” Tomes says.

That same attention to detail extends to AfriSam’s environmental approach. By incorporating extenders such as fly ash and slag – byproducts from coal and steel production – the company significantly reduces the carbon footprint of its cements. In fact, its average carbon content per kilogram of cement is below the global average. And with low-water-demand options now available, customers can help preserve one of South Africa’s scarcest resources.

But perhaps what matters most is how AfriSam ensures its quality promise reaches customers. Through its bi-annual Voice of Customer survey the company gains real-time insights across the full customer journey, from product selection to final payment. “Just like checking out of a hotel, the final experience can shape the entire perception,” says Tomes. “Our goal is to deliver not only a great product, but a great relationship through remarkable service.”

“In the end, it is simple,” he says. “If you want infrastructure that lasts, start with materials that are built to. What goes into it matters because the future depends on it.” 

In South Africa’s highly competitive construction industry, contractors are under pressure not only to deliver quality projects but to remain financially viable in the face of tight margins and unpredictable challenges. AfriSam, a leading supplier of construction materials, recognises that success requires more than just products – it calls for genuine support, technical expertise and long-term partnership.

Koena Sesele, AfriSam’s National Sales Manager – Inland, highlights how narrow profit margins leave little room for error. Delays, rework or slow payments can severely affect cash flow, making quality and efficiency crucial from the outset. Choosing the right cement, for example, can have a direct impact on cost and performance. 

“Not all cements are created equal,” says Sesele. “With AfriSam’s high quality products, you can achieve more with less, reducing the amount of cement required per mix while ensuring strength and consistency.”

AfriSam supports its products with comprehensive technical expertise. Its Centre of Product Excellence and team of technical consultants offer guidance on mix designs and material optimisation, helping builders produce durable concrete that meets project demands. Technical specifications are clearly printed on every bag of cement, and additional resources are available online to assist contractors on site.

The company is also committed to skills development. Through ongoing training programmes, AfriSam helps upskill contractors on construction methods, material use and best practices. Digital tools such as online “how-to” guides and a material calculator further support accurate planning and help prevent wastage. 

For contractors managing their own operations, the ClickToGo digital platform enables real-time account access, simplified ordering, secure payments and delivery tracking, reducing admin and improving responsiveness.

Recognising that access to working capital is often a hurdle, AfriSam offers flexible purchasing options. Contractors can apply for credit (subject to guarantees) or make secure cash purchases online. Deliveries can be scheduled in phases to conserve cash flow, and for bulk cement needs, delivery in silos enhances efficiency.

Sesele encourages early engagement with AfriSam, even from the quoting stage, to unlock the full benefit of the company’s support. “When we get involved early, we can help builders make smart choices that reduce risk, save money and improve project outcomes,” he says. “It is also about credibility – having AfriSam as a partner reassures clients of your professionalism.”

At the heart of AfriSam’s approach is a commitment to building long-term relationships. “We are not just a supplier; we are a partner in every sense,” Sesele concludes. “By combining quality products, expert advice and practical solutions we are helping contractors succeed in a tough market and build stronger businesses for the future.”

Mega-projects in the construction sector typically demand an intense level of inputs over short periods, which can put significant pressure on supply chains that may be underdeveloped or unprepared. 

This makes it essential for South Africa to maintain and strengthen its capacity to deliver the expertise and materials needed for such large-scale projects, according to Amit Dawneerangen, Construction Materials Executive: Sales and Product Technical at AfriSam. He emphasises the strategic role that established companies like AfriSam play in supporting the economy’s recovery and growth through their resilience and long-standing industry presence.

Dawneerangen explains that mega-projects, such as roads, dams and energy infrastructure, have the potential to accelerate economic development significantly. However, the extended downturn in the construction sector has raised concerns about its readiness to meet the demands of these massive undertakings. AfriSam, he notes, has consistently positioned itself as a reliable partner in these kinds of projects, drawing on nearly 90 years of experience in the industry. 

“This longevity is no accident; it is the result of a deliberate effort to retain capabilities and world class expertise throughout various economic cycles,” he says. 

