Make it in Africa to Build Africa (MABA) - more than just a slogan; not just words, but a rhythm, a pulse, a promise. It is the heartbeat of Saint-Gobain Africa. A regional commitment that transforms our global purpose—Making the World a Better Home—into something deeply personal.
Saint-Gobain Strengthens Local Manufacturing with New Ekurhuleni Plant
At the official inauguration, Saint-Gobain Africa opened its new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Ekurhuleni, marking an investment of more than R500 million in local manufacturing. The event brought together government representatives, industry partners and community stakeholders, marking a strong vote of confidence in South Africa’s economy and industrial potential, rooted in international collaboration and local empowerment.
SAINT-GOBAIN AFRICA APPOINTS AYMERIC D’YDEWALLE AS NEW CEO
Johannesburg, South Africa, Saint-Gobain, worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, is pleased to announce the appointment of Aymeric d’Ydewalle as the new Chief Executive Officer for Saint-Gobain Africa, effective July 2025. Aymeric succeeds Othman Benjelloun-Touimi, under whose leadership the Africa region accelerated its transformation journey and reconfirmed its commitment to Africa, embedding Saint-Gobain’s purpose-driven roadmap across the continent.
Saint-Gobain Africa Sparks Urgent Conversations on Sustainable Construction
On World Environment Day, we hosted our first-ever Sustainable Construction Talk in Sub-Saharan Africa and what a powerful day it was! Together with leaders from across the construction, finance, academic, and more sectors, we unpacked “Inclusivity in Sustainable Construction: How do we create an ecosystem of stakeholders so that sustainability is at the right cost?”.
Saint-Gobain Africa goes Solar at Four South African sites.
A key step towards our goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 has been achieved! Saint-Gobain Africa is proud to announce the installation of solar energy systems at four of its major plants in South Africa. This renewable energy initiative will provide for 40% of the electricity needs at our Brakpan, Alrode, Germiston and Parow plants, offsetting more than 6 800 tons of CO2 emissions annually by harnessing the power of the sun!
Together with The NextSmile and the Saint-Gobain Foundation, we’re proud to share the progress of a school currently taking shape in Kenya. Every brick laid brings us closer to creating a safe, inspiring space for learning and opportunity. As the Swahili proverb says: “Haba na Haba hujaza kibaba.” (Little by little, the pot gets filled.) This journey is still unfolding and the best is yet to come. Stay tuned as Saint-Gobain Kenya move closer to completing this school and unlocking brighter futures for the community.
You've probably seen our milestone step towards sustainable construction. Hear more from our people on what makes the futuRE Range so significant. Sustainability is a core pillar in our commitment to Make it in Africa to Build Africa (MABA). Grounded in this commitment, the futuRE Range is a significant step in building Africa more responsibly for generations to come.
From Botswana to Africa: Jamal Trading’s Inspiring Story of Local Impact
Against the backdrop of Botswana’s beauty and resilience, one woman chose to build more than just structures she chose to build hope. In a world where challenges often outnumber chances, she makes it in Africa to build Africa. With grit in her spirit and purpose in her heart, she created more than a business; she created opportunity, dignity, and jobs for her community.Jamal Trading Company
Every wall she raised, every hand she hired, and every life she touched became part of a bigger story a story of strength, self-belief, and the power of local impact.
For the third stop in the global journey, we’re proud to host Francois Gemenne in South Africa. Access to education, housing renovation with accessible and sustainable materials, factory construction: discover the concrete solutions developed on the ground by our teams. This episode highlights how we are Making it in Africa to build Africa.
Introducing the New Weber Gamazine product: Gamatex Decorative Finishing Plaster
Saint-Gobain Africa is pleased to introduce Gamatex, a Gamazine decorative, textured, acrylic, bonded plaster by Weber Tylon, designed for both visual appeal and durability, and suitable for interior or exterior use.