Minister pledges to support local industries
Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Allan Chiyembekeza says government is geared to support local manufacturing industries to add value to locally produced goods and widen the foreign exchange earnings base.
Chiyembekeza said this on Friday when he toured OG Plastics Industries Limited at Maone industrial area in Blantyre.
The minister said the launch of OG Plastics has created an opportunity for the country’s irrigation sector and the rest of water systems.
He said: “Government has for some time been importing such materials which has been a drain on foreign exchange. Having a local manufacturer will enable us, save on foreign exchange and on the other hand support the homegrown materials.”
Chiyembekeza said government, which has already started using the pipes in some of its irrigation projects, will continue using the products. He advised the company to maximise on production and ensure that their prices are reasonable compared to imported ones.
OG Plastics Industries managing director Abdul Wahab Jagot, in an interview after the minister’s tour, expressed commitment to produce quality products and promote a radical shift from importing to producing and exporting.
He applauded government for the commitment to support locally made products, pledging to continue making products of high quality.
Jagot said the company, which has the capacity to produce in excess of 15 000 kilogrammes (kg) pipes in 24 hours, expects full support from government and other stakeholders, saying they have the capacity to satisfy both local and international markets. n
