Can you introduce Red Spot and give an overview of the company’s services to the Zambian mining industry?

With over a decade of experience in the industry, I have developed strong expertise in the re-designing and refurbishment of earthmoving equipment to provide a better life span. I brought in that experience to found Red Spot in 2014 with the mission to fill the gap in aftersales services left by OEMs. Red Spot specializes in manufacturing and distributing high-quality ground-engaging tools and replacement parts for earthmoving, construction, agriculture and mining machinery. Our fully equipped workshop handles repairs and rebuilds of all machines, components and buckets. We also offer field services, ensuring customer satisfaction through quality products, technical support, competitive pricing and reliable lead times. One of our core strengths lies in our ability to extend the lifespan of equipment through repair and refurbishment—providing an economic alternative to purchasing new machines. This approach also aligns with our commitment to fostering a circular economy by maximizing the use of existing equipment. 

 Red Spot has become a trusted partner for major mining companies in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including First Quantum Minerals mines, Grizzly, KAGEM, Mopani and many others. Our goal is to solidify service that brings our reputation as the preferred provider of world-class earthmoving solutions in the region.

Could you elaborate on the circularity value-add?

When machinery reaches the end of its life, it often becomes an environmental burden, typically being sold as scrap to refineries, which can be highly polluting. In line with our vision of contributing to a greener future, we focus on refurbishing equipment to reduce its environmental impact. For components that have reached the limit of their fatigue life and can no longer be reused or recycled, we are working on a unique solution: Red Spot is in the process of launching a ‘culture department’ where artists can transform scrap metal and offcuts from repairs into creative works. This initiative ensures that nothing goes to waste.

Could you reflect on your evolution over the past decade and what is next within your growth plan?

The journey hasn’t been without challenges—both for the mining sector and our company—but we have continued to grow, expanding both our team and supplier networks to deliver top-tier products and services. We have an exclusive partnership with Costex Tractor Parts (CTP), a global supplier of high-quality new replacement parts for heavy equipment. This partnership allows us to provide a range of essential components, including filters, engines, hydraulic systems, and electrical parts. Additionally, we have developed our own line of ground-engaging tools to offer the market high-quality products at affordable prices. Our efforts have been well-received, and we are focused on building our capacity to meet growing demand. We aim to serve the Zambian and DRC markets comprehensively, continuing to support our clients with reliable and innovative solutions.

Can you comment on the operating environment and access to financing in Zambia?

One of the greatest advantages of working in Zambia is the welcoming environment. Zambia adopts the ‘One Country, One Nation’ philosophy adopted with its independence and is a very accommodating place, embracing diversity and fostering a positive business culture. However, access to financing remains a significant challenge. In 2013, when I sought a small US$2,000 loan, the bank declined my application, citing bureaucratic issues related to jurisdiction. This experience reflects the unnecessary hurdles that entrepreneurs face, even for modest funding. While the financial ecosystem has improved since then, access to affordable financing remains critical for supporting the growth of businesses like ours, interest rates remaining high. 

Do you have a final message for our audience?

Inspiration! Redspot’s inspiring story to succeed against all odds must be supported. We are committed to growing our business and strengthening our role as a key partner to the mining industry in Zambia and beyond. Our promise to mining companies and investors is to deliver world-class products and services at competitive prices.

Our values—professionalism, passion, communication, humanity and customer satisfaction—are at the heart of everything we do. These principles guide us in delivering exceptional solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. As we continue to innovate, we remain deeply engaged in solving the challenges our clients face, and we look forward to expanding our presence as the region’s leading service provider for earthmoving equipment.