B5 Plus and Mukesh Thakwani: Pioneering High-Quality Steel Production in Ghana

Reflecting on 2024, what was a key achievement for B5 Plus, and how has it influenced the company’s direction for 2025?

In 2024, B5 Plus achieved a major milestone by significantly expanding its range of steel products, including bar wire, chain link, reserve wire, and several new offerings tailored for the construction and mining industries. This expansion further solidified the company’s leadership in the steel manufacturing industry in Ghana and across West Africa. These product launches marked a transformative step forward, showcasing B5 Plus’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the “Made in Ghana” vision. In addition to diversifying its product line, B5 Plus initiated a groundbreaking new section focused on producing pendants, angle bars, channel bars, U-beams, I-beams, and other critical components locally in Ghana. The initiative aligns with the company’s strategy to address gaps in the market, provide tailored solutions for construction and industrial applications, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a self-reliant industrial hub.

Starting in 2025, B5 Plus plans to increase production capacity across its operations to meet the growing demand for high-quality steel products, including square bars, round bars, and specialized materials for infrastructure projects. This strategic move aims to reduce the country’s dependency on imports, enhance local industrial capabilities, and create numerous employment opportunities. The company is also exploring advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure superior product quality while adhering to international standards. By focusing on sustainable growth and innovation, B5 Plus is not only contributing to Ghana’s industrial base but also positioning itself as a beacon of excellence in the regional steel market.

How have these products performed in the market since their introduction?

The new products have performed exceptionally well, with strong demand for items like TMT bars, galvanized steel, and reinforcement rods. Customers have appreciated the high quality and competitive pricing of these steel products. B5 Plus has also seen growing interest in export opportunities within the West African market, targeting countries such as Senegal, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Liberia. Moreover, the launch of the Granny Media Ballroom, a state-of-the-art facility, will cater to the mining industries in Ghana and other West African markets, reinforcing B5 Plus’s position as a leader in the region’s steel industry.

That is quite interesting. Which countries in West Africa are you targeting for exports?

We are focusing on exports to countries across West Africa, from Senegal to Nigeria, including landlocked nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Coastal countries such as Ivory Coast and Liberia, which have a high concentration of mining industries, are also key targets. Our goal is to deliver high-quality steel products, such as mild steel rods, deformed bars, and steel beams, to meet the diverse needs of these markets.

What sets B5 Plus apart from competitors, not only in Ghana but across West Africa, and keeps it a leader in steel production?

B5 Plus distinguishes itself as a passion-driven company focused on producing the highest quality steel products at competitive rates. With a portfolio that includes hundreds of items, such as structural steel, stainless steel rods, and high-tensile iron rods, we ensure consistent quality and affordability. Our commitment to delivering excellence extends to serving both Ghanaian and West African markets, providing steel solutions for various applications, including industrial buildings, warehouses, malls, and infrastructure projects. B5 Plus’s journey from B-B Engineering to becoming a major exporter across West Africa highlights its dedication to innovation and value addition.

What are some of the challenges you face while working toward achieving the big picture?

One of the biggest challenges is countering the influx of cheap steel imports, which undermines local industries. Despite being a leading producer of primary steel in Ghana, B5 Plus faces competition from low-quality imports that benefit from government exemptions. Our primary steel production process, which uses virgin iron ore, ensures superior strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance, setting us apart from scrap-based steel producers. To support the growth of Ghana’s steel industry, it is essential to prioritize locally produced products and implement policies to curb these imports. B5 Plus’s ISO-certified processes and Kaizen-driven approach ensure the delivery of international-standard materials, including European and American-grade steel.

What initiatives are you taking to lobby the government for policies that could help reduce the influx of inferior products and transform the industry?

We are actively engaging with the Ministry of Trade and other stakeholders to advocate for stricter import policies and the cessation of exemptions for inferior products. By sourcing consumables locally and emphasizing the importance of “Made in Ghana” steel, we aim to create jobs, save foreign currency, and strengthen the economy. Our advocacy efforts focus on highlighting the benefits of supporting local industries and encouraging government procurement of high-quality steel products manufactured in Ghana.

Given the issue with these importations, how competitive are your prices?

B5 Plus ensures its steel prices remain competitive with international rates while offering superior value. By producing steel locally, we eliminate high freight and shipping costs associated with imports, allowing us to provide affordable options for construction and infrastructure projects. Our state-of-the-art facilities enable us to produce high-quality products, such as structural steel and steel rods, ensuring faster delivery and cost savings for our customers.

Looking ahead to 2025, what projects or initiatives are you most focused on, and what is your main priority?

In 2025, B5 Plus aims to expand its product line further, introducing new items like steel boards for the mining industry and custom-fabricated steel solutions. The company also plans to enhance its collaboration with the government to prioritize the procurement of locally produced materials for public projects. These initiatives will help boost the economy, create jobs, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional leader in steel production.

How do you see the industry generally in your perspective moving forward?

The steel industry in Ghana and West Africa is on a positive trajectory, with growing investments in construction and infrastructure projects. B5 Plus’s leadership in producing high-quality, locally manufactured steel products positions it as a key player in the region’s development. With political stability and a commitment to fostering local industries, Ghana is well-placed to attract further investment and drive industrial growth.

What is B5 Plus’s solution to the mining industry in West Africa with these new products?

B5 Plus’s solution includes providing goods made in Ghana to international standards, such as grinding media balls, high-tensile iron rods, and structural steel. These products meet the rigorous requirements of the mining sector while offering competitive pricing, superior quality, and faster delivery. Our commitment to serving the mining industry reinforces our position as a reliable partner in the West African market.

Are some mining companies showing interest?

Yes, we are in discussions with several mining companies, and our reputation as the backbone of the mining supply chain industry continues to grow. This year, we received an award for our contributions to the mining industry in Ghana, further solidifying our leadership and commitment to delivering excellence.

What’s your view on the newly elected government for 2025? Do you think it will impact your business?

A stable government is essential for industrial growth. The peaceful elections in Ghana demonstrate the nation’s maturity and provide a conducive environment for business. We are optimistic that the new government will implement policies that support local industries, including the steel sector, enabling us to expand our operations and exports beyond West Africa.

What’s your perspective on STEM education initiatives, and what do you project from B5 Plus’s efforts in this area?

B5 Plus actively promotes STEM education through initiatives like annual science exhibitions and partnerships with educational institutions. Our efforts include hosting exhibitions featuring innovative engineering and science models, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders in the steel and engineering industries.

What is the outlook for 2025, and can you share more about your new facility?

In 2025, B5 Plus will introduce a new section dedicated to producing custom-fabricated steel products, such as angle bars, channel bars, and U-beams. This facility will not only cater to the Ghanaian market but also serve West Africa and beyond, reinforcing our commitment to supporting local industries and reducing dependency on imports. By prioritizing “Made in Ghana” products, we aim to create jobs, boost the economy, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional leader in steel manufacturing.

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