East African Portland Cement closed for Ksh.400M upgrade

The East African Portland Cement (EAPC) has temporarily shut down its operations for what it says is a routine maintenance exercise.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the firm's Managing Director Oliver Kirubai said operations have been halted for 25 days to allow them upgrade and streamline their operations, reduce downtime and optimise energy consumption.

This, he noted, is in a bid to position the company – that has been in operation since the 1930s - as a regional leader in the cement industry.

"We are doing the second phase of our machines upgrade, which is basically targeting to increase our output. Our target is that by June 2026 we should be able to produce 1Mt/yr of cement." Stated Mr. Kirubai.

"Seven local contractors are spearheading the upgrade of this plant. They will work with us during the 25-day closure of this facility."

The company is projected to spend $3 million (approx. Ksh.399 million) in the upgrade.