Govt urges Maswa chalk factory to maintain quality

SIMIYU: THE government has urged the chalk manufacturing factory in Maswa District, Simiyu Region, to maintain high standards to meet rising local demand and support the region’s economic and educational growth.

The Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kigahe, stated that the government invested 10bn/- in the chalk factory with the expectation of producing high-quality products.

Mr Kigahe made these remarks during a recent visit to the chalk manufacturing factory in Maswa District, where he observed the production process firsthand.

“I am impressed with the operations of this factory, which is owned by the district council. It is a large facility, and the government has made a significant investment.

“The investment is substantial, and therefore, you must produce high-quality products that justify this commitment. The goal is for these products to be competitive in the international market,” said Mr Kigahe.

In the nine months from May last year to January this year, the factory produced 843.05 cartons.

The Deputy Minister urged the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) to collaborate with the Maswa District Council and Nghami Industries Company Ltd. to ensure the production of high-quality products.

He further emphasized that while the government does not engage in business directly, its role is to create a conducive environment for both local and international investors and businesses. This is why the district council decided to establish Nghami Industries Company Ltd. to manage the factory.

“Our government does not engage in business but focuses on creating a supportive environment for investors and businesses. However, when we initiate projects like the one in Maswa, the government must establish a subsidiary company, such as Nghami Industries Company Ltd, to oversee operations,” he said.

Mr Kigahe also encouraged Nghami Industries workers to take the lead in promoting the factory, work diligently to achieve their goals, and improve working conditions and tools for employees.

ALSO READ: Capital markets new investors quadruple

Meanwhile, the District Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Maisha Mtipa, stated that the factory’s revenue, after covering operating costs, is expected to reach 3bn/- per month.

“The income from this factory will help fund our district council projects through domestic revenue, as we were previously heavily reliant on cotton as our main source of internal revenue,” he concluded.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between production and environmental sustainability.

He urged the factory to implement eco-friendly practices in its manufacturing processes to reduce environmental impact.

This, he said, would not only contribute to the community’s wellbeing but also align with global standards, ensuring the factory remains competitive on the international stage.

In addition, Mr Kigahe called for further innovation within the factory to explore new products and potential markets.

He suggested that the chalk manufacturing industry in Tanzania could expand beyond local demand and serve regional markets, contributing to the country’s industrialisation agenda.

This, he emphasised, would create more job opportunities and improve the livelihoods of the people in the region.