Portland set to boost clinker production on increased import tax

MARKET:  East Africa Portland Cement Company Plc Athi-River is set to expand its clinker production to tap the local market after the government imposed a 17 per cent duty on imported clinker.

The firm is among the leading producers of clinker, a basic raw material in cement making.

According to Managing Director Oliver Kirubai, the cement maker has drawn a road map for its revival and has realised improved production by 25 per cent as of September last year.

Increasing efficiency

The increase in production was informed by the first phase of refurbishing the plant, increasing efficiency and cutting production costs.

Liquidating the expansive land worth Sh50 billion within Athi-River Mavoko is a key area the company is focused to raise its working capital according to Kirubai.

Speaking at Ilbisil in Kajiado County while on an induction tour of the company, Kirubai said parliament order to government institutions which owe the company to pay outstanding debts will also be key in boosting the cement maker’s working capital.

“We have received enormous support from the government to ensure we revive the company to its full operation. We are already making strides and rapidly moving towards profitability,” he said.

Patrick Ole Tutul, Eapc director said the company has done an assessment and analysis audit which has proved there are sufficient raw materials to sustain the company operations.

Ilbisil and Kibini quarries situated in Kajiado County are the main limestone sites being exploited by the company.

“While producing up to 3,000 tonnes of cement per day, Ilbisil Quarry alone has the capacity to supply Limestone for the next 40 years. That is just the current mined area which is still under exploration. The unexplored area can supply Limestone for years. We have no challenge with raw materials and we just need to invest in modern efficient mining equipment,” said Tutui.