The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has ignited national debate after facilitating the allocation of six million hectares of land across Northern, Muchinga, and Luapula provinces to VietZam Diversified Development Corporation Limited, a Vietnamese investor. The land, granted under a proposed 99-year lease, is earmarked for a massive high-tech, mixed-use agricultural project valued at approximately $72 billion. According to project proponents, the initiative is expected to generate up to 300,000 direct and indirect jobs, with 98% of those roles designated for Zambians. The development is also projected to unfold over a 20-year period, promising significant infrastructure growth and economic stimulation in the targeted regions.
Despite the ambitious scope and potential economic benefits, the deal has drawn sharp criticism from civil society organizations, land rights advocates, and political leaders. The Zambia Land Alliance and other stakeholders have raised concerns about the scale of the land allocation, arguing that granting such a vast expanse to a single foreign entity undermines national land sovereignty and contradicts the principles of Zambia’s land policy. Critics warn that the agreement could marginalize local communities, displace traditional landowners, and set a troubling precedent for future land governance. The 99-year lease term, in particular, has been flagged as excessive and potentially detrimental to long-term national interests.
Political figures have also weighed in, with some labeling the investment “scandalous” and calling for its immediate cancellation. They argue that the process lacked transparency and adequate consultation with affected communities, raising questions about accountability and the role of government agencies in safeguarding public resources. The controversy has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between attracting foreign investment and protecting local interests, especially in sectors as sensitive as land ownership and agriculture.
As public pressure mounts, the government is being urged to clarify the terms of the agreement, engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, and ensure that future land deals are guided by principles of equity, sustainability, and national benefit. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for Zambia’s land governance framework and its approach to foreign direct investment. At its core, the debate underscores the need for policies that not only drive economic growth but also uphold the rights and dignity of local communities.