Speaking at the launch of the 6th Annual CIMERWA Golf Tournament, set for November 30 at Kigali Golf Club, Kumar clarified that while a few senior positions were streamlined due to overlapping roles, the majority of the workforce has been retained, with new employment opportunities created both directly and indirectly.
Kumar described the decision as necessary to eliminate duplicate roles after the acquisition but stressed that it was not a mass layoff as some reports have suggested. 'Most of the staff are still with us, and since taking over Prime Cement, we've achieved tremendous growth, a result that wouldn't be possible without our team,' Kumar noted.
'We absorbed nearly all plant staff from Prime Cement, and only a few senior staff at the head office were let go due to role duplication. It was a tough decision, but we felt it was the best course for the company's future,' he explained.
Kumar highlighted that CIMERWA has continued to expand its workforce since the acquisition, with the company now employing more than 4,200 people directly and indirectly, including 650 positions created in the local community.
'Our first priority is always for Rwandans, whether in logistics, services, or other business opportunities. This is a core aspect of our growth strategy, with a commitment to local hiring and supporting Rwandan service providers' Kumar said.
In addition to addressing the disparities engulfed in the company's human resource, Kumar detailed CIMERWA's recent growth in production operations, with a 200% increase since May, significantly reducing the need for imported cement and supporting Rwanda's trade balance
'Our export business has shown robust growth, helping the country minimize trade deficits and making Rwanda more self-reliant in meeting its cement needs,' Kumar stated.
Kumar also underscored CIMERWA's ongoing investment in environmental and community initiatives, including a shift toward sustainable practices within the cement industry. 'We're aware of the environmental impact of cement production and are doing what we can to minimize carbon emissions. Compared to last year, we've increased our alternative fuel usage from 15% to over 30%. This shift allows us to reduce emissions while ensuring we continue to meet high-quality standards,' he said.
As the company addresses the ongoing employment adjustments, it also continues to invest in sports development through the CIMERWA Annual Golf Tournament, now in its sixth year.
Eugene Mukabwa, the Vice-Captain of the Kigali Golf Club, highlighted the positive impact of CIMERWA's sponsorship on the event, which will see over 100 golfers across six categories.
'Thanks to CIMERWA's support, this tournament has improved year after year. It's a public event and a great opportunity for golfers of all levels,' Mukabwa said.
CIMERWA's annual investment of USD150,000 (over 200million Frw) to USD200,000 (over 270million Frw) in the tournament is part of its broader vision for supporting health, wellness, and community engagement in Rwanda.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/cimerwa-ceo-explains-recent-layoff-of-workers
