First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has disclosed that in the last seven years alone, the mining firm has invested more than US$33 million in community development schemes, including malaria management, conservation farming education and community banking schemes in the Kalumbila District.

Garth Lappeman, manager of the mine’s Trident Foundation says the true economic growth of a country is reflected in the state of the health, education, agriculture and quality of life of its citizens.

“The company is committed to sustainable development through economically viable investments, technically appropriate operations, environmentally sound practices and socially responsible actions,” said Mr Lappeman.

He says to date Trident Foundation has spent US$3.09 million on community healthcare, covering clinical and community-based health services, with the balance going to prevention and education programmes.

He adds that a further US$1.19 million has been spent on education, while US$16.94 million has been spent on community resettlement as part of its n sustainability and community development programmes aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“The company wants to ensure the current needs of communities surrounding its mining operations will be supported during and after the life of the mine. Through its sustainability projects, FQM will continue to drive growth while fostering conservation farming, better healthcare, education and stronger business links in the area,” he said.

Mr. Lappeman says the overall objective of First Quantum Minerals’ socio-economic development programmes is to improve the quality of life for its employees, their families and their immediate communities.