NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CHILANGA CEMENT PLC PAYS COURTESY CALL TO THE MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY
Lusaka, 24th September, 2024 –A delegation from Chilanga Cement Plc, led by Chief
Executive Officer Mr. Jianping Chai, paid a courtesy call to the Ministry of
Labour and Social Security today. The visit, aimed at strengthening ongoing
collaboration between the company and the Ministry, was marked by fruitful
discussions on labour matters, employee development, and community engagement.
During the meeting, Mr. Jianping Chai highlighted the
significant investments made by the Huaxin Group since acquiring Chilanga
Cement nearly three years ago. These include upgrading the Ndola plant,
constructing a new lime production line, and expanding operations at the
Chilanga plant.
“Our focus has been on enhancing capacity, boosting
efficiency, and diversifying our product range, all while ensuring job security
and improved working conditions for our employees,” Mr. Chai stated.
Mr. Chai further assured the Minister that despite economic
challenges, Chilanga Cement, under Huaxin, has not laid off any employees.
Instead, the company has hired more staff, launched internship programs, and
provided internal promotion opportunities.
“The company’s commitment to employee development is
evident in the introduction of a performance-based compensation system, along
with ongoing technical support and training from Huaxin experts. This approach
has not only stabilized operations but has also resulted in numerous awards,
recognizing Chilanga Cement’s excellence in performance improvement, cultural
integration, and communication practices,” he explained.
The Honourable Minister of Labour and Social Security, Ms.
Brendah Tambatamba, expressed appreciation for Chilanga Cement, under the
Huaxin Group, for its commitment to maintaining open communication and
fulfilling promises made during previous engagements. The Minister commended
the company for its proactive approach in fostering a harmonious relationship
between employers and employees, which serves as a model for the Zambian labour
market.
Honourable Minister Tambatamba praised Chilanga Cement’s
efforts in fostering a positive workplace culture and urged the company to
continue its initiatives in employee welfare, skills transfer, and community
engagement. She emphasized the importance of integrating the local workforce
and enhancing intercultural relations to support the long-term stability of
both the company and the local economy.
The meeting also touched on Chilanga Cement’s commitment to
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Last year, the company contributed to
various community projects in the areas of health, education, housing,
environment, and other infrastructure.
The courtesy call underscores Chilanga Cement Plc’s
continued commitment, under Huaxin, to not only excel in business operations
but also contribute meaningfully to Zambia’s socio-economic development.
Issued by
Gift Danga (Mr)
Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager
Tel: +260211 367 561
zambia.communication@huaxincem.com
Chilanga Cement Plc is Zambia’s preferred provider of building materials and construction solutions in Zambia and the region. Chilanga Cement operates a network of facilities, which includes two integrated cement plants in Chilanga and Ndola, and distributes by road and rail to all corners of the country and the region. It employs more than 750 local people, providing additional employment to about 1,000 dedicated drivers. In the last 72 years, the company has helped shape Zambia’s infrastructure and economy, as well as generated foreign exchange for the nation through export to the region.
Chilanga Cement is part of the Huaxin group that was founded in 1907. Huaxin Cement has been known as “the cradle of the cement industry of China” and has made outstanding contributions to both national and local economic and social development during its history of over 115 years. Huaxin Cement has been certified as “AAA” of Corporate Credit Rating and the brand of Huaxin Fortress has been a well-known trademark in China. Huaxin has more than 270 subsidiary companies globally and is involved in the integrated development of the entire industry chain in the fields of cement, concrete, aggregates, environmental protection, equipment manufacturing, and engineering, as well as new building materials.
Sarah Banda-Ortiz-Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager
Tel: +260211 367 561
zambia.communication@huaxincem.com