Cement is one of the biggest expenses in any construction project. Prices in Kenya fluctuate based on demand, fuel costs, and supply chain factors. This guide compares current prices for major cement brands available in Nairobi.
Cement Price Comparison (50kg Bag)
These are approximate retail prices in Nairobi as of early 2026. Prices vary by supplier and quantity purchased.
| Brand | Type | Price/Bag (KES) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bamburi Nguvu | CEM II 32.5N | 750 – 850 | General construction, plastering |
| Bamburi Power | CEM I 42.5N | 800 – 900 | Structural work, foundations |
| Mombasa Cement | CEM II 32.5N | 720 – 820 | General construction |
| Savannah Cement | CEM II 32.5N | 700 – 790 | General construction, affordable option |
| ARM Cement (National) | CEM II 32.5N | 710 – 800 | General construction |
| Simba Cement | CEM II 32.5R | 730 – 830 | General construction |
| Blue Triangle | CEM I 42.5N | 820 – 920 | Heavy structural, commercial |
*Prices are approximate and vary by supplier, location, and quantity. Bulk orders (100+ bags) typically get 5–10% discounts.
Understanding Cement Grades
Not all cement is the same. Here's what the numbers mean:
- CEM I 42.5N (Ordinary Portland Cement): The strongest grade. Used for foundations, columns, beams, and structural slabs. More expensive but essential for load-bearing elements.
- CEM II 32.5N (Portland Pozzolana): The most commonly used grade in Kenya. Suitable for general construction, plastering, and non-structural work. More affordable and workable.
- 32.5R vs 32.5N: The "R" means rapid hardening — it gains strength faster but costs slightly more. "N" is normal hardening and is fine for most residential work.
Pro tip: Use CEM I 42.5N for your foundation and structural elements, and CEM II 32.5N for walling and plastering. This balances strength and cost.
How to Get the Best Cement Prices
- Buy in bulk: Most suppliers offer discounts for orders of 100+ bags. If you're building a full house, you'll need 200–400 bags total.
- Compare suppliers: Don't just buy from the nearest hardware. Use JengaHub to compare cement suppliers in Nairobi and find better prices.
- Check delivery costs: Some suppliers include free delivery for large orders. Factor this into the total cost.
- Buy direct from distributors: Skip the middleman. Large distributors in Industrial Area and along Mombasa Road often have the best prices.
- Watch for promotions: Cement companies occasionally run promotions with bonus bags or reduced prices.
- Avoid storing cement too long: Cement loses strength over time, especially in humid conditions. Buy what you need for each phase.
How Many Bags of Cement Do You Need?
Rough estimates for a standard 3-bedroom bungalow (~100sqm):
| Phase | Bags Needed |
|---|---|
| Foundation | 50 – 80 |
| Walling (block laying) | 60 – 100 |
| Ring beams & lintels | 20 – 30 |
| Plastering | 40 – 60 |
| Floor screeding | 20 – 30 |
| Total | 200 – 300 bags |
*These are estimates. Your architect's BOQ will give exact quantities.
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