Ndola, Zambia – On Thursday 17 October, 2024, Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia announced a partnership to support the Zambian government’s efforts in addressing food insecurity caused by a recent drought. The companies joined forces to distribute agricultural inputs to subsistence farmers in the Munkulungwe Ward of Ndola.
The program was attended by Ndola District Commissioner Joseph Phiri, Makor Resources CEO Brooke Bibeault, and Jubilee Metals Managing Director Ricus Grimbeek. They were joined by local leaders, including Ward Councilor Lombe Kaweme, Senior Ndola Agricultural Officer Zeniah Nambeye Chitema, and community members.
Bibeault emphasized the urgency of supporting subsistence farmers who have been severely impacted by the drought. “These farmers have faced crop failures, reduced harvests, critical food shortages, and malnutrition, forcing them to adopt desperate measures like selling off essential assets or skipping meals,” she said.
The distribution program targeted the most vulnerable members of the community, including elders, the physically disabled, and widowed women who rely on agricultural production for their livelihoods. Bibeault and Grimbeek stressed the importance of collaboration to improve the lives of communities in the extractive industry.
Grimbeek stated, “I will keep advocating at all levels for cooperation between large-scale mining companies to work together to improve the lives of the communities we impact and have impacted. It is not just good for business but also the right thing to do.”
The rural farms surrounding the mine operations face significant challenges, including remoteness from the capital, rugged terrain, environmental risk, climate vulnerability, and reliance on subsistence farming. These factors have contributed to high levels of chronic malnutrition and food insecurity.
Ndola District Commissioner Joseph Phiri praised the companies for their contributions and urged other companies to follow their example. “Their commitment to supporting our communities is commendable and should inspire others in the mining sectors to engage in similar initiatives,” he said.
Makor Resources and Jubilee Metals Zambia plan to expand the distribution program to the rural communities surrounding the Munkoyo Mine in Kapiri Mposhi later this month. Mary Mubanga, Jubilee Metals Manager of Safety, Security, and Government Relations, explained the timing of the program, stating, “As we are aware this year we are expected to have heavy rains, and therefore, Jubilee Metals and Makor Resources saw it fit to donate fertilizer and seed at the outset of the season, which we believe will contribute to the food security of our community and the country at large.”
The companies’ collaborative effort aims to promote sustainable agriculture, increase yields, and improve livelihoods, especially in the face of climate change and environmental challenges.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.