Cement volume cause concern

Block makers have raised concerns over the mismatch between the net weight written on cement bags and actual content, saying this often puts them at a disadvantage.

Reacting to the concerns, it was explained that producers ensured that each bag contained the right amount of cement and that it was possible there was adulteration of the product in the process of changing hands, particularly by some unfaithful transporters.

This came up during a day long workshop for brick makers organised by Tanzania Portland Cement Company (TPCC) -- Twiga cement -- at Wazo Hill at the weekend.

TPCC Environment manager Richard Magoda said usually cement bags were filled to 50 kilos net at the factory. He said it was possible some transporters tempered with the bags’ content as they sought to increase their profit.

“We need cooperation from our customers. Once you doubt, call us and we will investigate the situation. So far we have terminated several contracts with transporters who were proved to engage in malpractices,” said Mr Magoda.

He also said that environmental conservation efforts were part and parcel of the company’s operations because of its belief that the next generation must also benefit. He said that deforestation, industrial operations and new technologies all impacted negatively on the environment.

“Twiga Cement does its best to reduce production of carbon dioxide. We do it by producing cement without depending much on burning of limestone,” he said.

Speaking about block making, TPCC Cement Application manager Danford Simwenda said laying blocks under tree sheds helped strengthen the products.

“A block needs not only water, but also air to become strong,” he said.In 2010, TPCC launched the quarry rehabilitation and renaturalisation project by starting a tree nursery. 

This produces tree seedlings planted in and around Wazo Hill quarry site.

Source: The Citizen, www.thecitizen.co.tz, reported from Dar es Salaam

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