DODOMA, Aug. 19 -- THE government has given cement manufacturers seven days to submit proposals on how to tackle shortages and high prices of cement, as it moves to find a lasting solution to growing concerns over the essential construction material.

The directive was issued by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Amb. Waziri Salum, during a meeting with cement manufacturers in Dodoma to examine the factors behind the shortage and rising prices.

Amb. Salum said the government wanted a sustainable solution that would keep cement available at prices that balance the interests of manufacturers, traders and consumers.

He directed manufacturers to use the seven-day period to identify challenges affecting cement product...