By Shadrack Nyakoe
AMSONS Group, a prominent Tanzanian conglomerate, has received unconditional approval from the COMESA Competition Commission for its proposed acquisition of up to 100% of Kenya’s Bamburi Cement Plc.
The regulatory nod marks a major step forward for AMSONS Group as it seeks to expand its presence across the East African cement market.
The COMESA Competition Commission confirmed that the acquisition posed no competition risk to the regional market. In its decision, the Commission stated, “It is unlikely that the proposed merger will lead to the creation of a dominant position that would enable the parties to engage in unilateral conduct in the market.”
The Committee Responsible for Initial Determinations (CID) further assured that the merger aligns with the public interest, potentially boosting trade among COMESA member states. The CID emphasized that the transaction would not hinder competition or negatively impact trade within the region.
AMSONS Group, known for its work in manufacturing and energy, initially issued a binding offer for Bamburi Cement in July 2023 through its Kenyan subsidiary, AMSONS Industries (K) Ltd. AMSONS Group CEO Edha Nahdi welcomed the Commission’s decision, calling it a significant endorsement of the Group’s expansion into Kenya. “The approval is a significant boost to our offer. We remain confident in our acquisition bid, which presents a win-win for investors and strengthens ties between our countries,” said Nahdi.
As part of the acquisition process, AMSONS Group has partnered with KCB Investment Bank to oversee the transaction, demonstrating its commitment to conducting business professionally within the Kenyan market.
Founded in 2006, AMSONS Group initially focused on oil and petroleum products under its Camel Oil Tanzania brand.
The family-owned business has since expanded into various sectors, including cement manufacturing, where it boasts a production capacity of 6,000 metric tons per day, bolstered by its recent acquisition of Mbeya Cement.
The Group also operates a wheat flour mill, a concrete plant, and facilities across Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, DRC, Burundi, and Tanzania, reinforcing its reputation as a regional powerhouse in manufacturing and logistics.
The acquisition is expected to drive regional synergies in the cement industry, enhancing AMSONS Group’s footprint across East Africa and reinforcing cross-border trade within COMESA.