The North Western Provincial administration has commended […]

The North Western Provincial administration has commended Kansanshi Mining PLC for its continued commitment to community development and local economic empowerment in North Western Province, acknowledging the company’s role in creating sustainable livelihoods, building entrepreneurship, and strengthening the economic resilience of local communities.

Demonstrating its continued commitment to empowering local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Kansanshi Mining PLC, a subsidiary of First Quantum Minerals, has officially handed over equipment and machinery to SMEs as part of its SME Accelerator Programme, a local content and enterprise development initiative aimed at building competitive local businesses in North-Western Province.

Speaking at the event, North Western Province, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Luckson Kanyaka Mulumbi, described the handover as a clear demonstration of the power of meaningful partnerships that drive empowerment through entrepreneurship and enterprise growth for sustainable economic development.

 “Your investment in local businesses helps create sustainable livelihoods, supports entrepreneurship, and builds resilience in our communities. Such initiatives complement government efforts to promote inclusive growth and ensure that the benefits of economic development are widely shared among our citizens,” he noted.

 “Kansanshi is handing over a block-making machine, a generator, a compressor, twenty-four sewing machines, and other equipment that will significantly enhance the productive capacity of local small and medium enterprises. This support is not merely the transfer of machinery, it represents opportunity, empowerment, innovation, and hope for a brighter future. Today, we are all witnesses to this empowerment,” Mulumbi said.

“The equipment being handed over today will help beneficiaries improve their production capacity, enhance product quality, increase operational efficiency, and expand market opportunities,” he explained.

 He stressed that these assets will contribute to employment creation, particularly among young people and women, key drivers of enterprise development within local communities.

 “The SME Accelerator Programme is commendable because it goes beyond the provision of equipment to promote business development, skills enhancement, innovation, and sustainability. By investing in local entrepreneurs, Kansanshi Mining PLC is contributing to the growth of competitive local enterprises capable of participating in supply chains and contributing meaningfully to both the provincial and national economy.”

Mulumbi concluded by expressing his sincere gratitude to Kansanshi Mining PLC for its generous and impactful contribution, describing the company’s commitment to empowering local businesses as a model of responsible corporate citizenship. Kansanshi Mining PLC, Assistant General Manager Axel Kottgen, speaking during the handover ceremony, reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to supporting local enterprise development and creating sustainable economic opportunities for the people of North-Western Province and Zambia as a whole.

 “At Kansanshi Mining PLC, we believe sustainable development goes beyond mining. It’s about empowering local businesses, building entrepreneurial capacity, creating jobs, and fostering economic resilience in our communities. The SME Accelerator Programme is central to this vision,” said Kottgen.

He noted that following a thorough selection process, 17 SMEs spanning sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, water bottling, cleaning services, metal fabrication, leather production, food processing, poultry, and community services were approved for support based on their growth, job creation, and sustainability potential.

He said Kansanshi’s investment in this phase of the programme totals approximately K17.6 million, enabling local enterprises to acquire vital equipment, machinery, production inputs, transport solutions, and solar systems to expand their operations.

 “The support is structured as a returnable grant, resources provided are to be repaid under agreed terms, ensuring accountability and the sustainability of the revolving fund so that future entrepreneurs can also benefit.”

He said Kansanshi Mining PLC remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that create lasting value and recognizes that thriving local businesses are crucial for inclusive, sustainable development in Zambia.

Meanwhile, Kansanshi Foundation Manager, Simon Keevil noted that the mine was especially pleased to see strong participation from women- and youth-owned enterprises, reflecting Kansanshi’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity.

 Keevil explained that the equipment provided is expected to enhance productivity, improve product quality, create employment opportunities, and strengthen local supply chains across North-Western Province. “Through the SME Accelerator Programme, we are investing in the growth of local businesses by offering mentorship, business development support, market linkages, and essential productive assets to help entrepreneurs expand their operations.” He said. The mine expressed hope that the equipment provided would serve as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and long-term success, and help build stronger local supply chains and a more diversified economy.

Article by Tyndale Muchiya