By John Chola

First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Zambia is inviting members of the public to experience three decades of responsible mining, innovation and sustainable community development as the company showcases its achievements at the ongoing Zambia Agricultural and Commercial Show.

At its exhibition stand, FQM is highlighting not only its world-class mining operations at Kansanshi Mining Plc and FQM Trident Limited, but also the lasting social and economic transformation the company has helped drive in its host communities.

Speaking on the sidelines of the show, FQM Trident Limited Senior Public Relations Specialist Mirriam Harmon encouraged showgoers to visit the company’s stand and engage with its teams to better understand how mining can create value beyond mineral production.

“We are showcasing 30 years of responsible mining and operational excellence, but equally important is demonstrating the investments we have made in our host communities.

Development is not simply measured by revenue; it is reflected in the lives that have been transformed,” she said.

Harmon explained that FQM’s community investment strategy has focused on education, sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship, healthcare and skills development, helping families transition from subsistence livelihoods to resilient and commercially viable enterprises.

She said the company has invested across the entire education value chain; from early childhood education to tertiary learning, while ensuring that children with disabilities are identified, assessed and supported to access specialised education.

“We believe every child deserves an opportunity to realise their potential regardless of their circumstances,” she said.

The company has also worked with government ministries and development partners to promote conservation farming, climate-smart agriculture and business skills among local communities to ensure that economic opportunities continue beyond the lifespan of mining operations.

Harmon noted that collaboration with government institutions remains central to ensuring sustainable development after mine closure, allowing local enterprises and farming communities to continue accessing markets, technical support and business opportunities.

Visitors to the FQM stand are also being introduced to the Kalumbila Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ), one of Zambia’s emerging industrial and investment hubs designed to attract manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, construction and other value-adding industries.

The MFEZ forms part of FQM’s long-term vision to diversify Kalumbila’s economy and ensure that the district remains economically vibrant long after mining activities conclude.

FQM Zambia has grown into one of the country’s largest mining investors through Kansanshi Mining Plc in Solwezi and FQM Trident Limited in Kalumbila, contributing significantly to employment, exports, infrastructure development and community investment.

The company’s participation at this year’s Zambia Agricultural and Commercial Show offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate how responsible mining can support agriculture, entrepreneurship, education and sustainable national development.