Zambian Government Addresses Pollution Concerns in Copperbelt Mining Region
The Zambian government has refuted allegations of severe pollution in the Copperbelt mining area, following safety warnings issued by the US embassy. On Wednesday, the embassy released a health alert that prompted the immediate withdrawal of its personnel from Kitwe and surrounding regions, citing fears of "widespread contamination of water and soil" linked to a spill at the Sino-Metals mine earlier this year.
In February, a tailings dam at the Sino-Metals mine collapsed, releasing toxic waste and heavy metals into the Kafue River—a crucial drinking water source—after heavy rainfall. The US embassy’s alert highlighted new findings indicating the presence of hazardous and potentially carcinogenic substances in the environment. They cautioned that contaminants from the spilled mine tailings could become airborne, posing additional health risks.
In response, government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa stated that recent laboratory tests indicated that pH levels in the affected area have returned to normal, asserting that the water is now safe for consumption. He emphasized that there are no longer significant risks to public health, water safety, agriculture, or the environment, urging citizens and the international community not to panic.
Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, a subsidiary of the China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, which is state-owned, had previously committed to compensating impacted communities and rehabilitating the environment following the spill. The incident not only harmed local aquatic life but also affected farmers reliant on the river for irrigation.
Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha reassured the public that the government has actively monitored the situation since February, providing updates and compensating affected communities. Minister of Water Development Collins Nzovu confirmed that ongoing water tests have consistently met World Health Organization standards.
Opposition Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba suggested that the US embassy’s health alert was influenced by geopolitical considerations, questioning the delay in their response since February. He also criticized the embassy for its silence regarding lead poisoning issues in central Zambia linked to Western mining operations.
Maggie Mapalo Mwape, executive director of the Centre for Environment Justice, called for urgent action in response to what she described as a national disaster. She emphasized the need for decisive measures to mitigate the pollution’s impact and safeguard the health and rights of Zambian citizens.
In summary, while the Zambian government strives to reassure the public about water safety and environmental health, ongoing dialogue and action are crucial to addressing the concerns raised by both local and international stakeholders.
