TOGETHER ISSUE Quarter 4, 2020
AN FQM ZAMBIA QUARTERLY PUBLICATION
What’s inside: • FQM PAYS LION’S SHARE OF MINING CONTRIBUTION TO GOVERNMENT REVENUE • KWALELA LAMASWALA: THE MAN WHO DARED TO DREAM BIG • FIRST QUANTUM PARTNERS WITH ANGLO AMERICAN IN REAL-TIME COVID-19 TESTING LAB
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WHAT’S INSIDE 04
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FQM PAYS LION’S SHARE OF MINING CONTRIBUTION TO GOVERNMENT REVENUE
FQM’S KALUMBILA MINE GOES BEYOND COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS IN PROTECTING FOREST RESOURCES
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FQM SPENDS US$720,000 TO PROVIDE TAP WATER TO KISASA COMMUNITY
MINDSET TRANSFORMATION IS A KEY TO DEVELOPMENT – FQM
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CAREFUL PLANNING AND TEAMWORK BEHIND THE SUCCESS OF FQM’S SENTINEL MINE
CHIEF KAPIJIMPANGA HONOURED WITH ROYAL SCEPTRE
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KANSANSHI FOUNDATION BRINGS CHRISTMAS EARLY TO ORPHANS IN SOLWEZI
KANSANSHI RUNNERS TOP NSOBE BUSH RUN
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NEWS
COUNTRY MANAGER'S MESSAGE
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his Edition of the TOGETHER Magazine marks the end of what has been a truly challenging year for our operations. I am often reminded of the stacking difference between two birds: the Sparrow and the Eagle, not for their obvious stature or habitat, but how they react in the face of a storm. While they are both master fliers, the sparrow will swiftly seek refuge in the face of a raging storm, while the eagle will seek the eye of a storm and when it gets there, ride on its energies to soar to higher heights. I believe that it is befitting to describe FQML as an Eagle. The year 2020 was indeed stormy, a kind of hurricane that upset everything and frightened everybody. And so, we carry stories in this edition which show that our company flew right into the eye of Covid-19 Pandemic when it hit Zambia at the beginning of 2020, delivering strong production results during the storm at the end of 2020, taking every precautionary measure to protect employees and keeping a steadfast presence in our communities through our two Foundations. We also carry a heart-warming story of FQML tapping synergies with Anglo American Exploration to construct a Real-Time Covid-19 Testing laboratory in Solwezi, clearly demonstrating how mining companies in Zambia do come to the aid of the Government in moments of a crisis. While direct employment is one of the key benefits a mine such as ours delivers in terms of community support, the far more reaching benefit for the community is the long-term prosperity skills training, entrepreneurial programmes, and engendering new mind set towards environmental protection bring. This edition carries stories of how FQML is carrying its objectives to foster local economic development and prepare these communities for a future without us. Sceptres have been an important emblem of authority from ancient times to the present. In many African societies, the sceptre assumes a central role in royal circles and is a traditional royal insignia of sovereigns. The Nsanshi Arts Craft Jewelry unit which is manned by internally trained young women has produced uniquely designed Royal Sceptres for the three Chiefs in our areas of operations. As a mark of the long and enduring bond of friendship, peace, and unity prevailing between First Quantum and the three Royal Highnesses, the Royal Highnesses were presented with Sceptres made from copper sourced from Kansanshi Mine - a significant gesture from FQML.
Those of you who look for technical material in this Magazine, the article on Planning will make you appreciate that it is “TOGETHERNESS”, teamwork and teamwork and teamwork which creates success. Enjoy our article. And finally, join me in bidding farewell to founder and resident Director, Kwalela Mubita Lamaswala whose role in the beginnings of FQML we feature in this edition. In his own words: “As a company and individuals, we strive to go beyond the goals set by other companies. After more than two decades of operations, we are now one of the world’s top 10 copper producers, exporting millions of tonnes of concentrate from multiple countries to customers worldwide. We are focused on providing a tangible benefit from everything we do for investors, employees, governments, and the many communities that host our operations.” Good reading. Kind regards, General Kingsley Chinkuli FQM Country Manager
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GENERAL NEWS
FQM PAYS LION’S SHARE OF MINING CONTRIBUTION TO GOVERNMENT REVENUE
FQM’s contribution goes far beyond just paying wages, royalties and taxes
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irst Quantum Minerals (FQM) contributed the majority of government revenue generated from the extractive sector in 2019, according to the latest Zambia Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (ZEITI) report. The report states that the mining giant’s two Zambian subsidiaries, Kansanshi Mining Plc (20 percent owned by the Zambian government through ZCCM-IH) and Kalumbila Minerals Ltd, contributed K5.7 billion and K2.6 billion respectively, representing 31 percent and 14.4 percent of total payments in the year. FQM’s total contribution of K9,347 billion – which includes K973.65 million from First Quantum Mining and Operations – represented 51 percent of the K18.4 billion total revenue generated from the sector and paid to the government in 2019. The payments included VAT, PAYE, Mineral Royalty Tax, Import Tax, and Income Tax, as well as other payment outflows. The report also highlighted that Kansanshi Mining and Kalumbila Minerals reported negligible reconciliation differences with Government statistics, which were the lowest based on comparisons across mines. This is testimony to the reliability of FQM's disclosures.
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The figures in the latest ZEITI report underscore FQM’s commitment to transparency and accountability of its operations, said FQM Zambia Country Manager General Kingsley Chinkuli. “The numbers in the ZEITI report are built on the belief that to build trust and a sustainable licence to operate, we need to have open and inclusive conversations about the cost-benefits of mining. We remain committed to the multi-stakeholder group approach that lies at the heart of the ZEITI accountability process and aim to replicate this approach everywhere we operate,” he said. The Country Manager added that the company remains resilient and highly competitive while continuing to unlock the significant further potential within the constraints of the current fiscal and economic environment. “Our commitment to paying the right amount of tax is critical, as is generating additional local benefit from the strength of our large workforce and supply chain,” General Chinkuli said, noting the company’s contribution to the Zambian economy. However, its contribution goes far beyond just paying wages, royalties, and taxes, he emphasised.
“As big as we are, our fiscal contribution will not deliver on its own. We need to continue working with others to stand up for and to implement the principles behind these wider economic benefits.” The 12th EITI report also showed that the extractive sector contributed 9.9 percent to GDP, accounted for 77 percent of the country’s exports, and provided 28 percent of government revenue.
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NEWS
Q4, 2020
FQM’S SENTINEL MINE ACHIEVES HIGHEST EVER QUARTERLY PRODUCTION
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irst Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel mine in Kalumbila achieved its highest ever quarterly production of 70,829 tonnes and record low cash costs in the third quarter of this year, according to its latest results announcement to shareholders.
