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Whi-Zim's cement plant progressing well in Zimbabwe
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Construction of a multi-million-dollar cement manufacturing plant by Chinese firm Whi-Zim on the outskirts of Magunje Growth Point is progressing smoothly, with commissioning scheduled for June 2025, officials have confirmed.
The project, which is set to be one of the most significant industrial investments in Mashonaland West Province, has already seen the completion of site levelling and connection to the national power grid. The company has also received key construction materials, and preliminary infrastructure including accommodation facilities is now in place.
During a site tour led by officials from the Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution's office, Whi-Zim Operations Manager Mr Grant Salim revealed that the installation and commissioning of the concrete mixing station and brickmaking machinery would be completed by end of May.
He added that construction of the electricity transmission line is expected to be finalised by the end of this month, while offices and accommodation blocks are on track for completion by July.
"At least 60 locals have been employed so far, and the number is expected to grow significantly to 2,000 workers at full operation," said Salim.
Once operational, the plant will have the capacity to produce 1.2 million tonnes of clinker cement and 1.8 million tonnes of high-grade cement annually, a development set to bolster Zimbabwe's infrastructure and construction sectors.
Deputy Director of Economic Development for Mashonaland West, Mr Gallant Kunodziya, said the government remains committed to supporting the project and resolving challenges, including the issuance of work permits for 300 Chinese technical staff involved in the plant's establishment.
Local traditional leader Chief Chanetsa, on whose land the factory is being constructed, praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for creating a conducive environment for investment.
"This project will bring immense development to our area. We are grateful for the policies that have opened Zimbabwe to such massive investments," he said.
Whi-Zim is a subsidiary of Yaobai International Holding Limited, formerly West International Holding Limited, a multinational conglomerate under West China Cement Limited, which is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
The Magunje plant is expected to contribute significantly to local employment, infrastructure development, and the national economy through import substitution and increased cement supply.
The project, which is set to be one of the most significant industrial investments in Mashonaland West Province, has already seen the completion of site levelling and connection to the national power grid. The company has also received key construction materials, and preliminary infrastructure including accommodation facilities is now in place.
During a site tour led by officials from the Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution's office, Whi-Zim Operations Manager Mr Grant Salim revealed that the installation and commissioning of the concrete mixing station and brickmaking machinery would be completed by end of May.
He added that construction of the electricity transmission line is expected to be finalised by the end of this month, while offices and accommodation blocks are on track for completion by July.
"At least 60 locals have been employed so far, and the number is expected to grow significantly to 2,000 workers at full operation," said Salim.
Deputy Director of Economic Development for Mashonaland West, Mr Gallant Kunodziya, said the government remains committed to supporting the project and resolving challenges, including the issuance of work permits for 300 Chinese technical staff involved in the plant's establishment.
Local traditional leader Chief Chanetsa, on whose land the factory is being constructed, praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for creating a conducive environment for investment.
"This project will bring immense development to our area. We are grateful for the policies that have opened Zimbabwe to such massive investments," he said.
Whi-Zim is a subsidiary of Yaobai International Holding Limited, formerly West International Holding Limited, a multinational conglomerate under West China Cement Limited, which is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
The Magunje plant is expected to contribute significantly to local employment, infrastructure development, and the national economy through import substitution and increased cement supply.
Source - the herald
