ANDD TO ASSESS PROGRESS AT KCM UNDER VEDANTA MANAGEMENT
The Advocates for National Development and Democracy (ANDD) has announced that it will conduct a comprehensive study on the current state of Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) under the management of Vedanta Resources.
The research will specifically assess the progress at KCM since Vedanta Resources resumed operations at the mining site.
ANDD Executive Director Samuel Banda says the aim is to evaluate the extent to which the company has fulfilled its commitments to the Zambian people, particularly those made prior to resuming operations.
“It is important to remind Zambians, as indicated by Mr Masuzyo Ndhlovu Vedanta Corporate Communications Director on several media platforms, Vedanta committed to investing US$1 billion into KCM for mining recapitalization and development, US$20 million for supporting corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, a one-time payment of K2500, and a 20% salary increase. Additionally, Vedanta pledged to increase production, create business and job opportunities for Zambians, and contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth,” he said.
“The key focus areas of the study will center on these investment commitments, with an emphasis on whether Vedanta Resources has adhered to its promises and obligations. ANDD, as an organization dedicated to advocating for sustainable socio-economic development and human rights in Zambia, seeks to assess whether Vedanta is fulfilling its mining obligations as agreed before resuming operations at KCM.”
Mr Banda further said his organization will examine Vedanta’s commitment to developing a Community Trust, which KCM is supposed to use to implement its CSR programs in the areas where the mine operates.
“The study will also assess whether this Community Trust is serving the interests and aspirations of the Copperbelt communities. Specifically, the organization will evaluate whether youths, church leaders, civil society organizations, and other community leaders have been included in the KCM Community Trust Board to foster development,” he added.
“The initiative is not intended to antagonize Vedanta but rather to promote transparency and foster a mutually beneficial partnership between the investor, the Zambian government, and local communities. We firmly believe that holding investors accountable to their commitments builds trust and ensures that the wealth generated from our natural resources translates into improved livelihoods for all Zambians.”
He indicated that the findings of the research will be shared with key stakeholders, including government authorities, community leaders, civil society organizations, and the media.
He further added that this will encourage informed decision-making and promote dialogue on improving KCM’s operations.
“This initiative is part of ANDD’s broader mission to advocate for inclusive development and responsible investment in Zambia’s mining sector. We are calling on all stakeholders to support this initiative and collaborate in transforming KCM into a model of sustainable development and accountability,” he concluded.
“By doing so, Zambia can ensure that its mining sector contributes meaningfully to the nation’s long-term prosperity.”
Credit: Daily Nation Newspaper