By CLOZZEN BIKALE
President Hakainde Hichilema has launched the $250m Enterprise Nickel Mine which is expected to create over 700 new jobs.
Speaking during the ground breaking in Kalumbila , President Hichilema said First Quantum Minerals Limited (FQM)investment will uplift the living standards of people in North-Western Province and the country at large.
The Head of State said the significance of the Nickel Mine goes beyond job creation, but helps the continent by providing material for renewable energy.
“FQM investment will upscale the living standards of people North Western and the nation as a hole. Our Administration wants investors in the mining sector and communities to work together for sustainable development,” He said.
And FQM Chief Executive Officer-CEO Tristan Pascal said the Nickel Mine will produce ten thousand tons of Nickel per annum, making it the highest producer of Nickel on the continent.
“As a company decided to mine Nickel as they have noticed that the metal has increased in demand over the past years,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe said the investment by FQM is a sign that there is investor confidence in the Mining sector owing to the various Mining policies that have been implemented.
And North Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu said the coming of the Enterprise Nickel Mine is in line with the UPND manifesto of eradicating poverty.
