IN A historic milestone for Zambia, First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has officially handed over a comprehensive aerial geological survey of the Copperbelt to the Zambian government.
This unprecedented initiative, fully funded by FQM, addresses a long-standing gap in the country’s mining sector – one that has persisted despite over a century of extraction in the region.
The significance of this development extends far beyond data collection; it represents a commitment to national development, a forward-thinking approach to resource management and a shining example of corporate social responsibility (CSR) at its best.
Speaking at the handover ceremony at State House, President Hakainde Hichilema did not mince words about the importance of this initiative, stating, “It’s a serious indictment on us as a country, as a people. Because you cannot exploit or manage resources you don’t know properly, you don’t understand. Even if you know the Copperbelt has a mineral endowment, where exactly is it? How deep is it? And then how do you package projects? I think there’s been an anomaly for a long, long, long time. That’s why this government took this decision shortly after being favoured by the people of Zambia to serve them.”
These words reflect the gravity of the situation – a stark acknowledgment that for far too long, Zambia has lacked a precise understanding of the full extent of its mineral wealth.
FQM’s chief executive officer Tristan Pascal emphasised the company’s dedication to Zambia’s economic growth, reaffirming its role as a responsible corporate player in the mining sector.
“Zambia was having a conversation around the need to develop opportunities for exploration, to develop pathways towards three million tonnes of copper production a year. And towards Zambia continuing to be at the cornerstone of copper production in the world, and a global powerhouse in copper production. And the key to that is exploration. So, the reason to come before you today is to deliver on that promise that we made to you in that conversation,” he said.
Pascal’s words encapsulate the broader vision for Zambia’s mining future – a future driven by knowledge, strategic exploration and sustainable resource management.
The importance of this geological survey cannot be overstated. While the Copperbelt has long been known for its rich mineral deposits, previous exploration efforts lacked the depth and technological sophistication necessary for efficient resource management.
By providing high-resolution data on the mineral endowment of the region, this survey paves the way for more informed decision-making, better investment strategies, and, ultimately, a more robust mining industry.
It ensures that mining rights holders have access to accurate geological information, thereby reducing risks and optimising resource utilisation.
FQM’s exploration manager, Jon Stacey, highlighted the technical aspects of the survey.
“There was a need to generate new regional data to assist with exploration, in line with government’s three-million-tonne strategy. So we did this in the area that would have the most impact, which is why we chose the Copperbelt,” Stacey said.
The company’s strategic focus on the Copperbelt – Zambia’s historic mining heartland – demonstrates a clear understanding of where this data is needed most.
This initiative follows President Hichilema’s launch of a countrywide high-resolution aerial geophysical survey in August 2023, aimed at mapping Zambia’s mineral resources in all 10 provinces.
While the government laid the groundwork for this crucial undertaking, FQM stepped in with a significant financial commitment, taking on the challenge in a bold display of corporate responsibility.
Such actions set a precedent for other mining firms operating in Zambia, underscoring the need for them to actively contribute to national development.
Mining companies must not only extract wealth from the country but also invest in its long-term prosperity.
Beyond this landmark survey, FQM has consistently demonstrated its dedication to Zambia through sustained investments in local infrastructure, renewable energy and community development programmes.
The company’s approach to CSR goes beyond mere philanthropy. It is a strategic commitment to shared value, ensuring that mining activities yield tangible benefits for Zambians.
This model should serve as a benchmark for other corporations, both in the mining sector and beyond.
Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development permanent secretary Hapenga Kabeta expressed the government’s appreciation in a letter acknowledging FQM’s contribution.
Dr Kabeta reaffirmed that the results of the aerial geophysical survey will be owned by the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development and will be made available to the public and potential investors at a cost.
This transparency ensures that Zambia, as a sovereign nation, retains control over its mineral data while allowing for responsible investment and sustainable resource exploitation.
The broader implications of this survey are profound. Not only does it strengthen Zambia’s position as a global copper powerhouse, but it also reinforces the notion that responsible corporate engagement is key to national progress.
The mining sector has long been a pillar of Zambia’s economy, but its sustainability depends on informed exploration, strategic investment, and ethical business practices. FQM’s initiative embodies all three of these principles.
As Zambia looks to the future, the role of mining companies in national development must evolve.
The days of mere resource extraction without reinvestment in the country’s growth should be over. Corporations operating in Zambia must take inspiration from FQM’s example and recognise that true success lies in creating lasting value for the communities in which they operate.
From funding critical infrastructure projects to supporting education and healthcare, the private sector must play a proactive role in shaping Zambia’s trajectory.
FQM has set a gold standard for corporate social responsibility, proving that businesses can be both profitable and responsible.
This is the kind of leadership that Zambia needs – leadership that prioritizes long-term national development over short-term gains.
The handover of this geological survey marks not just a milestone in mining but a defining moment in the evolving relationship between business and national development.
Austin Kaluba is a veteran journalist with 30 years experience in the profession. He has served as a political analyst and editor for the Times of Zambia and the Zambia Daily Mail.
