By Cindy Mulomba
Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister CHIPOKA MULENGA has assured the nation that cement supply will stabilise and prices will return to normal by Monday Next week.
Speaking during an urgent meeting with manufacturers and other key stakeholders in Lusaka today, Mr. MULENGA said Government does not take pride in seeing essential commodities being exported while local markets face shortages.
The meeting followed instructions from President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA in response to the sudden high prices and limited availability of cement.
Mr. MULENGA attributed the surge in demand to major mining developments, ongoing road infrastructure projects, CDF-funded initiatives, and growing regional exports, but emphasized that domestic supply must take priority.
He however said the directive from the Head of State is clear, to ensure that cement remains available and affordable for domestic consumers.
The Minister disclosed that cement producers operating under premium power tariffs, including Ndola Portland, Chilanga and others, will now be guaranteed consistent power supply, similar to the arrangement given to the mining sector.
He said the move is intended to stabilise production and protect small-scale retailers and consumers from shortages and price distortions.
Representing cement manufacturers, DANGOTE General Manager for Sales and Marketing, CASSANDRA MHONE, pledged the industry’s commitment to working with Government to resolve the recent shortages and stabilise prices.
Ms. MHONE said manufacturers are committed to improving both short-term and long-term production capacity, including enhanced coordination with ZESCO to address power-related challenges.
And ZESCO Chief Operating Officer, PETER CHAMFYA, has assured cement manufacturers that power challenges experienced in Ndola will be addressed effective tomorrow, Sunday December 7, 2025.
