ASHAKACEM STRATEGISES FOR IMPROVED PERFORMANCE
By Bakura M. Bajoga

In its efforts to ensure improved performance in a competitive environment, AshakaCem PLC in 2006 placed more emphasis on facility improvement and sustainable development. Engineer Muhammad M. Daggash, the Managing Director/CEO of the company dropped this hint while reviewing the company’s operations for the year ended December 31st 2006. He stated that our main focus during the year under review is to continue with projects aimed at improving capacity. Some of the major investments were Klin up Rating, Power Project, Roller Press refurbishment, Maiganga Coal Project among others.
Engineer Daggash also disclosed that dust emission, which had been a controversial issue among the host community, has been eliminated, “thereby making our operations one of the safest and cleanest in terms of pollution to the environment” he assured. Shedding light on the workforce’s readiness towards repositioning the company for future growth, the CEO indicated that aggressive training and recruitment policy with the aim of getting the best/brightest employees is always pursued. The safety and welfare of staff and sub-contractors is always the company’s number one priority. Consequently, a safety corner was established in the plant, which is provided with an ambulance 24 hrs a day. Engineer Daggash while further reviewing the company’s operation also indicated that AshakaCem is aware of its responsibilities to its communities by ensuring that investment in the communities extends beyond the funding of projects initiatives to rendering a helping hand in the transformation of the lives of the citizens.
He further revealed that apart from Providing Free Medical Services to members of the community in the company’s medical centre, other intervention projects in education, healthcare, water, housing and economic empowerment are embarked upon. Engineer Daggash also appreciated the host communities continued support and cordial relationship. He, expressed confidence that although competition is expected to get harder in the year 2007, the company will strive for more and better returns to shareholder. AshakaCem PLC is a subsidiary of Lafarge SA, the world leader in building materials. Lafarge has continued to support the company’s operations to improve performance and better returns to all stakeholders.