Zimbabwe has launched its first water chemicals manufacturing plant, a US$25 million investment by Chilmund Chemicals in Bindura. The plant will produce aluminum sulfate, one of the three primary water treatment chemicals used to purify raw water and make it safe for drinking.
The plant can produce 10 tonnes of aluminum sulfate per hour to meet local demand and export to neighboring countries. The plant will save the country millions of dollars in import bills and lower the water treatment cost for local authorities.
The project is a result of the growing confidence and innovation among Zimbabwe’s young entrepreneurs, who are taking advantage of the opportunities in the manufacturing sector. Chilmund Chemicals started as a trading entity and transformed its business model to venture into production.
The plant uses eco-friendly technologies and produces aluminum sulfate that meets international quality standards. The plant also supports the government’s vision of ensuring access to clean and safe water for all, in line with the National Development Strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
President Mnangagwa, who commissioned the plant yesterday, praised the achievements of Chilmund Chemicals and said it symbolized hope and possibilities for the country. He said the plant was evidence of the mantra, ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo’ (the country is built by its own people).
He also thanked the People’s Republic of China for facilitating technology transfer and collaboration with local companies. He said Zimbabwe was a friend to all and an enemy to none and invited more investors to take up business opportunities in the country.
He said his government was committed to improving the ease of business and the economic environment and accelerating dam construction in Mashonaland Central Province to increase water availability. He urged local authorities to prioritize and budget for the delivery of essential social services, including water and sanitation.
He said his journey towards Vision 2030 was multi-pronged and demanded multi-stakeholder efforts. He also expressed his gratitude to the people and traditional leaders of Mashonaland Central Province for their support of his party, Zanu PF, in the August harmonized elections.
The opening of the Chilmund Chemicals plant is a milestone for Zimbabwe, which has been facing challenges with water purification chemicals due to illegal sanctions imposed by some Western countries. The plant will help prevent water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, which have claimed many lives in the past. The plant will also create jobs, boost the economy, and enhance environmental sustainability.
Source: The Herald
