Magunje Cement Project Promises Jobs and Capacity Boost Under Devolution Drive

A proposed US$700 million cement plant in Magunje is set to boost Zimbabwe’s cement capacity, create over 2,000 jobs and support devolution-led industrialisation in Mashonaland West (image source)

HARARE — A proposed US$700 million cement manufacturing plant in Magunje, Hurungwe District, is being positioned as a major catalyst for regional industrialisation, job creation and import substitution under Zimbabwe’s devolution agenda.

Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo said the project, to be developed by WIH-ZIM Construction Material Investments (Pvt) Ltd, could significantly transform Mashonaland West’s economic landscape. The company is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-listed Yaobai International Holdings. Construction is expected to commence in 2026.

Once operational, the greenfield plant is projected to produce approximately 1.8 million metric tonnes of cement annually and create more than 2,000 direct jobs across construction and operational phases. Chombo described the investment as aligned with Government’s strategy of dispersing industrial activity beyond Harare and stimulating provincial growth nodes.

“This investment is not just about bricks and clinker; it is about building Zimbabwe’s future, brick by brick,” she said during a site visit. “We will ensure the project supports Vision 2030, delivers tangible community benefits and adheres to environmental standards.”

Government officials said the Magunje plant could materially reduce Zimbabwe’s reliance on imported cement, currently estimated at about 1.2 million tonnes per year, easing pressure on foreign currency reserves. Installed domestic cement capacity stands at roughly 4 million tonnes annually, while demand is growing at an estimated 6–8 percent per year, driven by housing, infrastructure development and mining activity. The resulting supply gap has contributed to higher construction costs and increased imports from neighbouring countries.

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Yaobai International, founded in 2019, operates in several African markets and is active in cement production, gypsum board manufacturing, cement products and logistics. Authorities believe the Magunje investment could strengthen local supply chains and anchor downstream industries, including construction materials and transport services.

Analysts have welcomed the announcement but cautioned that execution will be key. They are calling for greater clarity on project timelines, financing arrangements, environmental safeguards and local content commitments, including procurement, skills transfer and technology localisation.

Chombo said Government would work closely with the investor to address bottlenecks and ensure community participation. “We are not here to rubber-stamp projects. We are here to ensure they deliver for communities, protect the environment and align with Vision 2030,” she said.

If implemented as planned, the Magunje cement plant could help narrow Zimbabwe’s cement supply deficit, generate employment in a historically underdeveloped district and reinforce devolution-driven industrialisation outcomes.