Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Chipoka Mulenga has spoken out against a proposal by Viet-Zam Diversified Operation Limited.

The Vietnamese investor has proposed a mega rice farming project in Zambia.

The project would require six million hectares of land, a request that Minister Mulenga has flatly rejected.

According to Mulenga, giving out such a large tract of land would be equivalent to auctioning off the country.

He emphasized that the government cannot surrender such a vast amount of land to a single investor.

Mulenga stressed that the government’s responsibility is to protect the interests of Zambians, not to auction off the country’s resources.

The minister’s stance has been praised by many Zambians, who see the proposal as a threat to the country’s sovereignty.

The proposed project would have seen Viet-Zam Diversified Operation Limited acquire a significant portion of Zambia’s arable land.

The company had proposed to establish a large-scale rice farm, but the government is wary of the potential consequences.

Mulenga’s rejection of the proposal is a clear indication that the government will not compromise on issues of national interest.

The minister’s statement has sent a strong message to investors that Zambia’s resources are not up for grabs.

The government is keen to promote economic development, but not at the expense of the country’s sovereignty.

Mulenga’s stance is a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting Zambian interests.

The proposed project had raised concerns among many Zambians, who felt that it would lead to displacement and exploitation.

The government’s decision to reject the proposal is a victory for the Zambian people.

Mulenga’s leadership and commitment to protecting national interests are commendable.

The minister’s statement has put investors on notice that Zambia will not be taken advantage of.

The government will continue to promote economic development, but in a responsible and sustainable manner.

In conclusion, Minister Chipoka Mulenga’s rejection of the Viet-Zam proposal is a bold move that demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting Zambia’s interests.

 

ON THE OTHER SIDE THE MINISTRY SAID;

The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has clarified that it does not allocate land to investors, contrary to recent claims.

According to ZDA Board Chairperson Prof. Biemba Maliti, the agency’s mandate does not include allocating land to investors.

Instead, the ZDA makes recommendations on incentives to facilitate investment in Zambia, as provided by the ZDA Act of 2006 and 2022.

The Act specifies that the ZDA’s role includes assisting in securing permissions, exemptions, authorizations, licenses, and land from state institutions for business establishment and operation.

The agency also facilitates and promotes the development of special economic zones.

ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa had earlier assured investors that the agency would facilitate land acquisition and other incentives.

However, Prof. Maliti has now clarified that land allocation is not within the ZDA’s jurisdiction.

The ZDA Act of 2022 provides for the agency’s roles and responsibilities, which do not include land allocation.

Section (d) of the Act specifies that the ZDA shall assist in securing permissions, exemptions, authorizations, licenses, and land from state institutions.

While the ZDA can facilitate land acquisition, it does not have the authority to allocate land.

The agency’s primary focus is on promoting investment and economic development in Zambia.

The ZDA works closely with other state institutions to ensure a conducive business environment.

Investors seeking land allocation should engage directly with the relevant state institutions.

The ZDA will continue to provide support and facilitation services to investors.

The agency remains committed to promoting economic development and job creation in Zambia.

The clarification by Prof. Maliti has brought clarity to the role of the ZDA in land allocation.

The ZDA’s mandate is clear, and the agency will continue to operate within its legal framework.

Investors are advised to seek guidance from the ZDA on incentives and facilitation services.

The agency’s doors are open for consultation and support.

In conclusion, the ZDA has clarified its role in land allocation, and investors should seek guidance from the relevant state institutions

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