FQM Reaffirms Commitment to Zambian Suppliers as Local Content SI 68 Takes Effect
FQM Deepens Support for Zambian Suppliers as Local Content SI 68 Ushers in New Opportunities
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has reiterated its commitment to expanding opportunities for Zambian businesses through Local Content Statutory Instrument No. 68 (SI 68) — a policy aimed at increasing local participation in the mining supply chain.
Speaking during the Mine Suppliers & Contractors Day in Kitwe, FQM executives emphasized that the company has long been investing in local procurement and supplier development, even before SI 68 came into force.
Through structured capacity-building programs and expanded sourcing initiatives, FQM has been actively accelerating opportunities for Zambian SMEs across the mining ecosystem.
Empowering Suppliers Ahead of 2026 Opportunities
FQM’s Nkomba Ndabala encouraged local businesses to strengthen their capabilities, align with SI 68 requirements, and prepare for the greater opportunities expected in 2026.
He noted that suppliers who understand the regulatory framework and invest in quality, compliance, and operational capacity will be best positioned to benefit from the shift toward increased local content.
Nearly Three Decades of Supporting Local Enterprise
Kansanshi Mine’s Local Content Lead, Haggai Simbaya, highlighted that FQM’s almost 30-year presence in Zambia has been built on supporting local enterprise, job creation, and sustainable economic growth. FQM continues to work with Zambian companies across sectors such as:
Engineering
Manufacturing
Logistics
Industrial services
The company’s long-term goal is to help develop world-class local suppliers capable of meeting mining industry standards while driving national economic transformation.
Government Reinforces Local Content Expectations
Mines Minister Hon. Paul Kabuswe reaffirmed government’s position that mining companies must implement robust supplier development programs and ensure Zambian-owned firms take the lead in critical supply categories, including:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Transport and logistics
General mining consumables
He emphasized that SI 68 is meant to unlock local wealth, create jobs, and ensure Zambia captures more value from its mining sector.
Mine Suppliers Association Confident in Local Capacity
The Association of Mine Suppliers & Contractors expressed confidence that Zambian suppliers are fully capable of meeting industry needs, noting their strong track record, business expertise, and ability to deliver to mining-sector standards.
FQM Focused on Fair Procurement and Inclusive Growth
FQM reaffirmed its commitment to transparent procurement, equitable business opportunities, and partnerships that ensure more mining value remains in Zambia. By growing the participation of local suppliers, FQM aims to stimulate SME development, strengthen communities, and contribute to long-term national prosperity.
The company emphasized that meaningful collaboration between industry, government, and local businesses is essential to unlocking the full potential of Zambia’s mining sector under the new local content framework.
