Having emerged from equity firm Adenia Partners’ buy-out of Air Liquide’s operations across 12 countries, Africa-based Erium has outlined plans for growth and investment. The company has set its sights on becoming Africa’s first dedicated industrial gas provider ‘from Africa, for Africa’.
“The name ‘Erium’ (pronounced AIRIUM) was inspired by the natural resource – air – and our scientific expertise,” said Alexandre Dufour, CEO of Erium. “The ‘IUM’ suffix connects to the science of gases and materials, reflecting our scientific expertise and the premium quality and optimum solutions we provide. This name encapsulates our commitment to innovation and excellence in the industrial and medical gases sector.”
Operating in countries including Senegal, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Madagascar, Erium aims to cement its position as Africa’s industrial gas leader. It plans to invest heavily in new technologies and plants, prioritising local engagement, innovation, and operational efficiency.
©Erium
Dufour detailed the company’s strategy, which involves increased spending over the next five years to support industrial independence and decarbonisation efforts. “Our plan involves a substantial increase in investment, aiming to quadruple or even quintuple our spending over the next five years,” he said.
Erium’s connection with Air Liquide, through technical cooperation agreements, gives it access to advanced technologies and best practices. “This allows us to be at the forefront and develop projects no others can do on the continent,” he explained.
Showcasing Africa’s industrial potential
Erium states it intends to ‘demonstrate Africa’s industrial potential and its opportunities for innovation.’
“Industrial and medical gases are at the heart of all industrial transformation on the continent – across infrastructure, construction, mines, oil & gas, health, and agro-industry,” said Ndeye Khady Dramé, former Director of Operations Control and Communication.
The company’s investments span a range of sectors. It supplies oxygen to mining operations to improve extraction efficiency while minimising environmental impact and nitrogen to oil and gas pipelines to enhance operational safety. Erium is also involved in the capture and reuse of carbon dioxide (CO2) for applications such as carbonating soft drinks and remineralising drinking water.
Africa’s industrial gas market is projected to grow by more than 7.5% annually until 2030, driven by increasing demand across multiple sectors.
