Corporate Responsibility
Lumwana and Sustainability of the Local Community
Equinox has already had a direct positive impact on the local community at Lumwana, and will continue to do so as it builds a sustainable community to grow and develop for many years, long after the mine is exhausted after 50 years or more.
Equinox has developed a strong bond with the three local chiefs and their chiefdoms, primarily through offering them employment on a priority basis.
This has had a dramatic impact in this very poor area that in the past has been dependent on subsistence agriculture.
The Company is implementing education and training programs, university scholarships and traineeships, and building local capacity for small to medium scale businesses (textiles, floral products, supporting local market days).
The development of agriculture and aquaculture into commercial operations capable of providing local food to the Lumwana Town has been a priority. Equinox has established the Lumwana Trust Fund that has so far built 30 classrooms in 6 local schools, 4 teachers houses, 3 medical clinics and 2 women's development centres, and all of this is before the mine generates any cash flow.
Equinox and Lumwana will play an important role in the development of the local community as well as the broader impact on Zambia.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Following a period of public consultation and disclosure of the Environmental Impact Assessment and in accordance with Zambian Regulations and World Bank Guidelines, the Company received EIA approval for the Lumwana Project from the Environmental Council of the Republic of Zambia in late 2005.
Equinox now holds all necessary permits to be able to proceed with project development.
Lumwana Copper Project Environmental Impact
Assessment (7MB)
Lumwana Copper Project Environmental Impact
Assessment Appendices A-R (4MB)
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