Zambia: First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Trident Mine have constructed a community radio station in Kalumbila District. The structure has been constructed at a cost of 150,000 United States Dollars.
The authorities of the district described this investment as a milestone as it will enhance information sharing and dissemination. People in the area will be more aware on many developmental issues thereby contributing to the growth of the district.
The gesture further solidifies the long lasting partnership between government and FQM. The government wants to see the radio station being used to disseminate information and nothing else.
“This radio station will be the first of its kind in Kalumbila District and we are proud to be associated with its commencement,” he said.
North Western Province Permanent Secretary Grandson Katambi Katambi appealed to Kalumbila Town Council to use the facility for its intended purpose. The town council is responsible for running the radio with their staff and manageement
“We do not want to see this radio station being manipulated by selfish people to advance their political activities, this is for the community and it must remain as such. Our people need information on many developmental activities from national to the district levels,” He emphasised’’,.
Trident Foundation Limited Community Affairs Manager Joseph Ngwira said the mining company observed a need for a radio station after realise that there was no communication platform that could be used to disseminate critical information on community development.
Ngwira said for sustainability purposes the mining company wants to handover the facility to the community aligned with the local Authority.
“FQM is going to support the operations of the radio station for a period of two years from the time of its commissioning, our hope is that after two years the radio station will be able to stand on its own and that the community will be developed to a point where they will be able to provide good governance,” he said.
Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Licensing and Compliance Manager Steven Chileshe also offered insight on the construction of the radio station. He highlighted that the authority wants to see the radio station rising up to the challenge, mobilise and work with the community in order to deliver development in the district.
Chileshe said the radio station has a strong financial base with support from the mine which it must use to deliver to the people.
Both the Town Council Secretary Shadreck Munjunga and Senior Chief Musele have thanked Trident Mine for the gesture.
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