Increased throughput and higher grades resulted in a 25 percent rise in copper production compared with the same period in 2019, while lower maintenance costs, lower fuel prices, and currency depreciation drove improved unit costs. “Globally the mining firm recorded total copper production of 211,396 tonnes in the quarter, 10 percent higher than the same period in 2019, due to record production at both Sentinel and its Cobre Panama mine," said FQM Chairman and CEO Philip Pascall. “The third quarter was strong from an operational and financial perspective. Cobre Panama restarted normal operations and was back into full production well ahead
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of schedule. Almost all of our operations delivered lower costs and several new production and cost records were achieved.” He also stated that total cash costs were at their lowest level in four years. “We continue to prioritize the health and safety of our workforce as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic that is now the ‘new normal’. Despite all the challenges, our workforce and operations continue to be extremely resilient. This has resulted in a strong operational performance, allowing us to increase our production expectations for the year at slightly improved costs. I am proud of how we continue to navigate this very challenging year while preparing the Company for continued future success,” said Mr Pascall. He further said that performance at Cobre Panama was strong as it ramped up from preservation and safe maintenance in July to full production levels in August, slightly ahead of expectation, adding that copper production in the quarter
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was 62,055 tonnes, significantly higher than the same period in 2019. FQM’s Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi performed consistently during the quarter. Copper production of 54,430 tonnes was slightly lower than the third quarter of 2019 because of reduced grades and recoveries despite increased throughput. Cash costs were lower, driven by currency depreciation and lower fuel costs. The Kansanshi smelter processed 362,554 dry metric tonnes (“DMT”) of copper concentrate, and produced 89,090 tonnes of copper anode with recoveries of 98 percent, together with 342,000 tonnes of sulphuric acid.
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Almost all of FQM’s copper operations delivered a reduction in cash costs, and total cash costs were at their lowest level in four years.
This outstanding performance was all the more commendable, given the background of a tax regime ranked as the least competitive in the world by consulting firm EY, and challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. FQM has cautioned that for the company to continue being a major contributor to the Zambian economy, the government needs to put in place an effective and efficient mineral tax regime to attract foreign direct investment, which should seek to adequately compensate the country while remaining internationally attractive and competitive.
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FQM SPENDS US$720,000 TO PROVIDE TAP WATER TO KISASA COMMUNITY
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irst Quantum Minerals has handed over two commercial boreholes worth US$720,000 to Kisasa community in Senior Chief Musele’s chiefdom as part of the mining firm’s on-going commitment to bring fresh clean water to local communities in Kalumbila District of North-Western Province. The boreholes are 130 meters deep with two 32,000 litre, 15-metre high storage tanks, connected to a distribution network of 62 communal taps that will supply water to more than 8,000 people of Kisasa. “Our investment in the communities is anchored on our social policy commitment, which is to maximise social and economic opportunities in all communities where we operate. We also commit to ensuring that we minimise potential negative social impacts arising from our mining activities,” said FQM Government Affairs Specialist Dr Godwin Beene. As the mining giant (through its subsidiary Kalumbila Minerals Limited) handed over the boreholes to the Kisasa community, Dr Beene said that the piped water infrastructure is a typical example of how much the company continues to achieve by working together. “Our community water support programme dates back from 2013, following our social baseline assessment and community water quality surveillance study,” he explained. Naturally occurring iron in the geological structure of the area has been a visible challenge in water in Musele community boreholes for over two decades, long before mining activities commenced in the area. This is a wellknown challenge in areas with similar soils in Zambia, in particular, large parts of North-Western and Northern
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provinces. Scientific analysis of the water confirmed the naturally occurring iron, which causes water discolouration and a metallic taste. The iron occurs in most of the local soils and is not a result of mining activities. This is backed up by the extensive long-term groundwater monitoring programmes initiated by the company before operations began. Speaking at the same event, North-Western Provincial Minister Hon. Nathaniel Mubukwanu said: "This water that you are getting today, it is 100 per cent safe, and we believe that this will not only save you (Kisasa community) from the potential risks associated with consumption or usage of contaminated water, but also it should promote good quality lifestyles among our people.” He further challenged the traditional leadership to provide direction in ensuring that the water infrastructure is protected and looked after as it was constructed at a huge cost.
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FQM’s investment in the communities is anchored on its social policy commitment.
In 2017, the mining firm spent US$60,000 to repair 57 community boreholes across the Musele Chiefdom. Repairing the boreholes was identified as a need during an annual community needs assessment, followed up by a mechanical survey of all the boreholes in Musele Chiefdom. The mining firm believes access to safe, clean water is the number one priority for community development. Water is a basic human need, and should always be prioritised over other forms of development work. Despite current economic challenges, the company has prioritised its budget to focus on this issue.
FQM’s Kalumbila Minerals Assistant General Manager Junior Keyser said it was very important for the company to know what the effect of its mining activities are on the host communities and the environment around its mining area. “Back in 2017, we recognised the need for specialised deepwater boreholes. This was recognised due to the monitoring process and the results obtained from some of the shallow boreholes,” he said. He added that First Quantum has aligned its corporate and social management commitment with best international practices and that the company conducted a baseline environmental and social assessment prior to the commencement of the construction of Kalumbila Mine. The mine has undertaken an on-going programme of borehole upgrades to help the community address the challenge of access to clean and safe drinking water, including a technical investigation to locate deep water borehole sites in Kalumbila District.
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FEATURE
Q4, 2020
FEATURE
CAREFUL PLANNING AND TEAMWORK BEHIND THE SUCCESS OF FQM’S SENTINEL MINE
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he mining sector continues to play a significant role in developing the Zambian economy, despite the global and local socio-economic challenges caused by unstable commodity prices and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mining firm has prioritised optimisation and a well-coordinated workforce to increase efficiency and productivity
However, for the mining firms to remain productive, profitable, and withstand both the internal and external shocks that the sector has been facing, careful planning and management remain key to the survival of these major contributors to the nation’s economy. First Quantum Minerals Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila has prioritised optimisation and ensuring it has a well-coordinated workforce, which it believes is fundamental to increasing efficiency, productivity, and the overall success of any business. “Success takes a combination of engineering application, business astuteness, optimisation, and then your over-arching ability to challenge your status quo. We look at one’s talents; one’s competencies, one’s qualifications, and ensure that we get the right fit for that individual to not only enjoy their work, but contribute positively to our end goal," explained Sentinel Mine Operations Manager Rees Magrath. “Our skills diversity ranges from equipment operators, various engineers, electrical/mechanical technicians, dispatchers, safety practitioners, and everyone in between, and with over 1,300 people in the Mining Operations team, and over 62 different job roles, we ensure that we set up an individual for success. "Whether through our training and development at the start of one’s career or where we identify deficiencies and set up developmental programmes to ensure that our employees achieve the best, they can and provide a valuable contribution to the company,” he added. Mr Magrath explained that for a business to be effective, its management should have the ability to understand the importance of teamwork and that the company should always ensure it settles staff disputes while making each employee feel he or she is a key player in the operation and success of the company.
