By Jane Chanda
First Quantum Minerals Trident Limited says the company, in partnership with the government, is constructing a mini hospital in Kalumbila district of North-western Province at a cost of US$480,000.
Community affairs manager Joseph Ngwira stated that the facility was expected to provide basic services, including theater services and would be handed over to the government upon completion.
According to a statement, the project was initiated by the mine community through stakeholder engagement, with resources jointly mobilised through donations from FQM Trident and contractors.
He stated that the facility had reached an advanced stage, with phase one expected to be completed in December this year, while the final stage, was scheduled for completion and handover to the government in the first quarter of 2025.
Ngwira stated that the mini hospital would have a mini theater, admission ward, a maternity annex and a mortuary with a capacity of nine beds, which had already been procured.
He noted that a mortuary was a need identified by the community because there was currently only one mortuary in the district.
“The facility will also have an admission ward for 80 adults and 80 children in the first phase, with two more admission wards to be added in the second phase,” he stated.
He further disclosed that during the first engagement meeting with contractors, they managed to raise US$150,000 in contributions towards the project, which would feature a high-cost, fee-paying component in its third phase.
And minister of Health Elijah Muchima thanked FQM Trident for collaborating with the government and called on other mining companies to emulate the same.
Muchima emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting the flying doctor service.
“The government, through the Ministry of Health, will provide support and enhance operations of the flying doctor service,” he said. “This move aims to bolster healthcare accessibility in rural areas, aligning with the ministry’s mission to provide effective quality healthcare services close to the family as possible.”
Ministry of Health Assistant Director Maxwell Kasonde said that the mini hospital in Kalumbila aligned with the vision and mission of the ministry to bring quality healthcare to the community.
“We need to look at areas of operation, draw an MoU and look at how we will support you in areas of HIV, malaria programs and TB,” he stated.
Town Council Chairperson Shadrick Munjunga commended FQM Trident for the facility, which would not only decongest the district hospital but also provide better access to essential services and economic opportunities for the residents of Kalumbila District.
