‘Rock blocks cut construction costs by 20pc’

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIANS have been advised to use rock blocks to reduce construction costs by 20 per cent and make buildings more durable and attractive.

The uses of rock blocks, which are naturally and environmentally friendly, are cheaper, last longer compared to concrete blocks. The rock blocks are curved from a volcanic rock.

Kilimanjaro’s based Rock Blocks Investment Director Mr Fabian Woisso told ‘Daily News’ on Thursday at the Dar Construction Expo 2023 that the blocks are not only extremely resistant to the elements, but also has an incredibly long life, even compared to brick.

“Rock products are three times strong and environmentally friendly compared to blocks that are made by cement and sand or bricks made out of clay, which are hardening by burning in kilns fired by unfriendly environment materials,” said Mr Woisso.

Additionally, unlike concrete blocks, properly constructed rock blocks self builds can last for centuries and are excellent at withstanding all sorts of weather conditions and in most cases need no painting for decoration.

The Rock Blocks Investment produced blocks, wall cladding stone and stone cladding tiles.

They decided to invest in rock products to supplement efforts to protect the environment in the country while adding value to the nature.

“These products are environmentally friendly, natural and therefore are not attacked by any type of soil such as areas with salt or gravel because they are not mixed with any chemicals that can react with salt or gravel,” he said.

Mr Woisso said his factory has the capacity to produce stone blocks up to 5,000 tonnes per month. The firm also is capable to produce 1000 stone cladding tiles and 1000 cubic square metres of wall cladding stone per month.

The Rock Blocks Investment, started in 2013, is located at Holili in Rombo Kilimanjaro and has some 75 employees.

He said most of their customers are from the North zone in Tanga, Arusha, Kilimanjaro region and also Dodoma.