Unlike traditional boards that are dependent on imports or supplied from distant markets, RhinoROC™ is now manufactured locally in South Africa, ensuring improved product availability, shorter supply lead times and stronger integration with local supply chains.

RhinoROC™ fibre cement boards are engineered to meet the demanding performance needs of both residential and commercial construction — including applications in exterior cladding, internal linings, wet areas and façades where strength and longevity are essential. Local production ensures that contractors, specifiers and builders across the region can access a consistent, high-quality product that’s tailored for African climates and building conditions.

Saint-Gobain Africa’s investment in the state-of-the-art Ekurhuleni plant underscores the company’s long-term commitment to local manufacturing excellence and product innovation. The facility reinforces South Africa’s industrial landscape and supports job creation, skills transfer and supplier development within the region.

“At the official inauguration of the RhinoROC™ fibre cement plant, Saint-Gobain Africa leadership highlighted how local production strengthens the company’s ability to deliver fit-for-purpose solutions at scale,” noted coverage of the opening.

This milestone is part of Saint-Gobain’s broader Make it in Africa to Build Africa (MABA) strategy - a regional initiative focused on building sustainable, resilient industries, empowering local communities and advancing long-term economic growth through targeted manufacturing investment.

With RhinoROC™ now rolling off local production lines, builders and developers stand to benefit from a material that combines structural performance with ease of installation and reliability on-site. The local production of RhinoROC™ also reduces logistical emissions and enhances responsiveness to market demand.

The opening of the RhinoROC™ plant marks a defining moment for Saint-Gobain Africa’s footprint in the region - one that pairs manufacturing strength with product leadership and reinforces the company’s purpose of “Making the World a Better Home” through innovation, sustainability and community impact.