Lusaka, Zambia – Vedanta Resources founder Anil Agarwal said the company is prepared to pay $250 million in outstanding debts and invest $1 billion to upgrade its seized copper assets in Zambia, in what appears to be an attempt to lobby for the return of its mines.
The Konkola mines were taken over by the Zambian government in 2019 after disputes under Vedanta’s ownership over taxes, job cuts and environmental damage. The state has managed the mines since.
Now Vedanta dangles major new investments and a supplier payoff to entice Zambia into handing the assets back. But it’s chequered track record has bred distrust.
“Vedanta must do more than make promises to demonstrate real commitment to Zambians’ welfare,” said union leader Joseph Chewe.
Rather than yielding quickly, Zambia should firmly assert its development interests. More transparent contracts, better environmental protections and enforcing local job quotas could ensure Vedanta or any future operator treats these mines as a national resource.
Zambia has leverage – its copper is in high demand, while Vedanta is eager to restore lost revenues. With astute negotiation, state-owned mining could continue, or strict terms imposed for any private operator.
Citizens should safeguard their mineral sovereignty and ensure that this wealth lifts up Zambian communities. These resources must fuel the country’s development.