FQM Trident Launches First Supplier Development Cohort to Strengthen Local Mining Value Chain
FQM Trident Onboards 25 Suppliers Under Local Supplier Development Programme
FQM Trident Limited has onboarded 25 local suppliers into the first cohort of its Supplier Development Programme (SDP), marking a significant step towards strengthening local business capacity and increasing participation in the mining value chain.
The suppliers were officially onboarded during an SDP Orientation Workshop held in Kalumbila, bringing together participating businesses, FQM’s SDP implementation partners the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) and Prospero as well as representatives from the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.
The programme is designed to provide structured support to local suppliers, helping them build the capabilities, systems and competitiveness required to sustainably participate in opportunities within the mining industry.
The initiative is being implemented in alignment with Statutory Instrument No. 68 of 2025, which provides a framework for enhancing local participation in the mining sector.
However, FQM’s commitment to developing local suppliers predates the introduction of the regulations, with the company having implemented supplier development initiatives as part of its broader efforts to strengthen local economic participation.
During the orientation workshop, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development commended FQM Trident for its continued investment in supplier development and encouraged participating businesses to take full advantage of the programme.
Suppliers were urged to actively engage throughout the programme, comply with its requirements and use the support provided to strengthen their businesses and position themselves for future growth.
The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the programme while supporting efforts aimed at expanding the capacity of local suppliers and increasing their participation in the mining supply chain.
The onboarding of the first 25 suppliers marks the beginning of a structured supplier development journey.
As part of the programme, participating businesses will work with subject matter experts and receive tailored assistance based on their individual business needs.
Each supplier will be supported through a Supplier Development Plan, which will identify specific areas requiring improvement while outlining opportunities for growth and business development.
The approach is intended to move beyond a one-size-fits-all model by addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing individual suppliers.
For FQM Trident, the SDP represents more than a compliance requirement. It is an investment in building a stronger and more competitive local supplier base capable of meeting industry standards, growing sustainably and participating more effectively across the mining value chain.
The programme is expected to contribute to the development of businesses that are better equipped to secure contracts, expand their operations, create employment and deliver goods and services that meet the requirements of the mining industry.
With the first cohort now onboarded, the programme establishes a platform for sustained engagement between FQM Trident, its development partners, government and local businesses as Zambia continues to strengthen local participation in the mining sector.
