Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Republican President Edgar Lungu has encouraged the corporate world in the country to enhance dialogue with relevant government ministries on issues affecting them for the betterment of their investment.
Speaking during the foundation stone laying ceremony for a new cement plant by Lafarge with an expected production capacity of 2.5 million tonnes per annum in Chilanga District this morning, President Lungu notes that the construction sector has continued to register growth every year and that he welcomes the expansion of Lafarge Zambia.
President Lungu says he is also reliably informed that the company is also adding 100, 000 tonnes of cement production per annum to its Ndola plant.
In a speech read on his behalf by Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Margret Mwanakatwe, President Lungu says there is need for government to work together with industry, civil society and the community in the development of the nation.
He has called on Lafarge management to employ and train as many Zambians as possible so that they can develop the necessary skills and acquire hands experience that they could use on any other future projects either in Zambia or surrounding regions.
The Head of State has since encouraged Lafarge Zambia and other companies to focus on improving their Corporate Social Responsibility in the country saying this contributes massively to the development of the country.
Speaking earlier, Lafarge Zambia Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Rigaux says Lafarge Zambia decided together with Lafarge Group to more than double the production capacity of the Chilanga Plant from 1 million tonnes to 2.5 million tonnes of cement per annum by constructing an additional new plant.
Mr. Rigaux says the project team has mobilized experts from everywhere in the Group, and construction will start next week after obtaining regulatory permits.
He says the new line is expected to be completed within the next 18 months.