Vedanta Surpasses $400 Million Investment in Konkola Copper Mines, Accelerating Zambia Copper Production
Vedanta Resources has successfully fulfilled its initial investment commitment of US$124 million under the Shareholders’ Agreement ahead of the July 1, 2025 deadline.
This brings Vedanta’s total investment in Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) operations to over US$400 million since resuming management in August 2024.
This milestone is a key step toward Vedanta’s broader pledge to invest US$1 billion over five years to revive and expand KCM.
The company is focused on increasing production capacity and enhancing sustainability across its operations.
KCM Chief Operating Officer Malcolm Mewett highlighted the progress made so far: “Significant advances have been achieved in critical mine development activities, particularly with the Konkola Deep Mining Project (KDMP), which is central to our long-term growth strategy.”
The current investments prioritize strengthening operations at KCM’s Konkola and Nchanga sites, aiming to reach 300,000 tonnes of annual copper production by 2030.
Plans are also underway to completely shut down and refurbish the smelter to restore its structural integrity and improve efficiency, essential for supporting increased output.
Among the commitments delivered as part of the over US$400 million invested are:
A 20% salary increase for all KCM employees
A one-time payment of K2,500 per employee
US$20 million dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives
US$250 million used to settle outstanding creditor obligations
These measures underscore Vedanta’s dedication to revitalizing KCM and contributing to Zambia’s economic growth through sustainable mining practices.
“Vedanta’s actions demonstrate our strong commitment to KCM and to unlocking Zambia’s vast copper potential for national development,” added Mr. Mewett.
