ZCCM Defense Association Officially Established to Protect Minority Shareholders and Local Communities

On October 18, 2024, the ZCCM Defense Association (ZCCM-D) was officially established following the Founding General Assembly. The establishment of this association marks an important step in the formal organization of ZCCM-IH and former ZCCM’s minority shareholders and provides a platform to protect their interests and expand their advocacy to protect indigenous rights.
Communities from the actions of negligent, corrupt or self-serving leaders, governments and corporations, particularly in Zambia and other regions engaged in commercial and extractive activities. Mr. Thierry CHARLES was elected President and Mr. Michel BURY was elected Member-Treasurer.

The association is open to all shareholders of ZCCM-IH and the former ZCCM, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.
Minority shareholders of ZCCM and ZCCM-IH have been collaborating informally to defend their rights for decades. Public advocacy was led by key spokespeople such as Albert WRIGHT, Philippe BIBARD and Thierry CHARLES. The establishment of ZCCM Defense now reinforces this collective effort and provides a formal structure to advance their cause.

1. Mission and Goals
The main purpose of ZCCM Defense is to unite, inform and represent the current and former minority shareholders of ZCCM and ZCCM-IH, ensuring the protection of their rights and interests. The main objectives of the association are:

1.1 Representation: Ensuring the participation of members in ZCCM-IH general assembly meetings and defending their rights.
1.2 Defense of Interests: To promote and defend the interests of members by contacting directly with the managers of the company.
1.3 Corporate Advocacy: Representation of the interests of minority shareholders before ZCCM-IH, relevant Authorities and financial institutions.
1.4 Information Distribution: Informing members through forums, expert opinions and continuous monitoring of ZCCM-IH activities.
1.5 Advocacy and Lobbying: Conducting advocacy and lobbying activities to protect minority shareholders.
1.6 Community Protection: Expanding efforts beyond shareholder interests to protect local communities from the harmful practices of negligent leaders, corporations, and governments, especially in Zambia.
1.7 Legal Proceedings: To take legal action in defense or on behalf of ZCCM-IH, its shareholders or affected communities to hold accountable those responsible for negligence, conflict of interest or corruption.

2. A Global Mission
Beyond representing shareholders, ZCCM Defense also aims to protect the broader interests of local people affected by the actions of companies, individuals or governments. This includes taking legal or administrative action globally to hold accountable those whose actions endanger the public interest.

3. Legal Advocacy
The Association, through its President or other appointed representatives, is prepared to take legal action in any jurisdiction. This includes taking legal action to hold past or current company executives accountable for any mismanagement, corruption, or breach of duty that harms shareholders or local communities.

ZCCM Advocacy Association serves as a critical and constructive voice for minority shareholders and communities by advocating for transparency, accountability and ethical management in Zambia’s vital industries. By formalizing its advocacy, ZCCM Defense provides its members with stronger representation and international legal and
policy action.

Anyone wishing to inform us of any matter contrary to the interests of ZCCM-IH or Zambia may contact us.

If you would like more information or would like to inform us about ZCCM-IH or elements that are contrary to Zambia’s interests, please contact:
ZCCM Defense Association

Email: (email protected)
Website:

Issued by:
Thierry CHARLES
ZCCM Defense President