Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia Partner to Aid Farmers Amidst Drought Challenges
Mining services provider Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia have joined forces to support the Zambian government’s efforts in aiding subsistence farmers affected by a recent drought, which has severely impacted agriculture and food security across the country.
Ndola District Commissioner Joseph Phiri, along with Makor Resources CEO Brooke Bibeault and Jubilee Metals Zambia MD Ricus Grimbeek, distributed Compound-D and Urea fertilizer, as well as drought-resistant maize seeds, to farmers in Ndola’s Munkulungwe ward.
The event, hosted by the Bwana Mkubwa resettled families, was also attended by local leaders, including ward councillor Lombe Kaweme and senior Ndola agricultural officer Zeniah Nambeye Chitema.
“Our goal is to provide crucial support to subsistence farmers, especially those recently resettled due to the drought, as well as the most vulnerable farmers,” said Bibeault.
Many of these farmers have faced crop failures, food shortages, and malnutrition, forcing them to make difficult decisions like selling assets or reducing meals.
Beneficiaries of the program include elders, widows, and individuals with disabilities who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. In addition, Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia plan to expand the initiative to rural communities near the Munkoyo mine in Kapiri Mposhi, with the goal of promoting sustainable agriculture, improving crop yields, and enhancing livelihoods in the face of climate challenges.
Both Bibeault and Grimbeek emphasized the importance of collaboration in the extractive industry to improve the well-being of communities impacted by mining operations.
“I will continue advocating for cooperation between large-scale mining companies to work together for the betterment of the communities we affect. It’s not just good business but the right thing to do,” Grimbeek stated.
Many rural farming communities around mining operations face challenges such as remoteness, environmental risks, and limited access to agricultural inputs and markets, which have contributed to low productivity and food insecurity.
The efforts of Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia aim to alleviate these challenges by providing essential resources and support to struggling farmers.
Phiri praised the partnership, calling it an example for other companies to follow. “Their commitment to supporting our communities is commendable and should inspire others in the mining sector to engage in similar initiatives,” he said.