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''Nothing gets done by one person or one team alone so the element of teamwork has been a very big success factor for us''
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“This is something that we focus on daily and continue to drive our teams to towards excellence."
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of maintenance; identifying defects as they present themselves and addressing them so the availability of the equipment is linked to strong reliability thus giving confidence and ability to the production teams to achieve their targets.
The challenging environment regarding recent commodity prices, the obvious COVID-19 factor, and our remote site situation, can be overcome with the purpose that the teams have. We set high expectations for ourselves and we are energized by the fact that there are equally high objectives set for us, however, we are more than ready and willing to meet these and show further improvement on our mine site,” he continued.
Mr Magrath further said there is a sense of ownership among employees who realize that mining is more than just the operation that brings food to the table, but it is also what allows them to set up a legacy for the future.
FQM believes that a responsible company promotes healthy relationships among employees and the communities where it operates, but that the challenge lies in finding the right balance between respecting and accommodating the difference in cultural and religious beliefs while promoting co-existence among the many nationalities the company has employed.
“The sense of ownership brings about a sense of purpose and urgency that we see in our teams and that’s something that makes a big difference in ensuring we achieve our targets. We are seeing equal performance improvements in our safety focus, environmental stewardship, and our general working standards and conditions."
By investing in the well-being of its employees and the communities where they live, the company can record worthwhile returns.
“We can’t underestimate the strength of teamwork to operate a mine site like this that has 1,300 people just in the Mining department alone and all with their part to play in the bigger picture. Operating independently doesn’t work at all. Nothing gets done by one person or one team alone, so the element of teamwork has been a very big success factor for us,” he said.
A well-coordinated and productive workforce helps companies achieve their set goals and objectives. “To ensure that we have a stable mining environment, the planning, scheduling and geology teams have a very key role to play, thereby enabling us to set up a very comprehensive and practical plan which, if executed to the correct standard, yields the expectations that we set out for at the beginning of each quarter and each year.
The company’s focus has been on empowering its people through training and education. Being a multinational company, FQM believes that despite the many nationalities among its staff, establishing the right work culture and ethics leads to a happier workforce resulting in a successful organisation.
Another notable success story for us has been in the company’s equipment reliability processes. Underpinning production is the equipment used to achieve strong production volumes. The company has been moving towards a more preventive means
“At Kalumbila we have a very positive outlook, and with a continued focus on improving on the basics and constantly challenging the status quo, we have a good team to push us into the future with improved performances from where we are now,” he said.
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PEOPLE
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PEOPLE
KWALELA LAMASWALA: THE MAN WHO DARED TO DREAM BIG
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he western part of Zambia was not known for any large-scale mining activities in the early days of Zambia as an independent country. For this reason the career of Kwalela Lamaswala is one for the history books. Hailing from Western Province, a young Lamaswala envisioned himself being a leader who would transform the country in his own way. During his primary school years he had the privilege of meeting the then Governor of Northern Rhodesia, Sir Arthur Benson, and at this occasion he received his first life-changing compliment: “…that boy is going far.” Lamaswala Kwalela was born in Mongu District on October 26, 1942. He has a BSc in Economics from Makerere University, Uganda, and an MSc in Development Studies from the University of Toronto in Canada. Mr Lamaswala boasts an illustrious career having served in various capacities in government, from a development planning officer in the civil service to eventually an appointment as Deputy Governor of the Bank of Zambia. However, his career in the mining industry started during his undergraduate degree when he based his final year thesis on the role of mining in the Zambian economy. His journey in mining began. The 77-year-old Mr Lamaswala is credited as being one of the founders of First Quantum Minerals (FQM). It was during the privatisation era of the 1990s that he and the current FQM CEO and Chairman Philip Pascall came up with the idea to set up a mine, after the duo’s initial plan to venture
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privatisation programme. Bwana Mkubwa had been abandoned several times since its discovery in 1902 owing to economic downturns and depletion of copper reserves. For this reason FQM’s acquisition of the Ndola mine was deemed as ‘a mad man’s quest’. What interested FQM were the huge tailing dumps or heaps of ore as waste from previous extractions, still contained some copper content. into agriculture and animal ranching failed to come to fruition. Currently Resident Director of the mining firm, Mr Lamaswala has been actively involved in FQM’s operations in Zambia since the start of Bwana Mkubwa through to developing Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi, and now the Trident Project at Kalumbila. The start of something big In 1998, FQM acquired the oldest mine in Zambia, Bwana Mkubwa, under the government’s
“Our objective was to re-work these dumps in order to extract the remaining amounts of copper from these tailing dumps,” recalls Mr Lamaswala. FQM put an investment of US$30 million into the Bwana Mkubwa project to construct a tailing treatment plant and a sulphuric acid plant. According to Mr Lamaswala, FQM dares to take the road less trodden, and where others see a dead-end, FQM sees a path
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with lights at the end that may just need some clearing. “We are well-known for our ‘can do’ attitude and specialist technical, engineering, construction and operational skills, which allow us to develop and successfully run complex mines and mineral processing plants,” he said. Since the 1990s, FQM has been one of the largest copper mining companies in the world, attributed mostly to its ownership of Kansanshi and Kalumbila mines in North-Western Zambia. At its peak in 2014, FQM’s operations in Zambia accounted for at least 51.8 percent of the mining giant’s global revenue. “As a company and individuals, we strive to go beyond the goals set by other companies. After more than two decades of operations we are now one of the world’s top 10 copper producers, exporting millions of tonnes of concentrate from multiple countries to customers worldwide. We are focused on providing a tangible benefit from everything we do for investors, employees, governments and the many communities that host our operations,” explained Mr Lamaswala. Mr Lamaswala credits his long relationship with FQM to the goodwill that the company has built with the people of Zambia, something that greatly aligns with his core values. “I am proud to have been part of a company that greatly values the welfare of its employees, governments and host communities. This is one of many of FQM‘s attributes that sets it apart from other mining companies,” he said. Education and health, which are key priority areas in FQM’s community activities, have contributed to the social and economic development of Solwezi and Kalumbila. In the past five years, over US$5 million has been pumped into the two sectors.
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“The relationship shared between companies in the extractive industry and host governments and communities is admittedly a complex one. How they work around this relationship and make everyone happy is key to success of any mining venture. This is the main reason that FQM has continued enjoying the success it has had all these years,” said Mr Lamaswala. He said the mine is a good role model of what any corporate entity ought to be doing in the communities it serves, and that he is proud of being part of the FQM family. He explained that as a company, FQM’s philosophy on engaging with various stakeholders is based on the principles of genuineness, focus, respect and humility. Operationally, Kansanshi is one of the most efficient mines in the world, and like Kalumbila, also includes various cost saving methods, such as trolley assist haulage and in-pit crushing to minimise the use of diesel and reduce costs further, something vital given the low grade of its ore.
