Zambia Rejects US Health Alert on Toxic Spill in Copperbelt Region

Local officials emphasize proactive measures taken to resolve the aftermath of the mining disaster.

The Zambian government has strongly refuted claims from the US embassy regarding hazardous pollution in the Copperbelt mining region, following a recent health alert issued by American officials. The embassy raised alarms after a severe toxic spill occurred at the Sino-Metals mine in February, when a tailings dam collapsed and released harmful waste into the Kafue River, a vital drinking water source, following heavy rainfall.

On Wednesday, the US embassy advised immediate withdrawal of its personnel based on new findings that suggested "widespread contamination of water and soil" in the area. They warned that contaminants, including hazardous and carcinogenic substances, could also become airborne, presenting additional health risks.

Zambia's government spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, countered the US claims, stating that laboratory analyses indicate that the pH levels in the affected area have normalized and that the water is now safe for consumption. Mweetwa emphasized that there is no current risk to public health, agriculture, or the environment, urging people not to "press the 'panic button.'"

The Sino-Metals mine is owned by China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group, a state-owned enterprise. In response to the spill, the company committed to compensating impacted communities and working on environmental restoration. The disaster adversely affected local aquatic life and farmers relying on the river for irrigation purposes.

Green Economy Minister Mike Mposha reassured the public that the government has been proactive in addressing the consequences since February and continues to monitor the area's water quality. Minister of Water Development, Collins Nzovu, asserted that testing results confirm the water complies with World Health Organization standards.

Opposition leaders, including Peter Sinkamba from the Green Party, have questioned the timing of the US embassy's alert, suggesting it was part of a broader geopolitical strategy. Sinkamba expressed disappointment that the US took several months to respond while overlooking ongoing lead contamination issues linked to Western mining companies in central Zambia.

Maggie Mapalo Mwape, the executive director of the Centre for Environment Justice, characterized the pollution incident as a national disaster that requires immediate attention. She called for significant efforts to resolve the environmental crisis and protect the health and rights of Zambian citizens.