FQM EMPHASISES TRANSPARENCY, SUSTAINABILITY AND ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS
First Quantum Minerals has highlighted the company’s commitment to transparency, sustainability, and economic contributions as vital to fostering progress in the mining sector.
And emphasised the importance of credible corporate communications reflecting real, tangible activities and progress on the ground.
Speaking at the Zambia Institute of Public Relations (ZIPRC) 2024 Annual Conference, FQM Trident Senior Public Relations Specialist Miriam Harmon emphasised the mining firm’s ethos that effective communication was key in fostering understanding, collaboration, and progress in the mining industry and the nation at large.
The mining firm noted that public relations served as a bridge between the corporate world, government, citizens, and the international community, facilitating dialogue, understanding, and collaboration, all of which were essential for sustainable national development.
Her address reinforced sentiment from the Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa, who told delegates that effective communication served as the lifeblood of any organisation, and within the context of government, it is indispensable for fostering transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.
Ms Harmon, said the company prioritised transparency, accountability, and sustainability, embodying those principles in its operations and engagement with the communities where it operated.
“As part of its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, in 2022, the company paid over K25 billion in taxes and royalties to the government, supporting essential public services.
“With operations that include the Kansanshi, Sentinel, and Enterprise mines, FQM Zambia employs over 19,000 people and generates significant economic activity in the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces.
The company’s US$1.25 billion expansion project at Kansanshi and US$250 million Enterprise Nickel Mine project are expected to further contribute to Zambia’s economic growth and job creation,” she continued.
She explained that sustainability was at the core of FQM’s operations, adding that the company had been implementing robust environmental management practices and invested in community development initiatives that focused on education, health, and community development.
“FQM Zambia’s Corporate Social Investment programmes, exceeding US$100 million, align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The company’s commitment to ending poverty, addressing inequality, and combating climate change is evident through the Kansanshi and Trident Foundations,” she added.
First Quantum remains committed to responsible corporate citizenship, sustainability, and contributing to Zambia’s continued growth and prosperity.
