FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WITH PICTURES
DECEMBER 10, 2021
KML Hands Over Two Bridges in Chipawa
Senior Chief Musele and Kalumbila District Council Chairperson Shadreck Munjunga take a stroll on one of the bridges constructed by FQM in Chipawa village of Senior Chief Musele’s chiefdom. 
One of the two bridges constructed by FQM in Chipawa village of Senior Chief Musele’s chiefdom.
Kalumbila Minerals Limited (KML), through Trident Foundation, has handed over two bridges in Chipawa village of Senior Chief Musele’s chiefdom. The construction of the bridges on the Kasombo river commenced in 2020 after both the main bridge and the makeshift footbridge collapsed, pausing risks to community members who had no choice but to wade through the flowing river for access to their farm lands and other areas.
Speaking during the handover, KML Assistant General Manager Junior Keyser, said through collaboration with the community, the company has made significant contributions to improving infrastructure. He said special attention shall be given to maintenance of the already developed infrastructure to ensure they remain in good shape.
“I wish to bring to your attention that FQM is committed to supporting communities in five areas namely health, education, agriculture, community infrastructure and local business development,” said Keyser.
Mr. Keyser appealed to the community to take responsibility and care for the infrastructure provided for them.
Meanwhile Kalumbila District Council Chairperson Shadreck Munjunga has applauded KML for identifying and alleviating problems faced by communities around the mine. Mr. Munjunga said the mine has demonstrated their commitment to bettering the lives of the people.
“We want thank Kalumbila Minerals for constructing a bridge at Kasombo river to enable our people to have access to markets for their farm produce and other facilities,” said Munjunga.
He further warned the community to desist from vandalizing the two bridges.
Representing the community, Kankonjhi Catholic Church overseer, Reverend Father Bonaventure Mwamba appreciated the mine for aiding the community by constructing the bridges. Fr. Mwamba said before the construction of the bridges, people’s lives were in serious danger when crossing the river which is infested with crocodiles from the Kabompo River. He added that the constructed bridges will improve economic activities in the area.
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About First Quantum Minerals Ltd
First Quantum Minerals Ltd is a global metals and mining company producing mainly copper, gold and zinc. The company’s assets are in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru.
In 2020, First Quantum globally produced 779,000 tonnes of copper, 265,000 ounces of gold and 13,000 tonnes of nickel.
In Zambia it operates the Kansanshi mine – the largest copper mine in Africa by production – and smelter and the Sentinel mine in Kalumbila.
The company is listed on the Lusaka and Toronto stock exchanges.
http://www.first-quantum.com
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