Zambia is set to host a major international mine safety competition from the 26th April to 6th May, 2026 and is expected to attract about 22 teams and over 200 participants.
The event is said to not only highlight mining safety standards but also position the country as a growing tourism and hospitality destination.
First Quantum Minerals Africa Group Safety Manager Eric Cousins told media in an interview that preparations for the event are progressing, with final touches currently underway ahead of the official flagging-off ceremony scheduled for Monday, April 27, in Solwezi District.
He said that the competition is expected to bring together global mining experts, safety professionals and industry stakeholders with Zambia showcasing its capacity to host world class events.
The media reports that Mr Cousins stated that the competition goes beyond mining as it presents an opportunity for knowledge exchange among local participants, who are expected to benefit from exposure to international safety standards and practices.
He added that the event is also expected to stimulate economic activity, particularly in the North-Western Province, with Solwezi among the key host towns.
“We are going to be a world class facility and I think people will come to Zambia to host such events and other similar events going forward. The first thing we are looking out for is the knowledge exchange that is going to happen and secondly local facilities like hotels and other accommodations will benefit a lot,” he said.
Mr Cousins further noted that local businesses are being engaged to showcase and sell local chitenges fabrics and wood carvings at the Royal Solwezi hotel which is going to be the base for all the teams.
And Kansanshi hotel manager in Solwezi Brian Bwalya expressed excitement, stating that the hospitality sector is fully prepared to accommodate delegates attending the competition.
“We are well positioned to host the guests, this is an opportunity for us to showcase what Zambia’s hospitality industry has to offer and events like this boost tourism and bring business not just to hotels but across the entire local economy.”
Mr Bwalya added that the impact will extend to ordinary citizens through increased demand for goods and services.
As the country gears up for the event, stakeholders remain optimistic that the competition will leave a lasting impact by strengthening safety standards, promoting tourism and supporting local economic growth
The International Mine Rescue Competition slated to take place from the 26th of April to 6th May 2026 will be taking place for the first time in Africa with Kansanshi Mining PLC, a subsidiary of First Quantum Minerals co-hosting alongside Mopani Copper Mines.
