Mining

Our Work

In the mining sector, Freddie Ricx Consults provides a bespoke of project and programme management, risk management and quantity surveying services throughout the mining lifecycle which includes prospecting and explorations, development, production or exploitation and reclamation or closure. Our mining expertise covers both greenfield and brownfield projects from early-stage feasibility to construction and close-out.

Our Services in Mining

Project-Programme Management

We are known for setting up successful mining programmes which build the right capabilities and execution plans to drive clear programme outcomes. We understand that mining projects typically progress ‌through distinct phases, each requiring careful planning and ‌execution to ensure economic viability. Therefore, an informed grasp ‍of these‌ outcomes not ‍only aids in the effective ‍management of resources but also underscores the importance of sustainable practices. By setting up clear programme baselines, we are able to effectively monitor the performance of the project, assessing risks and provide mitigation measures which control the project outcomes while keeping all stakeholders informed throughout the project lifecycle.

Supply Chain Strategy

We assist our clients to develop a supply chain strategy which involves integrating technology like internet of things (IoT) for real-time monitoring, fostering collaboration with suppliers and stakeholders, and prioritising sustainability and risk management. Key strategies focus on building resilience through flexible operations and diversifying suppliers, using data analytics for better demand forecasting and cost reduction, and investing in a skilled workforce to handle new technologies.

Quantity Surveying

Our Cost management principles are anchored on understanding that effective cost management involves driving value through gaining a full understanding of what commercial success means to our clients; Maximising commercial outcomes through activities which continue to add value and drive performance; Driving performance through establishing the necessary controls to ensure the project or programme is managed effectively from start to finish; and helping clients to achieve great commercial outcomes by communicating clearly and pro-actively, providing structured reporting throughout all stages of the process.

Health and Safety

Freddie Ricx Consults is certified and accredited to the international standards ISO 45001: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, which is a flagship standard for workplace safety in any industry, including mining. We customise our health and safety services depending on the nature of the mining business our clients may be dealing in which include inter alia developing and implementing safety management systems, conducting risk assessments and audits, and providing specialised training programs. Other services involve legislative compliance, emergency preparedness, and addressing specific hazards like gas monitoring and spontaneous combustion.

Core services-Health and Safety

Safety Management Systems: Designing, implementing, and maintaining safety management systems to meet regulatory and best-practice requirements.

Audits and Risk Assessments: Performing independent, site-specific audits to benchmark against legislation and industry standards, and conducting detailed risk assessments.

Training Programs: Developing and delivering tailored training on topics such as emergency procedures, gas monitoring, and general safety protocols

Contracts and Procurement

Our team is specialised to manage a wide range of contracts used in the mining sector which include.

Fixed Price or Lump Sum contract

Used when the project scope is clear. The contractor delivers the full scope at a pre-agreed price. The risk is mostly on the contractor.

Unit Rate Contracts

Ideal for excavation, drilling, or variable-quantity works. Payment is based on actual quantities multiplied by pre-defined unit rates.

Cost Plus Contract

The owner pays the actual cost plus a contractor's fee. Useful in early exploration or undefined scopes, but needs tight cost tracking.

Time and Material (T&M)

The contractor is paid based on the actual time spent and the materials used. This is often used for smaller or less defined projects but can lead to higher costs if not managed properly.

Target Cost Contract

A shared-risk model: both parties agree on a target budget. Savings or overruns are shared, promoting collaboration.

Option Agreements

Often used during the exploration phase, these give a mining company the option but not the obligation to acquire a property or enter a joint venture after meeting certain expenditure commitments within a specific timeframe.

Turnkey/EPC

Contractor handles everything-from design to commissioning. Popular in processing plants.

Design & Build

One party designs and constructs, reducing interface risk.

PPP / B00T

For large infrastructure or utility-related mining facilities.

Joint Ventures

A partnership where two or more parties pool their resources to undertake a project.

Strategic Alliances

A more flexible arrangement than a joint venture, where companies collaborate for a specific purpose but remain independent.

The Market

We are fast becoming a market leading local consultancy Firm in Zambia in the mining sector trusted to drive better business outcomes for our clients. With the heritage rooted in programme and cost management, we have a deep understanding in delivering capital programs within the budget to meet our client’s investment needs.

Flexibility and Work Environment

Freddie Ricx Consults understands that the nature of mining sites can differ from site to site but commonly include remote locations, physically demanding work, and high-tech operations which requires proactive adaptation. We also understand that adjusting to different environments in the mines involves a combination of practical preparation, a focus on safety protocols, technological literacy and mental resilience. We are also driven by the appetite to achieve greater investment outcomes for our clients at minimal cost.

Affiliation and Membership

Freddie Ricx Consults are full members of the Zambia Chamber of Mines- ZCM.

Zambia’s Mining Sector: Overview

Zambia's mining industry is a cornerstone of its economy, driven primarily by large-scale copper and cobalt production, with copper accounting for about 70% of exports. The sector is also rich in other minerals like emeralds, gold, and nickel, and the government is actively promoting the development of critical and industrial minerals through strategies like the National Critical Minerals Strategy. Recent government policies have focused on attracting investment through fiscal liberalisation and promoting value addition in the mineral value chain. Mining sector contributes between 13.7-17% of Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Government has in their 8th National Development Plan (8NDP) set up programmes to increase foreign direct investment through various interventions.

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