By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
First Quantum Minerals (FQM), through its subsidiary FQM Trident Limited, has completed the first phase of its Employee Housing Initiative, ‘Pineapple One’, with a strong emphasis on positioning Kalumbila for growth along the transformative Lobito Corridor.
The project is part of the company’s broader strategy to support home ownership while aligning community development with emerging regional trade opportunities.
As part of this initial phase, FQM has handed over newly constructed houses to 13 employees in Kalumbila District of North-Western Province in Zambia.
Launched in May this year, the initiative saw the mining firm allocate 320 residential plots to employees, backed by an initial investment of approximately US$307, 612. The investment covered land preparation near the mining operation and laid the foundation for what FQM envisions as a thriving community shaped by its workforce.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, FQM Trident Limited Assistant General Manager Frederic Wouters said the project reflects the company’s long-term development strategy and its intention to leave a footprint that will outlast mining activities.
“At FQM, we have long held the view that a company is only as strong as its people. While we utilize 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,” Mr. Wouters added.
He stressed the broader economic value of the housing project, noting that employees are acquiring assets in a region poised for rapid transformation as major infrastructure such as the Lobito Corridor takes shape.
The corridor, a key rail link connecting the Copperbelt to the Atlantic Ocean, is expected to boost trade and elevate Kalumbila’s status in regional commerce.
“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),” he added.
At the same event, FQM Trident Limited Human Resource Manager, Mark Silimi, emphasized that the initiative aims to help employees transition from tenants to property owners.
“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,” Mr Silimi stated.
Managed in partnership with the Kalumbila Town Development Corporation (KTDC), the project offers both flexibility and support. KTDC Manager, Michael Kabungo, explained that the ‘Pineapple’ area was created to accommodate self-build options as well as turnkey solutions for employees who prefer assistance.
“The intention is to give employees the flexibility to build their own structures within their own time-frame. KTDC provides standard designs and quality control support,” he added.
One of the main contractors, Thrive Housing, was responsible for delivering durable, affordable homes.
Company Founder and CEO, Brian McCoy, noted the challenge of delivering homes under US$6, 493 while maintaining high standards.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Emmanuel Simukoko expressed gratitude, describing the initiative as an important step toward long-term stability.
First Quantum remains committed to the subsequent phases, Pineapple Two and Three, which will see the company deliver more homes to its workforce. The mining giant believes that this initiative will play a pivotal role in ensuring that more Zambians have access to decent, secure and long-term housing.
