David Coltart, the Mayor of Bulawayo City Council (BCC) and a former Rhodesian, has sparked debate by opposing a Chinese-funded cement grinding station at Cowdray Park, seemingly to shield PPC, a company with roots in Rhodesia. This move has drawn attention to the lingering ties and loyalties of the Rhodesian era, with some interpreting it as a manifestation of the “Rhodies Never Die” spirit.Circumstances are that a Chinese company called Labenmon Investments intended to build a cement grinding factory with an annual output of 900,000 tonnes in Bulawayo’s Cowdray Park suburb. The City Mayor, Coltart, and a few councillors raised concerns about the choice of a Chinese company over local businesses and the potential impact on the environment and nearby residential areas. Earlier this year, the aforementioned Chinese company, a subsidiary of China West Cement Limited, a Hong Kong listed company, signed a US$1 billion investment in the construction of a cement plant in Magunje near Karoi with an annual output of 2.7 million tonnes and a cement grinding station in Bulawayo. About 5000 jobs are set to be created as the extra capacity will help ensure that Zimbabwe can continue to meet the rising demand as construction increases.David Coltart’s opposition to the project is driven by a desire to protect the interests of PPC Cement, a South African company that was founded in 1892, during the time of the Boer Republics. This narrative frames Coltart’s opposition to the Chinese-funded cement grinding station as a move to protect PPC’s interests, underscoring the enduring influence of historical connections and networks. Coltart’s concerns about environmental impact and residential areas are questionable. PPC Masasa in Harare is located in a residential area. What is clear is that protecting PPC’s interests is a significant factor in his opposition to the project. Coltart’s loyalty and allegiance to PPC, a company with historical ties to Rhodesia, remain strong.Modern plants like the PPC facility in Harare, which was installed by a Chinese company, Sinoma International Engineering, are designed and operated with sustainability and safety in mind. They often incorporate features such as emissions control systems, dust suppression systems, water conservation measures, waste management programs, noise reduction measures, and regular monitoring and testing to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. These measures help minimize the plant’s environmental impact and ensure the safety and well-being of nearby residents. Therefore, Coltart’s argument that environmental concerns justify blocking Chinese investment no longer holds merit.The entrance of new players in the cement industry will enhance competition and could lead to lower prices of the product. Ordinary citizens stand to benefit most from such investments, but unfortunately, the likes of Coltart are standing in the way, much like during the protracted fight for Zimbabwe’s independence. Coltart is an impediment to the economic development of the country. He is standing in the way of 5000 new jobs to be created for Zimbabwean citizens. He is not for Zimbabwe and should be exposed for who he really is. Cowdray Park is the second-highest populated suburb in Zimbabwe after Budiriro, and an opportunity for employment creation is being created for its residents, yet one ex-Rhodie decides to stand in the way.
