A significant acid runoff from a Chinese-owned mine has polluted the Kafue River in Zambia, resulting in serious environmental damage described as catastrophic. The spill, due to a tailings dam collapse, threatens water sources critical for millions. The Zambian government is taking measures to hold the mining company accountable and address the aftermath.
An acid runoff incident from a Chinese-owned mine has severely polluted the Kafue River in Zambia, with officials declaring this situation to have “catastrophic consequences.” This spill highlights the critical role of Chinese firms in Zambia’s copper production, a vital sector for the country, which is the second-largest copper producer in Africa and significant to the global market. Zambia’s significant debt to China diminishes its ability to address such environmental issues, as the country navigates a financial landscape that necessitated a loan restructuring earlier this year.
The environmental incident unfolded after the collapse of a tailings dam on February 18, unleashing approximately 50 million liters of toxic waste into the river. Over 60 percent of Zambia’s population resides in the Kafue River basin, relying on this waterway for agriculture, industry, and fishing. President Hakainde Hichilema described the incident as a crisis affecting local wildlife and livelihoods, compelling the nearby city of Kitwe to halt its water supply altogether. To combat the acid contamination, authorities have begun deploying hundreds of tons of lime into the river.
Visual evidence reveals numerous dead fish along the Kafue River, extending 60 miles downstream, showcasing the extent of the environmental destruction attributed to Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, which is largely owned by China Nonferrous Metals Industry Group. Local resident Sean Cornelius lamented the river’s transformation, stating it had become lifeless overnight. Cornelius Mweetaw, a government spokesperson, emphasized that the mining company would be held accountable for the pollution cleanup.
Green Economy and Environment Minister Mike Mposha reported that measures have been initiated to monitor and control the acidic spread, with assurances that affected farmers and consumers would receive compensation. Environmentalist Chilekwa Mumba labeled the incident an environmental disaster, while engineer Mweene Himwinga criticized the negligence of foreign investors regarding environmental safeguards.
Sino-Metals Leach’s chairman, Zhang Peiwen, acknowledged the alarming nature of this disaster, pledging to expedite the environmental restoration efforts. In response to the tailings dam breach, the Zambian government has mandated the cessation of operations at three related dams until repairs can be completed, as reported by the Zambia Monitor.
The acid spill from a Chinese-owned mine has caused severe ecological damage in Zambia, threatening local water sources and wildlife. This occurrence underscores the issues surrounding environmental regulations and corporate responsibility, as well as the implications of Zambia’s debt to Chinese firms. The Zambian government is actively addressing the crisis, ensuring that the responsible company will bear the cleanup costs while monitoring the ongoing impact on affected communities.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
