Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia Co. Ltd.
Hitachi Zambia and FQM Kansanshi: Powering Sustainable Mining Through Innovation and Community Engagement
As dawn’s first glow bathes the copper pits of Kansanshi and marathon runners surge past cheering villagers, a new chapter of partnership—and possibility—unfolds in Zambia.
Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia and First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Kansanshi Mine have embarked on a groundbreaking journey—one that began when engineers watched the first prototype battery dump truck roll silently across Kansanshi’s copper‑rich earth, its quiet electric hum echoing beneath the cheers of marathon spectators lining the pit rim— redefining mining practices through a strategic zero-emission partnership and meaningful community engagements, exemplified by their successful collaboration on the annual Kansanshi Marathon.
A Milestone in Sustainable Mining Solutions
With Kansanshi’s battery‑electric haul fleet projected to slash more than 30,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year, this initiative moves beyond aspiration to measurable climate action.
In March 2023, Hitachi and FQM announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI), marking a significant leap toward sustainable mining at Kansanshi, one of Zambia’s most prominent copper-gold mines. Central to this collaboration is the deployment of Hitachi’s fully electric rigid frame dump trucks, fitted with advanced battery technology from ABB. Scheduled for delivery by the end of FY2023, these battery dump trucks represent a transformative step—cutting per‑haul emissions by up to 70 % compared with their diesel predecessors—in reducing operational greenhouse gas emissions, directly supporting FQM’s ambitious sustainability goals.
Leveraging existing infrastructure, including trolley assist systems, Kansanshi mine is uniquely suited for this pioneering technology. John Gregory, Director of Mining for First Quantum, highlighted the strategic advantage: “We have spent over a decade refining trolley assist technology with Hitachi. This battery-powered advancement is a natural evolution, pushing us closer to our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030.” He added, “Hitachi’s unwavering commitment to decarbonisation and its clear roadmap for low‑carbon innovation make it the ideal partner for our sustainability journey.”
Sonosuke Ishii, Senior Vice President of Hitachi Construction Machinery, emphasized, “This initiative with FQM represents not just a technological breakthrough, but a broader commitment to a sustainable and safe future for mining globally.”
Community and Health: The Kansanshi Marathon
This partnership transcends technological advancements, deeply embedding itself in community development. The annual Kansanshi Marathon, set to celebrate its third edition in May 2025, underscores both organizations’ dedication to community health, inclusivity, and environmental consciousness. FQM's Assistant General Manager, Axel Kottgen, stated, “Our vision goes beyond mining operations; we focus on the health, well‑being, and unity of the people around us.” To visibly champion this vision, Hitachi supported the race with bright orange hydration stations, on‑course power‑generators, and technical shirts emblazoned with the Hitachi logo—turning every refresh point and finish‑line photo into an unmistakable symbol of the partnership.
The marathon has rapidly become the largest sports event in North-Western Zambia, with an anticipated participation of over 2,300 runners in 2025, reflecting a 40% growth from the previous year. The event also champions inclusivity, introducing a wheelchair and differently-abled category for the first time. Local participant Emmanuel Juju commended this effort, noting, “This initiative significantly promotes diversity and equality, aligning perfectly with the national Clean, Green, and Healthy Campaign.”
Amplifying Impact Through Strategic Collaboration
Hitachi Zambia’s collaboration with FQM extends further into social and economic investments, including establishing an in-country engine repair facility aimed at boosting local employment and skills development. These initiatives demonstrate a holistic commitment to Zambia’s social, environmental, and economic landscapes.
Through strategic storytelling, multimedia campaigns, and high-impact community programs, Hitachi Zambia and FQM Kansanshi continue to exemplify a powerful partnership model—proving that sustainable mining and community prosperity can, indeed, thrive side by side
Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia Co. Ltd.
Adress: Plot2350/M, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Road, P.O. Box 30182 Lusaka Zambia
Contact:
Tel. +260 211-285360, 285361, 285362
