Can a working copper mine be a sanctuary for global travellers?

At First Quantum’s Kansanshi Mine, the answer is a resounding yes. On 10 October, FQM’s Kansanshi mine joined the global community to commemorate World Migratory Bird Day under the 2026 theme:

“Every Bird Counts.” Kansanshi Mining PLC hosted this event for the first time, and the turnout was incredible; families, local schools, and employees gathered in our wildlife sanctuary to experience how mining and nature can coexist.

But why do migratory birds matter to Kansanshi, and why are they thriving in a mining environment? Zambia sits on the African-Eurasian flyway, a superhighway connecting us to Europe and Asia. Birds travel thousands of miles for food and breeding, and they need safe resting places.

Further, birds are nature’s pest controllers, pollinators, and seed dispersers. They are vital to a healthy environment.

The Kansanshi game park acts as an “ecological island.” Just a few kilometres away, mining operations continue, but inside the sanctuary, birds, animals, and trees are protected. We are proud to host over 200 bird species here, including migratory birds.