By John Chola

A major economic empowerment initiative took a significant step forward today as Kansanshi Mining PLC handed over equipment worth approximately K17.6 million to 17 local small and medium enterprises under its SME Accelerator Programme.

The handover ceremony, held in Solwezi, saw beneficiaries receive essential assets including block-making machines, sewing machines, generators, compressors, and other production equipment designed to scale up their operations.

Assistant General Manager Axel Kottgen described the investment as a demonstration of the company’s confidence in local entrepreneurship.

“We firmly believe that sustainable development extends beyond mining to includes empowering local businesses, building entrepreneurial capacity, creating jobs, and fostering economic resilience within our communities,” he said.

The support is structured as a returnable grant, requiring beneficiaries to repay resources according to agreed terms.

This approach, Mr Kottgen explained, ensures the programme’s sustainability by creating a revolving fund that will empower future entrepreneurs.

Kansanshi Foundation Manager Simon Keevil, who delivered welcoming remarks, highlighted the programme’s focus on inclusive growth, noting the strong participation of women and youth-owned enterprises.

“We are investing in the growth of local businesses by providing mentorship, business development support, and productive assets,” Mr Keevil said.

The initiative received strong endorsement from government. Deputy Permanent Secretary for North-Western Province, Mr Luckson Mulumbi, commended the partnership and called on beneficiaries to use the equipment responsibly.

“This support comes with responsibility,” Mr Mulumbi stated. “Let this equipment become a tool for transformation and a foundation upon which sustainable enterprises can be built.”

The 17 SMEs represent diverse sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, water bottling, food processing, and poultry farming—an investment expected to strengthen local supply chains and create employment across the province.