FQM Trident Lauded for Empowering SMEs and Boosting Northwestern Province’s Economy
Hon. Elias Mubanga, Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, has commended FQM Trident Limited for its ongoing efforts to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Zambia’s Northwestern Province.
Speaking at the Kalumbila Business Clinics, Hon. Mubanga highlighted the crucial role SMEs play in Zambia’s economy and urged other large corporations, especially in the mining sector, to follow FQM’s example in empowering local businesses.
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy, and it is essential that major firms, particularly in the mining industry, actively contribute to the growth and sustainability of smaller businesses within their operational areas,” Hon. Mubanga stated during his second officiation at the event.
The Kalumbila Business Clinics, an initiative designed to build capacity among local entrepreneurs, are recognized as a key driver of economic development in the region.
FQM Trident Limited’s Country Manager, Dr. Goldwin Beene, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering business growth within their catchment area.
“Our primary goal is to develop and empower SMEs by providing access to essential statutory bodies and facilitating business growth within Kalumbila,” Dr. Beene said.
To date, 145 businesses have benefited from the program, with K6.7 million disbursed in returnable grants. Additionally, FQM has been instrumental in supporting the Kalumbila Chamber of Commerce, enabling SMEs to participate in joint bidding processes to supply large quantities of goods and services to the mines.
Northwestern Province Permanent Secretary, Jackson Katambi (retired), expressed his appreciation for FQM’s sustained efforts in promoting sustainable livelihoods within and beyond their operational areas, acknowledging the significant impact these initiatives have had on strengthening the local economy.
