By Talkmore F Mapfumo
Zimbabwe’s cement production capacity is set to receive a significant boost following the near completion of a new cement manufacturing plant by Shuntai Investments in Chegutu.
The multi-million-dollar project, which is now about 90% complete, is expected to be commissioned in August and will produce approximately 800,000 tonnes of cement annually. The development is anticipated to ease domestic cement shortages, support infrastructure growth and strengthen Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector.
The plant has already created around 450 jobs, with many of the beneficiaries being youths from surrounding communities. Government officials say the project is also facilitating skills transfer by encouraging the employment of local technicians alongside Chinese specialists.
Speaking during a tour of the facility, Marian Chombo praised the progress made so far and highlighted the project’s economic significance.
“The plant will contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s GDP while making cement more accessible and affordable for local consumers,” Chombo said.
The project had initially been scheduled for commissioning in May, but delays in equipment deliveries pushed completion to August. Company officials attributed the delays to disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Beyond cement production, the facility is expected to contribute to Zimbabwe’s energy security through an integrated thermal power plant capable of generating up to 50 megawatts of electricity. Excess power generated by the plant could eventually be fed into the national grid.
Shuntai Investments General Manager Lee Xiandong said the company had invested heavily in self-generation to ensure uninterrupted operations while helping address Zimbabwe’s energy challenges.
“As Zimbabwe continues to industrialise, reliable electricity remains essential for growth.
Building our own power station will allow us to maintain production while contributing to broader energy solutions,” he said.
The project represents one of the largest recent investments in Zimbabwe’s cement industry and underscores continued foreign direct investment into the country’s manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. Once operational, the plant is expected to improve local cement availability, reduce supply constraints and support national development initiatives.
