FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WITH PICTURES
DECEMBER 12, 2025
FQM TRIDENT BOOSTS KALUMBILA HOME OWNERSHIP, CEMENTING COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY LEGACY
KALUMBILA, ZAMBIA – First Quantum Minerals (FQM), through its subsidiary FQM Trident Limited, has officially handed over newly constructed houses to 13 employees in the Kalumbila District of the North-Western Province. This milestone marks the completion of the first phase of the FQM Trident Employee Housing Initiative, dubbed ‘Pineapple One’, a project designed to foster home ownership and sustainable community development.
Launched in May of this year, the mining firm allocated 320 residential plots to its employees, supported by an initial investment of K7.1 million. This investment covered land preparation near the mining operation and laid the groundwork for what FQM envisions as a vibrant, self-sustaining community shaped by the people who live and work within it.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, FQM Trident Limited Assistant General Manager Frederic Wouters emphasised that the initiative reflects the company’s strategic vision to leave a lasting legacy beyond the finite lifespan of mining operations.
“At FQM, we have long held the view that a company is only as strong as its people. While we utilise advanced machinery and technology, the true engine of our success is the human spirit. We are moving away from the old transient mining camp model and towards a vibrant, self-sustaining society. We are building a Kalumbila designed to thrive long beyond the life of the mine,” said Mr Wouters.
Mr Wouters highlighted the broader economic significance of the project, noting that employees are acquiring assets in a rapidly evolving region.
He pointed to the development of the Kalumbila Multi-Facility Economic Zone and the Lobito Corridor, a rail infrastructure project connecting the Copperbelt to the Atlantic Ocean, as key drivers that will place Kalumbila on the map of international trade and ensure property appreciation.
“By owning a home here, you are not just securing shelter; you are planting your roots in one of the most economically promising regions, not just in Zambia, but in the Southern African Development Community (SADC),” Mr Wouters added.
Speaking at the same event, FQM Trident Limited Human Resource Manager, Mark Silimi, noted that the project aims to transform the workforce from tenants into landlords.
“The aim of this project is to bind the spirit of rentals. We are here to ensure that the issue of accommodation in Kalumbila becomes a thing of the past. This is just the demonstration of the programme we have… to those yet to receive, this is just the start,” said Mr Silimi.
The project is being managed in conjunction with the Kalumbila Town Development Corporation (KTDC). KTDC Manager, Michael Kabungo, explained that the ‘Pineapple’ area was developed to offer employees flexibility, allowing for both self-build options and turnkey solutions for those requiring assistance.
“The intention is to give employees the flexibility to build their own structures within their own timeframe,” said Mr Kabungo, noting that KTDC provides standard designs and quality control support.
One of the key contractors, Thrive Housing, was tasked with delivering high-quality, durable homes at an affordable price point. Thrive Housing Founder and CEO, Brian McCoy, noted the challenge of delivering homes under K150,000 while maintaining high standards.
“Every house we are doing is built with proper concrete, from the slab to the ring beams, ensuring they are built to last. From day one, these homes are move-in ready, featuring flush toilets, septic tanks, and a standard solar package ensuring lighting in every room,” said Mr McCoy.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Emmanuel Simukoko expressed gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a step towards long-term security.
“Owning a home is one of the greatest steps towards dignity, stability, and long-term security. This handover does not only represent a building; it represents hope, opportunity, and a belief that employees deserve a place they can truly call home,” said Mr Simukoko.
First Quantum remains committed to the subsequent phases, Pineapple Two and Three, which will see the company deliver more homes to its workforce. The company believes that this initiative will play a pivotal role in ensuring that more Zambians have access to decent, secure and long-term housing.
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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 nickel. The company’s assets are in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru.
In 2024, First Quantum globally produced 431,000 tonnes of copper, 139,000 ounces of gold and 24,000 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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