AfriSam’s ability to service large-scale projects stems from its network of strategically located cement manufacturing facilities, quarries, crushing operations and batching plants across the country. These resources allow the company to supply material from multiple sites while maintaining strict quality standards. Dawneerangen stresses the importance of early-stage collaboration in mega-projects – ideally at the bidding or even pre-bidding phase – to ensure that all players in the supply chain are aligned and prepared for the high production volumes and extended shifts such projects often demand.

Changes in project scope, even minor ones, can trigger widespread impacts throughout the supply chain. AfriSam addresses this by working closely with customers during the planning process to anticipate and mitigate risks. With mega-projects pushing production volumes to levels beyond what many contractors and suppliers typically handle, Dawneerangen insists that quality must never be compromised. This requires robust quality control systems supported by cutting-edge technology.

For example, AfriSam employs computerised batching systems in its readymix operations to ensure precise adherence to engineer-approved mix designs. Quality checks are implemented at every stage – from pre-dispatch testing of readymix concrete to on-site sampling – ensuring the required strength and performance of the final product. Batch printouts further guarantee that mixes consistently meet specifications.

To ensure uninterrupted material delivery – a key factor in staying on schedule – AfriSam relies on its extensive footprint of facilities and vehicle fleets, all managed through advanced flexible planning systems. This logistical strength enables the company to support demanding projects across the country including landmark developments such as the Leonardo in Sandton, the PwC headquarters in Midrand, and various major road upgrade initiatives.

AfriSam’s Rapid Hard Cement is a product that transformed the construction industry with its unique characteristics and unparalleled benefits. Designed for projects requiring high early strength, AfriSam Rapid Hard Cement is engineered to significantly accelerate product manufacturing timelines.

The locally produced cement boasts superior early strength, making it ideal for projects that demand a quick turnaround especially where fast track precast construction projects are concerned. This cement is favoured for specialist precast products and particularly those requiring quicker demoulding times. 

The fineness of the cement provides a larger surface area to react with water, increasing the rate of hydration which aids higher early-strength development. The rapid hydration rate also makes it ideal for use in cold weather. 

The benefits of AfriSam Rapid Hard Cement extend beyond just speed and strength. Builders and contractors will appreciate the quick removal of formwork, enabling faster progress on site and reducing downtime and labour costs. 

The consistent quality ensures fewer disruptions, allowing project timelines to be met with greater confidence. Furthermore, its strength contributes to the long-term integrity of structures, minimising the need for repairs and maintenance.

AfriSam Rapid Hard Cement is a game-changer in the construction industry, offering a blend of speed and versatility.

Despite ongoing challenges in the construction sector, South Africa’s economic outlook is showing encouraging signs of improvement. This was one of the key messages at AfriSam’s Annual Budget Breakdown event held in Johannesburg in February 2025, where Dr Azar Jammine, Econometrix Director and Chief Economist, highlighted a renewed sense of business confidence.

As a leading supplier of construction materials, AfriSam has long been at the forefront of industry developments, supporting infrastructure growth and economic progress. Speaking at the event, Dr Jammine noted that indicators such as the Bureau for Economic Research’s Business Confidence Index and Absa’s Purchasing Managers’ Index reflected a marked improvement in sentiment over the past six months.

“The latest data shows increased optimism with businesses expecting better conditions ahead,” he said. “Key factors include reduced load shedding and a government more open to private sector collaboration.”

Dr Jammine attributed part of this shift to Eskom’s recent leadership changes which have prioritised skills and expertise as well as the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) which is fostering greater oversight and reducing corruption. He also pointed to stronger cooperation between government and business as an essential step in revitalising economic growth.

However, significant challenges remain particularly in the construction sector. Structural constraints, such as inefficiencies in logistics and the continued decline in investment, continue to weigh on economic growth. Gross fixed capital formation – a key driver of demand for cement and other construction materials – remains well below international benchmarks. This has had a direct impact on infrastructure projects and commercial developments.

Despite these concerns, AfriSam remains committed to supporting the industry. AfriSam Executive Chairman Eric Diack said that AfriSam has strategically positioned itself to weather industry fluctuations while safeguarding its expertise and operational capacity. 

