Tanzania has started white cement production at a 200tpd cement plant in Mkuranga District, Coast Region. The new plant is owned by Fortune Cement Co Ltd.

The construction of the factory is expected to not only create job opportunities and bring in foreign exchange earnings but will also significantly contribute to the local economy.

At present more than 50 per cent of the raw materials required for production are sourced locally in Tanzania. Dolomite and gypsum are locally available, but white clinker will be imported. To date Tanzania had been importing white cement, spending a significant share of its budget importing the product.

e want to minimise our over-reliance on the importation of white cement from abroad, as we lose a lot in terms of foreign exchange and employment,” said Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Exaud Kigali.