VCM

Vertical Cement Mill Project 

Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe has launched the construction of the Vertical Cement Mill, which is expected to boost production of cement by double.

The project is targeted to increase Lafarge’s production capacity from the current 450 000 tonnes per annum to 1 000 000 tonnes per annum while enhancing its capacity to produce high strength cement.

So far the constructing team has poured concrete to Process Filter Foundations, and fixing of rebar to Process Filter Stub Columns are in progress.

"Before the close of 2020, Lafarge signed a supply contract for a vertical cement mill, an investment which will see the company double its cement milling capacity and improve its latitude to widen its cement product offering. Civil works for the installation of this equipment begin this month," said Precious Nyika Lafarge Zimbabwe CEO.

The project is part of LafargeHolcim Group's US$25m recapitalisation of its Zimbabwean subsidiary, which was announced last year.

As the country pursues import substitution and growing the local economy, Lafarge remains committed to pursuing an aggressive growth strategy around growing the core cement business while innovating around new higher margin product lines.

Lafarge Zimbabwe has mostly relied on cement production at its decades-old operation in Manresa, Harare. However, the Vertical Cement Mill will position the business among the largest manufacturers of cement in the country and give Lafarge a competitive edge over its competition. 

Lafarge has also entered the dry mortars range and several allied products to complement the cement operation, which faces stiff competition from imports.

Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe  commissioned the dry mortar plant in March 2021. The dry mortar plant is currently producing 100 000 tonnes per annum and is expected to reach 150 000 tonnes per annum at its peak. 

This plant will see Lafarge moving from an annual capacity of 7 000 tonnes per annum to 100 000 tonnes per annum.