PEOPLE
The reduction in mining costs means the mine can pump in more funds to the community programmes run by its Kansanshi and Trident Foundations. Mr Lamaswala is optimistic of the future of FQM and the mining industry in Zambia. “Zambia has been the mainstay of FQM's global mining investments, and I do not see that changing soon. Notwithstanding that in the past years there has been a lot of diversification of FQM operations around the world. Now we have operations in Turkey, Spain, Finland, Australia, Panama and Mauritania, and projects in Peru, and Argentina,” he pointed out. However, Mr Lamaswala cautioned government on its mining tax regime: “If the government keeps a competitive tax regime, then that would be the strongest signal they could send to investors that Zambia will remain an interesting and attractive destination for foreign direct investment."
Mr Lamaswala attributed FQM’s resilience and efficiency to its push for more innovative ways of doing mining activities by using modern technology.
“New investment creates more jobs. There is no other viable mechanism of creating jobs. Governments do not by themselves create jobs; they can only create an environment that is conducive and attractive for investment, and it is this that then creates jobs and wealth.”
“We are extremely good at seeking out efficiencies; this is reflected in reduced costs at our mines. Currently, Kansanshi operates in the lower cost percentile. This means that if the price of copper drops most of the copper operations worldwide would feel pressure before Kansanshi does.
Reminiscing on his proudest moments at FQM, Mr Lamaswala talked about how he convinced the mine’s Board to sponsor the broadcast of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) football tournament in 2012, which saw the Chipolopolo national team emerging as the soccer champions of Africa.
“The average copper grade at Kalumbila is 0.51 percent, meaning to produce 300,000 tonnes of copper a year we will have to move a massive amount of ore. Consequently, at Kalumbila we operate one of the largest milling trains in the world. The only equivalent size is in South America.”
To this, Mr Lamaswala said FQM is one company with a good knack of identifying “wins” where others see the impossible. Mr Lamaswala will be retiring in December of 2020. After his long career, he intends to go back to doing what he loves, farming and spending more time with his family.
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HEALTH
Q4, 2020
HEALTH
FIRST QUANTUM PARTNERS WITH ANGLO AMERICAN IN REAL-TIME COVID-19 TESTING LAB
Kansanshi Mine Assistant Generals Manager John Gladston and Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Kennedy Malama officially open the COVID-19 testing laboratory at Kansanshi Mine Hospital.
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and safety of personnel and focus on measures to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 among the workforce and communities surrounding our operations,” said Mr Gladston. He said that First Quantum would employ the clinical staff at the Kansanshi Mine Hospital to run the laboratory, to protect the health of mine workers who operate the economic engine room of the nation.
Speaking at the opening of Ba Mingilo Molecular Laboratory in Solwezi, First Quantum’s Kansanshi Mine Assistant General Manager John Gladston said that through its partnership with the Provincial Health Authorities, First Quantum was keeping its employees, their families, relatives, and friends healthy and free from COVID-19.
Anglo American Geophysicist Michelo Shalwindi said: “We are pleased to be supporting the Zambian Government’s efforts to increase COVID-19 testing capacity in Zambia. This initiative will ensure that the communities close to where we are exploring have access to rapid and high-quality testing services crucial in helping manage the spread of COVID-19.”
“We have been working in partnership with Anglo American and other stakeholders to prioritise the health
Test kits have been distributed within the province: 5,000 for First Quantum, 5,000 for Anglo American, and 5,000 for
irst Quantum Minerals has partnered with Anglo American Exploration Zambia to construct a real-time PCR COVID-19 testing laboratory at Kansanshi Mine Hospital in Solwezi District of North-Western Province. The modern laboratory was built to increase the testing capacity in North-Western Province. Anglo American provided the equipment and consumables, while First Quantum built and will staff the facility.
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“We are pleased to be supporting the Zambian Government’s efforts to increase COVID-19 testing capacity in Zambia. This initiative will ensure that the communities close to where we are exploring have access to rapid and high-quality testing services crucial in helping manage the spread of COVID-19.”
the community. Permanent Secretary of Technical Services at the Zambian Ministry of Health Dr. Kennedy Malama thanked First Quantum and Anglo American for their support in the fight against the pandemic and said he was pleased the two mining houses had demonstrated a strong partnership linked to Government’s support. First Quantum has long made healthcare a priority in all the communities where it operates. The challenge, especially in less prosperous regions, is where to draw the line between problems that the company has a responsibility to help address, and those that remain within the mandate of the public healthcare system. First Quantum has spent over US$100 million on its sustainability and community development programmes to improve the health and the quality of life of its employees, their families and their immediate communities.
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EDUCATION
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EDUCATION
KALUMBILA TOWN COUNCIL PARTNERS WITH FQM TO REHABILITATE 1,320 SCHOOL DESKS
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irst Quantum Minerals, through its Trident Foundation, has partnered with Kalumbila Town Council to co-fund the rehabilitation of 1,320 desks to improve education standards and advance literacy levels in communities surrounding its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila. FQM’s efforts to improve education standards and advance literacy levels are framed by a broader vision of how corporate support can have the most impact. Some 837 desks out of at target of 1,320 have been rehabilitated and sent to 18 schools. Speaking when the mining firm handed the rehabilitated desks to the Ministry of General Education at Nkulumazhiba Community School, Trident Foundation Community Affairs Manager, Joseph Ngwira said that Trident Foundation was rehabilitating broken
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Education is one of the key areas of support and FQM strongly believes in its ability to empower and liberate the mind allowing individuals to live dignified lives.
and damaged metal frame desks in 27 schools, adding that: “Education is one of the key areas of support and we at FQM strongly believe education can empower and liberate the mind, allowing individuals to live dignified lives. The co-funding of the rehabilitation of the 1,320 desks by Kalumbila Town Council and the Trident Foundation is an initiative that will add value to the education system in our district and the country at large.” Early this year the foundation partnered with the Ministry of General Education through the District Education Board Secretary’s office to rehabilitate 208 desks in local schools. To date it has contributed 4,784 desks to over 27 schools in and outside its catchment areas. Other notable contributions the mining firm has made towards education in the past five years include the construction of two by three classroom blocks at Wanyinwa Primary School in Shinengene, a one by three classroom block, ablution facilities and three teacher’s houses at Kisasa School, and a one by two classroom block at Mbole.
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EDUCATION
At Jiundu Secondary School the Trident Foundation built a brand-new kitchen with a dining area. The foundation also fenced off the girls’ dormitory to safeguard the girls and built ablution facilities for better sanitation. At Musele School the foundation built a one by three classroom block, and three teachers' houses were constructed, and one by three classroom block was built at Kankonzhi. Partnering with the community a one by three classroom block at Kalumbila North Primary School, as well as a one by three classroom block and six VIP toilets at Mukila Wantambo Community school and a staff house are about to be handed over. In 2019, two teachers‘ houses were built and handed over to Musanda and Chovwe schools. Under its School Improvement Programme, the company is also supporting a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme to provide teachers with training on modern teaching methods, including action plans on implementation. About 67 teachers have benefited from these programmes, which the Trident Foundation has been supporting. The mining firm continues to donate teaching aids and learning materials, including textbooks, literacy materials, and has sponsored 195 students: 75 at primary, 56 at secondary, and 48 at tertiary level, along with 10 at special education institutions.
