Majority of cement factories under construction progressing well, says minister
Addis Ababa, April 7, 2008 (WIC) – The majority of the new cement factories under construction to curb the shortage of cement in the country are well underway, according to the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Speaking at the conclusion of a three-day visit to cement factories being built in Amhara and Oromia states, Trade and Industry Minister Girma Birru said most of the cement factories under construction during the past two years have been progressing well.
Upon going operational within one to two years, the factories will meet the growing demand of cement caused by the rapid economic growth and boost the construction sector, he said
Some 24 investors have so far been licensed to build cement factories, the minister said, adding that 13 of those have been facilitating installation and construction works while the remaining are undertaking detail studies that will lead them to construction.
Jimma, Abyssinia, and CGC cement factories in Oromia State would begin production this budget year, according to the minister who added that Dejen Derba Midroc cement factory in Amhara State would begin pilot production within a fortnight.
