First Quantum Minerals Ltd has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering local economic development through enhanced procurement strategies and supplier capacity building.
This commitment was underscored during a visit to the company’s Trident project this week by senior representatives of the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM). This senior delegation included the ZAM President, Board Members, and the organisation’s CEO.
In line with the government’s drive to support local businesses and communities, First Quantum is prioritising local procurement initiatives and actively engaging with local suppliers.
“We believe that local procurement is essential for the sustainable development of Zambia. By investing in our suppliers, we are creating jobs, stimulating the economy, and reducing our reliance on imports. By sourcing goods and services locally, First Quantum aims to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and foster sustainable development within the regions where it operates,” said FQM Lead of Infrastructure Development Jed Goldstein.
During the visit, discussions centred around collaborative efforts to strengthen the capacity of local suppliers, enabling them to meet the standards and requirements of First Quantum’s operations. Through training programmes, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, the mining firm is empowering local suppliers to enhance their capabilities, competitiveness, and sustainability.
“The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) is encouraged by the potential collaboration opportunities discussed today in Kalumbila. It’s evident that FQM shares ZAM’s goal of developing local suppliers and propelling Zambia’s manufacturing forward. We look forward to further engagement with FQM and we are confident that future initiatives will bring tangible benefits to our members and significantly elevate the manufacturing sector’s contribution to Zambia’s GDP,” said ZAM CEO Muntanga Lindunda.
Mr Goldstein further highlighted the opportunities available within the Kalumbila Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ), emphasising its commitment to supporting and promoting local businesses within the zone: “Our employees continue to travel to Solwezi for basic necessities, reflecting the lack of essential services in Kalumbila Town. The potential for economic growth in Kalumbila and North-Western Province goes beyond mining. The MFEZ will not only focus on upstream and downstream mining activity, but will also foster secondary economic activities through investments in new projects within the region,” he said.
ZAM President Ashu Sagar said: “After touring the Kalumbila Multi-Function Economic Zone, I am convinced that it represents a significant opportunity for the future of manufacturing in Zambia. This world-class town offers immense potential not only for traditional mining suppliers but is set to become a hub for manufacturing, thanks to the transport linkages currently under development. In the next few years, Kalumbila will boast easy access to the DRC, Walvis Bay, and Angola, opening up unparalleled avenues for consumer goods manufacturing and commodity beneficiation operations. The evolution of these transport corridors will catalyze substantial economic growth and diversification, benefitting our membership and heralding a new era for Zambian manufacturers.”
First Quantum has invested over US$110 million in the planning and development of Kalumbila Town through the Kalumbila Town Development Corporation.
He further explained that by leveraging the resources and infrastructure of the MFEZ, First Quantum aims to facilitate the growth and expansion of local industries, driving economic diversification and industrialisation in the region.
“We are firmly committed to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with local suppliers and supporting the development of vibrant local economies. Our collaboration with the Zambia Association of Manufacturers underscores our shared vision of promoting sustainable economic growth and prosperity within Zambia,” he continued.
FQM’s local procurement strategy is aligned with the Zambian government’s Industrialisation and Job Creation Strategy. The company has already achieved significant progress, with over 70 percent of its procurement spend going to Zambian suppliers.
First Quantum remains dedicated to creating value for all stakeholders and contributing to the long-term socio-economic development of Zambia.