- Dangote Cement Group announced a $1.5 billion investment for a new integrated cement plant in Zimbabwe.
- The deal received a ‘green light’ from President Mnangagwa, confirmed by Presidential Advisor Tungwarara.
- The project aims to significantly boost local cement production and create thousands of jobs.
- This marks one of the largest foreign direct investments in Zimbabwe’s recent history.
The Nigerian industrial giant, Dangote Cement Group, has officially committed a substantial $1.5 billion investment towards the establishment of a state-of-the-art integrated cement plant within Zimbabwe. This significant development, confirmed by Presidential Advisor Tungwarara, signifies a major vote of confidence in Zimbabwe’s economic landscape and its drive for industrialization. The new facility is expected to address the country’s cement deficit, reduce reliance on imports, and stabilize construction costs.
The announcement follows months of negotiations and feasibility studies, culminating in a definitive agreement that promises substantial economic benefits. The project is anticipated to not only create a direct boost in the construction sector but also foster growth in ancillary industries such as logistics, mining, and services. Local communities near the proposed plant site are also expected to benefit from job creation and infrastructural development.
President Mnangagwa’s administration has actively pursued foreign investment as a cornerstone of its economic recovery strategy. The swift approval and enthusiastic backing for the Dangote project underscore the government’s commitment to facilitating large-scale investments that promise significant impact on national development and employment figures.
Timeline
- **January 4, 2026 (Evening):** Presidential Advisor Tungwarara confirms President Mnangagwa’s ‘green light’ for Dangote investment.
- **January 4, 2026 (Afternoon):** Dangote Group officially announces $1.5bn commitment for Zimbabwe cement plant.
- **Earlier in the week:** Final negotiations concluded between Zimbabwean government officials and Dangote Group representatives.
Key Players
- **Aliko Dangote:** Founder and CEO, Dangote Cement Group, lead investor.
- **Emmerson Mnangagwa:** President of Zimbabwe, whose administration approved the investment.
- **Tungwarara:** Presidential Advisor, confirmed the government’s approval of the project.
- **Josephine Mahachi:** Local business community representative, expressed excitement over the investment.
