Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
CONSTRUCTION of the multi-million-dollar Chegutu Cement Plant by Chinese investor Shuntal Investment Private Limited is now at 90 percent, with commissioning now expected in August after delays caused by disruptions linked to the Middle East tensions.
Shuntal Investment administrator Mr Jack Zhang said the project was initially scheduled for commissioning in May but was affected by challenges in procuring and shipping critical equipment.
“We are now at 90 percent of construction, and we are confident that cement production will commence in August this year,” Mr Zhang said.
He said the Middle East conflict had affected global supply chains, particularly the movement of cargo through the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in increased shipping costs, longer delivery timelines and higher fuel prices.
The disruptions affected the transportation of equipment needed for the project, pushing back the initial commissioning schedule.
Once operational, the Chegutu Cement Plant is expected to produce 800 000 tonnes of cement annually, boosting Zimbabwe’s industrial capacity and creating employment opportunities.
The project has so far employed about 200 workers during construction, with Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo saying the plant would contribute significantly to the province’s economic growth.
“This will improve the province’s GDP. Currently, we are ranked fourth in the country as a province and with this progress, we are certain that we will increase our production and contribution,” Minister Chombo said.
Ward 28 Councillor, Cde Tatenda Gwinji said more youths in the area were going to be employed.
