The Zambian government has formally rejected a US embassy health alert that raised concerns over pollution related to a toxic spill in the Copperbelt mining region. The warning, prompted by a dam collapse at the Sino-Metals mine in February, led to fears of serious contamination affecting water and soil around Kitwe town. The spill released hazardous waste into the Kafue River, a vital drinking water source for the region.
In response to the US's alert, which claimed the presence of hazardous substances that could even be airborne, Zambian government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa stated that laboratory results indicated that the pH levels in the affected area have normalized, and declared the water safe for consumption. He emphasized that there was no justification for alarm, stating, "There is, therefore, absolutely no need to press the 'panic button' today to alarm the nation and the international community."
The Sino-Metals operation, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, initially pledged to compensate communities impacted by the spill and restore the local environment. Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha reported that the government has actively monitored the situation since the incident. Water Development Minister Collins Nzovu reassured that their tests have consistently aligned with World Health Organization standards.
In contrast, opposition leader Peter Sinkamba criticized the timing of the US embassy's warning, questioning why it took so long to address the issue and accusing it of being selective in its environmental concern, particularly regarding past lead poisoning incidents attributed to Western mining companies. Additionally, Center for Environment Justice director Maggie Mapalo Mwape labeled the pollution a national disaster, advocating for urgent measures to mitigate its effects and protect Zambian citizens’ rights and wellbeing.
As Zambia grapples with its complex mining legacy, ongoing discourse surrounding environmental health and safety continues to raise awareness and demand accountability from both local and foreign entities involved in the mining industry.
In response to the US's alert, which claimed the presence of hazardous substances that could even be airborne, Zambian government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa stated that laboratory results indicated that the pH levels in the affected area have normalized, and declared the water safe for consumption. He emphasized that there was no justification for alarm, stating, "There is, therefore, absolutely no need to press the 'panic button' today to alarm the nation and the international community."
The Sino-Metals operation, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, initially pledged to compensate communities impacted by the spill and restore the local environment. Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha reported that the government has actively monitored the situation since the incident. Water Development Minister Collins Nzovu reassured that their tests have consistently aligned with World Health Organization standards.
In contrast, opposition leader Peter Sinkamba criticized the timing of the US embassy's warning, questioning why it took so long to address the issue and accusing it of being selective in its environmental concern, particularly regarding past lead poisoning incidents attributed to Western mining companies. Additionally, Center for Environment Justice director Maggie Mapalo Mwape labeled the pollution a national disaster, advocating for urgent measures to mitigate its effects and protect Zambian citizens’ rights and wellbeing.
As Zambia grapples with its complex mining legacy, ongoing discourse surrounding environmental health and safety continues to raise awareness and demand accountability from both local and foreign entities involved in the mining industry.