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The company has spent over US$100 million on its sustainability and community development programmes, aligning its programmes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). SDG 4 aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all and this is reflected in FQM’s extensive education programmes at both its mines in North-Western Province, including the Kansanshi Quality Education Improvement Programme (KanEQuIP), support for Early Childhood Education, Solwezi Trades Training programmes and numerous other school projects.
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ENVIRONMENT
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FQM’S KALUMBILA MINE GOES BEYOND COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS IN PROTECTING FOREST RESOURCES
ight Community Forest Officers have graduated from First Quantum Minerals’ Forest Resource Protection Programme to enforce the law, create awareness and promote ecologically-based business opportunities in Lualaba and Bushingwa National Forests neighbouring its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila.
FQM, through the Trident Foundation, has invested over $45 million in conservation activitiers in and around the West Lunga Management Area since 2014.
The mining firm has made it a top priority to build strong partnerships to ensure that it identifies and implements opportunities to improve the conservation of biodiversity, achieve best practices in biodiversity management and identify ways to contribute to conservation in areas where it operates. “The objective is to avoid deforestation due to the pressure on the forest resources in these catchment areas. The mine brings in job opportunities and other business opportunities, which lead to an influx of people into the area, adding pressure that extends into the forest resources. “People will produce more charcoal because the market has been created. They will harvest more mukwa for housing purposes because there is a high demand for houses. That in itself creates demand for natural resources, and if we do not get involved as a mine, we are going to see deforestation move faster than it was on the Copperbelt when the old mines started their operations there,” explained FQM’s
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Trident Foundation Community Affairs Manager Joseph Ngwira during the graduation ceremony of the community forest officers. The occasion was graced by His Royal Highness Chief Musele and the District Administration official from the Forestry Department who will be driving the programme in partnership with the mine. Mr Ngwira further said that there will be a huge community benefit if natural resources are used sustainably. “We are not simply blocking anyone, but what we are
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supporting is to ensure that there is sustainable resource utilisation by bringing in other intervention measures and other income-generating activities that make the communities appreciate the value of the forest resources. “Our approach is to promote ecologically supported business opportunities that will help with value addition and enhance value chains so that there is a benefit that will trickle down to the locals. We are working together with government in the spirit of the First Quantum’s values of working together: bolder, smarter, driven, together,” he continued.
TOGETHER│ 19 ENVIRONMENT
in Zambia wholly-owned and managed by the community, which also has total wildlife user rights. First Quantum Minerals, through the Trident Foundation, has invested over $4.5 million in conservation activities in and around the West Lunga Management Area since 2014. The mining firm’s environmental strategies are based on the need to provide an economic value chain in the country while running its business in a socially and ethically accountable way, as well as ensuring lasting and sustainable developments.
Speaking at the same event, Chief Musele passionately talked about First Quantum’s support for natural resources management, giving an example of the successful wildlife management programme where animals are now returning to the area, and support for conservation of water resources. He thanked the mine for its support. He highlighted why forest resource management is important, recognising that his chiefdom would not be there had his ancestors not conserved natural resources, adding that there should be a balanced relationship between a stable eco-system and services provided such as water, as well as products such as food and construction material. In September 2020, the mining firm through its Kalumbila mine handed over the Ntambu Community Game Reserve to Chief Ntambu’s chiefdom of Mwinilunga District in North-Western Province to establish conservation-based economies around the West Lunga Management Area. The game reserve is the only community-owned game reserve
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“The objective is to avoid deforestation due to the pressure on the forest resources in these catchment areas. ”
12/02/2021 11:16:07
ENVIRONMENT 20│ TOGETHER
Q4, 2020
FQM COMMUNITY WATER PROJECTS SCOOP TOP PRIZE AT RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS AWARDS
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FQM representatives receive responsible business awards from the CSR Network.
irst Quantum Minerals has been recognised for its leading role in improving access to clean and safe drinking water in communities surrounding its mining operations in North-Western Province.
The company scooped four awards at CSR Network Zambia’s 2020 Zambia CSR and Responsible Business Awards on December 4, 2020. The award for the provision of clean and safe drinking water in communities recognised the monitoring of the quality of water and the sharing of results with the communities.
“If we empower our communities and uplift people’s livelihoods, that will have ripple effects both on our businesses and on our people. ”
The company also received awards for the conversion of 7,000 subsistence farmers to emerging commercial farmers and the provision of technical support and training for more than 50,000 farmers, for its School on Radio initiative, and
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for the protection and conservation of wildlife. Speaking at the awards ceremony, I ndustrial Development Corporation Group Chief Executive Officer Mateyo Kaluba said the CSR Network Zambia was a good platform to enrich the CSR dialogue, encourage sharing of best practices, and ignite collaboration among members. In a speech read on his behalf by Chief Portfolio Officer Henry Sakala, he said that if businesses embrace social responsibility more closely, they will collectively build a better future. “If we empower our communities and uplift people’s livelihoods, that will have ripple effects both on our businesses and on our people. If our businesses grow, our communities benefit and that will lead to economic development. This resonates with the government’s thrust of achieving vision 2030 of attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. First Quantum has undertaken an on-going programme of borehole upgrades to help communities surrounding its Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi and Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila to address the challenge of access to clean and safe drinking water. Its work, which includes technical investigation to locate deep water borehole sites, has been widely commended by the government, traditional leaders, and local people. In 2017, the mining firm spent US$60,000 to repair 57 community boreholes across the Musele Chiefdom in Kalumbila. Repairing the boreholes was identified as a need during an annual community needs assessment, followed up by a mechanical survey of all the boreholes in the area. “The mining budgeted to invest in an initiative to upgrade
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TOGETHER│ 21 ENVIRONMENT
community water systems in Kalumbila and Solwezi Districts in work being coordinated in consultation with the local traditional leadership, a development task force and sub-committees specifically set up to recommend improvements to water access,” said FQM’s Trident Foundation community affairs manager Joseph Ngwira. Mr Ngwira further said that the mine also works in close collaboration with the Department of Water Resources Development to undertake annual water quality monitoring of 178 boreholes in the local area, and the results are disclosed to the community. The programme aims to complement government efforts to increase access to clean and safe drinking water in communities in Kalumbila district. Naturally occurring iron in the geological structure of the area has been a visible challenge in water in Musele community boreholes for over two decades, long before mining activities commenced in the area. This is a wellknown challenge in areas with similar soils in Zambia, in particular, large parts of North-Western and Northern provinces. Scientific analysis of the water confirmed the naturally occurring iron, which causes water discolouration and a metallic taste. The iron occurs in most of the local soils and is not a result of mining activities. This is backed up by the extensive long-term groundwater monitored programmes initiated by the company before operations began.
