Saint-Gobain Africa has renewed its commitment to the African continent through unifying programme, Make it in Africa to Build Africa (MABA). 

This is an extension of the Group’s purpose of “Making the world a better home”. “Make it in Africa to Build Africa is about partnering with all construction market stakeholders to build a sustainable Africa from within,” says the CEO, Othman Benjelloun-Touimi. 

Addressing sustainability  

MABA translates into actionable and impactful goals tailored to Africa, addressing its unique realities and opportunities. One of the four main pillars of this programme is sustainability. 

The group invites the entire ecosystem to transform the industry, believing sustainability is no longer an option. It is committed to innovation with products and solutions that maximise its contribution to people’s health and well-being, while minimising the impact on the planet.  

The FutuRE range includes products like RhinoBoard, Isover Cavitylite and Weber WB11.

The FutuRE range 

In line with this commitment, Saint-Gobain Africa is excited to introduce The FutuRE range – a new selection of sustainable construction solutions designed to enhance efficiency and minimise the environmental impact while maintaining the same cost.  

This range currently includes RhinoBoard® 9mm, RhinoBoard® 12,5mm, RhinoBoard® FireStop® (12,5 and 15mm), Isover Cavitylite® and Weber WB11®.  

Each has a third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) and a positive contribution to at least one strategic sustainability criteria, such as a minimum of 10% reduction in CO₂. 

MABA pillars 

The remaining pillars include local production, empowering local talent (our people), and understanding customers. Saint-Gobain Africa is addressing each of these with the following initiatives: 

• The opening of a new South African fibre-cement plant marks a major milestone for the company. This facility will create more than 60 permanent jobs in its first phase and empower local communities. It will also ensure access to high-quality, durable building solutions at the right cost. 
• Empowering local talents through initiatives such as its graduate programme, which nurtures future African manufacturing leaders. The company also supports community development projects, provides training to contractors and applicators, and offers education opportunities throughout the continent.  
• The company is committed to understanding its customers across the value chain and partnering with them to meet their needs better, offering meaningful innovations and locally produced materials that meet international standards. 

More than a statement, MABA is Saint-Gobain Africa’s collective vision for Africa’s future – setting new standards for sustainable growth and uniting all those dedicated to building Africa.  

“The future of Africa lies in the hands of its people,” says Othman Benjelloun-Touimi. 

For more information, contact Saint-Gobain Africa: 

Website: www.saint-gobain-africa.com