FQM’s Nsanshi Art Studio Celebrates Second Cohort Graduation in Solwezi
First Quantum Minerals’ (FQM) Nsanshi Art Studio has celebrated the graduation of its second group of lapidary students, reaffirming the power of skills training and community empowerment in addressing social challenges like gender-based violence (GBV).
The initiative, founded in 2019 and fully funded by FQM through its Kansanshi Foundation, trains GBV survivors—mainly women—in the art of jewellery making using copper sourced from Kansanshi Mine. This transformative programme goes beyond training by providing monthly salaries, benefits, and equipment, helping participants gain both skills and economic independence.
Proceeds from jewellery sales support the One-Stop Centre at Solwezi General Hospital and a local safe house, both key support systems for GBV survivors.
North-Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi hailed the programme as a “beacon of hope” and praised Kansanshi Mining PLC’s “thoughtful investment” in empowering women through entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
“This is more than a corporate social responsibility project—it’s a life-changing movement,” he said.
Kansanshi Mining General Manager Meiring Burger echoed this sentiment, commending the graduates’ resilience and reaffirming the mine’s commitment to education and women’s empowerment.
“We believe education is a lifelong asset, and through the Nsanshi programme, these women are equipped for self-sufficiency,” Mr Burger said.
FQM has also provided full scholarships to 255 students across Zambia and abroad, and over 500 local children benefit from its education support programmes.
Provincial Gender Officer Limpo Shkikanu praised the initiative as aligning with Zambia’s Vision 2030 goals of equity and inclusion.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class of 2023, Debra Mukuka expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“Kansanshi Mining has not just trained us, they’ve given us hope, a future, and a platform to succeed,” she said.
Through strategic partnerships and dedicated support, FQM’s Nsanshi Art Studio continues to demonstrate the profound impact of targeted corporate social investment on communities in North-Western Province.
