Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa-Mashonaland West Bureau
CONSTRUCTION is underway for a major cement plant near Magunje Growth Point, backed by a Chinese investment from Whi-Zim.
This colossal facility, with a projected capacity to employ over 2 000 people and produce millions of tonnes of cement annually, is set to transform the region’s economy.
The cement plant represents a multi-million dollar investment aimed at boosting local infrastructure and industry.
While the plant was initially scheduled to commence production in June 2025, legal challenges have delayed the timeline to June 2026.
This project is a joint venture between Labenmon Investments and West International Holding, and is expected to have a substantial impact on the provincial Gross Domestic Product (GDP), currently ranked third behind Harare and Bulawayo.
The Magunje community has already begun to see benefits from the project, with over 50 local residents employed in the initial stages of construction.
Among them is Ms Melody Chakabva, a young female worker who shared her transformative experience.
“We never pictured that Magunje would have a plant big enough to employ thousands. As one of the first employees, I can now support my parents,” she said.
Local leaders believe that the project will also help address social issues, such as drug abuse and domestic violence, by providing stable employment opportunities.
Ward 11 Councillor Mr Dosmatter Makumbirofa underscored the multifaceted benefits of the investment.
Beyond job creation, the investor has drilled 11 boreholes to support the Government’s efforts in providing clean and potable water to the community. The company also plans to construct a clinic and classroom blocks, as well as rehabilitate the Magunje-Chidamoyo road, which is crucial for transporting the key raw material, limestone.
Chief Chanetsa, under whose jurisdiction the plant falls, praised President Mnangagwa for his efforts in attracting foreign investment.
“We have started to benefit from the vision of President Mnangagwa already, as this project is set to improve the lives of many,” he said.
The chief encouraged the community to support the initiative, emphasising that its benefits outweigh any concerns raised by some villagers.
A recent site visit by a team from the office of Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Marian Chombo, revealed that construction of the over US$700 million project is 20 percent complete.
Whi-Zim operations manager Mr Grant Salim said site levelling works have been completed, and the facility is now connected to the national grid.
They have also received construction materials, and preliminary work to set up the plant and worker accommodation is underway.
Mr Salim noted that the investor aims to complete the installation and commissioning of essential equipment, such as the concrete mixing station and brickmaking machine, by the end of May. In addition, the construction of the transmission line and office accommodation is targeted for completion by July.
Despite the progress, the project faces challenges in acquiring work permits for 300 Chinese experts needed throughout the construction phase.
There are also hurdles related to clearance for rehabilitating a vital 47km stretch from the production site to the limestone mine.
Labenmon Investments’ local representative, Mr Thomas Chidzomba, highlighted the strategic decision to establish the plant in rural Hurungwe as a means to foster rural industrialisation.
