Story by Oleen Ndori

INDUSTRY is optimistic that the expansion of Khayah Cement Zimbabwe will feed into the growth of the construction sector.

The construction sector is a key enabler of national development as the government is making tremendous strides in road rehabilitation, bridge construction along with housing schemes.

Khayah Cement Zimbabwe chief executive officer, Mr Innocent Chikwata says the new mill will use less energy while producing more cement leading to affordable prices for the ordinary person.

“This new plant will use less energy with an increased output leading to lower prices for high-quality products benefitting the ordinary persons,” said Mr Chikwata.

He added that he is hopeful that as indigenous players they will play a key role in finding lasting solutions to challenges facing the county.

Industry and Commerce Minister, Dr Sekai Nzenza believes the introduction of the vertical cement mill is the perfect example of innovation and technology to increase production as well as utilise natural resources for economic growth.

“Under the local content pillar of the NDS1, it is reflecting on the utilisation of natural resources through limestone found in the area as well as an example of innovation and technology to increase production. Khayah Cement is looking towards increasing output from 300 metric tonnes to 1 million metric tonnes, translating to affordable cement for the ordinary person,” she said.

Khayah Cement Zimbabwe is looking towards increasing output from 300 metric tonnes to one million once the mill starts running at full capacity.