The 2026 edition of the Kalumbila Challenge – organized by FQM Trident Limited, a subsidiary of the First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has kicked off at Sentinel School grounds in Kalumbila District.

This year’s Kalumbila Challenge is set to be an exciting event that will highlight stamina, determination, and community spirit by attracting participants and enthusiasts nationwide. The competition includes a diverse range of athletic events suitable for all ages and abilities, such as Running (5KM and 10KM), Cycling (25KM and 50KM), Football, Chess, and a special category for persons with disabilities to promote accessibility and inclusivity.

Across the sports fields, the energy is palpable as cyclists made final adjustments to their gear, runners stretched along the track, and local sports teams including young and old rallied for the day’s tournament matches.

For the residents of Kalumbila and surrounding communities, the event represents far more than physical competition; it is a celebration of unity, wellness, and partnership.

Opening the ceremony, event coordinators emphasized that FQM Trident’s sponsorship goes beyond sport, acting as a catalyst for local economic activity, youth engagement, and health promotion across the mining town and nearby villages.

As the air horn sounded to signal the start of the first endurance races, cheers erupted from the crowd as hundreds of participants compete across multiple disciplines, a testament to a community united by sportsmanship, high energy, and shared pride in the heart of Zambia’s mining region.

According to the organisers, the annual sports event has experienced significant growth, drawing over 2,500 participants from across Zambia in 2025, and the 2026 edition is expected to attract more than 3,000 participants, a trend indicating that the event is rapidly becoming one of the most anticipated community gatherings in the region.