Lafarge Cement Zambia has introduced a new improved brand expected to lower construction costs in key sectors such as energy and mining. The new cement called SupaSet, to be used for block-making and concrete, is a 42.5R Portland limestone cement.

Commercial director Tshepiso Dumasi said it had taken Lafarge 18 months to conduct extensive research which was primarily focused on understanding drivers of different cement applications to understand what the market was lacking.

“For a long time, not only in Zambia but around the continent, cement producers have often sold cement, neglecting consumers´ and customers’ needs,” said Dumasi.

And permanent secretary in the Office of the Vice-President Davis Sampa said the introduction of the new products in the construction sector was evidence of how sophisticated the market was becoming.

Sampa said the introduction of SupaSet would lower building costs in the construction of hydropower stations, dam walls and in the mining sector.

“SupaSet, as you have heard, is designed specifically for the block maker and concrete manufacturer segments as it is ideal for precast operations, dam and reservoir construction,” Sampa said.

“The Zambian government sees an opportunity for further growth of our economy not only locally but also regionally as such a product will easily find a place in foreign markets, further contributing to the central treasury.”

He said the government would work to raise more competition in local industries to raise the quality of goods and services.

“Zambia, being a land-linked country, remains poised to take advantage of the opportunities that the markets of Comesa and SADC regions present, and we stand ready to support companies wishing to further tap into these markets,” said Sampa.