Ghana Cement (GHACEM) Limited last Friday announced the introduction of a new type of cement with enhanced setting time and increased strength to meet the demands of all users.

The new cement, known as "GHACEM Super Strength Portland Cement Class 42.5 Newton" replaces the Standard Portland Cement, which has been in use for the last 36 years.

Dr George Dawson-Ahmoah, Marketing Manager of GHACEM, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the new product was introduced against the background that customers would be able to use the high quality cement to produce new concrete structures that meet the needs of a modern industry in Ghana.

He said the Company invested eight million dollars in plant and equipment in its Tema and Takoradi Factories to enable it to come out with the new product.

Speaking earlier at a "GHACEM Cement Academy" workshop organised to educate building and structural engineers and contractors on basic raw material technology; material selection; specification and measurement; manufacturing and curing processes and concrete technology mixes, Dr Dawson-Amoah said the Company would soon begin mining limestone in the Eastern Region to manufacture cement.

He said: "This will certainly reduce consumption and dependence on imported raw materials and freight rates as well as reduce production costs. "It would also create more job avenues for Ghanaians and make a positive impact in reducing the balance of payment deficit of the country."

Mr Kwadwo Affram Asiedu, Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry and Presidential Special Initiatives, congratulated GHACEM for its role in the development of infrastructure in Ghana for nearly 40 years.

He said cement was a critical input in the building and construction, adding that the industry was undergoing technological changes worldwide and Ghana must not be left behind.