First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has significantly increased its direct economic contributions to Zambia, rising to $3.4 billion in 2025, a 30 percent jump from approximately $2.6 billion recorded in 2024. This substantial investment spans government revenues, salaries, local procurement, and community initiatives, reinforcing FQM’s position as one of Zambia’s foremost economic partners. Of the $3.4 billion contributed in 2025, 62% was allocated to local procurement from Zambian-registered suppliers, 26% to government revenue, and 11% to salaries and wages, with the remainder directed towards community investment and social initiatives.
Speaking during the ZICA Pre-AGM workshop in Livingstone attended by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, FQM Kansanshi Mine, Finance Superintendent, Kally Kasunka, reaffirmed the company’s steadfast commitment to supporting Zambia’s economic development and fostering strong partnerships with local stakeholders.
Kasunka reiterated that according to the FQM 2025 Tax Transparency & Contributions report – Zambia, published in May 2026, Government revenue derived from FQM grew by 39% year-on-year, reaching $902 million in 2025 compared to $650 million in 2024.
He said the company’s commitment to its workforce was similarly reflected in a remarkable 65% rise in salaries and wages, which soared to $390 million from $236 million the previous year. Kasunka further noted in his presentation that FQM’s dedication to supporting Zambian businesses was further demonstrated by a 22% increase in local procurement, totaling $2.1 billion in 2025, up from $1.7 billion in 2024.
“Additionally, investment in community, social outreach, and communication initiatives climbed by 77% to $23 million, compared to $13 million in 2024.”
He highlighted that 2026 is a milestone year for FQM, marking 30 years of mining operations in Zambia since the launch of the Bwana Mkubwa project in 1996. FQM later acquired Kansanshi Mine in 2001 and commissioned the Trident Project in 2016, underscoring its longterm investment in the country.
“In 2025, we commissioned the $1.2 billion S3 project at Kansanshi Mine, which has extended the life of the Kansanshi mine into the 2040s,” Kasunka stated.
“This demonstrates our enduring commitment to Zambia and reflects the strength and longevity of our partnership with the Zambian people.”
Meanwhile, commenting in the FQM 2025 Tax Transparency & Contributions report – Zambia, First Quantum Minerals Zambia Country Director, Anthony Mukutuma, reiterated the company’s commitment to contributing to Zambia’s economic growth. “2025 was a pivotal year for FQM’s operations in Zambia.
Through robust partnerships with over 1,500 local suppliers and employment of more than 12,000 staff and 11,500 contractors, we continue to deliver shared and sustained economic value.” Mukutuma further highlighted the impact of the Kansanshi S3 Expansion, noting that it has strengthened FQM’s long-term contribution profile by supporting government revenues, local economic development, and the resilience of Zambia’s mining sector.
“Our total direct economic contribution of $3.459 billion in 2025 represents a 30% increase from 2024,” he remarked.
