The Zambian government has announced an independent investigation into the ongoing pollution of the nation’s waterways, particularly in the Copperbelt region, as concerns mount over environmental damage linked to mining operations.
Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha has called for stricter oversight of storage facilities, including tailings dams, following multiple pollution incidents. During a visit to Mimbula Mine in Chingola, he emphasized the need for enhanced safety measures after an emergency heap leaching pond collapse contaminated the Chabanyama stream.
The government has taken decisive action in response to a major environmental crisis—the recent acid spill in the Mwambashi and Kafue rivers on February 18. The spill, attributed to Sino Metals Leach Zambia Limited, has raised alarm among local communities and environmental advocates.
To fully assess the impact of the spill, authorities have commissioned an independent investigation to evaluate damage to aquatic life, ecosystems, and community livelihoods. The inquiry will also scrutinize the integrity of tailings dams and storage facilities to determine the root cause and recommend preventative measures.
A compliance order issued to Sino Metals on February 21 remains in effect and will only be lifted once an independent assessment confirms that no heavy metal residues pose long-term risks to residents, livestock, and water sources. The Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) has been tasked with expediting its assessment, working with stakeholders to contain the damage.
Meanwhile, Mimbula Mine Managing Director Theo Sylver reported improvements in the Chabanyama stream’s water quality following extensive cleanup efforts, with 10.3 million kwacha invested in remediation efforts so far.
The National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW) has joined calls for stricter regulations, with President Saul Simujika criticizing mining companies for endangering public safety. “It is unacceptable for a company to operate in a manner that endangers the public,” he said.
The Veterinary Association of Zambia (VAZ) has also voiced concerns, noting that water pollution from the Sino Metals spill has impacted livestock, exacerbating both environmental and economic fallout.
The government has pledged to keep the public informed about the investigation’s progress and urged mining companies to comply with environmental policies to prevent further ecological damage.
