FQM and Zambian Govt Join Forces to Combat Food Crisis
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has stepped in to support Zambia’s government in tackling the severe food shortage triggered by the 2023/2024 drought. In a novel public-private partnership, the mining giant is providing transport for maize imports to help replenish the country’s grain reserves.
The Zambian government declared a national disaster in February due to the drought’s devastating impact on agriculture. In response, FQM has offered to use its returning copper anode export trucks to carry maize imported from Tanzania.
This innovative approach is expected to save the government significant costs and expedite the distribution of food aid.
The company is contributing USD500,000 towards the transportation of the maize, which will be stored in Kapiri Mposhi and the Copperbelt. This strategic move aims to cushion the impact of the grain shortfall and ensure food security across the country.
FQM has a long history of supporting Zambia, having been in operation for over 28 years. In addition to this food crisis initiative, the company has been instrumental in mitigating the effects of the power deficit through power imports and providing clean water to communities surrounding its operations.
Anthony Mukutuma, FQM Director for Zambia, emphasised the company’s commitment to the country’s prosperity, stating, “What is good for Zambia is good for FQM.” The company’s continued investment in the country, including exploration, expansion projects, and the recent launch of the Enterprise nickel mine, underscores its confidence in Zambia’s economic future.
