Zambia Applauds FQM Minerals for Advancing Gender Equality in Mining
The Zambian government has commended First Quantum Minerals (FQM) for its ongoing efforts to promote gender equality within the mining sector, ensuring that women and girls have equal opportunities to contribute to the country’s economic development.
Speaking at the 2025 International Women’s Day celebrations, under the theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango praised FQM for creating more job opportunities for women, noting that many women are now employed as equipment operators at the company.
Mrs. Nalumango reiterated the government’s commitment to gender-responsive policies aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women and girls. “We are dedicated to ending child marriage, promoting girls’ education, and supporting early childhood rehabilitation,” she said. She also highlighted significant strides in maternal and child healthcare, with advancements in reproductive health services.
The Vice President further emphasized the government’s efforts to strengthen legal frameworks supporting survivors of gender-based violence and ensure a more inclusive healthcare system.
FQM’s Government Relations Superintendent, Winnie Kakunta, underscored the company’s commitment to inclusivity, recognizing diversity as a key driver of innovation and long-term sustainability. “We actively support the empowerment of women and girls through skills training, educational initiatives, health programs, and leadership development,” she said.
She also highlighted FQM’s training and learning opportunities for women, which help them progress within the mining industry, and the company’s policies aimed at increasing female participation in leadership roles.
Zanaco CEO Mukwandi Chibesakunda acknowledged the progress in gender equality across Africa but stressed that more work is needed. “We commend the United Nations for its commitment to addressing gender inequality, as outlined in the 2023 National Gender Policy. We assure you of our continued support,” she said.
FQM has been a key player in Zambia’s mining industry for nearly 30 years, operating two of the country’s largest mines—Kansanshi Mining PLC and FQM Trident Limited.
With over 19,000 employees, the company contributes significantly to Zambia’s economy, particularly in the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces. In 2024, FQM paid nearly USD 374 million in taxes and mineral royalties to the national treasury.
As Zambia continues to push for greater gender inclusivity, partnerships between the government and the private sector remain crucial to ensuring that women and girls thrive in all industries, including mining.
11 total views , 1 views today
