Mimosa Resources and the traditional leadership from Chief Chitina’s chiefdom in Mkushi have expressed appreciation of First Quantum Minerals’ (FQM) blueprint for sustainable mining in Zambia following a tour of its Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi District, North-Western Province.
The familiarisation tour was recently undertaken as part of wider stakeholder engagement efforts by Mimosa Resources to foster collaboration between traditional leaders, mining operators, and the local community for its Kashime Copper Project in Mkushi, underscoring its dedication to creating a model of mining that balances economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.
The visit demonstrated the viability of sustainable mining and how large-scale copper mining can coexist harmoniously with environmental conservation and community development.
It provided an opportunity for the leaders to witness first-hand the measures taken to ensure responsible resource extraction and environmental stewardship at Zambia’s largest copper producing mine.
Speaking during the tour Mimosa Resources Stakeholder Engagement Manager Dr Ian Nzali Banda emphasised the importance of responsible resource extraction.
“As a Zambian-owned company, Mimosa Resources, through its joint venture with FQM, is developing the Kashime Copper Project with a clear focus on responsible mining. Our partnership with FQM underscores the importance of environmental management and community engagement.
“FQM’s innovative water recycling systems and the 4,000-hectare game sanctuary surrounding Kansanshi Mine are proof that mining and environmental protection can work hand-in-hand,” said Dr Banda.
Dr Banda also commended the contributions from Chief Chitina and his council, highlighting the importance of community collaboration in creating balanced integrated ecosystems.
“The engagement from Chief Chitina and his council was exceptional. This visit has reinforced the need for inclusive dialogue as we develop our project. While mineral resources hold immense potential, it is vital that we continue to adopt responsible and sustainable approaches in the quest for value addition and socio-economic growth. FQM’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions and rehabilitating mined land set an excellent example for the industry,” he added.
Kansanshi Mining Agriculture and Wildlife Coordinator Dr Jackson Katampi addressed concerns raised by the Mkushi community, through the leaders, about potential environmental impacts reassuring that mining and environmental preservation are not mutually exclusive.
“The community’s initial concerns about mining are valid and expected. Through this visit, we have demonstrated FQM’s rigorous air and water quality monitoring, advanced water recycling systems, and the success of our biodiversity conservation within the Kansanshi game sanctuary,” said Dr Katampi.
“FQM’s model of integrating mining with environmental protection is not just a local success, it’s a blueprint for the future of mining in Zambia. It fosters investor confidence and ensures the long-term sustainability of our resources,” he added emphasising the broader significance of these efforts,” he said.
Chief Chitina noted of the tour: “We came to Kansanshi Mine to learn about sustainable mining practices and we are inspired. FQM’s initiatives in tree planting, water recycling, and wildlife conservation show that mining can coexist with nature. Seeing the development in Solwezi driven by mining has given us a vision for what is possible in Mkushi, which currently relies largely on agriculture.”
President of the Mining, Mineral Traders and Processing Association of Zambia Lloyd Nyirenda commended Mimosa Resources and FQM for their transparency and leadership in promoting sustainable mining.
“This visit has been truly eye-opening. We have witnessed the successful implementation of sustainable mining practices. This confirms that we can work with mining organisations, preserve our forests, and benefit our communities. Our key takeaway is that sustainable mining is achievable, and it is being done right here in Zambia,” he stressed.
