First Quantum Minerals produces 53% more nickel in second quarter

First Quantum Minerals, (FQM) began its commercial operations at its Enterprise Mine, on 1 June.

Building and commissioning the mine took just over two years, and it is trajected to become Zambia’s largest nickel operation, transforming the country into a key supplier of battery metals.

From April to June, the mine produced 6,147 tonnes of nickel, and the company has amended its production guidance from 10,000 – 20,0000 tonnes to a more realistic estimation of 17,000-20,000 due to the impressive production rates so far this year.

The Chief Executive of FQM, Tristan Pascall commented, “We had another solid quarter in Zambia and with the work achieved to date, both Kansanshi and Sentinel are set up well for the remainder of the year.”

Anthony Mukutuma, FQM Director, revealed in a statement issued to ZNBC news on 24 July that FQM has generated 9,029 jobs through the establishment of the Enterprise mine. He added that FQM is looking to expand its exploration programme across Zambia and consider prospective new sites in the mining regions.

FQM said that once at full strength, Enterprise mine will be a top-ten global nickel producer, able to employ over 900 full-time staff and produce over 30,0000 tonnes of metal per year.