The construction of the Kandahar cement factory, costing $100 million and covering 100 acres of land near a cement mine in Kandahar’s industrial park, is now 95% complete.

According to officials, with the installation of technical equipment, the factory will be able to commence cement production within the next six months.

In its initial phase, the factory is expected to produce 1,500 tons of cement per day, with a planned increase to 5,000 tons daily in subsequent phases.

Abdul Bari Walizada, the factory's director, told TOLOnews: "The construction work of this factory is 95% complete. Currently, the installation of technical equipment is underway, and we expect operations to begin within six months."

Abdul Qahir, the head of the factory's reconstruction safety, said: "At present, we have the capacity to produce up to 30,000 cement bags daily, but we have also started building a larger factory. Once it becomes operational, production will increase to 100,000 bags per day."

Officials from Kandahar’s Directorate of Mines and Industries state that such investments can contribute to the country’s reconstruction and self-sufficiency.

Sayed Sarwar Amani, the head of Kandahar’s Chamber of Industries and Mines, said: "In the future, not only will the southern region of the country achieve self-sufficiency in cement production, but we will also export to other regions. As a result, cement imports from abroad will decrease."

Once production begins, the factory is expected to create job opportunities for 2,000 people.

Some workers at the factory have urged officials to provide more job opportunities within the country.

Basir Ahmad, a worker, said: "Such investments are very beneficial for the people because they help reduce unemployment and poverty."

Another worker, Noor Rahman, said: "Many workers, including myself, are employed here. I urge investors to increase such large-scale investments so that more job opportunities can be created."

According to local officials, in addition to the construction sector, several other production factories, including those for animal feed, oil, and flour, have recently started operations in Kandahar. These businesses not only strengthen domestic production but also provide employment for many people.