FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WITH PICTURE
OCTOBER 17, 2024
GRZ LAUDS PRIVATE SECTOR SUPPORT TO EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT IN SOLWEZI DISTRICT
Solwezi, Zambia – Acting Solwezi District Commissioner Anthony Fulwe has commended FQM for consistently partnering with the government to improve educational standards. Speaking during a handover ceremony at St Marys Special School, he emphasised the importance of partnerships with the private sector in providing essential resources.
FQM donated 30 beds and mattresses to the school, alongside 600 desks for eight schools and 70 computers for 14 schools, each receiving five computers.
These contributions, totalling K2.5 million, aim to enhance learning conditions and strengthen Information Communication and Technology (ICT) education within the district.
“The donation made by FQM to various schools will greatly assist in addressing the shortage of school supplies while providing pupils with comfortable seating and sleeping arrangements. This contribution will also enhance ICT teaching, a critical area for future development. FQM is walking the talk in its commitment to education, and this support will leave a lasting impact,” said Mr Fulwe.
Kansanshi Mining Assistant General Manager Axel Kottgen, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to empowering future leaders through education, saying: “We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and it is our responsibility to help create that environment. At St Mary’s Special School your efforts in providing a nurturing space for children with disabilities inspires us. Our contribution is just one way we can support your mission,” said Mr Kottgen.
He added that the donation of beds and mattresses would help ensure that children have the rest they need to succeed in their studies and daily activities.
“A good night’s sleep is crucial to a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development. We hope this donation will make a meaningful difference in their lives,” he said.
Head Teacher of St Mary’s School Sister Rajamani Arousamy thanked the company on behalf of the school, noting the positive impact these resources will have on both pupils and teachers. “This support will create a more conducive environment for learning and teaching. We are deeply thankful,” she said.
Senior Headman Mulowanyama, representing Chief Kapijimpanga, praised FQM for its continued generosity and encouraged the company to maintain its support for local communities. He emphasised the role of such partnerships in advancing sustainable development in Solwezi District.
In addition to the donations, FQM led a tree-planting initiative at St Mary’s School as part of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. This initiative, superintended by Kansanshi Mine ESG Manager Arnold Malambo, aimed to promote environmental stewardship and inspire future generations to take an active role in conservation.
These contributions to education come on the heels of another recent project by FQM, where the company funded the construction of a modern ablution block and water reticulation system at Mbonge Combined School.
FQM remains dedicated to living its core values: Smarter, Bolder, Driven, And Together, as it strives to make a meaningful impact in the communities where it operates.
-ENDS-
About First Quantum Minerals Ltd
First Quantum Minerals Ltd is a global metals and mining company producing mainly copper, gold and nickel. The company’s assets are in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru.
In 2023, First Quantum globally produced 707,678 tonnes of copper, 226,885 ounces of gold and 26,252 tonnes of nickel.
In Zambia it operates the Kansanshi mine and smelter in Solwezi, and the Sentinel copper mine and the Enterprise nickel mine in Kalumbila.
The company is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
http://www.first-quantum.com/
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