The Zambian government is intensifying its efforts to secure more compensation for communities impacted by a significant toxic spill from a Chinese-owned copper mine. Following a February incident where a dam holding mine waste collapsed, the contamination of the Kafue River posed severe health risks, leading to a fishing ban in affected areas.
Originally, the mining company, Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, had estimated that 50,000 tonnes of waste entered waterways. However, a detailed study conducted by Drizit, a South Africa-based environmental firm, revealed the actual figure to be as high as 1.5 million tonnes. The assessment highlighted dangerous levels of pollutants including cyanide and heavy metals, raising alarms about long-term health issues for residents.
Zambia's Vice-President, Mutale Nalumango, stated the initial compensation of approximately $580,000 was merely a starting point, urging that any future payments must reflect the full scale of damage inflicted. The safety and health of Zambians, she asserted, must remain a top priority in all dealings with foreign entities.
As authorities work to mitigate the environmental fallout, community health concerns persist, with many residents reporting health issues linked to the spill. The government continues to assess the needs for further action, reinforcing that thorough and independent evaluations are essential in navigating this environmental crisis.
