In the heart of Gaza, a unique and desperate industry has emerged from the rubble of war. The story of Gaza's makeshift cement production is a testament to human resilience and ingenuity in the face of unimaginable adversity.
A Desperate Necessity
The situation in Gaza is dire. With over 71,000 lives lost in the past two years of Israeli bombardments and an ongoing blockade on construction materials, Palestinians are left with few options. This is where the story of Saadi al-Sha'er and his makeshift cement operation begins.
Al-Sha'er, a former fibreglass manufacturer, noticed clay fused with cement dust around bombed factories. This observation led to an experiment, and eventually, a makeshift solution. Workers break down hardened deposits by hand, sieve the material, and create a mixture of cement dust, lime, gypsum, calcium, and bonding agents. It's a crude process, but it's all they have.
A Costly and Limited Solution
The resulting cement is sold at a premium, with a single bag now costing over £500, compared to £40 for conventional cement before the war. For a population struggling with destitution, this substitute is often out of reach. However, for those who can afford it, it offers a chance to build something more permanent than a tent.
Mahmoud al-Astal, a farmer, chose to construct a small house using this cement. The builder, Othman al-Awda, understands the limitations of the material and keeps his ambitions within its capabilities. It's a far cry from conventional construction, but it's a necessary compromise.
A Temporary Fix with Long-Term Concerns
Civil engineer Mahmoud Ubeid oversees renovation works and confirms that this substitute cement is now the primary material for finishing work. He offers a 12-month warranty, acknowledging its temporary nature. While it serves its purpose for now, it fails under testing and is not suitable for structural use.
The quantities produced are a mere fraction of what's needed, and priority is given to essential infrastructure. Al-Sha'er, living in a displaced persons' camp, continues his work, knowing full well that it's not a long-term solution. But for now, it's a means to an end, a way to keep building and keep hope alive.
A Broader Perspective
This story highlights the human capacity for adaptation and survival. It also raises questions about the role of international aid and the impact of political decisions on everyday lives. The ongoing blockade and restrictions on construction materials have forced Gazans to create their own solutions, but at what cost?
In my opinion, this makeshift cement industry is a powerful symbol of resilience, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
