Socio-Economic Impacts of Cement Production at Sino-Zimbabwe on Hozheri Community, Gweru, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study assessed the socio-economic impacts of cement production at Sino on the nearby Hozheri community. Data was collected through questionnaires, observations and interviews. Questionnaires targeted sixty-five households selected through stratified random sampling. Research findings revealed that establishment of Sino-Zimbabwe cement manufacturing company presented socio-financial benefits to the surrounding community through creation of employment, establishment of a lucrative local market, retention of skilled teachers, construction of schools and healthcare facilities as well as provision of bursaries to excelling students. However, local people and the company blamed each other for the slow pace of development being realised. High dust emissions also remained a threat to human health, crops, livestock and indigenous forests. Therefore, the company must adopt effective environmental management tools to reduce dust emissions so as to enhance wholesome benefits accrued by the local people. This will significantly improve the quality of life for the surrounding households through poverty reduction which is a threat to sustainable development in developing countries, including Zimbabwe.