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COMMUNITY
FQM is of the view that direct employment is one of the key benefits a mine delivers in terms of community support.
MINDSET TRANSFORMATION IS A KEY TO DEVELOPMENT
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ustainability and community development programmes should be viewed as socio-economic development programmes and not handouts for them to have a meaningful impact on the livelihoods of the beneficiaries, according to First Quantum Mineral (FQM). Setting out its long-term approach to community support, the mining firm explained that the true economic growth of a country is reflected in the state of health, education, and quality of life that its citizens live, and the private sector plays an important role in nurturing the growth of a country alongside the government. FQM has spent more than US$100 million on its sustainability and community development programmes by aligning the Kansanshi and Trident foundations’ programmes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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“Our points of intervention are agriculture, education, health, local business development, wildlife management. Those are the areas we have prioritised as the points of CSR support,” said Kalumbila Minerals Limited’s Community Affairs Manager, Joseph Ngwira at the National Environmental Protection Dialogue, which was held under the theme: “Towards a sustainable mining sector in Zambia through green investment for nature and people impact”. The event was attended by non-governmental organisations, civil society, and traditional leaders from communities hosting mining projects. “We are preaching farming as a business, and we are modelling high-value crops so that we get beneficiaries to a point where they are able to see that one hectare as a shop, being able to account for their time, the inputs, and also the outputs. And clearly, we
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have seen that giving out inputs without changing the mindset for the beneficiary to be able to see farming as a business, you are just shooting in the dark,” explained Mr. Ngwira. The information gap among community members has continued to be one challenge in helping local people understand the true intentions of the mining firm’s sustainability and community development programmes, he explained, adding there is a need to understand the distinction between empowerment and charity. “The context of Corporate Social Responsibility has not well been explained. It’s a gift, which may come or it may not come. And so, taking that gift as an obligation creates expectations. “We invest in education because we believe that mindset transformation is a key to development,” he continued.
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COMMUNITY
The mining firm is of the view that direct employment is one of the key benefits a mine delivers in terms of community support, but that far more important for long-term prosperity are skills training, entrepreneurial programmes and work to foster local economic development. The company wants to ensure the current needs of communities affected by its mining operations will be met during and after mining operations. Through its sustainability and community development programmes, FQM has continued to drive growth while fostering conservation farming, better healthcare, and stronger business links. The overall objective of FQM’s socio-economic development programmes is to improve the quality of life for its employees, their families, and their immediate communities.
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NSANSHI ART CRAFTS SUPPORT FOR SOLWEZI WOMEN AND GIRLS
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ansanshi Mine’s women-run jewellery workshop, Nsanshi Art, has forged on with its mission to support and provide financial support to vulnerable women and girls in Solwezi District. Since it was set up in early 2020, the value-addition initiative has raised more than K32,000 through the sale and custom designing of jewellery pieces. The funds go towards financing programmes run by the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). In just a few months of operation, Nsanshi Art moved from being a small workshop to a fully operational workspace with state-of-the-art machinery including a newly acquired laser cutter used in engraving. Another development was the upgrade of the manual metal roller mill to a motorised one which has made it easier for the women working in the workshop to operate.
Kansanshi community members participated in the initiative
Kansanshi Foundation Manager Bruce Lewis said the developments at the workshop are a clear sign that the initiative has made progress towards realising its goals and mission. Mr Lewis added that the initiative has garnered support and attention from the local community and other organisations, prompting a partnership with Zambeef’s Zamleather division to supply the workshop with hides of leather to add more diversity to the jewellery designs.
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He also noted that through the partnership between Nsanshi Art and the YWCA, profits earned from Nsanshi Art have enabled the charity to provide shelter, food, clothes, and a sense of security to victims of gender-based violence and other social ills. Mr Lewis explained that Nsanshi Art was founded on the principle of value addition to the copper from First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi Mine, and to create jobs, skills development, and empowerment.
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“Mine communities deal with socioeconomic challenges daily. These include indebtedness, health issues, and HIV/AIDS, lack of amenities, housing and infrastructure, and lack of sustainable business opportunities.” “True to our core values on community development, First Quantum has set up various programmes aimed at enriching and empowering communities surrounding our mining operations. Nsanshi Art is an essential part of our community development agenda in Solwezi,” said Mr Lewis. “In the face of national and domestic economic challenges, the need for us to make a positive, sustainable contribution to our communities is perhaps greater than ever. We have not compromised our efforts towards meeting our communities’ transformation goals, and the many benefits are evident in the communities around which we mine,” said Mr Lewis. He further said the mining firm has prioritized the empowerment of local people, especially women and girls, in its community activities as a way of curbing poverty, unemployment and gender inequality. The initiative by Kansanshi Foundation is one of several community support projects that FQM has embarked on geared towards female empowerment.
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12/02/2021 11:16:09
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Q4, 2020
CHIEF MUMENA PRESENTED WITH NSANSHI ART ROYAL SCEPTRE
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ansanshi Mine’s women-run jewellery workshop, Nsanshi Art, has gifted His Royal Highness Chief Mumena of the Kaonde People of Kalumbila with a locally made royal sceptre. The royal sceptre was crafted from copper sourced from Kansanshi Mine, along with decorative stones, and was given to the chief in recognition of his strong leadership and commitment to deliver positive change in his chiefdom. “This royal sceptre is a seal of appreciation of His Royal Highness’s unwavering support and friendship with First Quantum. We are proud to be partners with his royal highness in making the communities better places
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The sceptre is a mark of the long and enduring bond of friendship between First Quantum and His Royal Highness. to live in,” said Kansanshi Mine Assistant General Manager John Gladston. The sceptre is a mark of the long and enduring bond of friendship between First Quantum and His Royal Highness, added Mr Gladston. “I am truly humbled and quite honestly, I am short of words…,” remarked Chief Mumena on receiving the royal sceptre. “To see this sceptre, a symbol of authority which is also a symbol of the mineral wealth in this land, I had always wanted to carry something that will talk about the identity of this area.” “…what would be a better way to carry the authority around but also to speak of what is happening here,” he added. The chief further commented on the many programmes that the mining company and the chief have partnered in, such as conservation farming, and conveyed his gratitude to the Nsanshi Art team and the entire FQM family. Sceptres have been an important emblem of authority from ancient times to the present. In many African societies, the sceptre assumes a central role in royal circles and is a traditional royal insignia of sovereigns.
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COMMUNITY
CHIEF’S TRAINING PROGRAMME DRIVES YOUTH EMPLOYMENT AT FQM
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ome 50 young local haul truck operators have secured jobs at First Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel Mine at Kalumbila thanks to an innovative Chief’s training programme spearheaded by Senior Chief Musele. The programme is aimed at giving individuals with no experience in operating mining equipment or vehicles an opportunity to expand their knowledge base while enhancing their overall competence and skills in operating some of the largest mining equipment not only in Zambia, but the world. “We had great successes in training as well as in subsequent performance in operations, and resulting from that a lot of the initial trainees have moved onwards through the progression pipeline, and are now operating Komatsu 860Es and 960Es, which are some of the largest trucks globally. Based on that initial achievement, we kept on with the programme and continue to do so today,” said Mine Operations Manager Rees Magrath.
