Konkola Copper Mines PLC (KCM) has held its 2026 SME Day under the theme “Partnering for Sustainable Growth and Shared Prosperity,” bringing together small and medium enterprises (SMEs), business partners, and Government representatives to strengthen local participation in the mining supply chain.
The event was graced by Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, alongside Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Mr. Laurence Mwanza and Chililabombwe District Commissioner Mr. Kelly Jibinga.
The engagement gave local enterprises the opportunity to connect directly with KCM and its business partners, gain insight into procurement requirements, showcase their capabilities, and identify opportunities to supply goods, services, and solutions to the mining industry.
Speaking at the event, KCM Acting Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Mewett said SME Day plays a vital role in bringing businesses together to identify operational challenges and co-develop practical solutions. He encouraged SMEs to focus on the right price, right quality, and right time, while leveraging their technical expertise to solve genuine mining industry challenges.
Dr. Kabeta described the initiative as a critical platform for translating Government’s local-content agenda into tangible economic opportunities for Zambian businesses, urging SMEs to strengthen their capacity in quality, safety, certification, technology, governance, and timely delivery.
KCM Chief Commercial Officer Prakash Gopukumar reaffirmed the company’s commitment to developing a robust local supply ecosystem through sustained engagement, capacity building, and improved access to procurement opportunities, equipment, and financing.
The event also featured a safety share by KCM Deputy Chief Safety and Sustainability Officer (HSE) Lloyd Moomba, who reinforced the “Remember Home” campaign and the importance of making safe choices at work every day.
The 2026 KCM SME Day reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening local content and building practical, lasting connections between its growing business needs and capable Zambian enterprises — ensuring mining activity continues to deliver wider economic opportunities for local communities.
