By ALICE NACHILEMBE
First Quantum Minerals has underscored the vital role good corporate governance plays in promoting ethical behavior and business transparency among key sector players in Zambia’s economy.
The mining firm believes that transparency, especially in the mining sector should be one of the key elements of good corporate governance.
FQM Director of Operations Rudi Badenhorst said the company always ensure that it does not favor higher profits at the expense of the livelihoods of people affected by is operations.
Mr Badenhorst said that it is for this reason that the company has redoubled its efforts to engage with civil society organisations (CSOs) to keep them abreast of its sustainability programmes and community engagement projects.
He said FQM has a commitment not to engage in or tolerate fraud or bribery in any form.
Mr Badenhorst also said that for a company to continue maintaining its competitiveness and remain profitable, it needed to make sure that shareholders could participate at general meetings and have their voices heard.
He further said that it is important for a company to build trust with the stakeholders and interest groups through ongoing dialogue and information sharing with government and civil society.
First Quantum continues to implement sound corporate governance practices such as distinct and separate environmental, health and safety, human resources, community development and security systems, which share synergies where they exist.
