Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa recently in CHEGUTU
THE US$80 million cement plant currently under construction in Chegutu by China’s Shuntai Investments is now 65 percent complete and set for commissioning within the next four months.
Over 300 people from Chegutu have been employed at the site.
Once operational, the plant will produce over 800 000 tonnes of cement annually, boosting domestic supply, stabilising prices and reducing reliance on imports.
Overall, total cement production is envisaged to rise to three million tonnes by 2027 through additional investments in Zvishavane, Bulawayo and Mutare.
The project, which incorporates environmentally friendly technology, is one of Zimbabwe’s largest industrial investments in recent years.
In an interview during a recent tour of the plant, the company’s general manager, Mr Li Xiaodong, said the project was firmly on track.
“We are almost 65 percent down from the general construction and our target is to finish the whole project by the end of June. Commissioning will follow immediately, ensuring the plant begins contributing to Zimbabwe’s infrastructure growth,” he said.
The scope of the plant includes cement, lime and power generation.
“We are building an 800 000-tonne cement production line per year, alongside a 30-megawatt thermal power plant,” said Mr Li.
“The facility also includes a 400 000-tonne lime production line annually, making it one of the most comprehensive operations in the sector.”
Beyond Chegutu, Mr Li said Shuntai Investments will roll out additional plants in Zvishavane, Bulawayo and Mutare.
“By the end of 2027, our total cement production will exceed three million tonnes per year at the national level.
“This expansion reflects a strong vote of confidence in Zimbabwe’s economic direction and the potential of its industrial hubs,” he said.
Employment opportunities, he said, are central to the project, with hundreds from Chegutu already hired.
“Our Chegutu plant employs more than 300 locals and across the country, we will create another 1 000 jobs. First, we will prioritise the local people and for skilled workers, we will source from nearby communities before looking elsewhere.”
Mr Li added that Shuntai Investments’ distribution network would help stabilise cement prices and support small businesses.
“According to our analysis, by 2027, our market share will be around 40 percent nationwide. We will establish distribution centres in cities such as Kwekwe and Shabani to support small businesses and reduce price imbalances.”
