Anthony Mukutuma has been appointed GM of dual-listed First Quantum Minerals’ multimillion-dollar Kansanshi mine, in the Solwezi district of North Western province.
He is the first Zambian to hold the post of GM at Kansanshi, which is the largest copper mine in Africa by production.
Mukutuma has 20 years of experience in the operation and management of mineral processing and hydrometallurgical plants, covering business development, research and development, design and design optimisation, commissioning, process optimisation, operations management, business performance improvement and talent development.
Mukutuma previously managed First Quantum's Guelb Moghrein copper/gold mine in Mauritania, and most recently was general manager for the restart of operations at its Ravensthorpe nickel operation in Australia.
“First Quantum is proud to announce the appointment of Mr Mukutuma as the new GM for our Kansanshi mine. It is a significant milestone for the company and reinforces our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, race or creed,” said First Quantum country manager General Kingsley Chinkuli.
“Management wishes him all the best in his new role as GM. We are confident he will be equal to the task and we are eager to tap into the vast knowledge he has acquired in the last 20 years in the industry.”
Chinkuli stressed it was one of numerous appointments that have seen senior Zambian staff taking on top management positions, not just at Kansanshi and its sister Sentinel mine in Kalumbila, but also other mines under the First Quantum group worldwide.
He added that the company would continue to create an enabling environment where employees had an opportunity to progressively rise through the ranks.