“We understand that maintaining a strong foundation of skills, experience and technical proficiency is critical to ensuring long term sustainability,” he said. “By continuing to invest in our people, processes and infrastructure, AfriSam has remained resilient, ready to support the industry’s growth as market conditions improve.”

This steadfast approach has allowed AfriSam to reinforce its role as a trusted partner in the construction sector, ensuring customers continue to receive high quality materials and reliable service. Diack added that AfriSam’s commitment extends beyond its own operational stability, as the company also plays a proactive role in driving industry-wide progress. 

“We recognise the importance of collaboration in revitalising the sector and we continue to engage with stakeholders across the value chain to find solutions that benefit everyone,” he said. 

Political and economic analyst and strategist Frans Cronje also addressed the event, reinforcing the theme of resilience and collaboration. He highlighted strong public support for pragmatic governance, noting that the GNU aligns with the economic aspirations of South Africans across demographics.

“The majority of South Africans want policies that foster stability, growth and job creation,” said Cronje. “This reflects a positive long term trajectory for the country.”

AfriSam’s Annual Budget Breakdown remains a key platform for industry insights reinforcing the company’s role as a leader in South Africa’s construction sector. With renewed optimism in the economic environment and a commitment to sustainable growth, AfriSam continues to support the development of vital infrastructure, helping to shape the country’s future.

Testimony to the high levels of health and safety standards maintained across its quarry operations, AfriSam’s Construction Materials division marked a four year Lost Time Injury (LTI) Free milestone in October 2024. 

The latest Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) milestone follows hard on the heels of the 2022 and 2023 Top Corporate Performer accolades in the annual ASPASA ISHE Awards. According to Vernon Brown, National Health & Safety Manager Construction Materials at AfriSam, the latest achievement once again demonstrates the company’s total commitment to creating a safe environment where every employee returns from work unharmed every day.

For AfriSam, OHS compliance goes beyond simply controlling and preventing the risks inherent in mining activities – it is a comprehensive strategy that seeks to instil a safety culture rooted in active awareness of the importance of safety protocols. 

“Within our construction materials business, and the AfriSam organisation at large, there is an understanding that improving health and safety performance is a long term goal that requires sustained effort, resources and commitment,” says Brown. “What sets us apart is an executive leadership that shows a genuine and visible commitment to the achievement of a safety culture, treating health and safety as a line management responsibility.” 

Commenting on some of the key initiatives that contribute to the company’s exceptional safety record, Brown makes special mention of the inter-plant safety competition. The main aim of this initiative is to “change the hearts and minds of employees” when it comes to safety. The inter-plant competition focuses on four key areas – statistics, audits (both internal and external), housekeeping and continuous improvement. 

Audits, he says, go beyond just the score and provide a platform to address any shortcomings that might have been pinpointed by the auditor. Meanwhile, good housekeeping – one of the basic pillars of successful health and safety practices – can help prevent accidents such as slips, trips and falls which are common in quarries and mines. 

“Safety leadership, not only at executive level, but also at operations level has been key to our successful OHS performance. Quarry managers are empowered to take initiative in developing their site-level safety interventions. These initiatives are inclusive and speak directly to the people at these operations,” says Brown.

Technology, says Brown, has dramatically changed the way the industry operates and its impact on workplace safety is no exception. Over the years, AfriSam has leveraged technological advancements to create a safer work environment. 

One area where this is apparent is in trackless mobile machinery where the company is among the first quarrying groups to adopt Proximity Detection Systems (PDS) and Collision Prevention Systems (CPS). This is aimed at eliminating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-people interactions. 

“As part of our Traffic Management Plans, we have identified areas with significant risk which led to the adoption of PDS/CPS technology. We have currently done a full installation at our Verulam Quarry in KwaZulu-Natal. We have also done trials at our Rheebok Quarry in the Western Cape and we are busy with trials at our Jukskei operation in Gauteng,” concludes Brown.

It is now easier than ever to manage the purchase of construction materials from AfriSam, but the whole customer experience is much deeper than just this moment in the relationship.

“We have built our business around our customers, ensuring that they are buying not just our products but peace of mind and long-term cost effectiveness,” says Richard Tomes, AfriSam Sales and Marketing Executive. “Beyond the products themselves, customers are also benefiting from our depth of technical expertise and support – while also joining our quest to create a better society.”

