Deep in the forests of Kalumbila district, a bold transformation is taking root – shaping a vibrant economic ecosystem where industrial power, local enterprise and community growth converge. “As Kalumbila Town Development Corporation, we actually took the first step by ensuring that we secured 5,040 hectares gazetted for Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ).
That is very important because anyone coming to invest requires land on which they can invest,” said Kalumbila Town Development Corporation Manager Nkomba Ndabala. Ndabala reiterated that Kalumbula is a well-designed and planned investment environment that provides opportunities for diversified investment due to its strategic location which provides opportunity for market linkages both local and international.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2026 Kalumbila Challenge held on Saturday at Sentinel School grounds in Kalumbila district, Ndabala said the Kalumbila MFEZ is one of Zambia’s emerging industrial and investment hubs designed to attract manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, construction and other value-adding industries.
She noted that the MFEZ forms part of First Quantum Mineral’s longterm vision to diversify Kalumbila’s economy and ensure that the district remains economically vibrant long after mining activities conclude.
“Yes, we already have mining, but we also want to ensure that tourism, manufacturing and other sectors also come to the party as well. Remember, we also need investment in the areas of renewable energy because we believe in sustainable growth,” Ndabala stated.
Arguably, the Kalumbila MFEZ has evolved far beyond a blueprint of industrial plots – it is now a dynamic economic ecosystem where heavy industry, local enterprise, and community livelihoods actively reinforce one another.
Speaking on behalf of the KTDC, Ndabala underscored how destination marketing drives investment, tourism, and broader economic growth pointing to major events like the FQM Trident-organized Kalumbila Challenge as a prime engine for regional development.
“We want to demonstrate to the rest of the world what Kalumbila looks like. It’s other than business, the wellness of the community, the collaboration, the engagements are important. And Kalumbila Challenge is just one of those platforms where we’re able to demonstrate the population first of all of Kalumbula, which is growing fast,” she said.
For this reason, Ndabala emphasized that KTDC is ready to collaborate with key stakeholders to raise awareness and actively pitch Kalumbila’s investment potential. “We’re working with all relevant authorities when it comes to enhancing our vision for Kalumbila Town and the MFEZ as a destination for business, innovation, and sustainable growth,” she added.
As the curtains closed on the 2026 Kalumbila Challenge, the vibrant event showcased exceptional determination, stamina, and community spirit, drawing enthusiasts from across the country. Designed for all ages and abilities, the multi-sport competition featured 5km and 10km runs, 25km and 50km cycling races, football, and chess, alongside a dedicated category for persons with disabilities to champion accessibility and inclusion.
Ndabala further affirmed how the Kalumbila Challenge has grown beyond a sporting event into a community platform that brings people of different ages, abilities and backgrounds together around health, wellness, friendship and community pride. “Through our investors, our business partners, we’re working together.
As an example, the Vumi Clinic was built out of concerted efforts from different investors, and this is how we want to ensure we continue to go as Kalambilla.” Interestingly, reaching the mining town of Kalumbila requires a 730 to 740-kilometer drive from Lusaka, but it is also just a one-hour flight away. This convenient air connection allows executives to fly into Kalumbila, conduct business efficiently, and return to the capital in a single day.
Meanwhile, FQM Trident Limited Assistant General Manager Frederic Wouters emphasized that as Kalumbila grows, the mining giant’s mission must extend beyond economic development as the ultimate goal is to build a vibrant community where people want to live, work, and raise their families – a vision that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Kalumbila Challenge.
“This year, 2,200 people took part in the challenge, compared to over 1,500 participants last year. So this growth, this increase in participation, is so encouraging because behind every one of those numbers is someone who chooses to be active and to challenge themselves and be part of this fantastic community experience,” Wouters said.
He noted that last year’s edition raised K1.3 million and all of it has been put towards the construction of the theater at the Wumi Mini Hospital located in Kalumbila’s central business district. The Assistant General Manager highlighted that as Kalumbila rapidly expands, the challenge creates vital links between local businesses and sponsors.
Wouters added that by generating commercial visibility and showcasing investment opportunities directly within the community, the event continues to drive livelihood improvements while reinforcing FQM’s blueprint for local development partnerships.
“So this year again, the proceeds from the challenge will enable projects that improve community n order to develop Kalumbila,” he stated. “As Kalumbila continues to grow, we hope to make sure that challenge grows by becoming one of those traditions that reminds us not only how far it has come, but where we can go together.” Derrick Silimina.
