First Quantum Minerals delivers findings of High-Resolution Airborne Survey

On Thursday this week First Quantum Minerals delivered their High-Resolution Airborne Survey findings to President Hakainde Hichilema and the Ministry of Mines.

President Hichilema says the survey, which studied mineral deposits on the Copperbelt Province, provides new information identifying areas in the province rich in minerals.

The President says even though the Copperbelt has been mining for over a century, its endowments have until now not been fully documented.

He says the new data will enable mining companies in the Province to plan effectively for expansion projects and new investments.

Speaking at State House when he received the survey’s report from FQM Chief Executive Officer Tristan Pascall, President Hichilema said a lack of detailed information on underground mineral deposits on the Copperbelt hindered the full utilisation of the Province’s resources. Mr Pascall also affirmed the company’s readiness to collaborate with the Government to fully exploit mineral resources.

Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe explained that FQM fully funded the survey through a Memorandum of Understanding -MoU- with the Government.

Mr. KABUSWE added that Government is consulting stakeholders on whether the Province should be included in the ongoing National Geological Mineral Mapping Survey launched last year.

FQM Exploration Manager Jon Stacey said the survey data would be handed over to the Government and made available to other mining license holders on the Copperbelt.