“We are now over two years into the programme and we have successfully brought on board about 50 new operators that otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity. We are very glad that they took the opportunity that was made available and they are contributing to our mine operations today,” he continued. The company is an equal opportunity employer and embraces Zambia’s diversity. It has put in place measures that help to provide suitable employment opportunities to local community members through a local recruitment database established with traditional leaders. “We are expanding that programme into the Mine’s drilling and tracked dozer fleet and ultimately offering the opportunity for people to come through, consider a career in mining, look at the growth potential and develop themselves here at Sentinel with the view to move onwards onto our large shovels and ultimately into supervisory and management roles,” he said.
Mr Magrath explained that the comprehensive skills development programme is helping to improve operations in the mining firm’s projects, boost its workforce, and provide more jobs to local people.
Development of the local economy in which the mining firm operates is a key priority identified during the on-going dialogue with local communities. Opportunities for employment for locals exist from increased demand in the new Kalumbila town and the skills that can be provided competitively for mining.
“It’s a project that we are proud of and I think it is something that the Training team needs to be highly commended for. The project team through the Trident Foundation went into our local community, engaged with the local leadership, and managed to source our pilot team of young people from the region.”
First Quantum believes that direct employment is one of the key benefits a mine delivers in terms of social and economic impact. Skills training, entrepreneurial programmes, and efforts to foster local economic development are also vital for long-term sustainable prosperity.
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FQM PARTNERS WITH GOVERNMENT TO ACCELERATE GROWTH FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES The mining firm runs a Local Business Development Programme to help remove barriers to small and medium enterprise growth
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irst Quantum Minerals, through its Sentinel Mine at Kalumbila, has partnered with the government to support initiatives to improve the capacity of local businesses to enhance the supply of goods and services with local content, as well as economic diversification to cushion potential economic turbulence that may arise due to the rise and fall of the copper price. The mining firm runs a Local Business Development Programme to help remove barriers to small and medium enterprise growth, and link local businesses to economic opportunities in the mine, Kalumbila Town, and beyond, including international market linkages. Through its Trident Foundation, the mine has been improving business activities since 2011, having built capacity internally to identify gaps and opportunities.
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To drive this agenda, the mine needs to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to avoid duplication and achieve more. In this regard, it is working with the Accelerated Growth for SMEs (AGS) programme, which is funded by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs (MFA) and implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Industry (MCTI) of Zambia, said Community Affairs Manager Joseph Ngwira. Mr Ngwira was speaking on the sidelines of a graduation ceremony for local entrepreneurs who had undergone a five-day local business development training course conducted by the AGS in collaboration with the Trident Foundation. “Why are we doing this? It is to ensure that we promote local content in terms of products and services needed by the mine, and also to broaden, to diversify, to reduce dependence on mine businesses, to get people to look outside the mining industry and do other activities that are more sustainable. Through partnerships such as working with AGS, we know that sustainable results in terms of our local entrepreneurs improving their businesses will be achieved,” Mr Ngwira explained. “We are doing this as a way of reducing dependency on the mine, growing the business houses and the business opportunities within, to get our local communities to tap into the value chain and value addition in so many other activities that are independent of the mining sector, especially agribusiness because it is sustainable founded on renewable resources,” he explained.
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COMMUNITY
“Why are we doing this? It is to ensure that we promote local content in terms of products and services needed by the mine, and also to broaden, to diversify, to reduce dependence on mine businesses.” K
Mr Ngwira said that the Trident Foundation formalised and trained local businesses from Musele Chiefdom and that the candidates were selected from a village-level with Musele Chamber of Commerce, offering business formalisation, training, and selected micro-loans to local entrepreneurs. He added that interested business people had to show commitment by registering their business with PACRA before being eligible for training and accessing micro-loans. “The programme is in three stages: the first stage is to identify business opportunities; the next level is improving the business; and the third stage is to sustain the business activities. It is a continual improvement process that we have started and this is something that will go on through next year and repeated as participants graduate." The main principle of the mining firm’s Local Business Development Policy is the systematic and on-going transfer of procurement of goods and services with local content to local suppliers. The mine has established a set of procedures to ensure that the policy is translated into action. FQM believes that the long-term economic growth potential in Kalumbila District should not be narrowly considered as being mining-only, but that business people with a longterm view are encouraged to look at secondary economic activities triggered by the demand being generated in the new Kalumbila Town.
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12/02/2021 11:16:11
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Q4, 2020
CHIEF KAPIJIMPANGA HONOURED WITH ROYAL SCEPTRE
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ansanshi Mining has presented His Royal Highness Chief Kapijimpanga of the Kaonde people of Solwezi with a Nsanshi Art-made sceptre in recognition of his royal status.
Kansanshi mine General Manager Anthony Mukutuma (right) presents the sceptre to His Royal Highness Chief Kapijimpanga.
The royal sceptre was presented to the traditional leader by Kansanshi mine General Manager Anthony Mukutuma, who took time to thank and appreciate the traditional leader’s commitment to fostering a cordial relationship between the mining company and his chiefdom. “This sceptre is for our history, as it represents our heritage and children yet to be born will find this history to guide them going forward,” said Chief Kapijimpanga. He explained that the royal sceptre crafted from copper sourced from Kansanshi Mine symbolised the peace and unity prevailing between Kansanshi Mining and the Kapijimpanga Royal Establishment.
Management for the signature projects tangibly contributed to the chiefdom through the company’s corporate social responsibility.
“We have no words that will be enough to express our gratitude for receiving this product out of our mutual relationship that we have had with you, and so we value it very much,” he told mine representatives.
“This royal sceptre is a token of Kansanshi mine’s gratitude to His Royal Highness for promoting and fostering an environment where both the mine and community thrive. The benefits of this relationship will continue yielding positive results for all involved,” said Mr Mukutuma.
The royal sceptre is made from locally sourced materials; its body is crafted with copper and decorative stones, while the head is plated with gold by the Kansanshi mine women-led arts and craft workshop, Nsanshi Art. The traditional leader also thanked Kansanshi Mine management for its support in areas of traditional matters and human endeavours in the chiefdom. He expressed gratitude to Kansanshi
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Mr Mukutuma explained the royal sceptre was a symbol of the excellent relationship between Kansanshi Mining and the Kapijimpanga Royal Establishment.
“We see the success of our community as an intrinsic part of our success and we will continue to stand strong with the traditional leadership and subjects alike in the promotion of community development.” Mr Mukutuma added that the fact that the sceptre was made with minerals from the Kapijimpanga Chiefdom on whose land the mine sits was further evidence of the excellent relationship between the parties and leadership of HRH Chief Kapijimpanga. Mr Mukutuma was accompanied to the palace by Kansanshi Foundation CSR Manager Bruce Lewis, CSR Senior Supervisor Victor Nsana, Communications Officer John Mubambe, jewellery teacher Michele Scholtz, and the three women from Nsanshi Art that designed and manufactured the sceptre: Nanah Mulumba, Chunga Kanyakula and Venna Mukwala.
