Zambian cement is cheap because it’s of low quality, says Minister Nzenza

Zambian cement is cheap because it’s of low quality, says Minister Nzenza

Industry Minister Sekai Nzenza has told Senators that Zambian cement is cheaper than Zimbabwe because it is low quality.

Cement in Zambia cost between US$3.50 and US$6, while in Zimbabwe cost between US$10 and US$12.

This prompted Senator Chinake to enquire on the reason for the differences in prices and whether Zimbabweans will not end up importing from Zambia.

However, in her response, Minister Nzenza said Zimbabwean cement was of superior quality than Zambia.

‘’Cement is a key product in construction,

infrastructure, and housing. The prices that you have made reference to are true. In Zambia, it varies from US$3.50 to US$6.

‘’There are differences on the cement that is manufactured in Zambia and the one that we have in Zimbabwe. The differences are in quality and standards.

‘’I have a report that came from the Consumer Protection Council and they have highlighted that the cement from Zambia does not set very well when you apply it on the floor and if you use it on the wall, that wall may collapse. As the custodians of quality and standards in this country, we do not want to see that happening.

‘’In Zimbabwe, we have three companies that manufacture cement such as PPC, Lafarge, and SinoZim. SinoZim is mass-producing cement. This particular cement has been used in the construction of the new Parliament building and it is the same cement that is being used on major roads like the one from Beitbridge to Chirundu.

‘’It is a strong type of cement. Be that as it may, I urge that as Zimbabweans, we should look at the durability of this product because such type of cement will last a long time. As a Ministry, we will talk to those that produce cement so that they can reduce their price so that it can be affordable to the majority of the people,’’ she said.

Zambian cement is cheap because it’s of low quality, says Minister Nzenza