Deliverying Reliable Communications for African Copper Mining Operations
Executive Summary
Mining copper in Africa presents unique challenges, from rugged terrains to remote locations with limited infrastructure. In 2006 First Quantum Minerals (FQM), a global mining company, faced significant hurdles in ensuring reliable communications across its operations. At the heart of FQM's operations was the Kansanshi mine site, a key revenue generator for FQM. Reliable intersite communications were critical to relay operational data back to headquarters in London and Australia via satellites.
FQM encountered frequent challenges with local telecommunications providers, including delays and a lack of prioritisation for their needs. To address these issues, FQM built their own fixed-point microwave (PTP) link, ensuring solid, dependable communications locally and globally. This proactive solution enhanced operational efficiency and ensured long term success in challenging environments.
Background
First Quantum Minerals is a leading mining company with extensive operations in Africa, where copper mining is often conducted in remote regions with minimal infrastructure. Kansanshi, FQM’s flagship site and primary revenue generator, required consistent, high-quality communications for both local operations and global connectivity. With operational data needing to flow seamlessly to headquarters in London and Australia, communication gaps posed significant risks.
The Challenge
FQM faced several critical issues impacting their communication infrastructure...
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Unreliable local telecommunications providers caused frequent delays and low prioritisation of FQM’s needs, disrupting operations.
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Limited connectivity led to operational inefficiencies, affecting decision making and workflow.
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High dependency on satellite communications was effective for global connectivity but costly and prone to latency.
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Kansanshi’s importance as a revenue generator made dependable communications and contact essential.
Solution
To address these challenges, FQM developed and implemented a fixed point microwave (PTP) link. This solution was tailored for operational needs and offered the following benefits...
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Enhanced connectivity as the microwave link bypassed local telecom providers, ensuring reliable communications.
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The solution was very cost effective, the Point-To-Point link reduced dependency on local Telco infrastructure.
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Solid local to global Integration ensured seamless communication between the Kansanshi site and headquarters, enabling timely decision-making.
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Improved resilience and independence from building their own infrastructure enabled FQM to gain greater control over their communication network, mitigating risks associated with third-party providers.
Results
The implementation of the fixed-point microwave link delivered measurable results across several areas..
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Improved communications and reliability meant local and global operations experienced fewer disruptions and greater operational continuity.
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Cost Savings were obtained through a reduced reliance on local Telcos.
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Operational efficiency was improved as timely and accurate data exchange improved decision making and resource allocation.
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Scalability was key as the solution laid the foundation for future infrastructure enhancements as FQM’s operations expanded.
Insights and Lessons Learned
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The proactive investments paid off as building a dedicated point-to-point link mitigates risks associated with unreliable third-party providers.
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Stakeholder collaboration as expected is key. Engaging stakeholders early ensured alignment and smoother implementation.
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A strong focus on scalability was essential as planning for future expansion enabled FQM to adapt as operational demands grew.
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Strategic independence meant critical infrastructure allowed FQM greater control and reduced dependency on external entities which was essential in this period of their mining journey.​
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My Role
As the lead in this initiative, I was responsible for driving the strategy from conception to implementation. This included, Identifying the main issues, collaborating with the Kansanshi management team to understand the critical pain points in communication infrastructure. Engaging stakeholders globally, including coordinating with leadership, to secure buy-in for the proposed solution. Working with engineers and external partners to design the fixed-point microwave link and overseeing the implementation. It was also critical to manage the project rollout correctly, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
Another key area was ensuring ongoing sustainability by establishing a support and maintenance framework to guarantee long term reliability of the system.
By leveraging my technical expertise and stakeholder management skills, I ensured the project met its goals, significantly improving FQM’s communication infrastructure and operational resilience.