Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
GOVERNMENT is optimistic about the impact the US$1 billion cement plant being built in Magunje, Hurungwe, by Whi-Zim International, will have on the economy.
The plant is more than 40 percent complete and expected to create 2 000 jobs by August next year.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi toured the site last Friday, where he also had time to listen to concerns from seven displaced families who had settled on State land for decades.
He emphasised the need for collaboration between the investor and the community, highlighting the project’s potential to boost local employment and cement production.
Despite some concerns from residents about the plant’s impact on the nearby Magunje/Kemureza Dam, Minister Ziyambi encouraged community engagement with the company.
“This is a welcome development for Magunje and the province as it will create employment while at the same time boost the country’s cement production,” he said.
“There will be a lot of activities in this area and it will uplift the lives of the people. As the government, we are pleased about the project.”
Whi-Zim’s chairman, Mr Thomas Chidzomba, affirmed their commitment to working with local leaders for mutual benefits.
Zanu PF provincial chairman and Hurungwe RDC chairperson, Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, said the project feeds into the rural industrialisation drive spearheaded by President Mnangagwa.
“This means development to the whole district, which in turn supports the council’s operations,” she said.
The project aligns with Zimbabwe’s goal to reduce cement imports by 2026 and supports rural industrialisation initiatives.
Local officials believe it will address social issues by providing stable jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing access to clean water, as the investor has already drilled 11 boreholes and plans to build a clinic and classrooms.
