First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has been recognised as Zambia’s best mining investor at the landmark Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC).
The award recognises the company’s significant and sustained investment in Zambia’s mining sector and its commitment to the nation’s long-term economic growth.
The inaugural conference in Lusaka brought together local and international investors, government officials, and business leaders to explore Zambia’s investment potential. The theme of the event was “Driving Generational Transformative Investments through Joint Ventures and Partnerships.”
Receiving the “Best Investor in Mining – 2025” award, FQM Country Manager Dr Godwin Beene emphasised the alignment of the conference’s theme with Zambia’s current trajectory.
“The theme could not be more fitting for this country at this time, as it captures the spirit of sustainable collaboration and long-term thinking that Zambia now inspires. It’s about time that we began to think of Zambia in the long term, not Zambia in two years or three years or four years…but in the long term,” he said.
Dr Beene highlighted FQM’s nearly three-decade history of investment in Zambia, which started with the Bwana Mkubwa project and has grown to include massive developments like the Trident project and the recent $1.25 billion S3 expansion at the Kansanshi mine, and that the expansion is set to extend the life of the Kansanshi mine to 2046 and increase its annual copper production.
“We have demonstrated our belief in Zambia. We believe that Zambia is not only a viable investment destination, but also a strategic partner in shaping the future of critical industries,” Dr Beene remarked.
He further noted the encouraging focus at the conference on value addition, skills development, and inclusive growth, principles that FQM champions through its various projects, including the Enterprise nickel mine.
“We are not just talking about mining here. We are talking about multiple sectors that, all together, when they start to function, they turn around the economy of this country,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Science and Technology Hon. Felix Mutati outlined the government’s unwavering commitment to economic reform and private sector-led development.
“We have an impact on policy and structural reforms designed to create a stable macroeconomic environment, restore investor confidence, and promote value addition and export growth,” he said.
Mr Mutati praised the role of the private sector in national development, stating that with the right enabling environment, the private sector can be a true engine for development.
