FQM OUTLINES STRATEGIC ROADMAP FOR ZAMBIA’S THREE-MILLION-TONNE COPPER AMBITION

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Posted by admin on October 13, 2025 at 3:42 AM

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First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has unveiled a strategic vision to boost Zambia’s copper output to three million tonnes per year by 2032, emphasizing that ambition must be underpinned by sustainability, innovation, and community benefits.

Speaking at the Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka (ZAMII) 2025, FQM Country Director Anthony Mukutuma highlighted the scale of operations required given declining ore grades from over 2% two decades ago to around 0.4–0.5%.

“To produce three million tonnes annually, we would need to Mine approximately 815 million tonnes of ore, Move 2.4 billion tonnes of waste and Construct tailings dams holding roughly 790 million tonnes” Mukutuma explained.

He noted that such an expansion is highly capital-intensive, with financing costs varying widely among companies, and stressed the importance of the Local Content Statutory Instrument to create US$16 billion in contracting opportunities for Zambian businesses through waste-management and other services.

Mr Mukukuma identified three critical pillars for achieving the three-million-tonne target Increased Exploration Technology & Innovation and Community Engagement & Security of Tenure

He underscored that FQM is already deploying autonomous drills, driverless trucks, and remote sensing to manage tailings safely and boost productivity.

Mr mukukuma further said Workforce Development Through the Kwambula Trade School in Solwezi, FQM has trained over 544 youths, including 30 women, many of whom now work in mining operations. Mukutuma stressed that digital and AI skills are vital for future opportunities.

Environmental Safeguards: Zambia’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) underwrites rehabilitation liabilities. FQM’s Kansanshi and Trident Mines have led revegetation efforts on tailings and waste areas.

Achieving three million tonnes by 2032 could expand Zambia’s copper value chain to US$30–40 billion annually, up from the current US$2–3 billion. Mukutuma concluded:

“Digital skills are not just about computers they are about confidence, communication, and connection. We must prepare our youth so that when opportunity meets preparedness, they are ready.” He said.