3 October 2022
Gemfields renews commitment to education in Zambia
Kagem emerald mine, majority owned by Gemfields, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Copperbelt University in Zambia (CBU), to ensure its continued support for the university and education sector in the mine’s host country.
This latest overture underscores the commitment of Kagem Mining Ltd and its parent company, Gemfields, to support the local community, especially in the critical area of education. Kagem is believed to be the world’s single largest producing emerald mine, and it is only right that a percentage of profits should return to make a difference to the country of origin.
Kagem’s continued support of the CBU will take the form of scholarships for students at its School of Mines and Mineral Sciences, totalling USD 172,500. This will fund tuition fees, books, medical care and more for pupils as well as supporting the university’s staff with equipment and other resources to enable them to educate to the highest standard.
The MoU guarantees an eight-year commitment, as part of Kagem’s ongoing dedication to economic and social development in Zambia. As well as continuing its partnership with the CBU, Kagem recently renewed its MoU with the University of Zambia (UNZA), committing to new scholarship programmes totalling USD 345,000. This is just the latest in a series of initiatives by Kagem to improve the standard of education in Zambia. It has already funded the building and renovation of both primary and secondary schools in the Lufwanyama district around the mine, as well as providing them with learning resources and more. As well as investing in education, Kagem has, over the years, invested in building roads, health centres and other infrastructure in the local area.
“Kagem is a firm believer in social funding, including education,” said Kagem Board Chairman Dr Sixtus Mulenga, explaining the mine’s particular focus on improving livelihoods through education. “This is why the company is willing to spend significant amounts of money to champion the cause, ensuring that even vulnerable children are able to access quality education so that they can realise their full potential.”
By supporting the Copperbelt University, Kagem is also helping to train the next generation of workers who may gain employment at the mine and make a lasting contribution to Zambia’s mining industry. Kagem and the CBU will work together to initiate internships and work attachments for pupils interested in being employed in the sector, which will have the added benefit of ensuring an able workforce for years to come.
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