Compressed earth block production for construction
Starting costs about 8,280,000 NGN in Nigeria and 2,110,000 KES in Kenya. After 12 months, this business can bring in about 452,000 NGN net per month in Nigeria and 65,400 KES in Kenya. The starting money comes back in about 2.5 years, with 45 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 247 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | 8,280,000 NGN | 452,000 NGN |
| Kenya | 2,110,000 KES | 65,400 KES |
| India | 1,050,000 INR | 47,700 INR |
| Philippines | 995,000 PHP | 39,100 PHP |
| South Africa | 335,000 ZAR | 12,100 ZAR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
Cement and fired bricks are expensive and environmentally costly, while local soil can make strong, insulating blocks.
The solution
A production unit for mechanically pressed stabilised earth blocks, with quality control, delivery and training for masons on how to lay them.
Your customers
People building their own homes, small developers, NGOs, schools, local councils and architects interested in eco-construction.
How you make money
Sold per block or per square metre of wall, well below local concrete-block prices, plus paid delivery and training.
Competition
Concrete-block and fired-brick makers, informal brick producers, and other earth-block units.
Who has an edge
A mason, civil engineer or builder who masters soil testing and can convince masons and architects of the quality.
The risks
Client distrust of earth, demanding building codes, variable soil quality, rainy seasons and working-capital needs.
The first 3 steps
- Have local soil tested and produce trial blocks.
- Compare manual and motorised presses and cost the full unit.
- Build a small demonstration building with a pilot client.
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €6,500 − costs €5,200 = €1,300 net per month. Revenue: 12,000 blocks × €0.50 + €500 of deliveries. Costs: earth and cement, one worker's wages, press upkeep, transport, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Compressed earth blocks?
About 8,280,000 NGN (Nigeria), 2,110,000 KES (Kenya), 1,050,000 INR (India), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 247 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about 452,000 NGN (Nigeria), 65,400 KES (Kenya), 47,700 INR (India) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 2.5 years, with 45 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
Client distrust of earth, demanding building codes, variable soil quality, rainy seasons and working-capital needs.
Where do I start?
1. Have local soil tested and produce trial blocks. 2. Compare manual and motorised presses and cost the full unit. 3. Build a small demonstration building with a pilot client.
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