Building materials a search for alternatives in Kenya

Abstract

Building materials constitute the main input in the construction sector , sometimes accounting for as much as 75 % of the cost of a low cost House (E.C.A.1988:2) It is however, regrettable that the majority of the third world countries are still importing significant amounts of building materials and components. The level of imports range from a low percentage of 5 to 10% for such countries as Greece and Mexico, through about 60% for Kenya and Ivory Coast, to even beyond 60% for Yemen Arab Republic (MCT, 1982:iv-45).