• The mining firm has undertaken various programmes.
• This is in its drive to include more Zambian businesses in the mines supply chain.
• FQM’s Kansanshi Mining and Kalumbila Minerals recorded a combined local annual spend of US$4.48 billion for 2018-2020.

First Quantum Minerals (FQM) says it is determined and motivated in its mission to increase local content across its mining operations.

Speaking during the Zambia Association of Manufacturers’ Conference, FQM’s Government Relations Specialist and presiding Zambia Chamber of Mines President Dr. Godwin Beene said the mining firm has backed President Hakainde Hichilema’s appeal to industry players to step up and exercise holistic and prudent management of resources as well as foster partnerships that can boost the country’s productivity in a sustainable manner.

“We sit down with ZAM members as our partners and come up with a strategic plan on how, suppliers can up their game, and this is starting to manifest that this collaboration can actually crystalize into increased business opportunities. So we shall continue on that path of training suppliers and manufacturers,” Mr. Msiska said.

And FQM Public Relations Manager for Kansanshi Mining Godfrey Msiska states that mining firm has undertaken various programmes in its drive to include more Zambian businesses in the mines supply chain as well as encourage the emergence of non-traditional industries outside the mining sector in its areas of operation.

“Among its key strategies is the engagement of industry institutions such as Zambia Association of Manufacturers and the North-Western Chamber of Commerce and Industry to improve the skills, capabilities and quality of goods and services produced by local manufacturers,” he explained.

FQM’s Kansanshi Mining and Kalumbila Minerals recorded a combined local annual spend of US$4.48 billion for 2018-2020, representing more than 80 percent of its overall spending.

In 2020, 46 percent of the mill balls consumed by its Kansanshi mine were produced in Zambia. The mine is currently targeting to increase this to 90 percent, with a resultant increase in local spend of around $9 million per annum.