Zambia News

Zambia is facing a serious environmental crisis following a significant acid spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine, which released approximately 50 million liters of toxic waste into a stream connected to the Kafue River. This incident, which occurred on February 18, has raised alarm among authorities and environmentalists alike, as the Kafue River serves as a vital water source for approximately five million people and supports the livelihoods of about 60% of Zambia's 20 million population, according to the Associated Press. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema described the situation as a crisis threatening both people and wildlife in the region. Dead fish have been reported at least 60 miles downstream, highlighting the immediate ecological impact. Environmental activist Chilekwa Mumba called the spill “an environmental disaster really of catastrophic consequences.” In response, the Zambian government has mobilized its air force to disperse hundreds of tons of lime in an attempt to neutralize the acid. The mine's management has acknowledged the incident and committed to funding the cleanup process, with Chairman Zhang Peiwen underscoring the importance of restoring the affected environment quickly. However, public concern remains high over the long-term effects on the Kafue watershed.

Authorities in Zambia are grappling with the aftermath of a significant acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine, which has polluted the Kafue River, threatening millions. The incident occurred on February 18 when a tailings dam at the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia mine collapsed, releasing approximately 50 million liters of acidic waste into a stream that feeds into the Kafue River, as stated by the Engineering Institution of Zambia. Environmental activists, including Chilekwa Mumba, have termed it "an environmental disaster of catastrophic consequences." Reports indicate that dead fish were discovered up to 100 kilometers downstream, with the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation highlighting "devastating consequences" such as crop destruction along the banks. The Kafue River is vital for approximately 60% of Zambia’s 20 million residents. In response, the Zambian government is employing air force efforts to drop lime into the river to mitigate the acid damage, while Sino-Metals has expressed a commitment to restoring the environment, according to company chairman Zhang Peiwen. However, public outrage against mining practices persists, reflecting ongoing concerns about the environmental impact of Chinese mining operations in the region.