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COMMUNITY
FQM COMMITS TO EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF BENEFITS TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES FQM has spent over US$100 million on its sustainability and community development programmes.
improve the health and the quality of life of its employees, their families, and their immediate communities.
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eople and communities neighbouring First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi and Sentinel Mines should benefit from equitable distribution of benefits such as employment, business development, education, training, and community investment for the long term, according to the mine.
First Quantum believes that it makes strategic business sense to involve local communities and other relevant stakeholders in its business. “We, as First Quantum Minerals, strive for relationships based on transparency, mutual trust and respect. We recognise that our activities and corporate behaviour affects stakeholders, local communities, their culture, and how they use resources for building resilience to shocks,” said FQM's Trident Foundation’s Community Affairs Manager Joseph Ngwira. Speaking at a media engagement meeting, Mr Ngwira said that the company had made it a top priority to build strong partnerships to improve the livelihoods of communities affected by its operations and achieve best practices to improve health and education standards, local business development, employment creation, and to safeguard the environment. During the two-day information-sharing meeting, the mining firm shared comprehensive updates on environmental, mining, training, recruitment, and community development activities. First Quantum has spent over US$100 million on its sustainability and community development programmes in Zambia (Kalumbila, Kansanshi, Bwana Mkubwa) to
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“The vision of the company is to actively work towards sustainable, transparent, and responsible economic and social development, by positively contributing to supply chain development and capacity building for businesses within the host communities of the mine. “We also strive to ensure local contractors can provide safe, reliable, and competitive goods and services to our operations, and work with communities to identify community investment opportunities that are sustainable,” he explained. First Quantum alignes its community initiatives with every one of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) puting it at the forefront of best practices in private sector social investment locally and globally. Through its Trident and Kansanshi Foundations, the company has stepped up its campaign to end poverty, fight inequality, and tackle climate change, while ensuring that no one is left behind in the communities where it operates.
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KANSANSHI FOUNDATION BRINGS CHRISTMAS EARLY TO ORPHANS IN SOLWEZI
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sense of awe and excitement descended over Solwezi on December 11, as underprivileged children from across the district joined the annual Christmas party organised by First Quantum Minerals’ Kansanshi Foundation. The annual tradition, which has become a highlight of the festive calendar, was made extra special this year with the children – many of them orphans – receiving a hand-crafted doll from the mine made by local crafts company Tribal Textiles. “This year has been a particularly difficult period for most. The children and communities we support remain at the heart of everything we do, and more than ever before, it is so important that we help them end 2020 on a brighter note,” said Kansanshi Foundation Manager Bruce Lewis. “They need so much more and deserve so much better,” Mr Lewis said. “For these kids, it means a lot. It gives them something to hope for.” Mr Lewis thanked the North West Chamber of Commerce for contributing to the five orphanages and called on others to get into the Christmas spirit and share what they have with the less privileged, especially children, this Christmas season.
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“They need so much more and deserve so much better,” “While hope is not a tangible gift, you can see it in the eyes and the smiles of the children you will directly impact with a gift this Christmas,” he said. The Chitenge-clad dolls, named Charity after Tribal Textiles’ Country Director, were handcrafted with locally sourced material using traditional techniques. Some 250 dolls, along with 20 toy lions, were given to the children in a gesture that also means Kansanshi was supporting a local enterprise. Tribal Textiles works to create sustainable impact through creativity and craftsmanship by reinvesting in community-strengthening initiatives and supporting local wildlife conservation.
Kansanshi Mining General Manager Anthony Mutukuma with children at the firm’s annual Christmas party.
Kansanshi Mining General Manager Anthony Mutukuma joined in the celebration with the orphans. It was the first time he attended the annual party as the mine’s General Manager, and he said the event made him feel at home, and that the joy from the children made the event memorable and would leave a lasting impression. “Seeing the beautiful smiles on the children’s faces and watching their eyes light up with excitement was truly magical,” said Mr Mutukuma. As part of FQM’s community development initiatives, the mine has supported orphanages in and around its operations in Solwezi and Kalumbila for several years, with the party becoming a fixture for the last three years. Each year FQM donates food, toys, and other essential needs.
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SPORT
KANSANSHI RUNNERS TOP NSOBE BUSH RUN
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he weekend of December 19 and 20, 2020, saw the running of the first annual Nsobe Bush Run, at Nsobe Game Camp near Ndola. Described as a “Race for Education,” the event was conceived as a way to raise funds while also promoting family fitness.
impressively in events around Solwezi. The two Kansanshi runners will compete in the National All-Comers event at Independence Stadium, Lusaka on December 26. There they hope to earn positions on the Zambian athletics team that will travel to Nigeria in 2021.
A total of 175 runners travelled to the camp to compete in the 5km, 10km, and 21km events. The race raised K65,000 to build vocational workshops at Nsobe Community School, with help from sponsors including First Quantum Minerals, Shakti, Woodmet, and numerous others.
The 10km ladies race was won by Charity Bwalya in a time of 55 minutes, followed by Sharon Chikwanda and Choseni Nankala. In the men’s race, Samuel Katongo took the win in a time of 45 minutes, ahead of Ngoma Mapondela and Nelson Rostaert.
Kansanshi Running Team’s Elizabeth Mukoloma took first place in the women’s 21km event, beating all but three of the men to cross the line in a time of 1 hour, 35 minutes. She was followed by Charity Mulenga in second, and Ngandwe Miyombo in third position.
“We had perfect weather, happy runners, and beautiful tracks,” said event organiser Fiona Tomlinson. “It will definitely be an annual fixture.”
“It was a very nice run for us to use as preparation for next week,” said Mukoloma. “Though there was some mud on the route, many people came out to enjoy the bush. It’s easy to see that running is growing quickly as a sport in Zambia.” In the men’s 21km race, Kansanshi Running Team’s Jackson Kashiya took the win in a time one hour 24 minutes ahead of Charles Malupanda and Gabriel Mwale. Both Jackson Kashiya and Elizabeth Mukoloma were recruited as the first members of the Kansanshi Sports Foundation’s running team earlier this year, after performing
Ndola Fitness Squad extended praise to the organisers, saying: “The event was excellently organised, the route markings were superb, and then there were the marshals cheering the runners as they passed. That was thrilling!” The sport of endurance running has grown significantly in the past five years, with established events more than tripling their participation numbers, and many new events popping up around the country. The popularity of the sport and such events hints at a growing positive attitude towards health and fitness in Zambia and possibly a bright future in the sporting arenas too.
“We had perfect weather, happy runners, and beautiful tracks,”
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NEWS
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Q4, 2020
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