Zambia Rejects U.S. Pollution Alert

Zambia’s government rejects the US embassy’s pollution warning after a toxic mine spill, affirming that water quality meets health standards and affected communities have been compensated.

The Zambian government has dismissed a health alert issued by the United States embassy concerning dangerous pollution in the Copperbelt region, following a toxic spill earlier this year at the Sino-Metals mine. In February, a tailings dam used to store toxic waste collapsed into the Kafue River, a crucial source of drinking water, prompting the embassy to withdraw its personnel from Kitwe and surrounding areas due to concerns over hazardous substances contaminating water, soil, and air.

Despite the embassy’s warning about the presence of carcinogenic materials and the potential health risks from airborne contaminants, Zambian officials have maintained that the situation is under control. Government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa confirmed that recent laboratory tests show pH levels in the affected areas have returned to normal, and the water quality meets World Health Organization standards. He further stated that communities impacted by the spill have been compensated and that there are no ongoing threats to public health, agriculture, or the environment.

The Sino-Metals Leach Zambia mine, a subsidiary of China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, which is owned by the Chinese government, has pledged to restore the environment and support affected communities following the incident. Meanwhile, opposition figures and environmental activists have criticised the government’s response, calling for more transparency and urgent action to address what they describe as a national environmental crisis.

Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha emphasised the government’s proactive approach since the spill, highlighting ongoing public updates and water testing efforts. Minister of Water Development Collins Nzovu reiterated that water quality continues to comply with international standards. However, concerns remain among some groups, who argue that further measures are needed to fully mitigate the spill’s impact and prevent future occurrences.