Kansanshi Mining Plc, a subsidiary of First Quantum Minerals (FQM), officially handed over the newly renovated North-Western Provincial Library to the
Government of Zambia and the people of North-Western Province during a ceremony held on 13 November 2025.
The event, graced by government officials, traditional leaders, educators, and community members, marked a milestone in the region’s journey towards accessible, modern education.Speaking during the official handover ceremony, Kansanshi Mining Plc General Manager Meiring Burger, in a speech read on his behalf by Kansanshi Mining Plc, IT manager, Dr Masialeti Masialeti, underscored the company’s commitment to sustainable development. “This
event is not just about the opening of a building; it is a celebration of partnership, progress, and purpose. It symbolizes what can be achieved when the private
sector, government, and community work together to invest in the future of our people,” he stated.
He said the project, valued at over K3.5 million, transformed the library into a modern, safe, and accessible hub for students, teachers, and the broader community. “The upgrade includes durable, comfortable furniture valued at K600,000, with special provisions for early childhood learning, emphasizing Kansanshi’s belief in nurturing lifelong learners from a young age.”
He further stated that the renovation extends beyond infrastructure, encompassing the installation of 28 brand-new computers with high-speed internet through a partnership with Liquid Technologies. The library is now positioned as a digital knowledge hub for the province, providing essential resources for students, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
Burger highlighted that the success of this initiative is a testament to the shared vision between Kansanshi Mining Plc, the Government of Zambia, and the community. “It is proof that development is most effective when driven by collaboration and a shared sense of responsibility,” he said.
He said the upgraded facility forms part of Kansanshi’s broader Education Quality Improvement Programme (KanEQuIP), which supports classroom construction, teacher training, and enhanced learning environments across North-Western Province.
In 2025 alone, Kansanshi has completed or commenced multiple classroom and school renovation projects in the region, further demonstrating its commitment to education.
Burger called on the Zambia Library Services and the local community to take ownership
of the library and ensure its sustainability for future generations. He emphasized that Kansanshi Mining Plc remains dedicated to supporting education, health, agriculture, and enterprise development in the province, stating, “Our focus is not only on the
copper we mine, but also on the human capacity we build. Because we believe that an educated, empowered population is the true wealth of Zambia.”
The ceremony later transitioned yo the officially handing over the facility to the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the people of North-Western Province, expressing hope that the library will serve as a beacon of knowledge, opportunity, and community progress for generations to come.
North-Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu, represented by Provincial Permanent Secretary Colonel Grandson Wishikoti Katambi (Rtd), commended FQM’s commitment, describing it as “corporate social responsibility at its finest.”
“First Quantum Minerals has not just renovated a building, they have renewed dreams and restored hope,” he stated.
The Provincial Minister emphasized the importance of fostering a reading culture, describing libraries as “fortresses of deep knowledge and sustained learning.”
The new facility is expected to benefit thousands of learners, educators, and community members,offering a secure and modern environment that promotes lifelong learning.
Meanwhile, Assistant Director of the Zambia Library Service, Sharon Munshya-Liato, further noted that the renovation coincides with the recent approval of Zambia’s first National Library Policy in September 2025, which aims to expand digital resources, upgrade infrastructure, and enhance professional development for librarians.
