According to Deputy Minister of Industry, Trade and Marketing and a member of the Tanzania parliament, Janet Mbene, cement production in Tanzania will likely more than double in the coming years with the arrival of new factories being constructed to meet the growing demand from the construction sector.
The country’s current production capacity is reportedly 3.8 million tons per annum, but will likely double to at least 6 million tons per annum as 7 new factories become operational.
According to Hon. Mbene, the country’s cement output increased by 18.9% last year to surpass the 3 million tons per annum mark and a continue surplus could be used for exportation to neighboring countries.
Cement makers that are currently operating in the country include Tanzania Portland Cement, Tanga Cement, and Mbeya Cement, with a new cement factory now under construction by Nigeria’s Dangote Cement with a projected 3 million ton capacity.
Speaking at the 14th session of the National Assembly over the summer, Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda, explained that the Tanzania cement industry could soon become the largest job creator and contributor of government revenue.
“To ensure that Tanzania exploits fully the huge potential in the cement industry,” he said, “the government will act strongly in curbing importation of ‘cheap’ cement which have been contributing to killing the local industries and deny the country revenue.”