FQM’S NSANSHI ART STUDIO ELEVATES ZAMBIA’S JEWELLERY INDUSTRY

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SOLWEZI, ZAMBIA – In the heart of Solwezi, a town known for its rich mineral resources, an innovative initiative is quietly shaping the future of Zambia’s jewellery industry.

Kansanshi Mining, a subsidiary of First Quantum Minerals (FQM), is leading a transformative effort to empower local artisans, particularly women, through Nsanshi Art Studio.

This Corporate Social Investment initiative, in collaboration with the Jewellery and Gemstone Association of Africa (JGAA), is providing skills training, fostering entrepreneurship, and helping Zambian artisans gain global recognition.

“Nsanshi Art Studio was established in 2019 as part of Kansanshi Mining’s commitment to sustainable community development,” said Kansanshi Mining Environmental, Social and Governance Manager Arnold Malambo.

“Through our partnership with jewellery expert and consultant Michele Scholtz, we are equipping young women with specialised skills in jewellery craftsmanship, ensuring they have access to viable economic opportunities.”

This year marks a significant step forward in Nsanshi Art’s journey, with an increased focus on global training and market access. In February, the studio welcomed Longo Mulaisho-Zinsner, founder and president of strategy at JGAA, and Kelvin Birk, a German-trained UK-based jeweller and founder of K2 Academy. Their visit aimed to refine students’ techniques and prepare them for Nsanshi Art’s first-ever showcase at GemGenève, one of the world’s most prestigious jewellery exhibitions.

Nsanshi Art has already begun making a name for itself internationally, with past showcases at Milano Fashion and Jewels in Italy (2024) and the World Jewellery Confederation Congress in Jaipur, India (2023). However, GemGenève in Switzerland presents a groundbreaking opportunity, as Nsanshi Art’s students will exhibit their work in a dedicated space under JGAA’s “Africa Jewellery Week™ Exhibition.”

“The chance to exhibit at GemGenève is a turning point,” Mr Malambo noted. “These young women will not only display their incredible craftsmanship but also gain exposure to international buyers and industry leaders, opening doors to new business opportunities.”

Nsanshi Art is more than just a community development initiative, it represents a long-term investment in Zambia’s creative economy. By adding value to locally sourced minerals, promoting ethical jewellery production, and nurturing home-grown talent, Kansanshi Mining is positioning Zambia as a rising force in the global jewellery market.

Through Nsanshi Art and other community development programmes, First Quantum Minerals continues to demonstrate that CSI is not just about giving back, it’s about building a future where local talent flourishes and competes on the world stage.

About First Quantum Minerals Ltd

First Quantum Minerals Ltd is a global metals and mining company producing mainly copper, gold and nickel. The company’s assets are in Zambia, Spain, Mauritania, Australia, Finland, Turkey, Panama, Argentina and Peru.
In 2024, First Quantum globally produced 431,000 tonnes of copper, 139,000 ounces of gold and 24,000 tonnes of nickel.
In Zambia it operates the Kansanshi mine and smelter in Solwezi, and the Sentinel copper mine and the Enterprise nickel mine in Kalumbila.
The company is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
http://www.first-quantum.com/