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A Copperbelt mining enthusiast has expressed concern over the long-standing tendency of mining investors to arm-twist the government, calling for stricter oversight by the UPND administration.
Engineer Jacob Mwanza urged the government to set a precedent by not tolerating such practices, speaking on the sidelines of the Mining Investment Insaka held at Mulungushi International Conference Centre under the theme: “Mining Beyond Copper, Celebrating 100 Years of Mining in Zambia.”
Mwanza stated that Zambia’s development depended on government’s ability to regulate mining firms and ensure the nation benefits from its mineral wealth.
He also called for accountability regarding Vedanta Resources’ pledge to invest over US$1.1 billion into the operations of Konkola Copper Mines (KCM).
“Vedanta promised to inject over US$1.1 billion into KCM, yet we have not heard any updates on whether this commitment has been fulfilled. These are matters the government should be monitoring closely,” he stated.
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Mwanza pointed out that the history of mining in Zambia had seen numerous instances where investors manipulated the government, stressing the need for this trend to end so that Zambians fully benefit from their natural resources.
“I’ve previously highlighted that some miners at KCM had not received the promised K2,500 from Vedanta. One of the mine unions has now confirmed that some workers are still awaiting payment. The government must act decisively in such matters to protect our people’s interests,” Mwanza added.
He criticized Vedanta Resources for failing to fulfill its commitment to pay workers the promised K2,500 after taking over KCM’s operations.
Mwanza further stressed that stakeholders at the Mining Investment Insaka should raise these issues to ensure the country benefited from its resources.
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