Managing Director of PPC Zimbabwe Kelibone Masiyane says the current cement shortage plaguing the country is temporary.

According to Masiyane the company is currently operating at peak capacity following the planned annual kiln maintenance undertaken in July 2018 at the Colleen Bawn factory in preparation for the increased demand anticipated towards the latter part of the year.

“While we cannot speculate about other industry players, I would like to assure the market that PPC Zimbabwe factories have the ability to supply the existing market with quality products”.

Servicing a growing market

“As a reflection of our continued commitment to Zimbabwe, we commissioned a $85 million Harare milling plant in March 2017 in anticipation of upsurge in the cement demand. This investment has allowed us to fully serve the growing northern market of Zimbabwe better and more efficiently” adds Masiyane.

With regards to escalated cement prices in the market, PPC Zimbabwe says its factory prices have not increased since April 2012 in support of the country’s developmental objectives.

“As a company, we appeal to our customers to avoid panic buying as this is likely to compound the situation. We are continuously engaging our retailers, to act responsibly with regards to cement pricing in the market. We further advise customers to procure their cement requirements from our approved stockists.

Increased exports

“PPC Zimbabwe has implemented various initiatives, to mitigate the liquidity situation in the country. These initiatives include exporting 2% of our production capacity to neighbouring countries, and local sourcing of input materials to ensure that the domestic cement supply is not compromised,”Masiyane concludes.