FQM Partners with ICTAZ to Drive AI-Powered Digital Transformation in Zambia’s Mining Sector
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has reaffirmed its commitment to leading Zambia’s digital transformation in the mining sector through a strategic partnership with the Information and Communication Technology Association of Zambia (ICTAZ).
The collaboration was unveiled during the 2025 ICTAZ Conference and 16th Annual General Meeting, themed “From Copper to Code: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Zambia for Economic Growth.”
Held in Solwezi, the conference brought together top minds in industry, government, and technology to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools can redefine the economic trajectory of resource-rich nations like Zambia.
FQM, one of the event’s key sponsors, highlighted how digital innovation—especially AI-driven automation and data analytics—is transforming mining operations for enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
“This is not just a theme, it is a national call to action,” said Dr Brilliant Habeenzu, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Science and Technology. “As the global economy shifts, so too must Zambia—by unlocking new frontiers powered not only by copper beneath our feet, but by the code we write and the ideas we imagine.”
FQM’s ICT Lead, Mutembo Mpengula, emphasized the mining giant’s digital roadmap: “Our partnership with ICTAZ is part of our long-term vision to fuse technology with mining excellence. Through predictive maintenance, smart systems, and data-driven decision-making, we are redefining mining in Zambia while supporting jobs and innovation.”
The partnership also reflects FQM’s wider commitment to sustainable development. Beyond its technological advancements, the company continues to support local talent, small enterprises, and environmental best practices—ensuring communities benefit from the mining value chain.
With the ICTAZ Conference serving as a key platform for cross-sector collaboration, FQM aims to deepen its digital strategy while championing Zambia’s ambitions to transition from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy.
