Rwanda is planning to attract investments for a glass bottle manufacturing factory to meet rising demand, anticipated to reach 24,179 tonnes by 2027. With significant silica sand reserves and a six-year packaging strategy, the country aims to establish local production capabilities. Investment requirements are estimated at $85 million for flat glass and $150 million for container glass, enabling a projected annual revenue of $120 million.
Rwanda’s government is actively seeking investors for a factory to produce glass bottles and window glass due to escalating demand. The forecasted glass bottle requirement is projected to rise from 21,816 tonnes in 2023 to 24,179 tonnes by 2027. Currently, Rwanda has no local production of glass packaging materials, leading to a 100% import dependency, highlighting the need for investment in this sector.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Prudence Sebahizi, revealed that Rwanda has extensive sand reserves suitable for glass manufacturing, with an estimated extraction potential lasting for 700 years. This initiative aligns with a six-year packaging strategy initiated in 2022, which has a projected implementation cost of $1.7 million.
Silica sand, crucial in the glass production process, comprises approximately 70% of the raw materials needed. Other materials include dolomite, limestone, soda ash, and feldspar, showcasing the diverse mineral resources available in the country that support both glass containers and flat glass production.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) confirms viable quantities of necessary raw materials, urging investments to establish glass manufacturing facilities. A study by RDB indicates that glass production costs might decrease by 30% by leveraging local resources.
Kirehe District contains 5.1 billion tonnes of sandstone reserves with a silica content of 98.9%, sufficient for 700 years of production. Additionally, large limestone deposits present in several districts can sustain operations for 475 years, while dolomite reserves can support about 80 years of glass manufacturing.
Investment is crucial, with $85 million needed for flat glass production and $150 million for container glass manufacturing. The expected output includes 220 metric tonnes of container glass (potentially generating $45 million annually) and 400 metric tonnes of flat glass (estimates $75 million in annual revenue).
This article focuses on Rwanda’s initiative to leverage its sand reserves for local glass bottle production. The government aims to fulfill the growing demand for glass products while reducing reliance on imports. This development is part of a broader economic strategy to promote local manufacturing within the context of sustainable growth and investment in infrastructure.
In summary, Rwanda is on track to establish local glass manufacturing capacity by capitalizing on its rich sand reserves. This move promises to meet increasing domestic and regional demand while reducing import dependence. Targeted investments and infrastructure will be critical to achieving projected production and revenue goals, thereby enhancing the country’s industrial landscape.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
