FIVE HUNDRED JOBS. . . US$60m cement plant for the Midlands

Latwell Nyangu

AT least 500 full-time jobs could be created in the first phase of construction after diversified local business, Kwandisa Group, secured partners to invest in a US$60 million cement plant in the Midlands province.

Three hundred more jobs could be added in the second phase.

The consortium of local investors’ deal is now subject to regulatory approval.

Kwandisa is a family owned business, which started in the ‘90s, and has grown into a diversified group with interests in various sectors, including agriculture, retail and manufacturing.

It established itself in the construction industry over the years, moving huge volumes of cement imports, predominantly from Zambia.

It sees success as adopting and implementing policies that prioritise the community’s well-being, employees, and their families, as well as focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.

Kwandisa managing director, Clayton Musasiwa, said the deal would create at least 500 full-time employees in its first phase and add 300 more in the second phase.

“We have been in the market for more than a year now and, finally, we are at a stage where everything is ready for conclusion,” said Musasiwa.

“Unfortunately, I can’t give you more details as we are bound by non-disclosure agreements.

“The past year has been very busy for us, with both local and foreign investors interested in the cement venture.

“I am glad we have found a suitor and can now focus on delivery.”  

The company’s Corporate Sustainability Report for last year showed that the organisation was supporting local communities.

“For more than two decades, Kwandisa Group has been unwavering in its commitment to serve disadvantaged households in Mash Central and help underprivileged families from the Bindura area by providing them with mealie-meal from its subsidiary, Adult Milling Company.

“This programme feeds over 1 000 families per annum,” reads the report.

Musasiwa said the group also plans to invest U$250 000 to double capacity at Adult Milling Company by the end of this year.

“Kwandisa believes success will be amplified as we adopt and implement policies that prioritise the well-being of people in our community, our employees and their families.”