Tomes highlights that AfriSam’s digital platform ClickToGo streamlines the customer experience when purchasing products online. It provides a seamless process from enquiries and quotes, through order placement and technical advice, to payments and delivery tracking.

“At the same time, we know that customers often need to speak directly to an informed and responsible employee, who will deal with their query – however complex,” he says. “Automated systems can’t always do that, so we have a contact centre manned by experienced people, and they work from a centralised office – not from home – that is well resourced for optimal responsiveness.”

He emphasises, though, that the whole customer experience rests upon decades of innovation and a market leading expertise that underpins the success of customers’ projects – whether large or small. Serving the growing DIY and small builder market, for instance, AfriSam’s quality All Purpose Cement ensures strength and longevity in a diverse range of applications.

“For those segments where the risk of selecting an inappropriate cement category is high, our All Purpose Cement gives users the best results across various applications,” he says. “This is becoming more important as more and more cement is sold from retailers, often to relatively inexperienced users.”

Tomes points out that there is significant risk involved when people make poor or uninformed purchasing decisions about critical building material like cement. The BBC has reported that the Nigerian capital Lagos experiences a building collapse every two weeks on average, with substandard or inappropriate building material being a common factor. 

“We also see tragic consequences from unsafe food in South Africa, and we should recognise that products like cement also require informed purchasing decisions,” he says. “We are proud that we can assure people of our guaranteed quality, so that they can build safe and durable buildings.” 

At the same time as it serves inexperienced users, AfriSam is well known for its leading edge skills and facilities, on which large and medium-sized contractors often rely for technical advice, bespoke concrete mixes and specialised support. Its reputation for reliability also means that quality is consistent and deliveries are on time, keeping projects on track and on budget.

“This capability gives our customers the comfort that project risks are being effectively mitigated, to deliver structures that are safe and long-lasting,” says Tomes. “It also ensures value for money, as quality materials in construction will avoid unbudgeted expenditure on repairs and maintenance.”

As a responsible company investing continuously in skills and community development, AfriSam’s commitment to a ‘positive African future’ includes maintaining and nurturing critical expertise for construction to thrive. 

“As a BBBEE Level 2 contributor, we actively pursue transformation goals for our company, the sector and the country,” he says. “This ensures that the economic growth we facilitate is inclusive and supports future livelihoods for all.”

AfriSam High Strength Cement has become the benchmark in the South African construction industry, providing unmatched strength and durability that cater to both large-scale projects and intricate construction needs. This premium product is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern construction, offering a multitude of benefits that enhance the quality and longevity of structures.

This versatile product is designed for a wide range of applications, and is particularly suited for the construction of high-rise buildings, bridges and other infrastructure projects that require exceptional strength and resilience. Its superior compressive strength makes it ideal for load-bearing structures, ensuring stability and safety over extended periods. Additionally, this cement is perfect for use in precast concrete products, where consistency and reliability are paramount.

One of the key advantages of AfriSam High Strength Cement is its enhanced durability. Structures built with this cement are better equipped to withstand environmental stresses such as extreme weather conditions, chemical exposure and mechanical wear and tear. This results in longer lasting constructions that require less maintenance and repair, ultimately leading to significant cost savings over the lifespan of the structures.

The cement’s rapid strength development is another noteworthy benefit. Projects using AfriSam High Strength Cement can achieve faster turnaround times, as the cement reaches its optimal strength more quickly than standard cement types. This efficiency not only accelerates construction schedules but also reduces labour costs and minimises the potential for project delays.

AfriSam High Strength Cement boasts excellent workability, allowing for easier handling and application. This facilitates smoother and more precise construction processes, contributing to higher quality finishes and reduced wastage. The cement’s compatibility with various admixtures further enhances its versatility, enabling it to be tailored to specific project requirements and environmental conditions.

Sustainability is a core value at AfriSam, and its High Strength Cement reflects this commitment. The product is manufactured using environmentally responsible practices, minimising its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable construction. By choosing AfriSam High Strength Cement, builders and developers are contributing to a more sustainable future while benefiting from a product that delivers exceptional performance.