By Derrick Silimina

First Quantum Minerals has demonstrated a commitment to fostering local economic development by pledging to enhance the capacity of local business entrepreneurs in Kalumbila district.

The Zambian government recently introduced a Local Content Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 68, targeting the mining sector to enhance the participation of local SMEs. Signed into law in October 2025, this SI mandates that mining companies allocate a specific percentage of their procurement processes to Zambian-owned businesses, thereby promoting local enterprise development and increasing their involvement in the mining industry.

“We commend the government’s approval of the Local Content SI, which brings much needed structure to the ecosystem. FQM stands ready to support SMEs that meet commercial requirements,” FQM Country Director Godwin Beene said this during the 5th Kalumbila Business Clinic held in Kisasa community of Kalumbila district.

Dr. Beene highlighted that the mining giant in Kalumbila has actively supported local SMEs through several initiatives, including the Local Supplier Development Project, agribusiness hubs, youth skills centres, and access-to-finance programs in a bid to empower local businesses and communities, aligning with the broader objectives of promoting local enterprise growth and community development.

He reiterated that these programs have had a significant impact by supporting hundreds of farmers, empowering youth, equipping suppliers, and enabling SMEs to secure contracts and expand their businesses adding that these achievements demonstrate that Kalumbila is prepared for sustainable, homegrown economic growth.

“At FQM, we recognise that building resilience is not the work of entrepreneurs alone. It requires close collaboration between government, regulators, development partners, financial institutions and the private sector.”

The fifth edition of the Kalumbila Business Clinic was held under the theme, “Building Local Enterprise Resilience,” emphasizing the importance of strengthening local businesses to withstand economic challenges and promote sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, speaking when he graced the event, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Minister Elias Mubanga emphasized the importance of capacity building, especially for women entrepreneurs, who will help integrate local content into the economy, ensuring sustainable growth and job creation.

Mubanga also highlighted the need for SMEs to comply with local content laws and the role of traditional leaders in promoting these initiatives.

“With effect from first January, 2026, 20 percent of all mine procurement must be given to local SMEs and that is law,” Mubanga said.

In the meantime, Senior Chief Musele is upbeat that the local content SI will be a game-changer in his Chiefdom as it will drive local SMEs to actively participate in the mining value chain, thereby promoting sustainable growth and economic inclusion within the community.