By CHATULA KANGALI –
THREE investors have expressed interest in constructing cement plants in Senior Chief Chiwala’s area in Masaiti District on the Copperbelt.
Senior Chief Chiwala of the Lamba speaking people said the investors, one local and two foreign based from China and South Africa, are interested in constructing  cement plants each, to spur economic development on the Copperbelt.
The traditional leader said in an interview yesterday that the investors were currently conducting exploration and feasibility studies for suitable areas where cement plants could be constructed.
“I have granted exploration consent to three companies, one local and the other two from China and South Africa. They are all interested in setting up cement plants in my chiefdom,” he said.
Chief Chiwala was hoping to receive feed back from the investors for the possible construction of the cement plant in his chiefdom.
He  said the coming up of more cement plants in his chiefdom would not only create jobs for the locals but also improve the economic status of the district.
He, however, bemoaned the poor road infrastructure in his area which had stalled the development of agriculture.
He said small-scale farmers had difficulties transporting their products to the central business areas for sale.
Masaiti District is endowed with abundant lime stone and has continued to attract investments in cement and lime and currently houses Dangote, Lafarge and Zambezi Portland cement plants.
Other companies found in the district are Neelkhant lime and Handyman’s lime.